ESPN, a titan in the sports world, also offers ESPN+, a streaming service that often leaves fans wondering what it truly offers. While ESPN+ *does* stream live sports, it's best understood as a complement to traditional ESPN channels, not a replacement. It fills in the gaps, providing a broader sports experience.

This guide dives into ESPN+ in 2025, covering its features, live sports offerings, pricing, and more.

What Is ESPN+? A Deep Dive into the Sports Streaming Service

ESPN+ Explained

ESPN+ is a subscription streaming service packed with live sporting events, exclusive ESPN films and series (many unavailable on regular ESPN), and premium articles. However, it's crucial to remember that ESPN+ does not include access to standard ESPN channels like ESPN, ESPN2, or ESPNEWS. To watch SportsCenter, for example, you'll still need cable or a live TV streaming service.

But ESPN+ boasts a growing library of original programming, including shows like Man in the Arena with Tom Brady, Peyton's Places, and ESPN FC. Since 2019, it's been the exclusive streaming home for NFL Primetime, offering Sunday night highlights and analysis. The entire acclaimed 30 for 30 documentary series is also available on ESPN+. Plus, ESPN+ subscribers gain access to premium articles on ESPN's website, featuring in-depth analysis, rankings, and mock drafts from leading sportswriters.

ESPN+ Plans and Prices (March 2025)

Pricing Breakdown

ESPN+ offers a standalone monthly subscription for $11.99 or an annual plan at $119.99 (a 15% discount). Alternatively, you can bundle ESPN+ (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and Hulu (with ads) for $16.99 per month.

Free Trial?

Currently, ESPN+ doesn't offer a free trial. While there are no current promotions directly from ESPN, they note that third-party offers may exist. Other streaming services with free trials might offer access to some sports content as an alternative.

What Channels Are Included in ESPN+?

ESPN+ doesn't offer traditional channels. Instead, it features a rotating selection of live sporting events, a vast archive of past events, and exclusive on-demand ESPN shows and series not found on standard ESPN channels.

Can You Watch Live Sports on ESPN+?

Yes! ESPN+ streams thousands of live sporting events, including select NFL, MLB, and NHL games, various international soccer leagues, F1 racing, golf, boxing, and numerous collegiate sports. Availability depends on your location and may be subject to regional blackouts.

Importantly, ESPN+ is the exclusive streaming home for UFC events, including [ttpp]PPV[/ttpp] fights, Fight Nights, and a large archive of past fights. While [ttpp]PPV[/ttpp] events have an additional cost of $79.99, UFC Fight Nights and other content are included in your subscription.

Don't expect ESPN+ to replace services like NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV; most games aren't available. However, for UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports fans, ESPN+ offers substantial value.

How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms

ESPN+ is available on various devices in HD, supporting up to three simultaneous streams. The Disney Bundle (including Hulu and ESPN+) allows convenient access through the Disney+ app (in the US). It's also accessible through the ESPN app, Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, Google Chromecast, select smart TVs, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.