When it comes to watching TV, most TV shows people watch are on broadcast TV networks like CBS, ABC, FOX, NBC, etc. TV shows on those networks are consistently in the Nielsen ratings top 10. In this article, we explain in detail how to watch your local broadcast networks by streaming them live online or watching them live over the air with a TV antenna.
If you're a cord cutter who wants to stream it live on your TV, computer, or phone, I've rounded up a few ways to do that below. Free ways to watch or stream. Locast: This free nonprofit. Good Morning America is one of the top morning shows in the world and airs weekdays at 7am on ABC. If you don't have cable or can't get to a TV, you can watch ABC live on your computer, phone. Computer Watch on your computer using your browser. Just click to Watch Live TV or go to the TV or Video section and click CNNgo from the top menu.
Get the ultimate in TV & DVR. Because 100+ channels of free Live TV is just the beginning. For just / month plus a home tuner and antenna, the power to watch, pause, and record your favorite free HD broadcast channels is yours. (Digital tuner and antenna required to receive local broadcast TV stations for TV. The Western Digital WD TV Live Streaming Media Player is a good option and is available for about $100 on Amazon. It supports Netflix, Spotify, and Hulu in addition to local file streaming.
- Free Local TV
- Streaming Local Channels
- Watch Prime Time Network TV Online
Free Local TV
There are two ways to watch your local network TV channels for free.
Use a TV Antenna
Cable TV doesn't want you to know this, but local broadcast TV networks are available over the air simply using a TV antenna. In fact, today's antenna TV has a better picture than cable. These days, TV signals are digital, so you need a TV made after 2007 with a digital tuner.
Every TV I encounter can make use of a TV antenna. To make sure yours does, look for a coaxial port on the back or side of the television. If your TV is digital, then there will be a label with the letters 'HD,' 'ATSC,' 'HDTV,' or other words indicating the TV has a digital tuner. If your TV is not digital, you can convert it using a digital converter box.
Once you have a 'digital ready' TV, all you need to do is install a TV antenna. Antenna companies use the term 'digital antenna,' but that is just a marketing term. Any antenna can pick up the signal. It's the turner inside the TV's ability to read that digital signal that matters. You could use an antenna from the 1950s, and if the TV is digital (which mostly all made after 2007 are), you can use it.
While there are many types of antennas, and finding the perfect one requires some research, generally, if you live in a city or the suburbs, you can grab a $25 Flat TV antenna. The free return policy makes it no risk. If it doesn't get the channels you want, you can return it for your money back. If the flat antenna doesn't perform to your expectations, then check out the following instructional guides for more details on over the air TV.
- Learn How to Choose a TV Antenna
- Learn How to Use One Antenna for Multiple TVs
- Learn How to Ground a TV Antenna
- Learn how to Improve Antenna TV Reception
- Record from your Antenna with an Over the Air DVR
Free Channels Without an Antenna
You no longer need a cable or satellite TV subscription to watch your local TV channels. You can now stream local networks online using a live streaming service. You can even get a device like a Roku and watch them on your TV set. Some are even free, like Locast!
Locast provides local ABC, FOX, NBC, CBS, and more 100% free. You can even watch Locast using a streaming device. Locast supports Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and Android TV.
Locast is available in the following 29 TV markets:
Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charlotte NC, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Madison WI, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Orlando FL, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Puerto Rico, Rapid City, Sacramento, San Francisco, Scranton, Seattle, Sioux City, Sioux Falls, Tampa Bay, Washington D.C, and West Palm Beach FL.
You can read more in our review of Locast.
Streaming Local Channels
If you don't want to use an antenna, there are several ways to stream your local network channels. Locast is free, so it's the best option if the service is available in your area. The next best way to stream local ABC, NBC, Fox, and CBS are Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV. They both offer a way to live stream major broadcast networks in nearly every market in the US. Other options to watch local channels are AT&T TV and FuboTV. However, they don't cover as many markets. Lastly, Paramount+, Sling TV,Vidgo, and TVision stream some but not all of the big 4 local broadcast networks in some parts of the country.
We break down the local channel offers of each of these services in the sections below.
Local Channels on Hulu Live TV
Did you know Hulu streams Live TV? Hulu's Live service currently streams live ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, in nearly every TV market, along with the CW in quite a few markets as well. You can check your zip code with Hulu to see which local channels are available in your area. It will also tell you which cable channels are available! You can get live FOX, CBS, ABC, and NBC in most U.S. These are the same local affiliate networks you see over the air and on cable TV.
