How to watch Cartoon Network without cable
| Channel | Cartoon Network |
|---|---|
| Category | Kids |
| Live on | 4 streaming services |
| Cheapest live option | Sling TV — $40/mo |
| On-demand / free route | Max carries much of the Cartoon Network library. |
What is Cartoon Network?
Kids animation by day and Adult Swim comedy late-night. It sits in our kids channels group. Below is every licensed live TV service that carries Cartoon Network, with starting prices and our editorial scores — see how we test.
Streaming services that carry Cartoon Network
| Service | Our score | From /mo | Free trial | Streams | Cloud DVR | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sling TV | 8.6 | $40 | None (occasional promos) | 1 (Orange) / 3 (Blue) | 50 hours included | you want the cheapest route into live sports and news and don't rely on local broadcast channels everywhere |
| YouTube TV | 9.3 | $83 | Varies | 3 | Unlimited | you want a broad, mainstream lineup with unlimited DVR and reliable local channels in most areas |
| Hulu + Live TV | 9.0 | $83 | Varies | 2 (unlimited add-on) | Unlimited | you want live TV bundled with a huge on-demand library plus Disney+ and ESPN+ |
| DirecTV Stream | 8.7 | $87 | 5 days | Unlimited at home | Unlimited | you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams |
Prices are starting monthly prices seen at last review and exclude taxes/fees. Always confirm the current price and channel lineup on the provider’s site.
Prices are starting prices and lineups shift by ZIP code and plan tier — confirm Cartoon Network is included for your area, or weigh the full service rankings first.
Cheapest way to watch Cartoon Network
The most affordable live carrier of Cartoon Network is Sling TV, from $40/mo. The cheapest way into live sports and news, with a build-your-own channel approach. More ways to save: cheapest live TV services and lowering your streaming bill.
Visit official siteOpens Sling TV’s official site
Watching Cartoon Network without a live TV plan
Max carries much of the Cartoon Network library. On-demand routes usually cost less than a full live plan, but you give up the live feed — a trade-off we break down in streaming bundles explained.
How to watch Cartoon Network without cable, step by step
- Pick a service that carries Cartoon Network where you live — Sling TV is a solid starting point.
- Sign up, using a free trial first if one is offered.
- Install the app on your TV, streaming device, or phone.
- Open the live guide and tune to Cartoon Network.
Other kids channels
Cutting cable rarely stops at one channel — see how to watch Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Nicktoons, Disney Channel, Disney XD, or browse every channel guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which streaming services have Cartoon Network?
Cartoon Network is carried by Sling TV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV Stream. Lineups vary by ZIP code and plan tier, so confirm before subscribing.
What is the cheapest way to watch Cartoon Network live?
The cheapest live carrier is Sling TV from $40/mo. If you can skip the live feed: Max carries much of the Cartoon Network library.
Can I watch Cartoon Network for free?
No legal service streams Cartoon Network free. Avoid "free Cartoon Network" apps and streams — they are unlicensed and risky. The cheapest legal option is listed above.
Does Cartoon Network work with parental controls?
Yes. Every live TV service above offers profiles or parental controls you can apply to Cartoon Network and other kids channels.