ESPN+ Explained: How Much Does a Subscription Cost?

For sports fans, ESPN is a familiar name. But ESPN+, its streaming service launched in 2018, sometimes leaves viewers scratching their heads. While it *does* offer live sports, it's best understood as a supplement to traditional ESPN channels, filling in gaps and offering exclusive content.

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

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, delivering Sunday night NFL highlights and analysis. The entire archive of ESPN's acclaimed 30 for 30 documentaries is also available.

For those who enjoy in-depth sports analysis, ESPN+ provides access to ESPN+ Premium Articles on ESPN's website, featuring insightful commentary, rankings, mock drafts, and more from renowned 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% discount). Alternatively, bundle ESPN+ (with ads) with Disney+ (with ads) and Hulu (with ads) for $16.99 per month.

Does ESPN+ Have a Free Trial?

No, ESPN+ currently doesn't offer a free trial. While there are no current promotions, ESPN's website mentions that some third-party offers might exist.

What Channels Does ESPN+ Include?

ESPN+ doesn't include traditional channels. Its content consists of a rotating selection of live sporting events, a vast archive of past events, and exclusive on-demand ESPN shows and series not found on regular ESPN channels.

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 PPV fights (which cost an additional $79.99), Fight Nights, and an extensive fight archive. UFC Fight Nights and other non-PPV events are included in the subscription.

While ESPN+ won't replace services like NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB.TV, it offers a substantial amount of live sports content, particularly for UFC, NHL, soccer, and college sports fans.

How to Watch ESPN+ - Available Platforms

ESPN+ is available on numerous devices in HD, supporting up to three simultaneous streams. The Disney Bundle allows access through the Disney+ app (in the US). 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.