7 Best USTVGO Alternatives: Stream Live TV Channels in 2024

With USTVGO shut down as of 2023, accessing free live US TV can be challenging. There are very few free sites that reliably stream US channels like ABC and HBO. Not to mention, many of these services are illegal and filled with malware and spyware — potentially putting you at risk.

That's why I tested over 30 USTVGO alternatives to find reliable platforms that are safe, legal, and offer live US TV. The only issue you might find is that, like USTVGO, most alternative options are only available in the US. These sites use your IP address to detect where you are in the world. If you’re not in the US, you get blocked.

Luckily, a VPN can help you access the best USTVGO alternatives from anywhere. You just need one with servers in the US (so it can reliably get you a US IP address) that has fast enough speeds for streaming. Plus, if you choose a VPN with good security measures, everything you do online — including your streaming activity — is kept private.

ExpressVPN is my go-to option for streaming US TV live and on demand. Thanks to its extensive US server network and excellent speeds, it lets you access USTVGO alternatives from anywhere. It also comes with airtight privacy features, so third parties can't keep tabs on your online activity. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free, as it's backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group.Stream US TV with ExpressVPN >>

The Best USTVGO Alternatives (Updated 2024)

1. YouTube TV

With YouTube TV, you get access to over 100 US channels, covering news, sports, and entertainment. The service doesn't mind sharing the fun either — you can stream on 3 devices at once, all on a single account. It's perfect for a family where everyone's into something different. The service also lets you download videos for offline viewing and lets you easily stream in 4k on the big screen.

You get access to HBO, ESPN, Discovery, NGC, C-SPAN, and more

That said, YouTube TV has got a high price tag at $72.99/mo, and it’s only available for US viewers. However, the streaming service offers free trials (trial length depends on the plan you choose), so you can try it out risk-free. Considering it could easily replace your cable subscription, YouTube TV isn’t a bad deal.

2. DirecTV

Owned by AT&T, DirecTV Stream has 150+ channels and a whopping 70,000 on-demand US TV shows and movies in 4k quality — you'll never be short on entertainment. You can also use it to access PPV (pay-per-view) sports events like WWE Network matches and Major League Soccer games. The platform even lets you record US TV channels (DVR) — you can record up to 5 simultaneously and store 200 hours of content for offline streaming.

DirecTV lets you watch live US TV without risk using the free trial

DirecTV is available via a range of customizable subscription plans to choose from that suit your budget. However, to access the full catalog of US live TV and on-demand content, you’ll need the Premier plan, which costs a whopping $154.99/mo. Thankfully, you can try the service risk-free before committing to a subscription.

3. Sling TV

Sling TV is a budget-friendly app-based USTVGO alternative. Sling has over 30 live TV channels and an array of on-demand content, including channels like CNN, ESPN, FOX, TNT, History, and more. Even better, the Freestream version lets you watch some live TV channels and on-demand content for free. This platform is also easy to use and supports cloud-based recordings, with 50 hours of DVR storage for all plans.

You get access to live TV channels like Showtime, Cartoon Network, TCM, CMT, and Cinemax

However, it's not perfect, as the free channels are limited. Not to mention, the local TV channel selection is a bit thin. If you want more variety, you’ll need to subscribe to the Orange, Blue, or Orange & Blue plans. If you take a vacation outside the US, you’ll also need a VPN to access this service — it’s only available within American borders.

4. Pluto TV

Pluto TV — the Paramount-owned platform — offers 250+ free channels with no account needed. But sign up, and you'll get some VIP perks like zero ads, a favorites tab, a resume-watching feature, and many more. Regardless of whether you sign up or not, you get access to live US channels like CNN, CBS, NBC, Fox Sports, PGA Tour, NFL, and more. Along with its website, it’s also available as an app on mobile devices and the Amazon Fire Stick.

The Pluto TV platform even offers apps for smartphones

But it's not all smooth sailing. Navigating the app interface and the EPG (program guide) can be a bit clunky on smaller screens, and a few US cable favorites are not available. But for a free-to-use service, the occasional hiccup doesn't seem too bad in return for a decent range of US TV. Pluto TV isn’t limited to just the US either; you can access the app in the UK, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria as well.

5. Plex

Plex has a selection of more than 80 free live TV channels, including many from the US. As the service was originally designed for home media storage, the app has kept some of that useful functionality. For example, it takes any stored TV shows and movies on your device and orders them by name, season, and other factors. It also offers an intuitive interface that rivals premium services.

You can stream movies and TV shows stored on your device straight from the app

While Plex is a good USTVGO alternative, it doesn't always have up-to-date US content on-demand like some of my other recommendations offer. The ads on the free streaming channels can also get a little annoying. But it's reliable and available in most countries. Plus, if you've got Google Home devices, Plex works with them just fine.

6. Freevee

Freevee — Amazon’s free live TV streaming platform — offers access to several US TV channels. Nicely, you can use Freevee on many platforms, including Fire TV, Fire TV Stick, Roku, Google TV, Android TV, game consoles, mobile devices, and desktops.