They also stream just about every channel you can find on pay TV. There is no contract so that you can cancel at any time. Hulu's Live TV service is much cheaper than cable, starting at just $64.99 per month. That also includes Hulu's massive on-demand streaming library.
Hulu+live TV is supported on Roku, Fire TV Devices, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox One, iOS, Android, and more. You can find more information on the service in our Hulu review, along with a listing of all your local channels on Hulu.
Local Channels on YouTube TV
YouTube TV is an equally great option for watching live ABC, CBS, Fox, The CW, and NBC. You can check your Zip Code on Youtube TVs Website to make sure those channels are available in your area. They are also one of the only live services to offer PBS in their channel lineup.
YouTube TV is also a top service for watching local and cable channels live online. The service costs $64.99 per month with no contract, so that you can cancel at any time. YouTube TV is available on Roku, Android, iOS (includes AirPlay to Apple TV), and Chromecasts/Chromecast-compatible TVs. You can see our in-depth review of YouTube TV for more information on their service.
Local Channels on Fubo TV
FuboTV offers live local Fox, ABC, NBC, and CBS in select markets. This service also includes networks known for sports like FS1, FS2, beIN Sports, NBCSN, BTN, and more. You can see what's available at FuboTV through this 1-week free trial. We cover this streaming service in-depth in our Review of FuboTV.
FuboTV is available on major platforms, including AppleTV, AndroidTV, Roku, and Amazon FireTV. The price of their 'Family Plan' is $64.99 per month after the free trial. That includes a cloud DVR with 250 hours of storage and the ability to watch on 3 devices at once.
AT&T TV Local Channels
AT&T TV is another streaming service that offers local channels in most TV markets in the United States. The service offers live ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, The CW, and more for a price of $69.99 per month. A subscription to AT&T TV includes:
- watch 3 streams simultaneously per subscription
- a cloud-based DVR
- channels like Freeform, AMC, HGTV, Discovery, and more
- supported on AppleTV, Android TV, Roku, Amazon FireTV, and more
You can check out everything this service offers by taking a look at their promo page or read about it in our AT&T TV review.
More Limited Options
Sling TV offers only local FOX and NBC in select markets if you subscribe to Sling TV's 'Blue' channel package. You can watch Sling TV on Windows and Mac PCs and laptops, Android and iOS devices, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Nexus player, Xbox One, 4th Generation Apple TV, Chromecast, and more. To find out more about what Sling TV offers and more information about Sling TV device compatibility, check out this detailed review of Sling TV. Sling offers a 3-day free trial.
Paramount+ provides the local live CBS broadcast markets across the U.S. Check the link to see if the live local feed is available in your area. If interested, you can check out this free trial to Paramount+.
Vidgo streams Fox and ABC in around 100 markets around the country but doesn't offer NBC and CBS. Vidgo is supported on available on Android, iOS, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV. You can also stream the service on up to 3 devices at the same time. We have the full details in our guide to Vidgo's live streaming service. They do offer a 3-day free trial, which you can cancel within the first three days at no charge.
TVision from T-Mobile offers local Fox, ABC, and NBC in quite a few markets. This service is only available to T-Mobile customers at the moment. You can read more about this streaming service in our review of TVision.
Watch Local Channels on Roku and Amazon Fire TV
Obviously, if you chose to use Hulu, YouTube TV, or Locast to stream your local broadcast channels, you can download the app to your streaming device and watch local TV. However, if you decided to go with a TV antenna, we need to go into a little more detail.
If you have a Roku TV instead of the standalone Roku device, a 'TV Antenna' Roku app reads input from the coaxial port on your Roku TV back. Connect your TV antenna to the port and turn on the TV Antenna app. You will have access to a program guide and all the channels your antenna receives. Amazon Fire Smart TV's have similar functionality.
If you don't have a Roku TV but a Roku device, you still may be able to use an antenna. However, you will need some additional hardware. Here are two solutions.
Tablo DVR – This is a DVR for your TV antenna. Your antenna plugs into Tablo DVR, and the Tablo plugs into your home router. From there, you can use the Roku table app to manage the DVR, watch live TV, and set recordings. Read more in our review of DVRs for your TV Antenna.
HDHomeRun Connect Duo – This device is not a DVR. It connects to your router via ethernet. You then connect a TV antenna to the HDHomeRun, and the TV signal is available on your home network through the HD HomeRun Roku app. This device is available through Amazon.
