CNN Livestream: How to Watch CNN Online Without Cable

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Quick Answer: You can watch CNN online for free with trials to DirecTV Stream, fuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV.
CNN is one of the most prominent news networks in the United States with extensive coverage of crucial events from the presidential elections, to breaking news stories and investigative reports into the business sector. CNN is a go-to source for the latest information, yet for those who have cut ties with traditional cable, you can still stream and tune in whenever you want.
Looking to stream CNN online? Here’s a brief guide on how to access CNN through digital platforms, including an option to enjoy CNN content for free.
Note: Tonight, CNN will be hosting the first presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden. Use the below streaming services to watch the debate on CNN without cable.
How to Watch CNN Without Cable
If you want to watch CNN without cable, your best option is to get a live TV streaming service that carries the channel. Below are a few of our favorite live TV streaming services that include CNN in their channel lineups.
Editor’s Note: All of these streaming services will let you connect to CNN.com livestreams. Just head to the website, log in with your streaming service account credentials, and enjoy CNN livestreams online at no additional cost.
1. Stream CNN on DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream is our top pick for live TV streaming, known for its excellent streams and impressive channel lineup, ideal for sports fans. Its Entertainment package, which includes CNN and 75+ popular channels like Fox News and MSNBC, starts at $79.99 a month after a five-day free trial.
2. Stream CNN on Sling TV Blue
Sling is the budget-friendly choice for live TV streaming, and it offers CNN within its Sling Blue package. Starting at just $45 a month, Sling Blue includes a total of 42 channels, encompassing local channels in most regions and other news outlets such as NBC and MSNBC. Here’s the best part: Sling is currently running an enticing promotion. For the first month, you can enjoy Sling Blue at a 50% discount, which means it’s available for just $22.50. It’s a fantastic opportunity to access CNN and a variety of other channels without breaking the bank.
3. Stream CNN on fuboTV
fuboTV, another standout live TV streaming service, offers CNN across all its subscription packages. The most budget-friendly option, the Pro plan, boasts an impressive lineup of 194 channels, including favorites like Fox News, CNBC, and MSNBC. With a generous seven-day free trial to get you started, the Pro plan is priced at $79.99 per month. It’s a great choice for those seeking a wide array of channels, making it an excellent addition to your streaming options.
4. Stream CNN on Hulu + Live TV
You can also watch CNN without traditional cable through a Hulu + Live TV subscription. We’re enthusiastic supporters of Hulu + Live TV for its comprehensive streaming package, where a single subscription of $76.99 per month provides access to over 95 live TV channels, the entire Hulu on-demand library, as well as ESPN+ and Disney+. It’s an all-in-one streaming solution that offers great value for your entertainment needs. Bonus: It comes with a three-day free trial.
How to Watch CNN Online for Free
All of the above streaming services (except Sling) offer free trials, which you can use to access CNN livestreams for free for a limited time. DirecTV Stream’s free trial lasts five days, fubo’s lasts seven, and Hulu + Live TV’s lasts for three. All of these will let you watch CNN for free — as long as you cancel before the trial ends — and make a great option for individual events on CNN like presidential debates.