ESPN+ Explained: How Much Does a Subscription Cost?

Sports fans already familiar with ESPN might wonder about ESPN+, its streaming service launched in 2018. While ESPN+ offers live sports, it's best understood as a supplement to traditional ESPN channels, not a replacement. It fills in gaps and provides unique content, ensuring comprehensive sports coverage.

This guide covers ESPN+ in detail, including its features, live sports offerings, pricing, and more for 2025.

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

ESPN+ Explained

ESPN+ is a subscription streaming service offering live sporting events, exclusive ESPN films and series (not found on regular ESPN), premium articles, and more. Crucially, it does not include access to standard ESPN channels like ESPN, ESPN2, or ESPNEWS. To watch SportsCenter, you'll still need cable or a live TV streaming service.

However, 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 game highlights and analysis. The complete 30 for 30 documentary archive is also available. ESPN+ Premium Articles on ESPN's website provide in-depth analysis, rankings, and mock drafts from renowned sportswriters.

ESPN+ Plans and Prices (March 2025)

Subscription Options

ESPN+ offers a standalone monthly subscription for $11.99 or an annual plan at $119.99 (15% savings). A bundled option combines 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 promotions may be offered by third parties, none are directly available from ESPN.

What Channels Are Included?

ESPN+ doesn't offer traditional channels. Its content consists of live sporting events (availability varies by region and may be subject to blackouts), a vast archive of past events, and exclusive on-demand ESPN shows and series.

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 regional blackouts.

Importantly, ESPN+ is the exclusive streaming home for UFC events, including PPV fights (at an additional $79.99), Fight Nights, and a large archive of past fights.

ESPN+ shouldn't replace services like NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV, as it doesn't offer the majority of games. However, it provides substantial coverage for UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports fans.

How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms

ESPN+ is available in HD on numerous devices, supporting up to three simultaneous streams. The Disney Bundle allows access through the Disney+ app (in the US). The ESPN app, Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, Google Chromecast, select smart TVs, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One all support ESPN+.