ESPN+ Explained: How Much Does a Subscription Cost?

ESPN, a titan in the sports world, also offers ESPN+, a streaming service that often leaves fans wondering what it's all about. Launched in 2018, ESPN+ isn't a replacement for your cable subscription, but rather a valuable addition. While it *does* offer live sports, its strength lies in supplementing your existing viewing options for a more comprehensive 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+

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

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 NFL game highlights and analysis. The complete archive of ESPN's acclaimed 30 For 30 documentaries is also available.

For dedicated sports readers, ESPN+ Premium Articles offer in-depth analysis, rankings, mock drafts, and more from top ESPN writers.

ESPN+ Plans and Prices (March 2025)

Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ Bundle

ESPN+ is available as a standalone subscription for $11.99 per month, or $119.99 annually (a 15% savings). Alternatively, bundle ESPN+ (with ads), Disney+ (with ads), and Hulu (with ads) for $16.99 per month.

Does ESPN+ Have a Free Trial?

Currently, ESPN+ does not offer a free trial. While promotions may be offered by third parties, none are currently available directly through ESPN.

What Channels Does ESPN+ Include?

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.

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 college 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]Pay-Per-View (PPV) fights[ttpp], Fight Nights, and an extensive fight archive. While PPV events incur an additional $79.99 fee, Fight Nights and other content are included in the subscription.

While ESPN+ won't replace dedicated streaming services like NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV, it offers a surprisingly robust selection for fans of UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports.

How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms

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