NBC has long been a popular channel to have in your TV line-up, but the network's coverage of tentpole events like the Olympics makes it all but necessary. Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to live stream the network, even if you don't have cable or an antenna. Keep reading to learn how to watch NBC online.
NBC is the home of beloved sitcoms such as "The Office" and "30 Rock" and flagship procedurals from the "Law & Order" and "Chicago" universes. In addition to a massive selection of currently airing scripted programming (as well as series like "Saturday Night Live"), the network has become a key player in the news and sports scene.
The "Today" show and NBC News have long been among the network's main draws, but NBC has increasingly invested in sports over the years, becoming a must-have destination for fans of the NFL, NBA, and the Winter and Summer Olympics. NBC is also the broadcast home of flagship events, like the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Super Bowl LX, and the 2026 Emmy Awards.
Whether you're looking to stream NBC live or want to binge past network programming on demand, we've got you covered. Below, we've outlined everything you need to know about tuning in to the network without cable, including a breakdown of NBCUniversal's direct streaming service, Peacock.
*NBC is only available in select regions on Sling TV.
How to watch NBC in the US
Peacock
NBC's direct streaming counterpart is Peacock, a one-stop shop for all things NBCUniversal. There are three tiers of service, ranging from Peacock Select ($8 a month) to Peacock Premium Plus ($17 a month). Select is fairly pared-down and doesn't offer live events, movies, or Peacock originals, so we recommend Premium or Premium Plus to unlock the full suite of on-demand offerings from the streaming service.
Peacock has a massive collection of-demand seasons of NBC and Bravo shows, among other programming. New episodes typically land on the streaming service the day after their linear broadcast, so if you don't mind waiting a day (and watching with ads), the $11 a month Premium option should do the trick. However, if you'd like to stream NBC live and watch on-demand programming without ads, you'll need Peacock Premium for $17 a month.
Peacock Premium Plus subscription is $20 a month. The extra cost gets rid of most ads, allows you to download select titles, and also comes with your local NBC channel.
DirecTV
DirecTV is another solid way to live stream NBC, along with other popular channels. In our guide to the best live TV streaming services, DirecTV ranks as the best cable alternative. NBC is available in several packages, including all signature plans and a couple of cheaper genre packs. Signature plans start at $90 a month for the Entertainment plan, which carries NBC and 90+ other channels (including pretty much anything you'd find in a standard cable plan).
NBC is also available in MyNews and MySports genre packs. MyNews costs $40 a month and comes with 10+ popular news channels, while MySports costs $65 a month and offers around 20 sports networks and access to ESPN Unlimited. All DirecTV plans come with a five-day free trial for new customers.
Previously known as AT&T TV, DirecTV offers streaming access to a large selection of live channels, including most key networks typically found in traditional cable packages.
Sling TV
If you're looking for more of a budget-friendly pick, Sling TV will also allow you to live stream NBC and a handful of other channels. It's a great budget live TV service, but it's important to note that local channel coverage (like NBC) varies from region to region, so you should see what's available in your ZIP code before signing up. NBC-friendly plans (where available) include Sling Select and Sling Blue.
Sling Select offers around 10 channels and costs $25 a month when local networks are involved. Sling Blue carries 40+ channels and costs $50 a month for those with local channel access. If you're looking for a more comprehensive cable alternative, you can get Sling Orange + Blue for $65 a month.
For just the essentials without any extra fluff, Sling TV is the streaming service you're looking for. It's more customizable than other plans, with multiple options you can choose from so you pay only what you need.
How to watch NBC from anywhere
If you're traveling away from home, you can still keep up with your usual watch options with the help of a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs are easy-to-use cybersecurity tools that enable people to alter their virtual locations. This way, their usual websites and apps work from anywhere in the world, just like they would back home. Since the services we've highlighted require US payment methods, this option will work best for Americans who are simply traveling abroad at the moment.
NordVPN is our top recommendation right now. It's a user-friendly service with an impressive selection of servers and security perks. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee if you find that it's not what you're looking for. You can learn more in our official NordVPN review or check out our guide to the best VPNs.
NordVPN is top of the pile of the best VPN services. It offers excellent value, with a strong feature set and a low monthly price. A wide selection of international servers, high-end security, fast connections, and audited privacy protection have made the brand a household name in the world of VPNs for a reason.
Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.
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