With the ever-growing number of streaming services and digital sports platforms, it’s easy to get confused between similarly named products. One of the most common points of confusion among sports fans concerns *ESPN Unlimited* and *ESPN+*. Many users wonder whether these two services are the same, or if they offer different content, features, and pricing models. This article breaks down the key differences and similarities to clarify what each service offers and which one might be best suited for different types of viewers.
TL;DR: What’s the Difference Between ESPN Unlimited and ESPN+?
While the names are similar, ESPN Unlimited is not the same as ESPN+. ESPN Unlimited is often used colloquially or in marketing to refer to broader packaged access through certain cable or streaming services, possibly offering multiple ESPN channels. In contrast, ESPN+ is a standalone subscription service provided by ESPN, offering exclusive live events, original programming, and limited game replays not available on regular ESPN channels. If you’re looking for exclusive sports content online, ESPN+ is what you want.
Understanding ESPN+: What It Is and What It Offers
ESPN+ is a direct-to-consumer streaming service developed and operated by ESPN, launched in 2018. It is designed to supplement ESPN’s traditional television networks and digital platforms without replacing them. ESPN+ is available as a standalone service or bundled within the Disney+ bundle alongside Hulu. The service is accessible through the ESPN app or website, but access requires a paid subscription.
The main features of ESPN+ include:
- Live Sports Coverage: Including NHL, UFC (fight nights and pay-per-view undercards), MLB out-of-market games, select college sports, and more.
- Exclusive Shows & Documentaries: Original programming like *Detail*, *Peyton’s Places*, and the *30 for 30* documentary library.
- Premium Articles: In-depth written content and analysis from ESPN’s top journalists available only to subscribers.
- On-Demand Library: Access to replays of select events and full seasons of shows.
Importantly, ESPN+ does not include live streaming access to ESPN’s cable channels (like ESPN, ESPN2, or ESPNU). To stream those channels, one must have a cable or live TV subscription that includes them.
What Is ESPN Unlimited?
The term ESPN Unlimited is not a designated service or product officially offered by ESPN. Instead, it is often:
- Used informally by customers or providers to describe extensive or “unlimited” access to ESPN channels and content.
- Sometimes mentioned in internet provider or streaming service bundles as a marketing term, meaning subscribers might get access to multiple ESPN networks.
- Occasionally referred to in relation to mobile apps or carrier subscriptions that offer live or repeated access to sporting events aired on ESPN.
The confusion arises because “unlimited” suggests a broad access experience, but there is no official product by that name. If someone tells you they have “ESPN Unlimited,” they might be referring to having access to all ESPN-branded channels via a cable package or streaming service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV, especially if it includes DVR and mobile app access.
In some older packages—especially outside of the U.S.—the term was used by telecom operators providing wide-ranging ESPN channel content. Still, this use has largely diminished with the rise of direct streaming options like ESPN+.
Key Differences Between ESPN Unlimited and ESPN+
| Feature | ESPN+ | “ESPN Unlimited” |
|---|---|---|
| Official Service | Yes | No (terminology varies) |
| Live ESPN Channel Streaming | No | Yes (if included via cable or streaming bundles) |
| Exclusive Content | Yes | Restricted to what’s aired on traditional channels |
| Subscription Cost (approx.) | $10.99/month | Bundled with cable/streaming plans |
| Access to Pay-Per-View Events | Yes (UFC/Boxing via ESPN+ PPV) | No |
| Platform Availability | ESPN App, Web, Smart TVs | Cable boxes, Live TV apps |
How Users Can Access Each
Accessing ESPN+
To subscribe and watch ESPN+, users need to:
- Go to plus.espn.com
- Sign up for an account or use an existing ESPN login.
- Choose a subscription plan (monthly or yearly).
- Download the ESPN app on a preferred device (iOS, Android, Smart TV, etc.).
Once logged in, the ESPN+ tab will unlock all exclusive content included in the package.
Accessing ESPN Channels (aka “Unlimited” ESPN)
To gain full access to all ESPN-branded live channels—what some may call “unlimited” ESPN—users must have a TV package that includes those networks. This could be through:
- A traditional cable or satellite TV provider like Comcast, DirecTV, or Spectrum.
- A live streaming provider like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, fuboTV, or Sling TV.
- Some mobile carriers that offer data-free sports streaming (rare nowadays).
These providers often allow streaming through the ESPN app once you authenticate with your TV subscription credentials.
Which One Should You Choose?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer; it depends on what kind of viewer someone is:
- Casual sports fan? ESPN+ is affordable and has great highlights, original programming, and some exclusive events like UFC.
- Want to watch NBA, NFL, or big ESPN shows like SportsCenter? These are usually on ESPN’s regular broadcast channels—so you’ll need a TV subscription, not just ESPN+.
- Already have a cable plan or live TV streaming account? You may already have access to everything that falls under the unofficial “ESPN Unlimited.”
That said, serious sports fans often choose both if they want complete coverage—using ESPN+ for exclusive content and live TV for national broadcasts and more popular leagues.
FAQs About ESPN Unlimited vs. ESPN+
- Q: Is ESPN Unlimited a real service?
A: No, ESPN Unlimited is not an official branded service. It’s often a descriptor for extensive channel access, typically through cable or streaming bundles. - Q: Can I watch live NFL or NBA games on ESPN+?
A: Typically no. Those are usually broadcast on ESPN, ESPN2, or ABC and require a separate subscription through cable or live TV streaming services. - Q: Is ESPN+ included with Disney+?
A: Yes, Disney offers a bundle that includes Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ at a discounted rate. - Q: Can I cancel ESPN+ at any time?
A: Yes. It’s a subscription service with monthly billing that you can cancel anytime without penalty. - Q: Does ESPN+ replace ESPN?
A: No. ESPN+ is a supplemental service and does not include live streaming of the main ESPN channel content.
In summary, ESPN+ and what’s often called “ESPN Unlimited” serve different purposes. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die-hard sports fanatic will determine which access model is the best fit for you.