Of course, you can always hook the antenna to your TV, switch your TV input to Roku for streaming, and 'TV Antenna' to watch live TV. These solutions are more for the convenience of access to live TV through your Roku menu.
Watch Prime Time Network TV Online
If you aren't in a market where the streaming services listed above offer live local channels, they still stream content on demand. While you won't have local news, it will cover a lot of prime time network TV. They all provide free trials and no contract, so there is no risk to try them.
Stream Network Shows On-Demand
Another way to catch primetime network television is the combination of Hulu On-Demand, NBC Peacock, and Paramount+. This combination will provide several hit primetime shows on CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, and The CW. You can give Hulu a try to see if you like the service. If you're looking for PBS shows, they can be accessed through the PBS app. It is available on almost any device.
While Paramount+, Hulu, and the PBS app is supported on most browsers, tablets, and smartphones, you probably want to watch these shows on television. To do that, all you need is a streaming device like Roku.
These devices connect to various video services over the internet using apps (also known as channels.) They then stream the video directly to your TV.
Watch Free with Network TV Apps
While you typically can't stream your local network through the apps below, they offer some free content. In most cases, the latest seasons of primetime shows are available to watch through these apps free. However, while there is free content, don't expect them to have everything you want to watch available.
NBC App
Computer Live Stream For Youtube
You can watch several NBC Shows using the NBC app or at NBC.com. They make you wait 8 days before watching the most current episode, but the full-length episodes are available for the current shows free on most streaming devices. You just need to search your devices channel store for the NBC App.
Current episodes for the following show's latest season were available through the NBC app: American Ninja Warrior, Connecting…, Dateline NBC, Ellen's Game of Games, Superstore, This Is Us, Transplant, The Voice, The Wall, and Weakest Link.
ABC App
While the ABC app requires a TV provider login for some content, current episodes of ABC shows available free. A 'lock' symbol identifies which episodes require you to link your participating TV provider account. However, Locked episodes for most shows will become available to watch without signing into your participating TV provider account 8 days after the episode first airs on TV.
I checked, and you can watch the latest episode of the following shows eight days after airing on ABC: 20/20, America's Funniest Home Videos, American Housewife, The Bachelorette, Black-ish, Card Sharks, Celebrity Family Feud, The Con, The Conners, Dancing with the Stars, Emergency Call, The Goldbergs, The Good Doctor, Grey's Anatomy, Match Game, Press Your Luck, Station 19, Supermarket Sweep, and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
The shows look to keep at least the last 5 episodes available free. You can download the app to your mobile or streaming device or watch on ABC's website.
Fox App
The Fox Now app does have many programming online for free, but it appears they delay current episodes if you don't have a valid cable or satellite TV account. Some shows seem that they are on more of a delay than others. However, there is a method to the madness.
Generally, without a TV provider, new episodes of returning FOX shows (i.e., shows that have been on the air more than 1 season), unlock 8 days after they air on TV. In some cases, only the most recent 5 episodes will be available free. So you can watch the latest episodes of The Simpsons and The Masked Singer. However, new shows like LA's Finest will be locked without a TV provider.
The Fox Now App is available on most streaming platforms.
The CW
The CW is great when it comes to watching broadcast TV online. They have up-to-date full-length episodes of 'Arrow,' 'Supernatural,' 'The Flash,' and more. Most of their shows are available soon after airing. How to create pdf format. The CW app is available in the channel store of most streaming devices.
PBS
PBS also does a great job of providing online content. You can stream the live feed of the local PBS member station in over 125 TV markets. See our guide to watching PBS online for details. Many Full-length episodes of PBS shows are available for free at PBS.com.
Looking For a Specific Local Network
If you are in a specific live local network, then check out the channel-specific articles below
For information on watching other TV channels online check out: How To Stream Specific TV Channels
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With over 60 live channels including HGTV, AMC, Paramount Channel and more for just $20 per month, Philo TV is one of the best TV provider deals you 'll find online. Try a Free Trial to Philo Now! No credit card required!
Disney+ is offering an amazing deal combining Hulu, ESPN+, and Disney+ for just $12.99 per month! For more on the new Disney streaming service, check out our ultimate guide to Disney+
Disclosure: Grounded Reason is supported by a small commission for purchases made through some product links on this website. We do not accept compensation from companies attempting to sway our review of products.You can watch free TV online, there is no need to pay a single penny for watching TV Channels. There are lots of websites available which can provide you free tv streaming of more than 1,000 to 5000 TV Channels. The only thing you need is a fast connection. If you have a fast internet connection, then you can easily turn your PC or Laptop into home theater and watch all live shows, sport events without paying a penny.
