If you're a fan of sports, you're likely familiar with the renowned sports network ESPN. Yet, its streaming service, ESPN+, launched in 2018, still leaves many sports enthusiasts scratching their heads. While ESPN+ does offer live sports, it's designed to complement, rather than replace, traditional network channels, ensuring you get a comprehensive sports viewing experience.
Explore our comprehensive guide to ESPN+ below, including service details, live sports streaming options, pricing, and more for 2025.
What Is ESPN+? The Sports Streaming Service, Explained
ESPN+
You can sign up for a standalone ESPN+ subscription or opt for the Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu. See it at ESPN+. ESPN+ is a subscription-based streaming service offering access to live sports events, exclusive ESPN films and series not typically available on standard ESPN networks, premium articles, and more.
However, it's important to note that ESPN+ does not include access to the popular ESPN network channels such as ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNEWS. If you want to watch shows like SportsCenter, you'll still need a traditional cable or live TV subscription.
On the other hand, ESPN+ boasts a growing library of original ESPN TV shows, including "Man in the Arena with Tom Brady," "Peyton's Places," "ESPN FC," and more. Since 2019, it's been the exclusive home for "NFL Primetime," offering highlights and analysis of NFL games every Sunday night during the season. Plus, you can access the entire archive of ESPN's acclaimed "30 For 30" sports documentary series with an ESPN+ subscription.
For those who enjoy in-depth sports analysis, ESPN+ grants access to ESPN+ Premium Articles on ESPN's website, featuring detailed analysis, rankings, mock drafts, and more from renowned sports writers.
ESPN+ Plans and Prices (As of March 2025)
Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ Bundle
You can purchase ESPN+ as a standalone subscription for $11.99 per month, or choose the ESPN+ Annual Plan for $119.99 per year, saving you 15% off the monthly rate. Alternatively, you can bundle ESPN+ (With Ads) with Disney+ (With Ads) and Hulu (With Ads) for $16.99 per month. $16.99 at Disney+.
Does ESPN+ Have a Free Trial?
Unfortunately, ESPN+ does not currently offer a free trial of its service. There are no promotions available directly from ESPN, though their website notes that some third parties may offer promotions. While ESPN+ doesn't have a trial, other streaming services offering sports content may provide free trials.
What Channels Does ESPN+ Include?
ESPN+ does not include traditional channels; instead, it streams a variety of live sporting events currently airing. It also offers an extensive archive of previously aired events, as well as exclusive on-demand ESPN series and shows, most of which are not available on standard ESPN channels.
Can You Watch Live Sports on ESPN+?
Yes, you can watch thousands of live sporting events with an ESPN+ subscription. The lineup includes select NFL, MLB, and NHL games, various soccer leagues from around the world, F1, golf, boxing, a range of collegiate sports, and more. However, availability may vary based on your location and is subject to regional blackouts.
Moreover, ESPN+ is the exclusive platform for streaming UFC events, including Pay-Per-View (PPV) fights, Fight Nights, and more. While UFC PPV events cost an additional $79.99 on top of your ESPN+ subscription, UFC Fight Nights and other events are included at no extra cost, and you can stream hundreds of popular fights from the UFC archive.
Keep in mind that ESPN+ won't replace season pass-like services such as NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV, as most live games during the season are not available on ESPN+. Nonetheless, for fans of UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports, ESPN+ offers a wealth of content.
How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms
Like many streaming services, ESPN+ is available on a variety of devices in HD, supporting up to three simultaneous streams. If you subscribe to the Disney Bundle Trio, which includes Hulu and ESPN+, you can now watch all your content conveniently through the Disney+ app (in the US).
Additionally, ESPN+ is accessible through the ESPN app on your mobile device, streaming devices such as Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Google Chromecast, select smart TVs, as well as gaming consoles like PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
