If you're a sports enthusiast, you're likely well-acquainted with ESPN, a leading sports network. However, ESPN's streaming service, ESPN+, can still leave many fans scratching their heads, despite its launch back in 2018. While ESPN+ does offer live sports streaming, it's more of a complementary service that enhances your sports viewing experience when paired with traditional network channels.
Explore our comprehensive guide to ESPN+ below, which includes details on the service, the live sports you can stream, pricing information, and more, updated for 2025.
What Is ESPN+? The Sports Streaming Service, Explained
ESPN+
You can sign up for ESPN+ as a standalone service or opt for the Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu. Visit ESPN+ to see your options. ESPN+ is a subscription-based streaming platform that provides access to live sports events, exclusive ESPN films and series not found on regular ESPN channels, premium articles, and more.
However, it's important to note that ESPN+ does not include access to mainstream ESPN channels like ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNEWS. For example, if you want to watch SportsCenter, you'll still need a traditional cable or live TV subscription.
ESPN+ boasts a growing library of original programming, including shows like Man in the Arena with Tom Brady, Peyton's Places, and ESPN FC. It has been the exclusive streaming home for NFL Primetime since 2019, offering highlights and analysis of NFL games each Sunday during the season. Subscribers can also enjoy the entire archive of the acclaimed 30 for 30 sports documentary series.
For avid readers, ESPN+ offers access to ESPN+ Premium Articles on the ESPN website, featuring in-depth analysis, rankings, mock drafts, and more from renowned sports writers.
ESPN+ Plans and Prices (As of March 2025)
Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ Bundle
The bundle, which includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ (all with ads), is available for $16.99 per month. You can also subscribe to ESPN+ on its own for $11.99 per month or choose the ESPN+ Annual Plan for $119.99 per year, saving you 15% off the monthly rate. Visit Disney+ for more details.
Does ESPN+ Have a Free Trial?
Unfortunately, ESPN+ does not offer a free trial at this time. There are no current promotions directly from ESPN+, though some third-party offers may be available. While ESPN+ itself doesn't provide a trial, other streaming services with sports content might offer free trials that could be worth exploring.
What Channels Does ESPN+ Include?
ESPN+ does not feature traditional channels. Instead, it offers a variety of live sporting events and a vast archive of previously aired sports, along with 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! With an ESPN+ subscription, you can watch thousands of live sporting events. These include select games from the NFL, MLB, and NHL, as well as various soccer leagues worldwide, F1, golf, boxing, collegiate sports, and more. The availability of these events can vary based on your location and may be subject to regional blackouts.
ESPN+ is the exclusive streaming platform for UFC events, including Pay-Per-View (PPV) fights, Fight Nights, and more. While UFC PPV events require an additional $79.99 fee on top of your ESPN+ subscription, Fight Nights and other events are included at no extra cost. You can also 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 throughout the season are not available. However, for fans of UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports, ESPN+ offers a wealth of content.
How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms
ESPN+ is accessible on a variety of devices, supporting HD streaming and up to three simultaneous streams. If you're subscribed to the Disney Bundle Trio (including Hulu and ESPN+), you can conveniently access all your content through the Disney+ app (in the US).
Additionally, ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile devices, streaming devices like Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Google Chromecast, select smart TVs, as well as gaming consoles including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.
