Sling TV Welcomes the Holidays with a Rate Increase Taking Effect Today.

Sling TV has announced an increase in its rates, which will now be an additional $6 per month for all its packages: Sling Orange, Sling Blue, and the combined Sling Orange and Blue. Starting today, the new prices are $46, $51, and $66 respectively, although new subscribers will enjoy a 50% discount on their first month. According to Sling, this adjustment in pricing is due to an increase in programming costs that have outpaced inflation. The company emphasizes that these increases are common in the industry and assures that it continues to offer more affordable options, with prices that are over $20 lower than those of other providers.

Despite the increase, Sling has incorporated new features in 2024, such as the ability to watch sporting events in 4K, including the MLB All-Star Game, the playoffs, and the World Series, as well as the Paris Olympics and the U.S. Open in certain major markets. However, the price hikes may be uncomfortable, especially during the holidays. There are other alternatives for watching live TV, and subscribers are encouraged to reconsider whether their current package is the most suitable for them. For example, while Sling Orange includes channels like ESPN and ESPN 3, ideal for sports fans, Sling Blue offers informative options with channels like MSNBC, HLN, and Fox News.

In this streaming service landscape, options such as ESPN+, Hulu Plus Live TV, and Philo are also available. Hulu Plus Live TV provides access to a catalog of shows and movies along with live streaming. Philo, on the other hand, presents itself as one of the more affordable alternatives, with 75 channels for only $28 per month, although with a smaller selection of channels than some of the more expensive services.