In today’s world of skyrocketing entertainment costs, finding ways to enjoy your favorite shows without breaking the bank is more important than ever.
As someone who’s always on the lookout for tech solutions that help stretch your dollars further, I’m revisiting our review of Philo TV—a streaming service that’s evolved into a solid choice for those prioritizing affordability over bells and whistles like sports or local news.
If you’re tired of paying premium prices for cable or other live TV streamers, Philo might just be the efficient streaming option that your budget needs. In this updated 2025 review, I’ll break down the latest pricing, features, channels and add-ons, and how it stacks up for everyday savers.
As a customer of Philo since 2018 I can say it’s our favorite streaming service, and we’ve gotten some great value out of their offerings in the years that we’ve been using them. So let’s take a look at what they have to offer today.
Philo TV Review Summary
Philo stands out in the crowded streaming landscape by keeping things simple and cost-effective. For just $33 per month (when billed directly through Philo.com), you get access to over 70 live and on-demand channels focused on entertainment, lifestyle, and reality TV. That’s a fraction of what traditional cable costs—potentially saving you hundreds annually if you’re ditching a $100+ monthly bill.
Key perks include an unlimited DVR that stores recordings for up to a full year, the ability to stream on multiple devices, and no long-term contracts. Plus, Philo now bundles in access to HBO Max Basic (with ads) and discovery+ at no extra charge, adding even more value.
On the flip side, it skips sports and local channels entirely, which could be a deal-breaker if that’s your jam. But for families or individuals who love binge-watching Hallmark movies, History Channel or MTV marathons, it’s a smart, low-commitment pick.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable at $33/month for core access.
- Bundled perks like HBO Max and discovery+ enhance your content library without added fees.
- Unlimited 1-year DVR means you can save shows and skip ads effortlessly.
- No contracts—cancel anytime to keep your budget flexible.
- Compatible with a wide range of devices, making it easy to watch on the go.
- Free ad-supported channels available to try without subscribing.
Cons:
- No sports channels (e.g., no ESPN or Fox Sports).
- Lacks local broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox). (Alternatively check out Tablo Over-The-Air DVR to get locals)
- Limited to three simultaneous streams.
- Pricing jumps to $38/month if billed through third-party platforms like app stores.
What Is Philo TV?
Philo launched back in 2009 as a campus-focused TV service but pivoted to a nationwide over-the-top (OTT) streaming platform in 2017. It’s designed for viewers who want live TV without the hefty price tag or unnecessary extras. Owned by a consortium including A&E Networks, AMC Networks, Discovery Inc., and Paramount Global (formerly Viacom), Philo curates content from these partners, delivering a lineup heavy on entertainment staples.
Unlike broader services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV, Philo doesn’t chase the “everything” approach. Instead, it focuses on what it does best: affordable access to popular cable channels. In 2025, it’s adapted to industry shifts by bundling premium apps and emphasizing ad-supported free tiers, making it a tech-savvy way to manage entertainment expenses. As of September 30, 2025, Philo enhanced its Core package to include HBO Max Basic with Ads and discovery+, providing even more value in a single subscription.
Why Consider a Streaming Service Like Philo in 2025?
Switching to streaming isn’t just about convenience—it’s a financial powerhouse move. The average cable bill hovers around $100 per month, but with inflation and rising costs, many households are feeling the pinch. Philo helps by letting you pay only for the content you actually watch. No bloated sports packages or local fees here; it’s pure efficiency.
From a tech perspective, streaming leverages your existing internet connection (aim for at least 5 Mbps for smooth playback) to deliver content across devices. This portability means you can watch during commutes or travel without extra hardware, freeing up budget for other priorities like savings apps or smart home gadgets. If you’re optimizing your monthly outflows, Philo integrates seamlessly into a lean digital lifestyle—pair it with free tools like budgeting apps to track your entertainment spend.
What Is the Cost of Philo TV?
Philo keeps pricing straightforward with one main plan: the Core package at $33 per month when you sign up directly on Philo.com (plus applicable taxes). If you bill through third-party platforms like the Apple App Store or Google Play, it increases to $38 per month. There are no hidden fees, installation costs, or equipment rentals—just a flat rate for unlimited access.
