What are the best free live TV streaming services for testing local channels and basic live news?

If you want to test local channels and basic live news for free, the best options are usually a mix of FAST live-TV apps and local network apps/sites. Here are the strongest picks:

Best free live TV streaming services

1. Tubi

• Free, no subscription
• Has a Live TV section
• Good for checking out news, entertainment, and some local/near-local channel feeds depending on your area
• Easy to use on most devices

2. Pluto TV

• One of the best-known free live TV services
• Lots of news channels and live-style programming
• Great for basic live TV testing, though true local affiliates are limited

3. The Roku Channel

• Free live TV plus on-demand
• Strong selection of news and general channels
• Good app quality and easy setup
• Local channel coverage varies

4. Plex Live TV

• Free live TV channels with no subscription
• Solid for news and general entertainment
• Good if you already use Plex or want a more “TV guide” style interface

5. Xumo Play

• Free live TV service with a simple interface
• Good collection of news, weather, and general channels
• Worth checking for quick live-TV testing

Best options specifically for local channels

If you mean actual local ABC/CBS/NBC/FOX affiliates, the best free options are often:

6. Network apps and websites

• ABC News / local ABC affiliate apps
• CBS News / local CBS affiliate apps
• NBC News / NBC local station apps
• FOX Local / station websites
• Some offer free live streams or clips, depending on location

7. Station websites or station apps

• Many local stations stream their news broadcasts live
• This is often the most direct way to test local news coverage for free

8. YouTube

• Search your local station name or call sign
• Many local news stations stream live or post live segments there

Best overall for your use case

If your goal is just to test what you can get for free:

1. Pluto TV
2. The Roku Channel
3. Xumo Play
4. Tubi
5. Local station apps/websites

Important note

Most free live TV apps are better for national news and general channels than for true local broadcast affiliates. For actual local channels, station apps/websites usually work best.

If you want, I can also give you:

• a list by device (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, phone)
• the best free options for local ABC/CBS/NBC/FOX
• or a free vs paid comparison for live TV services.