Watching The CW live without cable or satellite used to be difficult, but now there are plenty of easy options using The CW app, live TV streaming services, or even broadcast TV. This guide covers everything you need to know to stream CW shows, LIV Golf events, ACC sports and more for free on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV and other devices.
Stream Live CW Content on The CW App
The easiest way to stream The CW live is by using the free CW app. Here’s how to watch:
- Devices Supported: Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, LG TV, Vizio TV, iOS, Android, Chromecast, web browser
- Content: Live streams of CW shows (next day), LIV Golf, ACC College Sports, CW movie library
- Price: Free
The CW app allows you to stream full episodes of current CW shows the day after they air, along with lots of on-demand content. During live LIV Golf tournament days, you can stream the event directly from the CW app home screen.
Downloaded the app takes just a minute, and you can easily cast streams from your phone to the big screen. The CW app is ad-supported.
Use a Live TV Streaming Service
In addition to the CW app, you can also stream The CW live as part of a live TV streaming service. Here are the best options:
- YouTube TV ($72.99/month): Offers CW live in 85% of markets. Also includes unlimited DVR.
- Hulu + Live TV ($76.99/month): Carries CW live in most areas. Bundles Disney+ and ESPN+.
- FuboTV ($79.99/month): Includes CW live in select markets. Strong sports focus with channels like FS1, ESPN, and more.
- Sling TV ($40/month): Offers CW on demand in select markets through Sling Blue package. Lowest price.
The major benefit of using a live TV streaming service is that you get The CW along with many other popular cable channels. This allows you to watch CW live, set recordings and access content on-demand just like cable.
On the downside, these services are more expensive than the free CW app. Be sure to check exactly which live channels are available in your area first.
Watch Broadcast TV Over the Air
Don’t forget about good old-fashioned broadcast TV. The CW is carried over-the-air in many markets nationwide. All you need is a good HD antenna connected to your TV to watch.
Some of the most popular antennas for watching CW broadcast TV include:
- Antennas Direct ClearStream 2MAX
- Winegard Elite 7550
- Antop AT-400BV
- RCA ANT751Z
Check AntennaWeb to see available CW channels in your area. Saturday and Sunday LIV Golf events will also be broadcast on CW affiliate stations.
Key Things to Know About Streaming The CW
Here are some key tips to remember about streaming CW content:
- The CW app offers next-day streaming of shows airing on The CW.
- Live events like LIV Golf tournaments stream directly on the CW app.
- A live TV streaming service gives you access to full CW live programming.
- An over-the-air antenna lets you watch The CW broadcast over the air.
- On demand content includes past CW shows and movies.
- The CW will carry ACC college basketball and football.
- New CW series focus more on unscripted shows.
FAQ About Streaming The CW
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about streaming CW programming:
What devices support the CW app?
The CW app works on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, smart TVs, iOS, Android, and Chromecast.
What shows can I watch on the CW app?
You can stream shows currently airing next-day after broadcast, along with a library of past CW series and movies. For live sports, check out our guides on watching NFL on Roku, NBA on Roku, MLB on Roku, MotoGP on Roku, and NASCAR on Roku.
Is the CW app free?
Yes, the CW offers free access to live content and on-demand programming. There is advertising.
Can I live stream CW through a streaming service?
Yes, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV and more allow live streaming of The CW in select markets as part of their channel packages. See our guide on watching Disney+ on Roku for another option.
How can I watch over-the-air CW with an antenna?
Connecting an HD antenna to your TV lets you access over-the-air CW signals to watch local broadcast television. You can also use an antenna to watch channels like NBC on Roku for free.
What CW shows are ending?
Long-running CW shows like Riverdale, The Flash, Nancy Drew and Stargirl are ending. The network is shifting focus to unscripted programming.
What is LIV Golf aired on The CW?
LIV Golf is a new golf league with events broadcast live on The CW App and CW affiliate stations on weekends.
The Bottom Line
With The CW app, live TV streaming services and over-the-air antennas, CW fans have plenty of ways to access their favorite shows. The free CW app makes it easy to watch top programs on demand the day after they air, along with live sports and special events.
For the fullest live CW experience, a live TV streaming platform like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV offers the most robust channel bundle. An indoor HD antenna can also bring crystal clear CW programming over the air.
Whichever streaming option you choose, say goodbye to expensive cable and satellite contracts. Now you can cut the cord and stream hit shows, golf events, college sports and more from The CW Network.