You can use Freevee by just logging in with your Amazon account

One issue I faced was that the interface was occasionally interrupted by ads. However, this was a small price to pay to get access to multiple US live TV channels for free. Just note that Freevee is only available in the US, the UK, Germany, and Austria. If you travel outside these countries, you’ll need a VPN to access the free streams.

7. Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV has over 85 US channels, offering a mix of content that includes heavy-hitters like Disney, ESPN, National Geographic, Comedy Central, and more. It’s also optimized for devices like Apple TV, Android, iOS, and Chromecast.

Hulu + Live TV offers access to some of the biggest US TV channels

Hulu + Live TV also includes other popular channels like Syfy, AMC, Fox News, TLC, and Food Network. The downside is that there’s no free trial. You can subscribe for $69.99/mo, but even this plan comes with some ads — if you don’t want ads, things get even pricier.

Editors' Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, Cyberghost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.

Why You Need a VPN for USTVGO Alternatives

Many USTVGO alternatives are geo-restricted to the US due to licensing agreements. Platforms like DirecTV and Hulu are only accessible within the US, for example. Other options, like Sling TV, are available across many countries but only offer region-specific content, so you’ll likely still lose access to your favorite US TV channels when traveling.

That said, there is a solution to this. A VPN cloaks your actual location to make it seem like you're in a different country. It works by redirecting your internet traffic through servers in a location of your choice — for example, the US. This disguises your real IP address with one from the States, making it seem like you're browsing from there. Thanks to this, a VPN allows you to access USTVGO alternatives from anywhere and enjoy your favorite shows and movies without interruptions.

VPNs also encrypt your traffic, shielding your online activity and personal information. So no one — including your internet service provider or advertising trackers — can see what you’re watching.

Best VPNs for USTVGO Alternatives — Full Analysis (Updated in 2024)

1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds for Streaming US Live TV Buffer-Free

Editor’s Choice Editor’s Choice Try Risk-Free for 30 Days
Tested April 2024

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try ExpressVPN >

www.ExpressVPN.com

ExpressVPN has fantastic speeds, making it a top-notch choice for streaming US live TV shows on USTVGO alternatives. While all VPNs slow your internet somewhat due to the encryption process, my speeds only took a 6% hit (many VPNs slash your speeds by over 30%). This means you can kick back, relax, and enjoy your favorite TV shows without annoying buffering.

The huge US server network allows you to tap into live TV streaming sites from anywhere. While I was traveling to the UK, I tested multiple ExpressVPN US server locations and got my Hulu + Live TV account up and running without a hitch. Every server I tested helped me access the service on the first go.

The apps are a breeze to navigate, even for VPN newbies. All I had to do was search for a server in the US and click the power symbol to connect. The VPN also allows you to connect up to 8 devices at once, meaning you can stream US live TV on multiple devices. Even when I connected 5 devices at once (including my Android smartphone and my Mac), I didn't experience any connection drops or slowdowns.

One tiny hiccup is that the plans can be a bit pricey. However, ExpressVPN often offers generous discounts that soften the blow to your wallet. When I signed up for the 12-month plan, I bagged a 49% discount and 3 extra months, dropping the price down to just $6.67/month. Trying the VPN is also risk-free, as ExpressVPN is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not happy, it’s easy to get a full refund via the 24/7 live chat.

Useful Features

• MediaStreamer. This feature lets you use ExpressVPN on devices that don’t normally support VPN apps. So, you can easily access USTVGO alternatives on the big screen via your smart TV or gaming console.
• Military-grade encryption. The robust security features include AES 256-bit encryption (the highest level), IP leak protection, and a kill switch (Network Lock). So your real IP address will never be exposed to streaming sites, and no one can monitor what you’re watching.
• Obfuscation tech. Every ExpressVPN server automatically uses obfuscation. This makes your VPN traffic look like regular traffic, enabling you to access USTVGO alternatives even on restrictive networks that block VPNs.

2. CyberGhost — Optimized Servers for Watching US Live TV Channels Without Restrictions

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try CyberGhost VPN >

www.cyberghostvpn.com

CyberGhost has streaming-optimized servers that easily unblock US live TV platforms. A number of these servers are specially dedicated to unblocking some of the best USTVGO alternatives, like YouTube TV, Sling TV, and Hulu. I didn’t have problems accessing any of them, and the servers I tested were all speedy — my average download speed dropped by only 9% when connected to the streaming servers.

Its apps are easy-to-use, making them a top pick if you’re a VPN beginner wanting to use USTVGO alternatives. For example, all the streaming servers are grouped under a handy “For Streaming” list, complete with the platform they are optimized for.

One feature I enjoyed using with CyberGhost is the automatic WiFi protection. With this feature switched on, the VPN auto-connects as soon as it detects you’re using an unknown WiFi network, swiftly shielding your connection with robust AES 256-bit encryption. This lets you stream US live TV safely, even on dodgy public hotspots.

The downsides? CyberGhost’s monthly subscription doesn't come cheap and offers a shorter money-back guarantee. However, long-term plans kick off at just $2.03/month and come with an extended refund window letting you try the app for free for up to 45 days. I went for the 2-year subscription, which is the most cost-effective in the long run.

