As a news junkie, you don’t want to miss CNN’s 24/7 coverage of breaking news and politics, but you’re tired of paying for expensive cable.
Luckily, with the right streaming service, you can watch CNN online without cable.
Top options like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, DIRECTV STREAM and Sling TV all include CNN in their channel packages. This guide will walk you through the best methods for streaming CNN online without cable.
How to Watch CNN Online Without Cable Subscription?
Here are some of the most popular ways to watch CNN online for free or with a standalone streaming subscription:
- CNN App/Website – CNN offers a free live stream of their channel on their website and mobile app. You can watch CNN live for free on your computer browser or mobile devices. However, you will need to log in with your cable provider credentials to access the live stream.
- Hulu + Live TV – Hulu’s live TV streaming service provides access to over 75 channels including CNN for $69.99/month. You can stream CNN live and watch on-demand content. There is also an option to add unlimited screens and enhanced DVR for more money.
- YouTube TV – For $64.99/month, YouTube TV offers over 85 channels including CNN. You get unlimited cloud DVR, 6 accounts per household, and 3 simultaneous streams. CNN is available live and on-demand.
- Sling TV – With Sling TV’s Orange or Blue plan ($35/month each), you can stream 30+ channels and add CNN for $5/month extra on either base plan. Other add-ons are available. Sling offers a 3-day free trial to test the service.
- DIRECTV STREAM – For $69.99/month, DIRECTV STREAM’s Entertainment package has 75+ channels. You get unlimited DVR storage and 20 hours of DVR recordings can be stored for up to 3 months. CNN is available live and on-demand.
- FuboTV – This sports-focused streaming service still provides over 100 channels including CNN for $69.99/month. FuboTV offers a 7-day free trial so you can preview the channel lineup.
- Philo – For just $25/month, Philo provides 60+ channels including live CNN at the lowest price. Great budget option but lacks sports and local channels that others include.
Can I Watch CNN on Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast, YouTube, or Apple TV?
The good news is that all of the major streaming platforms and devices support the CNN app and channels. Here are the details:
- Roku – Install the CNN app on your Roku streaming device or Roku TV to watch the live stream. The app is free in the Roku Channel Store. Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, DIRECTV STREAM, and Philo can also be installed and provide CNN.
- Fire TV – You can install the CNN app on Amazon Fire TV and Firesticks to watch for free with your cable login. Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and DIRECTV STREAM are also available on Fire TV.
- Apple TV – Apple TV (4th gen or later) allows you to download the CNN app and access a live stream with a cable subscription. You can also access CNN through Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, DIRECTV STREAM, and Philo on Apple TV.
- Chromecast – Cast CNN from your mobile device to your TV using Google Chromecast. Simply tap the cast button from the CNN app. Chromecast also supports casting content from Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and other Chromecast-compatible apps.
Most Popular Shows to Stream on CNN
In addition to 24/7 news coverage, CNN offers several popular shows and docuseries you can stream on demand without cable:
- Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown – This award-winning travel and food show hosted by celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain takes viewers to hidden corners around the world one episode at a time. Stream seasons 1 through 12.
- United Shades of America – Comedian and political provocateur W. Kamau Bell travels across the country having honest conversations about race, class, and culture in America today.
- This is Life with Lisa Ling – Investigative journalist Lisa Ling travels the country profiling interesting people and subcultures often overlooked in mainstream media. Recent seasons are available.
- Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy – Follow Oscar-nominated actor Stanley Tucci as he tours Italy learning about the country’s culinary traditions and signature dishes region by region—a treat for foodies.
- The History of Comedy – This fascinating docuseries traces the evolution of comedy through stand-up comics, sitcoms, films, and late-night shows that defined each era from the early 20th century until now.
More Channels to Watch for CNN Fans
If you enjoy CNN’s mix of live news, politics, and commentary, here are some other streaming channels to consider that offer similar programming:
- MSNBC – Left-leaning perspective on news and politics. MSNBC shows like The Rachel Maddow Show or Morning Joe can substitute for CNN.
- BBC World News – Unbiased international news coverage and a global perspective on current events.
- CBS News / CBSN – 24/7 news from CBS’s trusted news team. Stream live or watch on-demand clips.
- NewsmaxTV – Conservative-leaning news and political analysis.
- Al Jazeera English – International news focused on overlooked stories and perspectives outside the U.S. and other Western nations.
- Bloomberg TV – Business and finance news plus market data and analysis accessible for non-investors.
The Bottom Line
With the CNN app, website, and primary streaming services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV, you have plenty of options to access live CNN programming without paying for cable. Consider free trials to find the best service and features for your needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1.Can I get CNN on Amazon Prime?
Ans-No, CNN is not available on Amazon Prime.
Q2.Can I watch live CNN on YouTube?
Ans-Yes, you can watch live CNN on their official YouTube channel.
Q3.Is the CNN streaming app free?
Ans-Yes, the CNN streaming app is free to download and access live and on-demand CNN content.
Q4.Is there a CNN TV app?
Ans- Yes, CNN has an official app called CNNgo for streaming CNN on mobile devices and smart TVs.
Q5.How do I activate CNN?
Ans-CNN does not require activation. Simply download the CNN app and log in with your TV provider credentials to access live CNN.
