Choosing the best streaming service is crucial for modern entertainment needs, especially with the growing number of cord-cutters in the United States. Philo and Sling are two popular platforms competing for viewers with affordable pricing and diverse channel lineups.
This comprehensive comparison evaluates their features, pricing, channel offerings, and more, helping you decide which suits your streaming preferences better.
Table of Contents
What Are Philo and Sling?
Philo
Philo is an affordable streaming service known for its emphasis on entertainment and lifestyle channels. It lacks sports and local news coverage, making it ideal for those seeking a budget-friendly alternative to traditional cable without sports-heavy content.
Sling
Sling TV, owned by Dish Network, is a versatile streaming platform offering a wide range of channels, including sports, news, and entertainment. It features two main plans—Sling Orange and Sling Blue—with the option to bundle them for a broader selection.
Pricing Comparison of Both Streaming Services
Philo Pricing
Philo offers a single subscription plan:
$28/month for 70+ channels, unlimited DVR, and simultaneous streaming on three devices.
It’s one of the most budget-friendly services but excludes sports and local channels.
Philo also offers add-ons:
- MGM+ for $7 per month
- Starz for $10 per month
- Movies & More for $3 per month (access to a limited number of movies features)
- AMC+ ad-free for $4
Click here to view Philo pricing.
Sling Pricing
Sling has more complex pricing:
Sling Orange: $40/month for 30+ channels, including ESPN and Disney.
Sling Blue: $45/month for 40+ channels, with news and entertainment options like FOX and NBC.
Sling Orange + Blue: Offering around 50 channels for $60/month.
Sling also charges extra for add-ons starting from $6 per month.
Click here to view Sling pricing.
Channel Lineups: Entertainment vs. Variety
Philo Channel Lineup
Philo focuses on entertainment and lifestyle content, with popular networks such as:
- AMC, HGTV, Hallmark, Comedy Central, Discovery, and Lifetime.
Sling Channel Lineup
Sling covers a broader range of content, including:
- Sports: ESPN, NFL Network, and FOX Sports (Sling Orange or Blue).
- News: CNN, MSNBC, and FOX News (Sling Blue).
- Entertainment: FX, AMC, and Comedy Central.
Its customizable channel packages let users add niche content based on interests.
User Experience and Interface
Philo User Experience
Philo’s interface is straightforward and user-friendly. Its focus on entertainment channels eliminates clutter, making it easy to navigate. Features include a grid-style guide and a customizable DVR library.
Sling User Experience
Sling’s interface is more feature-rich but can be overwhelming for first-time users due to its many options. The grid-style guide and customizable features appeal to experienced streamers seeking variety.
DVR and On-Demand Content
Philo DVR Features
- Unlimited DVR storage.
- Recordings last up to one year.
- Rewind, pause, and fast-forward capabilities for live TV.
Sling DVR Features
- 50 hours of DVR storage included.
- Upgrade to 200 hours for $5/month.
- Recordings are available as long as you maintain your subscription.
Device Compatibility
Philo Supported Devices
- Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android/iOS devices, and web browsers.
Sling Supported Devices
- A wider range of devices, including Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and Chromecast, in addition to Roku, Fire TV, and mobile devices.
Sports and Local Channels
Philo
Philo lacks sports and local channels entirely, which may disappoint viewers seeking live sports or regional news.
Sling
Sling provides local channels in select markets (FOX and NBC with Sling Blue) and offers various sports networks with Sling Orange. This makes it a better option for sports fans.
Who Should Choose Philo?
Philo is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users.
- Viewers focused on lifestyle and entertainment content.
- Those uninterested in sports or local news channels.
Who Should Choose Sling?
Sling is perfect for:
- Sports enthusiasts needing live coverage.
- Viewers seeking local news and diverse channel options.
- Users who want customizable packages for niche interests.
Pros and Cons of Philo and Sling
Philo Pros
Affordable pricing.
Unlimited DVR storage.
Excellent for entertainment-focused users.
Philo Cons
No sports or local channels.
Limited variety compared to competitors.
Sling Pros
Flexible channel packages.
Sports and local news availability.
Extensive device compatibility.
Sling Cons
Higher cost for premium features.
Limited DVR storage unless upgraded.
Final Verdict: Which Is Better?
The choice between Philo and Sling depends on your preferences and viewing habits:
- Choose Philo if you prioritize affordability and entertainment-focused content without needing sports or local news.
- Choose Sling if you want a versatile platform with sports, news, and entertainment, even if it means paying more.
Both services offer free trials, allowing you to test their service before buying. Evaluate your budget, channel preferences, and streaming needs to make the right choice for your household.
By comparing Philo and Sling based on their unique strengths, you’ll find the perfect streaming service tailored to your lifestyle.