Useful Features

• Content Blocker. CyberGhost has a dedicated feature that automatically blocks ads and trackers on USTVGO alternatives. This ensures your live TV streaming experience is free of annoying pop-ups and privacy violations.
• 7 simultaneous device connections. CyberGhost offers up to 7 simultaneous connections on a single subscription, meaning your entire household can watch US live TV shows on their own devices.
• Kill switch. An automatic kill switch cuts off your internet if the VPN connection fails, preventing your streaming activity from being revealed to third parties.

3. Private Internet Access — Unlimited Connections for Watching US Live TV on All Your Devices

Works With:

Netflix Disney+ APV HBO Max

Hulu BBC iPlayer Sky More

Try Private Internet Access >

www.PrivateInternetAccess.com

PIA gives you unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a great choice for streaming US live TV in homes with multiple devices. I tested PIA on my laptop, desktop, smartphone, console, and tablet simultaneously with impressive results — my connection only took a 13% hit. I binge-watched shows in 4k on USTVGO alternatives without buffering.

This VPN has a sprawling network of servers scattered worldwide — including plenty in the US. Some servers are even geared towards streaming, letting you tune into US live TV easily. I never had any trouble accessing Hulu or YouTube TV with these servers in my tests. Plus, the multi-hop feature slips past rigid firewalls that block VPNs, letting you watch USTVGO alternatives on restrictive networks at work and school.

The apps are also highly customizable, allowing you to strike the perfect balance between speed and safety. For example, you can tweak the level of encryption. I used the speedy AES 128-bit for smooth streaming but cranked it up to the ultra-secure AES 256-bit encryption when researching some of the more untrustworthy free USTVGO alternatives.

The only problem with all the settings is that they can be daunting if you’re not used to VPNs. That said, the default settings work well for streaming, so you don’t have to tweak anything if you don’t want to.

Useful Features

• Dedicated ad blocker. Like CyberGhost’s Content Blocker, PIA’s MACE blocks annoying ads and trackers to ensure a secure, interruption-free experience on USTVGO alternatives.
• Budget-friendly. You can use PIA to watch live TV on USTVGO alternatives for as low as $2.03/month. Plus, thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee, getting a refund is easy.

Editors' Note: Expressvpn and this site are in the same ownership group.

FAQs on the Best USTVGO Alternatives

Is ustv247 the same as USTVGO?

No, ustv247 was a clone site, and both services have now shut down. If you’re looking for a new way to stream live TV from the US, there are some USTVGO alternatives you can use instead.

What happened to the website USTVGO TV?

The exact reason is unclear, but USTVGO TV is not working anymore — probably because it streamed content illegally. You can regain access to your favorite US live TV content using safe and legal USTVGO alternatives.

The USTVGO website now displays a “Sorry, we are closed” error message and can trigger a range of antivirus alerts. The service’s Twitter and Reddit accounts are also suspended, and the related Discord server is disbanded. It’s likely that USTVGO was shut down due to legal action taken by broadcasters or other legal streaming sites — much like the similar services 123 TV, Oreo TV, and TVCatchup.

Are USTVGO alternatives legal?

Many USTVGO alternatives like YouTube TV, DirecTV, and Hulu are legal but may require a subscription. They can also be geo-restricted. If you travel outside the region where your chosen USTVGO alternative is available, a VPN can help you access your favorite live US TV without hitting geo-blocks.

Some USTVGO alternatives illegally offer copyrighted content, which can get you into trouble. Others are traps filled with malware and adware. Here are some platforms to avoid:

Are free streaming sites safe to use?

Not all free streaming sites are safe to use. It's crucial to use trusted, legitimate sites to avoid malware and monitoring. It’s best to stick to tried-and-tested legal streaming services and always use a reliable VPN to secure your connection online.

What devices are compatible with USTVGO alternatives?

Most USTVGO alternatives are in-browser, so you can use them with any device — including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart TVs. The best USTVGO substitutes have user-friendly apps for a range of devices, too.

Get the Best VPN for USTVGO Alternatives

Navigating the sea of USTVGO alternatives can be challenging, with many unofficial platforms filled with malware or spyware. The USTVGO alternatives I've put together are both safe and legal, with many of them offering either limited or forever free access. However, some of them are geo-restricted — so you’ll need a VPN to access most of them if you travel outside the US.

ExpressVPN is the best VPN for live streaming. It's fast and has an extensive US server network to bust through any barriers on your favorite streaming sites. Plus, it wraps your data in top-grade encryption, offering a safety blanket when streaming on USTVGO alternatives. You can try ExpressVPN risk-free — it's got a 30-day money-back guarantee so it’s easy to get a refund if the service isn't right for you.

To summarize, these are the best VPNs for USTVGO alternatives…

Rank

Provider

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1

9.9 /10

9.9 Our Score

Save 49%!

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2

9.7 /10

9.7 Our Score

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3

9.5 /10

9.5 Our Score

Save 83%!

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