Sling TV vs. DirecTV Now vs. PlayStation Vue: In-Depth Comparison of Top Live TV Streaming Services

As cable TV declines and streaming rises, services like Sling TV, DirecTV Now, and PlayStation Vue emerged as leading options for cord-cutters. Launched in 2015 (Sling TV by Dish, PlayStation Vue by Sony) and 2016 (DirecTV Now by AT&T), these OTT platforms deliver live TV over the internet. In this expert comparison, based on hands-on testing and market analysis, we break down their key differences in packages, pricing, features, and more.

Sling TV

Sling TV, owned by Dish Network, debuted at CES 2015 and supports iOS, Android, Apple TV, Mac/PC, Amazon Fire TV, Xbox One, and more.

Features

Stream live TV, on-demand shows, and movies. Many channels allow pausing live programming. DVR is absent but was in beta on Roku in late 2016, with cloud DVR rollout planned for 2017 across devices.

Packages and Pricing

Sling TV stands out with flexible base packages plus $5 add-ons:

• Sling Orange ($20/month): 30+ channels including ESPN and CNN. Limited to 1 device.
• Sling Blue ($25/month): 40+ channels including FOX and NBC. Up to 3 devices.

Combine for Orange + Blue ($45/month, ~50 channels). Add-ons include Sports Extra, Kids Extra, News Extra (8 total). New users get 7-day free trial; promos like Apple TV for $89 (3 months) or free Roku Express (prepay 1 month). Check Sling TV site for deals.

DirecTV Now

Launched November 2016, no satellite commitment required. Available on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and web browsers.

Features

No DVR yet; missing CBS, NFL RedZone, Showtime. Streams to 2 devices max. AT&T wireless users stream mobile without data limits—ideal for travelers.

Packages and Pricing

Four tiers at launch:

• Live a Little ($35): 60+ channels incl. ABC, ESPN.
• Just Right ($50): 80+ channels incl. OWN, Sundance TV.
• Go Big ($60): 100+ channels incl. Tennis Channel, Discovery Life.
• Gotta Have It ($70): 120 channels incl. STARZ.

Add HBO or Cinemax. 7-day free trial; promos like free Apple TV (3 months prepaid).

PlayStation Vue

Launched March 2015, offers live TV and on-demand. Expanded beyond PlayStation consoles.

Features

Unique cloud DVR stores hundreds of hours; auto-captures tagged shows. Intuitive guide, search, and favorites. Streams to 5 devices simultaneously.

Packages and Pricing

Starts at $30/month:

• Access Slim ($30): 45 channels incl. ESPN, Disney.
• Core ($45): 60 channels + regional sports.
• Elite ($55): 90 channels + more sports/movies.
• Ultra ($65): Elite + HBO, Showtime.

Add-ons like Spanish packs from $4/month. 7-day trial; occasional promos.

Local Channels

Availability varies by market:

Sling TV: FOX, NBC, ABC, Univision, UniMás in select areas. DirecTV Now: ABC/FOX select markets; no NBC locals on streaming devices. PlayStation Vue: Similar limits. None offer CBS.

Which is Best?

Sling TV wins on price ($20 entry) but add-ons raise costs. PlayStation Vue leads with DVR. DirecTV Now suits AT&T mobile users. All offer 7-day trials, no contracts, and promos like discounted Apple TV. Test them yourself—the best fit depends on your needs.

Bottom line: These services are maturing; start with a trial.

Which OTT service do you use? Why that one? Share in the comments!