Sling TV has become a popular choice for sports enthusiasts eager to catch their favorite games without the hefty price tag of traditional cable. With various packages available, potential subscribers may wonder: how much is sports extra on Sling TV? In this article, we dive deep into the costs, options, and features of Sling TV’s sports packages, ensuring you have every detail you need to make an informed decision.
Overview of Sling TV
Sling TV is an innovative streaming service that offers live television channels over the internet. Launched in 2015 by Dish Network, it allows users to customize their viewing experience by selecting different channel packages (called “Sling Blue,” “Sling Orange,” etc.) and add-on options, making it an attractive alternative to traditional cable.
One of the standout features of Sling TV is its flexibility and affordability. Users can enjoy on-demand programming, record live shows, and, importantly for sports fans, access a range of sports channels. However, what subscribers may not realize is that channel options can influence the overall cost, especially for passion-driven sports viewing.
Understanding Sling TV Packages
Sling TV provides a variety of packages to cater to different interests, including sports. They primarily offer three base packages:
- Sling Orange
- Sling Blue
- Sling Orange + Blue
Each of these packages gives subscribers a different line-up of channels catering to their viewing preferences.
Sling Orange
Sling Orange offers a more limited selection of channels, primarily catering to a younger audience. Sports fans will benefit from channels like ESPN, making it a good choice for college football or basketball fans.
Sling Blue
Sling Blue, on the other hand, has a broader selection of channels, including NBC Sports and FS1. This package complements its offerings with more local channels, which may include regional sports networks, making it ideal for fans who want to follow local teams.
Sling Orange + Blue
The combined package, Sling Orange + Blue, provides the most extensive channel selection, including all channels from both packages, making it perfect for avid sports fans who don’t want to miss any game.
The Cost of Sports Add-Ons
While Sling TV’s base packages provide a decent selection for sports enthusiasts, many viewers may want even more access. Here’s where the need for extra sports add-ons comes into play.
Sports Extra Package
To enhance your sports viewing experience, Sling TV offers the Sports Extra add-on. This package provides access to even more channels dedicated to sports coverage and may include:
- ESPN Goal Line
- ESPN Buzzer Beater
- SEC Network
- ACCN (ACC Network)
- NBA TV
- NHL Network
Adding the Sports Extra package costs $11 per month on top of your selected base package.
What Channels Are Included in the Sports Extra Add-On?
The Sports Extra package is a game-changer for those who want to follow specific leagues like the NBA, NHL, and college football. Below is a brief description of some channels you can expect with this add-on:
| Channel | Description |
|---|---|
| ESPN Goal Line | Covers live college football games and highlights. |
| ESPN Buzzer Beater | Features live coverage of college basketball games. |
| SEC Network | Provides comprehensive coverage of sports events surrounding the Southeastern Conference. |
| ACCN | Focuses on athletic competitions in the Atlantic Coast Conference. |
| NBA TV | Showcases NBA games, analysis, and behind-the-scenes coverage. |
| NHL Network | Offers NHL game coverage, highlights, and expert commentary. |
The additional channels included in the Sports Extra package can prove vital for any dedicated fan aiming to catch every game, in-depth analysis, and unique programming.
Benefits of Sling TV for Sports Lovers
Sling TV offers several advantages for sports enthusiasts:
Affordability
One of the most compelling reasons to choose Sling TV is its lower price compared to traditional cable. With its base packages starting at just $40 per month, even with the Sports Extra package, you still save compared to many cable providers.
Flexibility
With Sling TV, you have the flexibility to customize your subscription. You can start with a basic package and add channels or packages as your sports interests evolve. This adaptability is perfect for fans who know what they want season-by-season without committing to a hefty annual contract.
Accessibility
Available on a wide range of devices, Sling TV ensures you can catch games wherever you are. You can watch on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and even with your gaming consoles, making it easier to stay connected to your favorite teams.
Comparing Sling TV to Other Streaming Services
When deciding if Sling TV is the right choice, it is essential to compare its offerings with other streaming services catering to sports fans, such as YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV has a more extensive selection of live channels, including several sports networks. However, its pricing starts around $72.99 per month, which is significantly higher than Sling TV. YouTube TV also comes with unlimited DVR, a feature that Sling TV does not offer in its basic package.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV also competes in this space, offering a combination of on-demand TV and live sports channels. Starting around $76.99 per month, it provides a more aesthetic interface and the option for ad-free viewing for additional costs.
