FuboTV and ESPN are two of the most popular platforms for sports streaming, but they cater to different needs and audiences. FuboTV began as a soccer-focused streaming service in 2015 but has since evolved into a full cable replacement service.

Today, FuboTV offers a wide variety of live channels, including sports, entertainment, and local networks, making it an appealing choice for viewers looking for an all-in-one TV experience.

The platform’s extensive sports offerings, including major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, are complemented by popular entertainment channels, making it a versatile option for households that want both sports and general TV content.

On the other hand, ESPN, one of the most recognized names in sports broadcasting, has expanded its reach with the ESPN+ streaming service. Launched in 2025, ESPN streaming offers a more targeted experience for sports fans, providing access to live sports, studio shows, and exclusive programming.

Unlike FuboTV, ESPN focuses exclusively on sports content, making it the go-to option for those who only want the best in sports coverage.

In this article, we’ll compare the two services across features, pricing, customer support, and more to help you decide which one suits your viewing needs.

FuboTV: A Comprehensive Live TV Streaming Service

FuboTV started in 2015 as a streaming service focused mainly on soccer. Over the years, it has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of sports and entertainment channels. Today, FuboTV serves as a full cable alternative, allowing viewers to watch live TV, including sports, news, and entertainment.

With FuboTV, users get access to more than 100 channels, many of which focus on sports. This includes major networks like ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network, as well as regional sports networks (RSNs), which are essential for sports fans who want access to local games.

FuboTV also offers DVR functionality, allowing subscribers to record live games and watch them at their convenience.

ESPN Streaming: The Sports Giant Goes Direct-to-Consumer

On the other hand, ESPN is a household name in sports media. The company has been around for decades, providing sports coverage across television and digital platforms. In 2025, ESPN launched its own standalone streaming service, ESPN+.

This new streaming platform focuses entirely on live sports, offering fans access to ESPN’s extensive library of content, including live games, studio shows, and original programming.

ESPN’s streaming service provides access to its entire suite of sports channels, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and ESPN Deportes, as well as live events from leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college sports.

This makes it an excellent choice for sports purists who are looking for a straightforward streaming platform that focuses solely on sports content.

Features Comparison

FuboTV Features

FuboTV is a comprehensive live TV streaming service that offers far more than just sports. Here are the key features you’ll find with FuboTV:

• Sports Channels: FuboTV’s channel lineup includes major sports networks like ESPN, FS1, FS2, NFL Network, NBA TV, and NHL Network. It also includes regional sports networks (RSNs) like NBC Sports Regional, making it an excellent choice for fans who want local sports content.

• Entertainment and Local Channels: Unlike ESPN, FuboTV isn’t solely focused on sports. It includes a wide range of entertainment channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, as well as popular cable networks like TNT, HGTV, and CNN. This makes it a great option for households that want both sports and general TV entertainment.

• Cloud DVR: One of FuboTV’s standout features is its cloud DVR service. This allows users to record live TV, including sports events, and watch them later. Depending on your plan, FuboTV offers up to 1000 hours of cloud DVR storage, which is ideal for sports fans who want to rewatch games or keep a record of important events.

• Multiple Streams: FuboTV allows users to stream on multiple devices simultaneously, making it ideal for families or groups who want to watch different channels at the same time. This feature is especially useful during major sports events where different games might be playing at the same time.

• No Long-Term Contracts: One of the biggest advantages of FuboTV is that it doesn’t require a long-term commitment. You can cancel at any time, unlike traditional cable subscriptions that lock you into a contract.
• High-Quality Streaming: FuboTV offers streaming in HD quality, ensuring that you get a high-definition viewing experience for live sports, shows, and movies.

ESPN Streaming Features

ESPN’s streaming service is all about sports. It’s perfect for those who want access to live games, sports analysis, and original programming. Here are the key features of ESPN streaming:

• Comprehensive Sports Coverage: ESPN’s streaming service provides access to all the major sports networks that ESPN owns, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, and ESPN Deportes. If you’re a fan of any major American sports — such as football, basketball, baseball, or college sports — you’ll find a lot of content on ESPN.

• Live Sports Events: ESPN offers live coverage of numerous sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, NCAA sports, tennis, golf, and more. This includes major events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA tournaments, NBA playoffs, and UFC fights.

• Original Programming: ESPN streaming service also provides access to its extensive library of original content, including sports news, analysis, documentaries, and more. Shows like “SportsCenter,” “First Take,” and “Pardon the Interruption” are all available for streaming.

• On-Demand Content: In addition to live events, ESPN also offers a vast library of on-demand content. This includes replays of live events, highlights, and full-length documentaries. You can catch up on any games or sports coverage you may have missed.

• Personalization: The ESPN app has some great features to enhance the viewing experience. It provides personalized recommendations based on your favorite teams and leagues, making it easier to find content that you’ll enjoy.

• Multiple Devices: ESPN streaming can be accessed on a wide variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It also supports streaming on multiple devices at once.