Have a look on the list below to find the channel you are looking for. I will keep the list updated to make sure you get the working links. However, if you do find any broken site, report in the comment section so that it can be updated.
Featured Free Online TV Streaming
Watch Free TV Online Now (For US users only) – Watch Here
List of Websites to Watch Free TV Online Channel Streaming
Update:- Unfortunately due to copyright infragmentation notice, we had to remove all the live streaming websites from this page. If you wish to view the sites that offers live tv streaming, you can visit the below page.
Other Free Streaming Websites Suggested by Users
How Do I Live Stream Tv On My Computer App
- Watch movies online – BobMovies
- Lihattv.us
- Hulu.com
- Movie Streaming Sites
These are some of the websites available on the internet where you can find streaming to the TV channels around the world. To find the exact streaming of a channel you are searching for, make sure to visit every website and browse through the categories. Free movie download feature is also available on most of the websites. Hope this list will help you in finding the channels you are looking for.
There may be a lot of other websites where you can watch free tv online on the internet. However, these are the most popular and have a large database of channels among all other websites.
If you have any other website which provides such free service, then don't forget to share below. This post will be updated on a regular basis to add more sites suggested by the users. Don't forget to share on social media.
Tips for Watching Online TV via Streaming Sites
There are some tips I would like to give to you, when watching free online streaming websites. The Internet is a dangerous place too, and you should be aware of all the aspects of it. Your personal data can be hacked, your computer can get affected with virus, malware and other harmful threats, you could lose money and several other nasty things can happen.
Live Stream On Pc
So at the end of this post, I want to share some of the things you should be aware of so that you can safely and securely watch your favorite channel for free. Let's begin with it.
How To Live Stream On Pc
Don't Download Suspicious Media Players – There are a number of websites which can tell you to download a particular player to watch the tv or video. Stay alert about such websites, because they can send a virus, malware or any other type of threat in disguise of the media player to hack into your system. You can always check the downloaded file in VirusTotal Tool for any possible security threats. Visit the tool, and press the browse button to upload the file from your computer. The tool will analyze the file and let you know if its is harmful or clean. Always perform scans of media players so that you can be secured.
Popup Ads – Although such ads are not harmful, but sometime the Popup Ads can lead you to an insecure website. Which can affect your browser or computer with a virus or malware. So keep a close eye on the popup pages and make sure not download anything from them. Sometime websites can force your Internet Download Manager to automatically download the file. Make sure to keep eye on it too. Watching free tv is defiantly a cost effective way, but comes with such annoying things too.
Be Aware of the Legal Consequences – Although it is free to watch live tv on such streaming websites, but you should be aware of the fact, that all the streaming websites offering free tv online streaming features are illegal and can trouble you with a copyright violation notice.
Handling The Ads During Online Streaming – When you are watching tv online, you will be served with different advertisements on the media player. Sometimes it becomes very hard to close the ads. In order to close them, make sure to look for the X or Close button on the ad. It must be in the center of the ad, or at the left or right side. Sometime it can be below the media player. Give the player some time so that it can load. Once fully loaded you will be able to find the close button and can continue to watch live tv.
Change Web Browsers – Sometime you will get errors when watching a TV channel on a streaming website. It could be due to the browser. In order to get rid of such errors either update your web browser to the lastest version or use another browser. The most suitable browsers are Google Chrome, Firefox and Torch.
Use Desktop TV Streaming Softwares – If you don't want to visit, live tv streaming sites, the alternative way is to use desktop streaming softwares. Here is the list of softwares to watch live tv for free. The benefit of using such softwares is that you are worry free about the threats and malware. The tv streaming will directly load inside the software, thus making the watching TV experience more secure.
How Do I Live Stream Tv On My Computer To My
Mobile Apps for Free Online TV – Another way to watch free tv online is to use Andorid apps. I have already collected a list of android apps for online tv streaming. So even if you are not on your PC or Laptop you will still be able to watch free TV.
I hope the article will help you find your best channel for online tv streaming. If you would like to report a website or share your experience, feel free to post comments below. If you need link of Live TV Streaming of any channel, drop me comment below and mention the name and country. I will help find you the link and add to the list.