In terms of expense, accessibility, and channel variety, Sling TV often emerges as a more budget-friendly option while offering tailored sports programming.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, if you’re a passionate sports fan looking for an economical and customizable streaming option, Sling TV deserves your attention. The Sling Orange + Blue package combined with the Sports Extra add-on at an additional $11 per month may be what you need to catch all the action without breaking the bank.
Sling TV not only provides flexibility and accessibility but also caters to those who want to tailor their sports viewing experience. Considering everything from costs to channel selection, the value is evident; investing in Sling TV could be one of the best decisions for your sports viewing habits in 2023.
What is Sling TV?
Sling TV is an over-the-top internet television service that allows subscribers to access live TV channels and on-demand content through the internet. It offers a variety of packages, including Sling Orange, Sling Blue, and a combination of both, catering to different viewer preferences and needs. The service is designed to be more affordable than traditional cable TV while still providing access to popular channels.
With Sling TV, users can watch a wide range of content, including news, sports, entertainment, and more. It is accessible on various devices, such as smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV, making it a flexible option for many viewers.
How much does Sling TV cost?
Sling TV offers several pricing options based on the package you choose. The basic Sling Orange or Sling Blue packages typically range from about $40 to $50 per month. Each package comes with a set of channels, and users can choose one or the other, depending on their viewing preferences.
Moreover, Sling TV offers a combined package, known as Sling Orange + Blue, which includes channels from both base packages for a slightly higher fee, typically around $60 per month. Overall, Sling TV aims to provide a budget-friendly alternative to traditional cable subscriptions while still delivering diverse content.
What sports channels are included in the basic package?
In the Sling Orange package, subscribers can find channels like ESPN and ESPN2, which are some of the primary networks for live sports coverage in the U.S. This package suits sports enthusiasts who enjoy major leagues like the NBA, NFL, and college sports.
On the other hand, the Sling Blue package includes the likes of FS1 and NBC Sports Network, which also provide extensive sports coverage. This means that by subscribing to these basic packages, you get access to a decent selection of sports content, but additional channels might be necessary for more comprehensive coverage.
Are there additional sports add-ons available?
Yes, Sling TV offers a variety of sports add-ons to enhance your viewing experience. These add-ons typically include channels such as NFL RedZone, NBA League Pass, and more, allowing subscribers to access more specialized sports content that may not be available in the standard packages.
The cost of these add-ons generally varies, with many starting around $10 to $15 per month. Depending on your specific sports interests, these add-ons can significantly improve your live sports coverage, making it worthwhile for avid sports fans.
Is regional sports network access included?
Access to regional sports networks (RSNs) on Sling TV can be a bit complex. Currently, many RSNs are not available in the standard Sling TV packages, as these networks often require separate subscriptions or may not be offered on the platform at all.
If you are keen on watching local sports, you might consider checking if your regional networks are included in any of the Sling TV add-ons. Sling TV does provide options to access certain RSNs, but availability can differ based on geography and licensing agreements, so it’s essential to verify this before subscribing.
Can I watch local games on Sling TV?
Depending on your location, you may be able to watch local games through Sling TV. For example, if you are subscribed to the Sling Blue package, which includes networks like NBC, you can access NBC’s live broadcasts for local NFL games. However, the availability of local games may vary based on the specific sports league and the local broadcast agreements in your area.
If you have a strong interest in local sports, it might be beneficial to supplement your Sling TV subscription with an antenna. Using an antenna allows you to receive over-the-air signals for local channels that could be airing important games or events not available on Sling.
Are there any contracts with Sling TV?
One of the perks of subscribing to Sling TV is that it does not require a long-term commitment. Subscribers can enjoy the flexibility of canceling their service at any time without incurring any penalties or fees, making it a more attractive option for those who prefer not to be locked into lengthy contracts.
This no-contract model allows subscribers to experiment with different packages and add-ons, adapting their subscription as their viewing needs change. Overall, the flexibility offered by Sling TV is a significant selling point that appeals to many potential customers.
How can I sign up for Sling TV?
Signing up for Sling TV is a straightforward process and can usually be done online. To start, you simply visit the Sling TV website, where you can choose between the various packages they offer. After selecting your desired package, you’ll need to create an account by providing your email and payment information.
Once your account is set up, you can download the Sling TV app on your preferred device or stream directly through a web browser. After logging in, you’ll have immediate access to your chosen channels, allowing you to enjoy live TV and on-demand content right away.