How to get a CNN Free Trial in 2025

Updated on August 13, 2025 • Staff

When CNN debuted in 1980, it was the first all-news channel broadcasting 24 hours a day. It's since lost that novelty, but it continues to be a major source of news and current affairs for many people, especially with highly-tuned-in shows like Anderson Cooper 360° and Amanpour.

Catch the best CNN has to offer using a free trial from DirecTV Stream, Hulu with Live TV, and YouTube TV. You can also get free streaming access to CNN from Pluto TV Live.

$82.99/month | 105 channels | 3 days free trial

Hulu with Live TV
Hulu with Live TV is a comprehensive bundle that pairs hundreds of live channels and on-demand titles (including award-winning originals) with a complimentary subscription to Disney+ and ESPN+. This variety makes it an ideal option if you're sharing an account with users of different ages and interests. And in terms of news, Hulu Live has the basics covered: it streams local channels, plus essential national ones like CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and more. Pros
  • Comes bundled with Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu on-demand
Cons
  • Only allows two simultaneous streams
  • Missing some channel favorites like AMC and BBC America
Go to Hulu with Live TV
$86.99/month | 136 channels | 5 days free trial

DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream is on the pricier side of live TV packages, but that cost comes with plenty of perks, including a wide-ranging channel lineup, HD streaming quality, and up to 20 simultaneous streams. If you're willing to give up a few channels for half the price, you can also opt for a skinny bundle it offers called DirecTV Stream MyNews. For $39.99/month, MyNews gets you more than 10 news channels, including CNN. You also get local channels and the usual unlimited DVR with it. Pros
  • CNN is also available in a skinny bundle
Cons
  • Expensive
Go to DirecTV Stream
$82.99/month | 143 channels | 7 days free trial

YouTube TV
YouTube TV is similarly priced to Hulu with Live TV, and it offers more or less the same channels, including local and national news channels like NBC, FOX, and CNN. However, they differ slightly in terms of features. YouTube TV offers more simultaneous streams and a smoother overall interface. On the flipside, it has a less impressive on-demand catalog and inconsistent picture quality. Pros
  • Intuitive interface
  • Easy-to-use cloud DVR
Cons
  • Live feeds can get low-resolution sometimes
  • Limited on-demand film library
Go to YouTube TV

What is the cheapest way to get a free trial of CNN?

Currently, the cheapest way to try CNN for free is by subscribing to either Hulu with Live TV (three days) or YouTube TV (seven days). Don’t forget to cancel before their respective trial periods; otherwise, you’re charged the regular monthly rate of $83/month.

What is the cheapest way to watch CNN without cable?

If you’re on a tight budget, you can consider subscribing to HBO Max and get their Standard plan. It costs $17/month and comes with CNN Max and live HBO channels, on top of the on-demand titles they offer. Unfortunately, HBO Max doesn’t offer a free trial, though it does have plenty of bundles you could choose from.