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How to Watch NBC Live Without Cable in 2024
This post was written in partnership with DISH.
If you want to watch local channels like NBC, there are plenty of options, whether you prefer a traditional cable or satellite service or the freedom of streaming. Streaming services like YouTube TV and Fubo make it possible for you to stream your favorite NBC shows live without a cable package. And if you want a satellite option, DISH provides another way to stream NBC content while locking in your price for two years.
NBC is the primary national TV network of NBCUniversal, one of the largest media and entertainment companies in the world. It’s home to some of the top sports programming for viewers in the U.S., including the Olympics, NFL football, NASCAR racing, Premier League soccer and more. It also airs hit shows like “The Tonight Show,” “This Is Us,” “Chicago Fire” and “America’s Got Talent.”
Which services offer NBC?
Here's a look at some of the best places to find NBC.
| DISH | DIRECTV STREAM | Fubo | Hulu + Live TV | Sling TV | YouTube TV | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
NBC |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
How to watch NBC with DISH (Featured partner)
| Plan | Cost per month | Channels | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| America’s Top 120 |
$84.99 |
190 channels |
No |
| America’s Top 200 |
$104.99 |
240+ |
No |
| America’s Top 250 |
$114.99 |
290+ |
No |
If you want to watch NBC content but don’t want to do streaming services, DISH provides a good alternative. Each of their packages features NBC, so you can watch your favorite shows and sports live. Further, when you sign up with DISH, you lock in your price for two years. On top of that, you will receive a free Google Voice remote, 2,000 hours of DVR and free installation.
DISH is a wise option if you plan to have a service carrying NBC for the long term. While it is more expensive than many streaming providers, the ability to lock in your price and gain access to unique equipment like voice remotes makes it a wise option to consider.
How to watch NBC with DIRECTV STREAM
| Plan | Cost per month | Channels | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment + Sports Pack |
$94.98 |
75+ |
Yes |
| Choice + Sports Pack |
$123.98 |
105+ |
Yes |
| Ultimate + Sports Pack |
$134.98 |
140+ |
Yes |
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.
How to watch NBC with Fubo
| Plan | Cost per month | Channels | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pro |
$79.99 |
198 |
Yes |
| Elite |
$89.99 |
266 |
Yes |
If you really want to maximize your streaming options, Fubo offers you the most bang for your buck. Even the basic plan, starting at $79.99 per month, includes 160 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.
How to watch NBC with Hulu + Live TV
| Plan | Cost per month | Channels | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base with ads for Disney Plus, Hulu and ESPN Plus |
$76.99 |
95+ |
Yes |
| Base plan with no ads for Hulu or Disney Plus |
$89.99 |
95+ |
Yes |
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.
How to watch NBC with Sling TV
| Plan | Cost per month | Channels | Free trial |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Sling Orange |
$40 |
32 |
Yes |
|
Sling Blue |
$40 |
40 |
Yes |
|
Sling Orange & Blue |
$55 |
46 |
Yes |
Sling TV is one of the more affordable streaming services available, with packages starting as low as $40. 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.
How to watch NBC with 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.
How to 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.”.
In addition, Peacock has two plans. The Premium plan is $5.99 per month, while the Premium Plus plan includes commercial-free content for $11.99 monthly.
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.
