ESPN’s New Streaming Services: A Complete Guide to ESPN Unlimited & ESPN Select
ESPN has entered the direct-to-consumer streaming arena wiht two distinct options: ESPN Unlimited and ESPN Select. These services aim to deliver a comprehensive sports experience, catering to a wide range of fans. Understanding the differences between these plans is crucial to choosing the best fit for your sports viewing needs. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What is ESPN Unlimited?
ESPN Unlimited is the premium offering, priced at $30 per month or $300 annually. It provides access to a vast library of sports content, making it a compelling choice for dedicated fans. You’ll gain access to all of ESPN’s linear networks, including:
* ESPN
* ESPN2
* ESPNU
* ESPNews
* ESPN Deportes
* SEC Network
* ACC Network
Furthermore, ESPN Unlimited includes programming from ESPN on ABC, ESPN+, ESPN3, SEC Network Plus, and ACCNX. This expansive coverage ensures you won’t miss out on the action.
Monday Night Football & the ManningCast
A meaningful draw for many will be access to every Monday Night Football game. You can enjoy the broadcast alongside the popular ManningCast,hosted by Peyton and Eli Manning,for all 12 weeks it airs. This includes the 11 regular season games and a Wild Card playoff matchup.
Understanding ESPN Select
ESPN Select, available for $12 per month, essentially represents a rebranding of ESPN+. It focuses on providing access to a wide array of live games, particularly from smaller college conferences. While it doesn’t include NFL coverage, it’s an excellent option if you enjoy niche sports and collegiate competitions.You’ll find thousands of live events you won’t find anywhere else.
Bundling Options: Saving with ESPN & Fox
Looking for a more comprehensive entertainment package? Consider the ESPN DTC and Fox Nation bundle, available for $40 per month. This combination provides access to both ESPN’s and Fox’s sports and entertainment content, offering significant value.It’s a great way to diversify your streaming options.
Choosing the Right Plan for You
deciding between ESPN Unlimited and ESPN Select depends on your viewing habits. Consider these questions:
* Are you a dedicated NFL fan? If so, ESPN Unlimited is the clear choice for Monday night Football and the ManningCast.
* Do you primarily follow college sports,especially smaller conferences? ESPN Select offers extensive coverage of these events.
* Are you looking for a broad range of sports content, including access to all ESPN networks? ESPN Unlimited provides the most comprehensive package.
* Do you want to bundle sports with other entertainment options? The ESPN/Fox bundle could be the most cost-effective solution.
Evergreen Insights: The Future of Sports Streaming
The launch of ESPN’s direct-to-consumer services signals a major shift in the sports broadcasting landscape. Traditional cable subscriptions are declining, and streaming is becoming the preferred method for many viewers.Expect to see more networks follow suit, offering their own standalone streaming options. This increased competition will ultimately benefit consumers, leading to more choices and potentially lower prices. The trend towards personalized streaming experiences will also continue, with services offering tailored content recommendations and interactive features.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between ESPN Unlimited and ESPN+?
ESPN Unlimited includes all of ESPN’s linear networks and ESPN+, while ESPN+ (now ESPN Select) is a more focused service primarily offering live games from smaller conferences and original programming.
2. Can I watch Monday Night Football on ESPN Select?
No, Monday Night football is exclusively available with the ESPN Unlimited plan.
3. Is the ESPN/Fox bundle a good value?
If you enjoy content from both ESPN and Fox,the $40 per month bundle offers significant savings compared to subscribing to each service separately.
4. What does ESPN unlimited include from ABC?
ESPN Unlimited provides access to live programming broadcast on ESPN on ABC, allowing
