Product Overview: Sling TV

Website: sling.com

Cost: Orange $40.00/mo  Blue $40.00/mo  Orange/Blue $55.00/mo

Add-ons: Sports Extra $11.00/mo  Entertainment Extra $6.00/mo  Kids Extra $6.00/mo  News Extra $6.00/mo  Lifestyle Extra $6.00/mo  Hollywood Extra $6.00/mo  Heartland Extra $6.00/mo

Regional Sports fee: Sling TV does not offer any Regional Sports options

Launching: Sling TV, a subsidiary of Dish Network, was launched on February 9, 2015

Ditching cable and saving some bucks? Sling TV might be your jam. For just $40 per month, you can jump on the Sling Orange plan. Not feeling it? Sling Blue is also $40 per month. The real kicker? The Orange + Blue combo for $55 per month gives you the best of both worlds.

And hey, if you’re new to Sling, there’s an enticing $20 discount on your first month of Orange or Blue and $27.50 discount for both. Fifty percent off the first month, that is pretty nice. It’s kind of like a low-stakes first date – no long-term commitment, just a chance to see if it’s right for you. You can cancel any time without worrying about penalties or fees. It’s flexible and wallet-friendly!

This affordability makes Sling TV a standout choice if you’re eager to cut the cable cord but want to keep access to some solid channels without breaking the bank. Sling is definitely mindful of your budget while offering a variety of plans to cater to different viewing needs.

Channel Offerings

Sling TV is like a buffet for the TV lover. With Sling Orange, you get 32+ channels for just $40 per month. Think heavy hitters like CNN, ESPN, and Nick Jr. But if you want a bit more meat on the bone, Sling Blue serves up 42+ channels, including ABC, NBC, and FOX, for $40 per month. Plus, you can stream on three devices simultaneously.

Now, if you’re a glutton for options, the Orange + Blue plan is your go-to. At $55 per month, you get everything in both the Orange and Blue plans and can stream on four devices at the same time. It’s great for households where everyone’s got their own TV-watching taste.

Sling TV isn’t just about quantity; it’s got quality too. From news and sports to entertainment and kids’ shows, they have a diverse lineup. Looking for special interest channels? Food Network, BBC America, and BET are all in the mix. This variety makes Sling TV a solid option for families or individuals with broad interests.

Pros and Cons

Weighing the pros and cons helps you make smart choices about streaming. Sling TV scores high on affordability. Month-to-month plans keep your budget in check, and you’re not chained to a long-term contract. With plans starting at $40, it’s easier on the wallet compared to traditional cable.

Channel variety is another strong suit. Over 30+ channels, including key networks like ABC, NBC, and FOX, are impressive for the price. Plus, you get niche gems like Food Network and BBC America. If you opt for the Orange + Blue plan, streaming on four devices simultaneously is a breeze, excellent for families or shared households.

However, there’s a flip side. Every channel includes commercials, which might feel like a step back if you’re used to ad-free streaming. Also, notable channels like CBS and PBS are missing from the lineup, which can be a deal-breaker for some. If you’re leaning towards the Orange plan, its limited channel offerings may feel a bit restrictive. Some users mention occasional glitches, which can be frustrating.

Considering these ups and downs, Sling TV is still a viable, budget-conscious option. Just weigh what’s most important to your viewing needs.

Local and Broadcast Channels

One of the top draws for cord-cutters is getting access to local channels. Sling TV’s got you covered sort of. With Sling Blue or the Orange + Blue plans, you can catch local big shots like ABC, NBC, and FOX. It’s a sweet deal if you follow local news or enjoy network shows.

But there’s a hiccup: CBS, The CW, and PBS aren’t in any Sling plans. If these channels are your go-to, you might miss out. However, Sling offers something called AirTV, which integrates over-the-air channels into the Sling guide. Meaning if you have an antenna, you can still access those local stations, and it’ll feel seamless. It’s a bit of a workaround, but it gets the job done.

So, while Sling covers some key local networks, it’s not a full substitute for cable’s comprehensive local channel lineup. Be sure to weigh this if local channels are essential for you.

Bottom Line

Sling TV is a solid pick for those wanting to save money while still enjoying a range of channels. Its affordability and flexible plans are big pluses, making it easier to tailor your viewing experience to your budget.

The channel lineup offers a good mix of news, sports, entertainment, and kids’ programming. The ability to stream on multiple devices with the Orange + Blue plan adds value, especially in bigger households. Special interest channels like Food Network and BBC America make the package more appealing for diverse tastes.

However, be ready to deal with commercials and limited local channels. Missing CBS and PBS might be a dealbreaker for some. Also, technical hiccups like occasional glitches and a somewhat clunky interface add a layer of frustration.

Overall, if you’re looking to cut the cord and don’t mind a bit of compromise, Sling TV offers a cost-effective solution with decent variety. Just weigh the pros and cons based on what’s important for your viewing habits.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, anything at all, please leave it in the comments box below.

All the best,

Mark Piper

Mark@bethmark.com