How to watch ESPN and ABC without DirecTV: Stream channels online

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DirecTV customers were left in the dark earlier this month after Disney removed its channels from the television provider following a lengthy contract dispute. That left more than 11 million DirecTV subscribers without Disney-owned channels like ABC and ESPN.

The blackout couldn't have come at a worse time for DirecTV: It coincided with ABC's opening weekend of college football coverage and ESPN's ongoing coverage of the U.S. Open tennis tournament. Customers of DirecTV Stream, the company's live TV streaming service, were also affected by the dispute, which arose after DirecTV's broadcast contract with Disney expired on Sept. 1.

Fortunately, there are still ways to watch ABC and ESPN without DirecTV. The easiest option is also the cheapest: you can get an indoor digital antenna (like this one from Amazon) and receive a live feed of your local ABC affiliate.

You can also try an OTT streaming service that lets you watch live TV channels — including ABC and ESPN — online without cable. Below are some of the best options.

Watch ABC and ESPN on Fubo

Your best bet is to switch from DirecTV to a cable provider that offers ESPN and ABC. We like Fubo, which offers over 200 live TV channels in its basic package. In addition to ESPN and ABC, Fubo's offerings include NFL Network, FS1, and NBA TV for sports, as well as entertainment channels like E!, FX, USA, and more.

It normally costs $79.99/month, but Fubo is currently running a promotion where you can get instant access for just $49.99. With Fubo, you can watch live TV over the internet on your phone, laptop or tablet, or stream it all on your smart TV using the Fubo app. Try Fubo here with a generous 7-day free trial with no commitment.

Watch ABC and ESPN on Hulu + Live TV

Another great option is Hulu + Live TV, which offers access to over 90 live TV channels in addition to Hulu's extensive on-demand library of shows and movies. The Hulu + Live TV plans include ABC and ESPN, so you can stream both channels live online without cable. Your subscription to Hulu starts at just $76.99/month and also includes bonus access to Disney+ and ESPN+.

Hulu + Live TV offers a 3-day free trial here so you can test out the service.

Watch ABC and ESPN on Sling

And then there's Sling, one of the cheapest live TV streaming services on the internet, with plans currently discounted to just $20. Normally priced at $40+, the new promotion saves you 50% on a monthly streaming plan. The Sling Orange plan includes ESPN, ESPN4K, ESPN2, and ESPN3. A local ABC feed is also provided in most regions. Combine it with a Sling Blue package for even more live streaming options. Find more details here.

DirecTV has assured its customers that it is working on a solution to bring ESPN and ABC back on the air. The Walt Disney Company, meanwhile, released a statement from Dana Walden and Alan Bergman, co-chairmen of Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, chairman of ESPN, saying: “Our priority is to reach a marketplace agreement that meets the needs of DirecTV and its customers while recognizing the value of our high-quality content and the significant investment required to create and acquire it. We believe there is a path to a fair and flexible agreement that strikes this critical balance and works for all parties, especially the consumer.”