Pricing Comparison

FuboTV Pricing

FuboTV is one of the more expensive streaming options available. Here’s a breakdown of its pricing:

• Pro Plan: $85 per month – This plan includes over 100 channels, including sports channels like ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network, along with entertainment and local channels. It also includes cloud DVR storage and streaming on up to 3 devices simultaneously.
• Elite Plan: $95 per month – This plan includes even more channels, including additional sports networks and premium content. It offers 1000 hours of cloud DVR storage and streaming on up to 10 devices.
• Premier Plan: $110 per month – The most expensive plan, which adds even more channels, including premium sports networks, international sports coverage, and additional entertainment channels.

ESPN Pricing

ESPN offers a more affordable pricing model, especially for sports fans who don’t need access to entertainment channels. Here’s a breakdown of ESPN’s pricing:

• ESPN+: $9.99 per month – This is the entry-level plan that provides access to ESPN’s on-demand library, original content, and some live sports events. It also includes access to exclusive shows like UFC Fight Night and the 30 for 30 documentaries.
• ESPN+ with Disney+ and Hulu: $19.99 per month – This bundle includes access to ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu, offering a mix of sports, entertainment, and TV shows at a discounted rate.
• ESPN+ (Unlimited): $29.99 per month – This is the premium version of ESPN+ and provides access to all of ESPN’s live sports events, including the full range of ESPN’s linear channels. This plan is ideal for fans who want the complete ESPN experience, including live games, studio shows, and more.

Customer Support Comparison

FuboTV Customer Support

FuboTV has a reputation for providing solid customer support. Users can get in touch with customer service through various channels, including:

• Live Chat: Available on FuboTV’s website, live chat is often the quickest way to get assistance.
• Email Support: FuboTV also offers email support for less urgent issues. Response times can vary depending on the complexity of the issue.
• Phone Support: FuboTV provides phone support, although it may take longer to reach an agent due to high call volumes.

FuboTV’s customer service is generally rated highly, with users reporting helpful and knowledgeable representatives. However, as with most streaming services, wait times can be a bit long during peak periods.

ESPN Customer Support

ESPN’s customer support is also good but can be a little less personalized since it’s part of a larger corporation. ESPN offers support through:

• Live Chat: Available for ESPN+ subscribers, this is the fastest way to resolve issues.
• Email Support: ESPN also has an email support system, although responses may take a little longer.
• Phone Support: For ESPN+ issues, users can call the customer support line, though it can sometimes take longer to reach a representative.

Both FuboTV and ESPN have similar customer support setups, but FuboTV’s support is generally more responsive, given the broader range of issues that it handles (from channel availability to DVR issues).

Pros and Cons

FuboTV Pros

• Offers a comprehensive mix of sports and entertainment channels.
• Great for cord-cutters who want an all-in-one TV service.
• Excellent DVR capabilities with up to 1000 hours of storage.
• Offers multiple streams, making it ideal for families.
• No long-term contracts or hidden fees.

FuboTV Cons

• More expensive than other streaming services.
• Channels outside of sports can feel like “extras” for sports-only viewers.
• Regional sports networks may not be available in all locations.

ESPN Pros

• Focused exclusively on sports, providing extensive coverage of major leagues.
• Affordable pricing, especially for sports fans who don’t need entertainment channels.
• On-demand content, including replays and highlights.
• Integration with other Disney-owned services (Hulu, Disney+) offers added value.

ESPN Cons

• Limited to sports; lacks general entertainment channels.
• Live events are sometimes limited depending on the sport and region.
• No DVR functionality for live events.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both FuboTV and ESPN offer compelling sports streaming options, but they cater to different types of viewers. FuboTV is an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive TV experience that goes beyond sports. With its wide range of channels, including entertainment, local news, and sports, FuboTV provides an all-in-one cable replacement.

Its DVR functionality, multiple streams, and variety of content make it a strong contender for households that want flexibility and variety in their viewing options.

On the other hand, ESPN’s streaming service is perfect for sports purists. If your main focus is live sports, including access to major leagues and exclusive content, ESPN delivers. It provides extensive coverage of top sports, along with live games, studio shows, and on-demand replays.

ESPN’s more affordable pricing and simplicity make it a great choice for viewers who only need sports content without the extras.

Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferences. If you need a broad, flexible service with sports and entertainment, FuboTV is the way to go. But if you’re a dedicated sports fan looking for focused content at a lower price, ESPN is likely your best bet. Both platforms offer great value, depending on what you prioritize in your streaming experience.

FAQs

What’s better for sports, FuboTV or ESPN?

If you only want sports, ESPN is the better choice with its live coverage of major leagues. FuboTV is broader but includes sports and entertainment.

Can I record live games with FuboTV?

Yes, FuboTV includes a cloud DVR feature to record games and shows for later viewing.

How much does ESPN cost?

ESPN offers various plans, starting at $9.99/month for basic access, and up to $29.99/month for full access to live sports.

Does FuboTV offer local channels?

Yes, FuboTV includes popular local channels like ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX in its packages.

Is ESPN’s streaming service only for sports?

Yes, ESPN is focused entirely on sports content, including live events and original programming.