Free live TV in the United States: legal streaming channels
More than 1,000 free, ad-supported live channels are available legally in the US. They will not replace ESPN or your regional sports network, but between the FAST services and an antenna most households can cover local news, network TV and a long tail of entertainment at no cost.
Free services
Pluto TV
Paramount-owned, 350+ live channels including CBS News, news, sport replays and themed movie channels. No account needed.
Tubi
Fox-owned, 200+ live channels and the largest free on-demand film library.
The Roku Channel
400+ live channels; works in a browser and on every Roku device.
Sling Freestream
Sling’s free tier: 500+ channels, no card required.
Xumo Play
Comcast and Charter’s FAST service with NBC News Now and local news.
PBS
Local PBS station live stream with a free account.
Over-the-air antenna (ATSC 1.0 / 3.0)
ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS and CW in HD for a one-off antenna purchase; the FCC map shows your signals.
Tip
Install the public-broadcaster apps first: they carry the live channels most people miss after cancelling cable, and they are free by law or funded by advertising.
Frequently asked questions
Is free IPTV legal in United States?
The services on this page are legal: they are run by public broadcasters or funded by advertising with the rights holders’ consent. “Free IPTV” playlists shared online are not.
Do I need an account?
Most public-broadcaster apps ask for a free account; FAST services such as Pluto TV work without one.
Can I watch sport for free?
Public broadcasters carry the events they hold rights to; the page notes them per service. Premium leagues stay on paid services.
Do I need an antenna?
Not for the apps on this page. An antenna is the one-off alternative for the main broadcast channels in HD.
Which app should I install first?
The public broadcaster’s own app, then one FAST service for the long tail of themed channels.
Paramount-owned, 350+ live channels including CBS News, news, sport replays and themed movie channels. No account needed.
Fox-owned, 200+ live channels and the largest free on-demand film library.
400+ live channels; works in a browser and on every Roku device.
Sling’s free tier: 500+ channels, no card required.
Comcast and Charter’s FAST service with NBC News Now and local news.
Local PBS station live stream with a free account.