WatchESPN was a streaming service created by the Disney-owned broadcast network, ESPN Inc., enabling premium subscribers in America to live stream TV broadcasts from any device with an internet connection. Unfortunately, this platform ceased its operations in 2019 as users were directed towards their direct-to-consumer subscription services such as ESPN+, Hulu + LiveTV or AT&T Now.
For those who still miss their repertoire of sports broadcasts, here’s a list of the 21 best WatchESPN alternatives that come with similar features. The titles on this list are legal platforms, so you should be safe in your streaming endeavors as long as you follow the broadcasters’ terms of use and copyrights.
Tips to Choose Safe WatchESPN Alternatives
Before we dive into our chosen recommendations for alternative solutions to WatchESPN, it is important to note that online streaming of TV broadcasts is a potential security risk to your activity. Without the right protections, you could be vulnerable to government cyber-surveillance or infected by malicious sources.
One way to reduce such risks without having technical expertise is through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Research VPN services and choose one based on criteria like encryption methodologies, anonymity level, price and geography coverage. We recommend using NordVPN which comes with all the features mentioned.
Once you have established reliable VPN protection, proceed with choosing the right WatchESPN legal alternative. A few simple checks to confirm that your chosen websites are free from malware and viruses:
- Check their reviews online.
- Look for a copyright statement if accessing a fee-based service.
- Make sure it offers support by email or phone.
The 21 Best WatchESPN Alternatives
Here are our options for the best replacement streaming service for WatchESPN.
ESPN +
The company formerly known as BAMTech is now owned by Disney Media Networks and provides access to a range of premium sports events, including live matches from Major League Baseball and the National Hockey League. There is also a subscription service that gives access to the latest news, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and multi-screen support.
Fox Sports Go
Fox Sports GO offers streaming of FOX regional sports networks for fans located in certain markets – direct live events coverage as well as various shows. Users can watch content on their desktop web browser or with apps available from iOS and Android devices.
Stream2Watch
Stream2Watch provides access to a massive library of worldwide TV channels, including several sports networks such as ESPN and FOX Sports GO using their live streaming service. This service offers forward-compatible support for the latest web browsers, though you will need BitLord or VLC Media Player.
SportSurge
SportSurge is a live sports streaming platform with a great library of channels. If you are looking for an alternative to WatchESPN, then SportSurge has both standard and pay-per-view services you can access with your subscription.
Cricfree
Probably the most popular cricket streaming websites out there, this service provides free coverage from over 50 different international sporting events in several languages – including English, Spanish and German.
StreamSports
StreamSports is a multi-sport streaming platform with live coverage of over 4,000 competitions around the world. It offers free and pay-per-view subscriptions to access sports events on demand, as well as real-time scores and in-game stats.
Laola1
For fans who enjoy more diverse sporting activities, try Laola1 – it offers exclusive motor racing, judo, figure skating, golf and other rare sports streaming for free. This site is available across the globe, including mobile access through their dedicated apps.
BossCast
This service offers linear streaming of top sporting events from major networks like FOX Sports GO and CBS along with full replays on demand – compatible with PCs or mobile devices using its respective iOS/Android app.
SportLemon
SportLemon is a browser-based streaming platform you can use to watch your favorite games in real-time as if playing on any cable TV network. Streamed events are guaranteed malware and virus free.
Fromhot
FromHot provides quality sports coverage from an easy-to-use interface with over 6, 000+ live streaming channels and events. All major sporting organizations, leagues and tournaments are available on the site with full HD support.
StreamWoop
This website hosts live streams that can be viewed in an optimised interface as well as upcoming matches from different sports like baseball, basketball, hockey & more; for free without downloading or logging into any account.
CrackStreams
For those who don’t shy away from technical steps to enable streaming, CrackStreams is the ultimate resource for live sports broadcasts with P2P and multiple links. It requires an account registration but it’s absolutely free.
