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Getting ESPN Content Through DirecTV and ESPN+ in 2025
Figuring out how to watch your favorite sports can feel like solving a puzzle. Many fans keep asking what channel is espn plus on directv, hoping to find it listed right alongside ESPN or ESPN2. The reality is a bit different, and this guide breaks down exactly how DirecTV and ESPN+ work together (and separately) so you can catch every game, match, or highlight without missing a beat. Whether you’re a die-hard UFC follower, a college basketball enthusiast, or love those in-depth sports documentaries, understanding the setup between directv and espn plus the standalone ESPN+ service is key.
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How ESPN+ Works with Your DirecTV Service
Let’s clear up the biggest confusion first: ESPN Plus (ESPN+) is not a regular TV channel you can flip to on your DirecTV receiver. It’s a completely separate streaming service owned by ESPN. Think of it like Netflix or Hulu, but just for sports. This means searching your DirecTV guide for an espn plus directv channel number won’t work. You won’t find ESPN+ listed on channel 206 (the main ESPN channel) or anywhere else in the hundreds. So, if you’re typing what channel is espn+ on directv into your search bar, the direct answer is: it isn’t on a DirecTV channel at all.
Instead, you access ESPN+ solely through the ESPN app on your phone, tablet, smart TV, streaming stick, or computer. You need an active ESPN+ subscription to watch its exclusive content. Having a DirecTV package that includes the traditional ESPN channels (like ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS) does not automatically give you ESPN+. They are separate purchases. Your DirecTV login does, however, let you watch the traditional ESPN channels live through the ESPN app on your devices.
What Makes ESPN+ Different from the ESPN Channels on DirecTV?
Here’s a quick comparison to highlight the distinctions:
| Feature | ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU (On DirecTV) | ESPN+ (ESPN Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| How You Watch on DirecTV | Tune directly to channel numbers (e.g., 206, 209) | Not available via channel; requires ESPN app |
| Included in DirecTV Packages? | Yes, in packages like CHOICE™, ULTIMATE™ | No, requires separate ESPN+ subscription |
| Type of Content | Major live games (NFL, NBA, some MLB/NHL), SportsCenter, talk shows | Exclusive live events (UFC Fight Nights, specific soccer leagues), original documentaries, niche sports, in-depth analysis |
What Kind of Sports and Shows Can You Actually See on ESPN+?
Wondering if paying extra for ESPN+ is worthwhile? It really depends on what sports you love! ESPN+ is packed with events and shows you won’t find on the standard espn on directv channel lineup:
- Live Games & Events: This is the big draw. Get exclusive coverage like weekly UFC Fight Nights (early prelims and some full cards), Top Rank boxing matches, soccer from leagues like Germany’s Bundesliga, Italy’s Serie A, the EFL Championship, and the FA Cup. You also get out-of-market MLB games (blackout restrictions apply), NHL games, tons of college sports (football, basketball, wrestling, baseball, softball – especially from smaller conferences), and coverage of Grand Slam tennis tournaments (Australian Open, Wimbledon).
- ESPN Originals: Dive into acclaimed series like the “30 for 30” documentaries, get behind-the-scenes with athlete profiles, and watch shows offering deep analysis you won’t see on TV.
- Replays and Analysis: Missed a big game? ESPN+ often offers full event replays and extended studio breakdowns.
Finding the Regular ESPN Channels on Your DirecTV Guide
While ESPN+ isn’t a channel, DirecTV does carry all the traditional ESPN networks. Here’s the latest espn on directv channel lineup for 2025 to help you find them quickly:
| Channel Name | DirecTV Channel Number | Channel Name | DirecTV Channel Number |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPN / ESPN HD | 206 | ESPN Classic | 614 |
| ESPN2 | 209 | ESPN Deportes | 466 |
| ESPNEWS | 207 | ESPNU | 208 |
| ACC Network (ACCN) | 612 | SEC Network | 611 |
Remember, accessing these specific channel numbers requires a DirecTV subscription package that includes them (like CHOICE™ or higher). They are not part of ESPN+.
How Much Does ESPN+ Cost? Subscription Plans Explained
Since ESPN+ is separate, it has its own subscription fees:
- ESPN+ Monthly Plan: $10.99 per month. Great if you just want to try it out for a specific event or season.
- ESPN+ Annual Plan: $109.99 per year. This saves you about $22 compared to paying month-to-month.
- The Disney Bundle: $14.99 per month. This is often the best deal, bundling ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu (with ads) together. If you enjoy content from any of these services, the bundle offers significant savings.
What Devices Can You Use to Watch ESPN+?
