YouTube TV continues to dominate the cord-cutting landscape as the largest subscription-based live TV streaming service in the United States, solidifying its position as the go-to choice for millions abandoning traditional cable. However, smaller, budget-friendly alternatives like Frndly TV and Philo are experiencing rapid growth, signaling a shift among cost-conscious viewers seeking affordable entertainment options, according to a new survey of over 1,900 Cord Cutters News readers.
The survey, conducted in early 2025, revealed that 30% of respondents subscribed to YouTube TV, far outpacing its competitors. Launched in 2017, YouTube TV’s blend of over 100 channels, unlimited DVR, and features like NFL Sunday Ticket integration has propelled it to 8 million subscribers nationwide, (now a old number but the most recent one we have) making it the undisputed leader in the live TV streaming market. Many expect YouTube TV to become the largest provider of live TV in the United States, even when counting cable TV.
Yet, the data also highlights a rising tide for cheaper services. Sling TV secured second place with 9.7% of respondents, while Frndly TV and Philo followed closely at 7.2% and 6.7%, respectively. These smaller players, known for their low-cost, sports-free lineups, are carving out a niche among cord cutters who prioritize affordability over expansive channel packages. Frndly TV, starting at $7.99 per month with over 50 family-friendly channels, and Philo, offering 70+ channels for $28, have seen their subscriber bases swell—Frndly jumping from under 3% to over 7% in less than a year, and Philo climbing steadily with its focus on lifestyle and entertainment content.
Here’s how the survey broke down across major live TV streaming services:
- YouTube TV: 30% – The market leader, boasting a comprehensive channel lineup and premium features.
- Sling TV: 9.7% – A customizable, mid-tier option with Orange and Blue packages starting at $46.
- Frndly TV: 7.2% – A budget darling, surging with its $7.99 base plan and family-focused channels.
- Philo: 6.7% – A value-driven service at $28, gaining traction for its entertainment-heavy roster.
- DIRECTV STREAM: 4.9% – This service is seeing strong growth, appealing to sports fans with regional networks.
- Hulu + Live TV: 4.8% – A $82.99 bundle with Disney+ and ESPN+, lagging slightly in this poll.
- Fubo: 2.5% – A sports-centric service at with a dedicated subscriber base.
The survey also found that 41.6% of respondents didn’t subscribe to any live TV streaming service, opting instead for on-demand platforms or free over-the-air broadcasts—a reminder that not all cord cutters are flocking to paid subscriptions. Still, YouTube TV’s 30% share dwarfs the competition, reflecting its ability to capture a broad swath of the market even after a recent price hike to $82.99 per month.
When you add up YouTube TV’s main competitors like Fubo, Hulu, Sling TV, and DIRECTV STREAM they total 21.9% compared to YouTube alone controlling 30% of the cord cutting market according to this survey.
Frndly TV and Philo’s growth, however, suggests a countertrend. With cord cutters like those surveyed—averaging $70 or less for internet—seeking value, these services are capitalizing on a demand for leaner, cheaper alternatives.
As the cord-cutting revolution rolls on, YouTube TV’s reign remains unchallenged, but the rapid ascent of Frndly TV and Philo hints at a future where affordability could reshape the streaming hierarchy.
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