Football enthusiasts across the UK face the same dilemma every season: how to watch Premier League football without breaking the bank.
With broadcasting rights scattered across various networks, finding the most cost-effective solution can be as challenging as predicting the league's winner.
This article explores the cheapest ways to catch all the action live, whether you're rooting for Manchester United or Manchester City.
The Battle of Broadcasters
At the heart of Premier League broadcasting in the UK are Sky Sports and TNT Sports, with Amazon Prime occasionally streaming key matches.
This distribution means fans often need to subscribe to multiple services to follow their favourite teams throughout the season.
The cost of these subscriptions, including broadband and Amazon Prime, generally ranges between £80-£90 a month.
Finding Value in Virgin Media
As of the latest comparison by USwitch, Virgin Media's "Bigger bundle + Sports" presents the most wallet-friendly option for football fanatics.
This package slightly undercuts BT's offering, marking Virgin as the go-to provider for those looking to economise their sports viewing experience.
The shift of BT Sport to Discovery, now branded as TNT Sports, has also diluted BT's direct purchasing advantages, further complicating the landscape for consumers.
Flexible Streaming Options
For those not tied to Sky or BT for their broadband needs, streaming services offer a viable alternative.
NOW Sports, for instance, provides access to all 11 Sky Sports channels for £34.99 a month.
Additionally, TNT Sports channels are available for monthly subscriptions at £18, making them a competitive option for dedicated sports enthusiasts.
| Provider | Package Name | Monthly Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Media | Bigger bundle + Sports | Cheapest option among competitors | Offers a combination of broadband and TV that includes sports channels, making it the most cost-effective choice for Premier League viewers. |
| NOW Sports | Monthly Pass | £34.99 | Provides access to all 11 Sky Sports channels without the need for a long-term contract. |
| TNT Sports | Monthly Subscription | £18 | Allows streaming of TNT Sports channels through its app, offering another affordable option for Premier League and Champions League matches. |
| Sky Sports | Add-on Subscription | From £25 | For Sky TV customers, adding Sky Sports to the existing subscription. Higher cost but includes extensive coverage and exclusive matches. |
| TNT Sports | With Sky Sports Added | £43 | Combination package that includes both TNT Sports and Sky Sports channels, available for streaming on smart TVs and mobile devices. |
FAQs
What's the cheapest way to watch all Premier League games? Virgin Media currently offers the most affordable monthly package for watching Premier League football on TV.
Can I watch Premier League matches without a long-term contract? Yes, services like NOW Sports offer monthly passes to Sky Sports channels, and TNT Sports also has monthly subscription options.
Is TNT Sports cheaper than Sky Sports? Yes, due to fewer channels and exclusives, TNT Sports is generally cheaper than Sky Sports.
How can I watch football without switching broadband providers? Consider subscribing to streaming services such as NOW Sports or the TNT Sports app, which don't require you to switch broadband providers.
Navigating the complex web of Premier League broadcasting rights doesn't have to be a financial nightmare.
By considering your current subscriptions and exploring flexible streaming services, you can find a package that scores high in both coverage and value.
Whether it's Virgin Media's bundle or a smart mix of streaming services, the goal remains clear: enjoying the beautiful game without enduring a financial penalty.
