Streaming live TV on Paramount Plus is both accessible and cost-effective. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy your favorite live programs hassle-free.
Understanding Paramount Plus
In March 2021, CBS All Access underwent a transformation and emerged as Paramount+, a streaming service by ViacomCBS. This platform boasts an extensive on-demand library and aims to captivate subscribers with a diverse array of content sourced from flagship networks such as BET, CBS, Comedy Central, MTV, and Nickelodeon.
Notably, Paramount Plus offers over 2,500 on-demand movie titles, complemented by a live TV feature hosting 1,000+ live sporting events annually, 24-hour news coverage, and local CBS access. Amidst a competitive streaming landscape, Paramount+ positions itself as an all-inclusive entertainment destination.
Paramount Plus Subscription Plans
Paramount+ presents two distinct subscription plans, both inclusive of its full content library and equipped with a generous seven-day free trial. The primary distinction between these plans revolves around ad interruptions.
Limited Commercials Plan
Costing $6 per month or $60 annually, the Limited Commercials plan is a budget-friendly option. Subscribers opting for the annual plan can enjoy savings of $12 on their monthly fees. It’s worth noting that this plan introduces advertisements during both live and on-demand content.
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An update is expected for the Limited Commercials plan later this year, reducing the monthly fee to $5 but removing access to local CBS channel live streams. However, current $6 plan subscribers will retain access to their local CBS stations.
Commercial Free Plan
The Commercial Free plan, priced at $10 per month or $100 for an annual subscription, eliminates most ads from the on-demand library. Nevertheless, live TV streaming may still include some advertisements. This premium plan also offers the convenience of downloading movies and shows for offline viewing.
How to Stream Live TV on Paramount Plus
To embark on your live TV streaming journey with Paramount+, follow these straightforward steps. Keep in mind that accessing Paramount+ content requires a paid subscription, although a week-long trial is available.
- Sign in to your Paramount Plus account on paramountplus.com or use the Paramount+ mobile app.
- On the home screen, locate the “Live TV” option within the menu.
- Here, you can select your preferred live TV station from the four options provided: your local CBS network, CBSN, CBS Sports HQ, and ET Live.
- Choose the station you want to watch, and you’ll gain immediate access to its live feed, featuring the station’s current programming. Refer to the comprehensive list of local CBS stations accessible via Paramount+ for more information.
Various Platforms for Paramount+ Streaming
Paramount+ ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and platforms, making it convenient for users to access their favorite content. Here’s a quick overview of the platforms compatible with Paramount+:
- Apple TV
- iPhone and iPad
- Android TV
- Android phone and tablet
- Chromecast
- Fire TV
- Portal TV
- PlayStation 4
- Samsung TV
- Vizio TV
- LG TV
- Roku
- Xbox
- Xfinity Flex
Live TV Options on Paramount Plus
In its quest to compete with both on-demand and live TV streaming services, Paramount+ offers several live TV stations to cater to diverse tastes. Currently, both subscription plans include access to live TV, although changes are anticipated for the Limited Commercials plan later this year. Here are the four live TV options available to all Paramount+ subscribers:
Local CBS Station
Paramount+ grants access to your local CBS station, delivering the standard broadcast schedule. This encompasses local news coverage and live sports, including SEC and NFL on CBS, golf, hockey, and women’s soccer. If other professional leagues broadcast on CBS, their games should also be available here. Note that certain regions within the U.S. may have limited access to local CBS stations.
CBSN
CBSN serves as a digital network offering 24/7 national and global news coverage from the CBS Broadcast Center in New York. While CBSN content may differ from your local CBS news channel, there may be some overlapping coverage. Topics include sports, entertainment, and finance, with live events and regular shows. Access top news programs like Face the Nation and CBS This Morning, alongside CBSN original documentaries and the daily Red & Blue show.
CBS Sports HQ
Dedicated to sports, CBS Sports HQ is another 24/7 digital network produced in collaboration between CBS Sports and CBS Interactive. It delivers extensive news and analysis across major sports, covering game breakdowns and top stories nationwide. However, it’s important to note that CBS Sports HQ doesn’t include live sporting event access, which is available through your local CBS station.
ET Live
ET Live represents the third digital news network accessible via Paramount+. Developed in partnership between CBS Interactive and Entertainment Tonight, this network specializes in entertainment news. Distinct from the ET television show, ET Live offers continuous broadcasts covering entertainment trends, fashion, lifestyle, breaking news, celebrity interviews, red carpet events, and exclusive content.
Final Thoughts
Paramount+ emerges as an attractive option for users seeking comprehensive streaming experiences without premium subscription costs. Priced at $6 per month for the ad-supported plan, it competes favorably with services like ESPN+ and Hulu in terms of affordability.
Paramount+ offers a substantial on-demand library featuring movies and shows. While its original content library is expanding, it currently may not match the extensive offerings of Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu.
For those desiring extensive live TV coverage for sports or concurrent viewing of favorite shows, Paramount+ provides access to local CBS stations and three digital channels dedicated to general, sports, and entertainment news. However, if your live TV needs are more extensive, options like fuboTV or Hulu + Live TV might be better suited. These services offer diverse live networks and customization options but come at a higher monthly cost, starting at $65 per month. Paramount+ offers significant savings in comparison.