Since you can’t find an espn plus directv channel, you’ll rely on the ESPN app. Luckily, it works on almost any modern device with an internet connection:
- Smart TVs: Most brands like Samsung, LG, Sony (Android TV/Google TV), Vizio, and others.
- Streaming Devices: Popular options include Roku, Amazon Fire TV sticks and cubes, Apple TV (4th generation or newer), Google Chromecast, and devices like Xfinity Flex.
- Phones and Tablets: Download the ESPN app from the Apple App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android phones/tablets).
- Game Consoles: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S.
- Web Browsers: Head directly to ESPN.com on your Windows PC or Mac and log in to your ESPN+ account.
Accessing ESPN Content and Saving Games Offline
How to Stream Live ESPN Channels Using Your DirecTV Login on a Phone or Tablet
Even though what channel is espn+ on directv points to app access, your DirecTV subscription does let you watch the live traditional ESPN channels (like ESPN on 206) on your mobile devices through the ESPN app. Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Go to your device’s app store (Apple App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android) and download the official ESPN app. Step 2: Open the ESPN app. Look for the “Log In” option (usually in a profile or settings menu). Step 3: Choose the “Log In with TV Provider” method. Step 4: From the long list of providers, scroll down and select “DIRECTV” or “DIRECTV STREAM”. Step 5: Enter your DirecTV account username and password when prompted. You might need to verify your account via an email or text code sometimes. Step 6: Once logged in successfully, you can watch the live feed of any ESPN channel included in your DirecTV package directly on your phone or tablet! You can also access on-demand clips and some replays associated with those channels.
Saving ESPN+ Games and Shows Forever: Downloading for Offline Viewing on PC
One major downside of streaming services like ESPN+ is the lack of a built-in download feature. Ever wanted to rewatch an incredible fight, a championship-winning goal, or that nail-biting college overtime finish, only to discover it’s been removed from the service? Or maybe you’re heading somewhere without reliable internet? The ESPN app doesn’t let you save videos offline.
This is where StreamFab ESPN Plus Downloader becomes essential for serious sports fans. It’s a software program for your Windows PC or Mac that lets you download almost anything from ESPN+ – live events once they become on-demand replays, original shows, documentaries, analysis – and save it as a high-quality MP4 video file directly on your computer. Think of it like permanently recording the game to your own library.
Try StreamFab right now! Download videos with a single click from over 50 popular VOD services such as YouTube, ESPN Plus, Amazon, U-NEXT, and Netflix, as well as over 1000 video streaming sites around the world, up to 8K quality.
Get the Windows version | Get the Mac version | Take advantage of the limited-time promotional campaign
Why StreamFab ESPN Plus Downloader is the Top Choice:
- Excellent Video Quality: Downloads your chosen content in sharp 1080p HD resolution (and also supports 720p).
- Great Sound: Preserves the audio in high-quality formats like EAC3 5.1 surround sound or AAC stereo.
- No Annoying Ads: Downloads the clean video file without any commercials or interruptions.
- Universal MP4 Format: Saves everything as MP4 files using efficient codecs (H.264 or H.265), so they play smoothly on any device – your computer, phone, tablet, or even USB drive for your TV.
- Language & Subtitles: You can often select your preferred audio language (like English or Spanish commentary) and include subtitles if available.
- Keeps the Details: Downloads include the video title and other information (metadata) so your library stays organized.
- Set It and Forget It: You can even schedule downloads for new episodes of your favorite shows automatically.
- Works Globally: Can access and download ESPN+ content available in different regions (requires a valid subscription for that region).
Step-by-Step Guide: Downloading from ESPN+ with StreamFab
Step 1: Get and Install the Software First, you need to get StreamFab ESPN Plus Downloader. Visit the official website, download the installer for your Windows or Mac computer, and run it. Follow the simple installation prompts.
Step 2: Open StreamFab and Find ESPN+ Launch the StreamFab application. Inside the main window, look for a section usually called “VIP Services” or a streaming service icon. Click there and find ESPN+ in the list of supported platforms. You can also simply copy the web address (URL) of the specific ESPN+ video page you want from your regular browser and paste it directly into the address bar at the top of StreamFab’s home screen.
Step 3: Log In and Pick Your Video StreamFab has a built-in browser window. Use it to log in to your ESPN+ account (use your ESPN+ username/password, not your DirecTV login). Browse ESPN+ just like you would normally, or use the search to find the specific game, event, or show you want to save. Once you find it, click to start playing the video.
Step 4: Choose Your Download Settings As soon as the video starts playing, StreamFab will pop up a window. This is where you customize your download:
- Quality: Choose 1080p for the best picture (or 720p if you prefer smaller file sizes).
