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CNN is available on nine major streaming platforms in 2025, with prices ranging from $9.99 per month through Max’s CNN Max service to $82.99 monthly for comprehensive live TV packages like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. The network remains one of the most accessible news channels across streaming services, offering viewers multiple options to watch breaking news, political coverage, and documentary programming without traditional cable.
The streaming landscape for CNN has evolved significantly in 2025. Warner Bros Discovery’s announced corporate split in June 2025 will separate CNN into a dedicated networks company by mid-2026, while the launch of CNN Max in September 2023 created new viewing opportunities on the HBO Max platform.
Which Streaming Services Include CNN Live?
CNN appears on eight live TV streaming services as of 2025. Each platform offers different channel lineups, pricing structures, and additional features beyond CNN access.
YouTube TV leads with over 100 channels including CNN for $82.99 monthly. The service raised prices by $10 in January 2025 but maintains its position as the most comprehensive cable replacement. YouTube TV provides unlimited cloud DVR storage and supports up to six user profiles per household.
Hulu + Live TV matches YouTube TV’s pricing at $82.99 per month while bundling Disney+, ESPN+, and the full Hulu streaming library. This combination delivers significant value for viewers who want both live news and on-demand entertainment. The service includes over 95 live channels and unlimited DVR storage for up to nine months.
Sling TV offers CNN through two different packages. Sling Blue costs $45.99 monthly and includes CNN alongside FOX News, MSNBC, and 30+ other channels. Sling Orange also runs $45.99 but focuses more on ESPN and Disney channels. The combined Orange + Blue package reaches $60.99 monthly for access to both channel lineups.
DirecTV Stream provides CNN across multiple tiers starting at $86.99 for the Entertainment package. The service also offers specialized news-focused packages, including MyNews at $39.99 monthly with 10+ news channels including CNN. DirecTV Stream particularly excels in regional sports coverage for viewers who want comprehensive sports alongside news.
Fubo includes CNN in all packages starting at $84.99 monthly. The service positions itself as sports-first but maintains strong news offerings. New subscribers receive a seven-day free trial and $30 off their first month. Fubo supports up to 10 simultaneous streams and unlimited DVR storage.
How Much Does CNN Max Cost?
CNN Max launched in September 2023 as a dedicated CNN hub within the HBO Max platform. The service requires a Max Standard plan at $16.99 monthly or Premium plan at $20.99 monthly. CNN Max is not available on the cheaper $9.99 ad-supported Max tier.
CNN Max features a custom programming schedule different from the linear CNN cable channel. The platform offers breaking news coverage, original shows like “5 Things with Kate Bolduan,” and access to over 900 episodes of CNN original series and documentaries. Programming includes “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper,” “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace,” and complete seasons of “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.”
This represents the most affordable way to access CNN content regularly, though the programming differs from traditional CNN cable broadcasts. The Max platform now serves 122 million subscribers across its various tiers.
What Free Trials Are Available for CNN?
Three major streaming services offer free trials that include CNN access. Fubo provides the longest trial period at seven days, allowing viewers to test the platform’s sports-heavy channel lineup alongside CNN. The company currently offers new subscribers $30 off their first month after the trial period.
Hulu + Live TV maintains a three-day free trial for new subscribers. While shorter than competitors, the trial includes access to the entire Disney bundle worth over $30 monthly when purchased separately. DirecTV Stream offers a five-day free trial across all packages, including the budget-friendly MyNews tier.
YouTube TV occasionally runs promotional pricing but does not maintain a standard free trial. However, the service sometimes offers extended trials during major news events or sports seasons.
Which Service Offers the Best Value for CNN?
Value depends heavily on viewing preferences beyond CNN. For news-focused viewers, DirecTV Stream’s MyNews package delivers CNN and 10+ other news channels for $39.99 monthly, representing the best value for dedicated news consumption.
Families seeking comprehensive entertainment should consider Hulu + Live TV at $82.99 monthly. The inclusion of Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu’s streaming library creates substantial value for households with diverse viewing needs. Disney’s streaming bundle alone costs $16.99 when purchased separately.
Budget-conscious cord-cutters might prefer Sling Blue at $45.99 monthly. While offering fewer total channels, the service includes CNN, FOX News, MSNBC, and essential entertainment networks. Sling pairs well with over-the-air antennas for local channel coverage.
Can You Watch CNN Without Cable Subscription?
Yes, multiple options exist for accessing CNN without traditional cable. The nine streaming services listed above all operate independently of cable subscriptions, requiring only internet access and compatible streaming devices.
CNN also provides limited free access during major breaking news events. The network occasionally opens its live stream on CNN.com for significant stories like elections or national emergencies. However, regular access requires a paid streaming subscription or cable authentication.
For international viewers, CNN International streams free in select European markets through Max. Geographic restrictions apply to most CNN streaming options, though services like top10-tips.com provide guidance on accessing content across different regions.
Does CNN Have Its Own Streaming Service?
CNN attempted a standalone streaming service called CNN+ in March 2022, but the platform closed within weeks following Warner Bros Discovery’s merger. The company instead focused on integrating CNN content into the broader Max ecosystem through CNN Max.
Warner Bros Discovery announced in June 2025 plans to develop a new CNN subscription streaming service as part of its corporate restructuring. This future service will launch alongside the company’s split into separate streaming and networks divisions by mid-2026. Details about pricing and availability remain unannounced.
What Devices Support CNN Streaming?
All major streaming services offering CNN support smart TVs, streaming devices, smartphones, tablets, and web browsers. Popular device compatibility includes Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Samsung and LG smart TVs, iOS and Android mobile apps, and desktop browsers.
Max’s CNN Max service works across the same device ecosystem, supporting up to three simultaneous streams on Standard plans and four streams on Premium plans. The platform offers 4K streaming for select content and supports offline downloads on mobile devices.
How Does CNN Compare to Other News Networks?
CNN ranks among the most widely available news networks across streaming platforms. FOX News appears on most services but requires higher-tier packages on some platforms. MSNBC maintains similar availability to CNN across major streaming services.
CNN’s streaming presence exceeds many other news networks due to Warner Bros Discovery’s broader content relationships. The network’s integration with Max provides unique access not available through other news organizations. International viewers particularly benefit from CNN International’s broader streaming availability compared to domestic-focused competitors.
Summary: Best Ways to Stream CNN in 2025
CNN streaming options range from budget-friendly news packages at $39.99 monthly to comprehensive live TV replacements at $82.99 monthly. Max’s CNN Max service offers the most affordable regular access at $16.99 monthly, though programming differs from live CNN broadcasts. Free trials from Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream allow viewers to test services before committing to subscriptions.
The upcoming Warner Bros Discovery split and planned CNN streaming service will likely reshape these options by 2026. Current subscribers should monitor announcements about service changes and potential pricing adjustments as the media landscape continues evolving.
Editor’s note: Prices and availability subject to change. Article updated June 2025.
