Spectrum TV Stream Explained: Your Guide To Prices, Channels, and More
Spectrum Internet customers can stream popular channels for just $39.99 a month with Spectrum TV Stream. Our experts cover everything you need to know about this cable-free option.
What is Spectrum TV Stream, and how does it work?
Spectrum TV Stream is a live TV streaming service strictly available to Spectrum Internet customers. It costs about $30 less per month than Spectrum’s base cable plans and is conveniently accessible through the Spectrum TV App—compatible with devices like Apple TV, Roku, and Samsung smart TVs.
We label Spectrum as the best traditional cable provider. For better or worse, that designation holds with Spectrum TV Stream. The service gives you 80+ popular cable channels via the internet. But you’ll miss some standard features that competitors like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer.
Spectrum streaming plans are diverse and affordable
Data effective as of post date.
*Spectrum Internet required.
Spectrum’s core streaming plans come in two varieties: the English-language TV Stream and the Spanish-language Stream Latino.
TV Stream costs $39.99 a month on top of a Spectrum Internet plan and offers over 80 channels, but it lacks local and sports networks. Stream Latino costs $15 less a month and comes with a completely different channel lineup that includes some local and sports channels. It’s an impressive package if you prefer TV en Español.
Both plans are available through the Spectrum TV App and include thousands of on-demand titles to stream anytime.
Want a more customizable streaming plan? You can handpick your channel lineup with Spectrum TV Choice, but it’s only available over the phone in select areas. Head to our Spectrum TV Choice Review to learn more.
Spectrum TV Stream channels feature must-watch programming
For a streaming service run by a cable company, Spectrum TV Stream boasts an impressive channel lineup. You get access to several popular entertainment, family, business, and news channels—including these ones:
- A&E
- CNN
- Discovery Channel
- Disney Channel
- Food Network
- Fox News
- Hallmark Channel
- HISTORY
- HGTV
- INSP
- Lifetime
- Nickelodeon
- Paramount Network
- TLC
- TV Land
The main downside to TV Stream is the absence of sports networks like ESPN, FS1, TBS, and TNT (though oddly, truTV is available). NBCUniversal channels such as Bravo, E!, and USA Network are also missing.
Another drawback is the lack of local channels, although Spectrum News is available in select areas. You can alleviate this by connecting a digital antenna to your TV. But location and antenna type can affect how many local stations you pick up.
¡Vamos! Telemundo and Univision are available in the Spanish-language plan, depending on your location.
How to watch Spectrum TV Stream at home and on the go
Accessing any new service can be a hassle no matter how long you’ve been in the TV game. Fortunately, there are three easy ways you can enjoy your Spectrum TV Stream subscription.
1. Use the Spectrum TV App
The Spectrum TV App is the most convenient way to stream your subscription. In the app, you’ll get access to your live TV guide and on-demand library. You can also add content to your watchlist, browse channel upgrades, and control parental settings.
2. Stream in a web browser
If you have a computer, you can sign in to your TV Stream account at watch.spectrum.net. You’ll get the best experience at home because some content is unavailable when you’re not on your home network. But live TV and on-demand content is still accessible no matter where you are.
3. Log in through channel apps
One of the most underrated ways to stream an existing TV plan is by using your TV provider login to access individual channel apps. Sure, channel app quality can vary. But sometimes, it beats using the Spectrum app—especially if there’s a particular channel you watch a lot. For example, we know people who basically live in the Hallmark TV app during the holiday movie season.
Spectrum TV Stream specs and features can do better
Spectrum TV Stream falls short on specs and features. The bright spot is unlimited simultaneous streams using your home Wi-Fi, but you get only two streams while on the go. Additionally, DVR storage and device compatibility are underwhelming.
Cloud DVR
| Plan | Price | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud DVR | $4.99/mo. | Up to 50 shows for 90 days |
| Cloud DVR Plus | $9.99/mo. | Up to 100 shows for one year |
You can sign up for Spectrum’s cloud DVR service through the Spectrum TV App by clicking on the gear icon. There, you’ll see an Upgrades tab that lists premium networks and two DVR options.
Most live TV streaming services offer unlimited DVR storage, so Spectrum’s DVR plans are pretty lackluster in comparison. The DVR experience in the Spectrum TV App is also often glitchy—something the company addressed last April.
Supported devices
While Spectrum recommends using their Xumo Stream Box, you can enjoy your TV Stream subscription on many platforms.
Below is a list of devices compatible with the Spectrum app and website. But it’s a good idea to double-check your streaming device’s compatibility—especially as older smart TVs are no longer supported.
- Amazon Kindle Fire
- Android phones, tablets
- Apple TV
- iPhone, iPad
- PC, Mac web browsers
- Roku Ultra, Express, Premiere, Stick, TVs
- Samsung Smart TVs
- Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X
- Xumo Stream Box, TVs
Spectrum TV Stream FAQ
How much does Spectrum TV Stream cost?
Spectrum’s TV Stream plan costs $39.99 a month, but you must be a Spectrum Internet subscriber to sign up. Internet plans range from $39.99 a month to $79.99 a month—meaning you’ll pay a combined minimum of at least $79.98 a month before taxes and fees.
How do I watch Spectrum TV on my smart TV?
Traditional Spectrum TV cable plans require a cable box setup to get the full experience. But you can also stream any Spectrum TV subscription using a smart TV with access to the Spectrum TV App.
Can I use a Roku device instead of the Spectrum cable box?
Yes, you can ditch your Spectrum cable box by streaming your TV subscription through the Spectrum TV App on Roku. Whether you have a Spectrum cable or streaming plan, using the provider app on Roku is an excellent way to avoid the monthly cable box rental fee.
Why you should trust us
Our TV experts continually stay updated with Charter Communications services like Spectrum TV Stream and Stream Latino. To craft this guide, we researched TV Stream’s latest offerings and specifications. We also cross-referenced the service with our existing TV and internet coverage—comparing pricing, features, and reliability with competitor plans. Finally, we validated our findings through our annual customer satisfaction surveys.
Check out our How We Rank page to learn more about our methods.