- Audio Language: Select the audio track you want (e.g., English, Spanish).
- Subtitles: Pick your subtitle language if you need them, or select “None”.
- Format: Make sure MP4 is selected for wide compatibility.
Step 5: Start Downloading! Click the “Download” button in that pop-up window. StreamFab will immediately start saving the video to your computer’s hard drive. You can download it right away or add multiple videos to a queue to download one after the other. Once finished, you’ll find your MP4 files in StreamFab’s designated download folder (or a folder you chose). Now you can watch them anytime, anywhere, even completely offline!
Is Using StreamFab Safe and Legal? StreamFab is legitimate software developed by a reputable company. The installer is thoroughly scanned by major security companies like Kaspersky and VirusTotal to ensure it’s free from viruses, malware, or adware. It uses secure connections to protect your data. However, copyright law is important. Downloading content via StreamFab is intended only for personal, private, offline viewing. You must have an active ESPN+ subscription for the content you download. Distributing downloaded files (sharing, selling, uploading) is illegal. Always avoid unofficial “cracked” or “MOD APK” versions of any software, as these often contain malware.
Answering Your Top Questions About ESPN and DirecTV
What channel is ESPN Plus on DIRECTV?
This is the #1 question: what channel is espn plus on directv? To be absolutely clear: There is no ESPN Plus channel on DirecTV. You will not find it listed in your channel guide next to ESPN (206) or ESPN2 (209). ESPN+ is a streaming-only service accessed exclusively through the ESPN app on various devices. If you’re looking for an espn plus directv channel number, you’re looking in the wrong place. You need an ESPN+ subscription and the app.
Is downloading the ESPN Plus app free?
Yes, downloading the ESPN app itself costs nothing. You can get it for free from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or install it on compatible smart TVs and streaming devices. However, accessing ESPN+ content within the app requires a paid ESPN+ subscription. Downloading the app is free; watching the actual ESPN+ shows, games, and events requires payment. Remember, you also need your DirecTV login credentials to watch the live streams of the traditional ESPN channels (like ESPN on 206) within the ESPN app.
Is ESPN Plus worth paying for if I already get ESPN channels with DirecTV?
This totally depends on what kind of sports fan you are! If you mainly watch the big games on ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, or ESPNU that are part of your directv and espn package (like major NFL, NBA, or college football games), then ESPN+ might not be essential for you. But, if you’re passionate about any of these:
- UFC/MMA: Especially the weekly Fight Night events.
- Soccer: Following leagues like Bundesliga, Serie A, EFL Championship, or the FA Cup.
- Hockey or Baseball: Watching out-of-market NHL or MLB games (subject to blackouts).
- College Sports: Following teams or sports beyond what’s shown on the main espn on directv channel networks (e.g., wrestling, volleyball, baseball, softball from smaller conferences).
- Tennis: Wanting coverage of Grand Slam tournaments.
- Documentaries & Originals: Loving series like “30 for 30” or other ESPN originals.
- Niche Sports: Enjoying rugby, cricket, or other less mainstream sports ESPN+ covers. …then ESPN+ offers a huge amount of extra content for a relatively low monthly fee ($10.99). The Disney Bundle ($14.99 for Disney+, Hulu w/ads, and ESPN+) is an even more compelling value if you also watch entertainment content. Evaluate which sports you truly follow beyond the mainstream offerings.
Wrapping Up: Making the Most of ESPN on DirecTV and ESPN+
Finding the main espn on directv channel numbers (like 206, 209, 208) is straightforward. However, the question what channel is espn+ on directv has a fundamentally different answer because ESPN+ isn’t a channel at all. It’s a separate streaming service designed to complement the live sports and news you get through directv and espn, adding a massive library of exclusive live events, replays, documentaries, and niche sports coverage.
While streaming live via the ESPN app is convenient, the inability to officially download ESPN+ content for offline viewing is a significant gap. This is why tools like StreamFab ESPN Plus Downloader are so valuable for dedicated fans. It empowers you to build a personal, permanent archive of your favorite ESPN+ moments – those incredible finishes, insightful documentaries, or full event replays – ensuring you never lose access due to content rotations or spotty internet. Now you have the knowledge and the tools to enjoy sports exactly how you want, whether that’s flipping to the familiar ESPN channels on DirecTV or diving into the vast world of ESPN+.
Try StreamFab right now! Download videos with a single click from over 50 popular VOD services such as YouTube, ESPN Plus, Amazon, U-NEXT, and Netflix, as well as over 1000 video streaming sites around the world, up to 8K quality.
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