Vidgo
Vidgo provides straightforward access to most major cable networks like ESPN, NBC & Fox Sports GO with quick channel change, enhanced search and multi-screen support. You can easily browse their library to watch favorite shows – compatible with both iOS & Android.
FITE
FITE offers on-demand pay–per–view sports events available in standard as well as HD streams including monthly tournaments, live streaming right from the ring and commentary access for a richer user experience.
LiveTV
LiveTV is mainly a repository of online streaming links from hundreds of free sources. Many noted premium cable services offer live broadcasts from their channels too which you can watch by following the active link.
VIPBoxTV
Let’s say you are looking for an alternative to WatchESPN without having any subscription — then VIPBoxTV is your solution. This site has live coverage of all major sports events as well as a library of highlights and favorite clips.
SonyLIV
Sonyliv provides interactive streaming services that feature the best in Hindi, Bengali, Malayalam, Telugu & Tamil language. Unlike most other sites on our list, this platform offers users to pick their subscription package – useful for those who want access only to popular leagues or tournaments.
RedstreamSport
RedstreamSports is an easy-to-use browser-based video streaming platform, supported by multiple device compatibility And multi – language options with DDOS protection and a 24/7 online support team.
BuffStreams
This website offers free sports streaming from several sources like ESPN, CBSSN & Fox Sports GO with access to more than 600 live sports broadcasts like football and hockey from all corners of the world.
Live Soccer TV
LiveSoccerTV is a fan-friendly website for following international soccer events as well as domestic leagues in languages including English, Spanish & many others – also delivering content through mobile applications too.
NBC Sports
NBC Sports channels give fans access to major sports tournaments and professional leagues like NFL, NBA as well Olympic Games with full coverage of events from premier league soccer to Major League Baseball.
Protect Yourself with VPN – A Must-Have for Safe Streaming
As previously mentioned, the best way to boost your security while streaming is through a VPN. Out of all the services, NordVPN has a simple-to-use subscription system actually gives users full control of their security protocols –256-bit military-grade encryption with DNS leak protection and a strict no-logs policy.
NordVPN Pros And Cons
- Secure & fast streaming service.
- Provides several servers located in 70+ countries across 6 continents
- Available for different platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android & iOS.
- Guaranteed no logs policy & DNS leak protection.
Although NordVPN is one of the most secure VPNs out there, it does come with a few drawbacks such as price – this service can be expensive if you don’t opt for its long-term plans. Besides that, users may experience issues with a browsing speed of about 20 Mbps depending on their location.
Conclusion
Gone are the days of streaming live sports through WatchESPN with a subscription. With that said, there are plenty of similar alternatives out there you can use instead – like those we list here. Always remember to boost your security when streaming, either with a VPN or through secure sources. With the right combination of safety and convenience, you can enjoy watching events from your favorite teams wherever and whenever.
watchespn FAQ s
Is WatchESPN Site Legal?
Yes, the former WatchESPN service was legal and had been around for many years, providing access to exclusive sports networks & broadcasting events on demand.
How Safe is WatchESPN Site?
Using a VPN with sufficient encryption protocols ensures that your activity remains anonymous while streaming through alternative solutions such as those mentioned in this article. In case you still have doubts then it is recommended to choose paid & legal streaming services.
Which are the top WatchESPN Alternatives?
The 21 best WatchESPN substitutes you can use in 2023 mentioned in this article include ESPN +, Fox Sports Go, Stream2Watch and more.
What happened to WatchESPN?
Overall activity on broadcasts was greatly reduced around 2019. Many speculate that this is a result of ESPN focusing on building direct-to-consumer subscription services such as the aforementioned ESPN+.
What happens if I get caught while watching WatchESPN and its alternatives?
If you are streaming via official sources, then nothing much – as long your activity corresponds with their terms & conditions. For third-party platforms, it depends on local laws; in some cases, users may face legal action for violating copyright regulations.
Is WatchESPN Down?
Since ESPN stopped its operations in 2019, the official WatchESPN platform is no longer up & running.