This represents a slight increase from previous years, but it’s offset by the inclusion of HBO Max Basic (with ads) and discovery+, which would cost extra elsewhere. For context, standalone HBO Max Basic runs about $10/month, so you’re getting built-in savings. Current subscribers received access to these services at their prior rate for one month after the September 30, 2025 update, after which the price adjusted to $33. New subscribers get the enhanced package right away.
Premium add-ons are available for those wanting more:
- MGM+ for $6/month (premium movies and series).
- STARZ for $10/month (originals like Outlander).
- Hallmark+ for $6/month (holiday favorites and exclusives).
- ALLBLK for $6/month (Black entertainment content).
- Movies & More for $3/month (includes REELZ, HDNet Movies, Sony Movies, FMC, MOVIES!, and Fandor).
Free Ad-Supported Version
Not ready to commit? Philo offers a free ad-supported service with over 110 channels, no credit card required. It’s a great way to dip your toes in and see if the platform fits your viewing habits before upgrading. The free tier includes a 30-day DVR for recording select content.
Philo TV Core Package – 70+ Channels for $33/Month
The Core plan delivers a robust selection of channels emphasizing fun, feel-good content. Here’s a snapshot of what’s included:
- Entertainment: AMC, Comedy Central, MTV, Paramount Network, VH1.
- Lifestyle: Food Network, HGTV, TLC.
- Reality and Docs: A&E, Discovery Channel, History, Investigation Discovery.
- Family: Animal Planet, Nickelodeon, TeenNick.
- Movies and More: Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, Lifetime, BET.
In total, over 70 top-rated cable networks, plus 110+ additional free ad-supported channels. You’ll also get over 85,000 on-demand movies and shows. The bundled AMC+ library (with ads) is accessible right in the Philo app, featuring hits like The Walking Dead universe. HBO Max Basic with Ads and discovery+ (with ads) are accessed via their separate apps, but your Philo login unlocks them seamlessly—activate through your Philo account for easy setup.
With HBO Max, enjoy best-in-class programming including HBO originals like The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, Succession, The Last of Us, and Hacks; fan favorites like Friends, Abbott Elementary, and Rick and Morty; and blockbusters like Harry Potter, Superman, and A Minecraft Movie. discovery+ adds lean-back TV from HGTV, Food Network, TLC, ID, OWN, Animal Planet, and Discovery, with VOD hits like 90 Day Fiancé, Chopped, and Gold Rush.
While ad-free upgrades and in-app viewing for HBO and discovery+ content aren’t available yet, they’re planned for early 2026, adding even more convenience.
What Devices Can I Use With Philo TV?
Philo’s tech compatibility is a big win for budget tech enthusiasts. It works on:
- Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari on Mac/PC).
- Mobile apps (iOS and Android).
- Streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Google TV).
- Smart TVs (select models from Samsung, LG, Vizio).
Stream on up to three devices at once, and use TV Everywhere logins for network apps like AMC or Discovery GO. This flexibility means you can integrate Philo into your existing setup without buying new gear—perfect for minimizing tech expenses.
Things to Be Aware Of With Philo
While Philo excels at affordability, it’s not for everyone. The absence of sports (no ESPN, NFL Network) and locals means you’ll need supplements like an over-the-air antenna or services like Paramount+ for CBS content. Some news options are limited too—no CNN or Fox News, though you get Bloomberg and Cheddar.
On the plus side, the unlimited 1-year DVR lets you record endlessly and skip ads on saved content, adding efficiency to your viewing. For free users, it’s a 30-day DVR. Note that as of November 19, 2025, Philo removed its free trial for the Core package, shifting focus to the free ad-supported tier for sampling the service. Overall, if your household skews toward entertainment over events, Philo delivers tremendous value.
Philo: The Most Affordable Streaming TV Service for Budget Savers
In 2025, Philo remains a top contender for cord-cutters aiming to optimize their finances through smart tech choices.
At $33/month with bundled premiums like HBO Max and discovery+, it’s an easy way to access quality content without overspending. If you’re building a more efficient budget, start with Philo’s free channels to test-drive it—no strings attached. For those ready to subscribe, head to Philo.com for the best rate and dive into a world of savings-friendly streaming.
Have you tried Philo? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear how it’s helping your wallet!
