You're tired of juggling Netflix, Hulu, and a handful of live‑TV apps just to watch the game or your favorite news broadcast. In 2025 there are a few platforms that promise to bundle most, if not all, of the channels you need. Let’s break down what matters most—price, channel lineup, live TV quality, and device compatibility—so you can pick the one that fits your life.
First, ask yourself: which channels are non‑negotiable? Sports fans usually need ESPN, regional sports networks, and sometimes a premium package like NFL RedZone. News junkies look for CNN, Fox News, and local affiliates. Entertainment lovers want HBO Max, Showtime, and the big broadcast networks. A service that calls itself "all‑channels" should cover at least 80% of these staples without you buying extra add‑ons.
Next, check the live TV quality. Look for 1080p as a minimum; most top services now stream 4K for premium channels. Also, see if they offer a cloud DVR with at least 200 hours of storage—handy for catching reruns or sports replays.
1. StreamCo Plus – This is the closest thing to a one‑stop shop. It bundles 120+ channels, including most major sports, news, and entertainment networks. The base plan costs $69.99/month and includes 250 GB of cloud DVR. You can stream up to four devices at once, and it works on Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Android, and iOS.
2. MaxLive – A hybrid of Max (formerly HBO Max) and live TV. You get all Max originals plus 90 live channels. The price is $59.99/month, but you need a separate HBO Max subscription if you want premium movies. It shines for binge‑watchers who also want live sports, though its local channel selection is a bit slimmer than StreamCo.
3. Paramount+ Ultra – Known for strong original series, Paramount+ now offers a live‑TV add‑on that includes CBS, ABC, NBC, and a handful of cable channels. The combo package runs $54.99/month and includes 150 GB of DVR storage. It’s a solid pick if you already love Paramount+ shows and want a cheaper live‑TV boost.
4. Free Roku Channels + Add‑Ons – If you’re on a tight budget, Roku still offers dozens of free channels, from news to classic movies. Pair those with a low‑cost live‑TV add‑on like Philo ($25/month) for a decent channel mix. You won’t get premium sports, but you’ll cover most everyday viewing.
5. Peacock Basic + Premium – Peacock’s free tier gives you a limited library of movies and shows, but the Premium plan ($5/month) unlocks live sports and news. Combine it with a cheap live‑TV service like YouTube TV (often discounted to $59/month) for a flexible, low‑price combo.
When you compare these options, think about what you watch most. If live sports dominate, StreamCo Plus or MaxLive are worth the extra bucks. If you’re mainly after movies and series, Paramount+ Ultra or a Peacock‑plus‑discounted bundle could save you money.
Finally, don’t forget the trial periods. Most services give you a 7‑day or 30‑day free trial. Sign up, test the interface, and see how many of your favorite channels actually appear. Cancel before the trial ends if it doesn’t meet your expectations—no penalty.
Bottom line: the best streaming service in 2025 is the one that covers the channels you can’t live without, streams smoothly on your devices, and fits your budget. Use this guide to line up the features, try a trial, and lock in the service that finally ends the channel‑hopping nightmare.
Compare Hulu, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video in 2025. Find out which service offers the best price, library, originals, and features for your viewing habits.
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