ESPN+ Explained: How Much Does a Subscription Cost?

If you're a fan of sports, you're likely familiar with ESPN, the renowned sports network. However, ESPN's streaming service, ESPN+, might still be a bit of a mystery to many sports enthusiasts, despite being available since 2018. While ESPN+ does offer live sports, it serves more as a complementary streaming service that enhances your coverage when paired with traditional network channels.

Explore our comprehensive guide to ESPN+ below, covering the service overview, live sports options, pricing, and more for 2025.

What Is ESPN+? The Sports Streaming Service, Explained

ESPN+

Choose between a standalone ESPN+ subscription or opt for the Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu. See it at ESPN+

ESPN+ is a subscription-based streaming platform that provides access to a wide array of live sporting events, exclusive ESPN films and series, premium articles, and more. However, it's important to note that despite its name, ESPN+ does not include access to traditional ESPN network channels like ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNEWS. For viewers wanting to catch shows like SportsCenter, a conventional cable or live TV subscription is still necessary.

On the upside, ESPN+ boasts a growing collection of original programming, including shows like "Man in the Arena with Tom Brady," "Peyton's Places," and "ESPN FC." Since 2019, it has been the exclusive home for NFL Primetime, offering comprehensive game highlights and analysis every Sunday night during the NFL season. Subscribers can also dive into the entire archive of ESPN's acclaimed 30 For 30 documentary series.

For those who enjoy detailed sports analysis, ESPN+ provides access to ESPN+ Premium Articles on the ESPN website, featuring in-depth analysis, rankings, mock drafts, and more from renowned sports writers.

ESPN+ Plans and Prices (As of March 2025)

Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ Bundle

Get all three services for just $16.99 per month at Disney+.

You can opt for a standalone ESPN+ subscription at $11.99 per month, or choose the annual plan for $119.99 per year, which offers a 15% savings over the monthly rate. Alternatively, the Disney Bundle, including ESPN+ (With Ads), Disney+ (With Ads), and Hulu (With Ads), is available for $16.99 per month.

Does ESPN+ Have a Free Trial?

Unfortunately, ESPN+ does not currently offer a free trial. While there are no promotions available directly from ESPN, the website mentions that third-party promotions may be available. Although ESPN+ doesn't offer a trial, other streaming services with sports content may provide free trials.

What Channels Does ESPN+ Include?

ESPN+ does not feature traditional channels; instead, it offers a variety of live sporting events that are currently airing, along with a vast archive of previously aired events and exclusive on-demand ESPN series and shows, most of which are not available on standard ESPN channels.

Can You Watch Live Sports on ESPN+?

Absolutely! With an ESPN+ subscription, you can access thousands of live sporting events, including select NFL, MLB, and NHL games, a range of soccer leagues from around the world, Formula 1, golf, boxing, various collegiate sports, and more. The availability of these games can vary based on your location and may be subject to regional blackouts.

ESPN+ is the exclusive streaming platform for UFC events, including Pay-Per-View (PPV) fights, Fight Nights, and more. While UFC PPV events cost an additional $79.99 on top of your ESPN+ subscription, UFC Fight Nights and other events are included at no extra charge. You can also stream hundreds of popular fights from the UFC archive.

Keep in mind that ESPN+ is not meant to replace season pass-like services such as NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV, as most live games throughout the season won't be available. However, for fans of UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports, ESPN+ offers a substantial selection.

How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms

ESPN+, like many streaming services, can be enjoyed on various devices in HD, supporting up to three simultaneous streams. If you subscribe to the Disney Bundle Trio (including Hulu and ESPN+), you can now watch all your content conveniently through the Disney+ app (in the US).

Additionally, ESPN+ is accessible through the ESPN app on mobile devices, streaming devices like Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Google Chromecast, select smart TVs, and gaming consoles such as PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.