How to watch NBC without cable in 2025

What to watch on NBC

Outside of football, NBC is also the United States broadcast home of the Olympics, which will return for the Winter Games in 2026. The network will also take up NBA games in the 2025-26 season and will continue to air NASCAR races, major golf tournaments like The Open and the U.S. Open, and the Tour de France race. 

On the entertainment front, NBC is home for the Dick Wolf One Chicago and Law & Order universes, taking over both Wednesday and Thursday nights during the regular broadcast season. NBC also airs annual events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rockefeller Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. 

Watch the NFL Playoffs on NBC

NBC hosted the NFC wild-card game between the Washington Commanders and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, January 12, which saw the Commanders come out on top thanks to a game-saving field goal. The last game of the 2024-25 season on NBC will be the divisional playoff between the Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, January 19, at 3:00 p.m. ET. Next year, NBC will retain Sunday Night Football, and the network is set to host the next Super Bowl on Feb. 8, 2026. 

Which streaming services offer NBC?

Watch NBC on DIRECTV STREAM

If you want to catch your local NBC station and get a streaming experience that’s similar to what you’ve had with cable, DIRECTV STREAM is a great option. The service offers four different packages, all of which include local channels and a wide range of cable networks.

With DIRECTV STREAM packages, you’ll get all your favorite NBC sports, along with coverage for some of the top events on ESPN, FS1, MotorTrend such as PGA coverage and the NASCAR Cup Series. It’s one of the streaming options that can see a higher price tag, but it’s also one of the best ways to watch NBC and so much more without cable.

Watch NBC on Hulu + Live TV

Although many of the best NBC streaming services fall short in terms of on-demand content, Hulu + Live TV bucks that trend. With either Hulu plan, you’ll get more than 90 live TV channels and a massive library of on-demand programming. That not only includes Hulu’s diverse set of films and shows but also the entire Disney Plus and ESPN Plus libraries via the Disney Bundle, which is built into your Hulu + Live TV subscription.

Access to major sports networks like ESPN, CBS Sports Network, FS1 and NFL Network are included in both plans, and you can add other popular options like NFL RedZone, FanDuel TV and Outdoor Channel in the Sports Add-On. Plus, you can catch plenty of national sports coverage on major networks like NBC, ABC and Fox.

Watch NBC on Sling TV

Sling TV is one of the more affordable streaming services available. Unfortunately, if you want to stream NBC shows, access depends on your location. You can use Sling TV’s website to find out if they have NBC in your area.

Further, Sling TV offers sports channels like ESPN in their Orange package. You can also stream content from Fox Sports 1 and the NFL Network on Sling Blue. Sling Blue is also perfect if you want to stream entertainment content from Bravo, the Discovery Channel and MSNBC. 

Watch NBC on Fubo

If you really want to maximize your streaming options, Fubo offers you the most bang for your buck. Even the basic plan includes 211+ channels such as local affiliates for NBC, ABC, Fox and CBS on top of networks like ESPN, FS1, beIN Sports and NFL Network. Add premium networks like Max or Showtime, and expand your sports and entertainment coverage with even more add-ons.

Watch NBC on YouTube TV

YouTube TV offers a simple option for those who want to watch NBC without cable. With one basic plan that includes local networks like NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, PBS and the CW, you can start streaming some of your favorite TV shows with ease. YouTube TV offers a diverse range of news, entertainment and sports programming with several add-on options to expand your live TV and on-demand content.

Watch NBC on Peacock

As far as streaming services go, Peacock is a good option. Catch live sports like Premier League soccer matchups, Big Ten basketball games and much more. You’ll also be able to stream your favorite NBC shows both past and present. Relieve your favorite episodes from “The Office” or catch up on the latest episodes of “Law & Order SVU.”

FAQs

How can I watch NBC for free?

Stream NBC for free when you buy a digital antenna. You can also use free trials offered by streaming providers to catch content without any costs. 

How do I stream my local NBC channel?

You need a streaming service that offers NBC. Some of the best options include YouTube TV, DIRECTV STREAM and Fubo. 

Is NBC a free-to-air channel?

Yes, NBC is a free-to-air channel. That’s why you have access to it and other local channels once you buy a digital antenna.