Are you looking to cut the cord and still enjoy your favorite local TV channels for free? AirTV makes it easy to stream over-the-air (OTA) channels in high definition without monthly fees. This guide covers everything you need to know about AirTV, including the channels you can access, supported devices, setup process, pricing, and how it integrates with Sling TV for additional entertainment options. Whether you’re after local news, sports, or shows, AirTV has you covered.
Streaming local TV channels shouldn’t come with a hefty bill. AirTV offers a simple, cost-effective way to watch free local channels in HD on your TV, smartphone, or tablet. This guide explains how AirTV works, the channels you can get, supported devices, setup steps, pricing details, and how to enhance your experience with Sling TV’s paid plans.
What is AirTV?
AirTV is a streaming solution that lets you watch free local OTA channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and PBS in high definition. By pairing an HD antenna with an AirTV device, you can stream these channels to multiple devices in your home or on the go using the free Sling app. No Sling TV subscription is required to access local channels, making it a great choice for cord-cutters.
AirTV offers three main devices:
- AirTV 2: A dual-tuner device for streaming local channels, with DVR capability when paired with an external hard drive.
- AirTV Anywhere: A quad-tuner device with a built-in 1TB DVR for recording up to four shows at once.
- AirTV Mini: A compact streaming stick for accessing local channels when paired with AirTV 2 or Anywhere, also supporting 4K content.
AirTV Channels List
AirTV lets you access free local OTA channels, which vary by location. Common channels include:
- Major Networks: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC
- Public Broadcasting: PBS
- Additional Channels: The CW, Univision, Telemundo, and local stations (depending on your area)
The exact channels depend on your location and signal strength. For example, in urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco, you might receive 50+ channels, while rural areas may have fewer. To find channels in your area, use tools like:
Enter your zip code to see available channels and signal strength. For instance, a test in New York City showed 76 channels, including major networks and local stations.
Sling TV Paid Channels (Optional)
While AirTV provides free local channels, you can enhance your viewing with Sling TV’s paid Orange and Blue plans. These plans add popular cable channels, integrating seamlessly with your local channels in the Sling app. Below is a comprehensive list of Sling TV channels available as of February 2025, based on recent updates.
US Entertainment Channels
- A&E
- AMC
- BBC America
- BET
- Bravo
- Cartoon Network/Adult Swim
- CNN
- Comedy Central
- Discovery
- Disney Channel
- ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3
- Food Network
- Fox News
- Freeform
- FX
- HGTV
- History
- Investigation Discovery
- Lifetime
- MSNBC
- National Geographic
- TBS
- TLC
- TNT
- USA
- And more (full list includes 100+ channels like Hallmark, MTV, Nickelodeon)
Latino Channels
- Azteca
- beIN Sports en Español
- Cinelatino
- Discovery en Español
- Estrella TV
- Telefe
- Universo
International Channels
- Arabic: MBC, Al Jazeera, Rotana
- Hindi: SET, Colors, Eros Now
- Mandarin: CCTV, Phoenix
- Others: Channels in Bangla, Bengali, Cantonese, French, German, Italian, and more
For a complete list, visit Sling TV’s official channels page. A Sling subscription (starting at $20/month for Orange or Blue) adds these to your AirTV setup.
Supported Devices
AirTV works with a variety of devices, ensuring flexibility for streaming at home or on the go. Compatible devices include:
- Streaming Players: AirTV Mini, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV
- Smart TVs: Select VIZIO smart TVs (with OTA integration), Samsung, LG
- Mobile Devices: iOS (iPhone, iPad), Android (phones, tablets)
- Other: AirTV Player (requires AirTV Adapter for local channels)
Note: Local channels are not supported on web browsers or Apple TV directly. Use a compatible streaming device for the best experience.
Pricing and Deals (Updated May 2025)
AirTV devices require a one-time purchase, with no monthly fees for local channels. Recent pricing and promotions include:
- AirTV Mini: $79.99 or free with a 2-month Sling TV prepayment ($79.99). Supports 4K streaming.
- AirTV 2: $149 or $49 with a 3-month Sling TV prepayment ($99). Includes a free HD antenna. Dual-tuner, DVR with external hard drive.
- AirTV Anywhere: $199 or free with a 3-month Sling TV prepayment ($99). Quad-tuner, built-in 1TB DVR.
- AirTV Player: Requires an AirTV Adapter ($29.99) and antenna for local channels. Pricing varies by retailer.
- HD Antenna: $10–$50 (indoor) or $50–$150 (outdoor), depending on signal needs.
- Sling TV Plans: Orange or Blue plans start at $20/month, with a $25 credit on select AirTV purchases.
Check AirTV’s official site or Amazon for current deals. Prices are accurate as of February 2025.
How to Set Up AirTV
Setting up AirTV is simple and takes about 15 minutes. Follow these steps:
- Choose Your Device: Pick AirTV 2, AirTV Anywhere, or AirTV Player with an AirTV Adapter.
- Select an Antenna: Use an indoor antenna (25–50 miles range) or outdoor antenna (50+ miles) based on your distance from broadcast towers.
- Connect the Antenna: Plug the antenna into the AirTV device’s coaxial port.
- Connect to WiFi: Link the AirTV device to your home WiFi network (minimum 25 Mbps recommended for HD streaming).
- Install Sling App: Download the free Sling app on your streaming device, smart TV, or mobile device.
- Scan for Channels: Open the Sling app, go to Settings > Over the Air Channels, and scan for available channels.
- Start Watching: Enjoy your local channels in HD.
Benefits of AirTV
AirTV stands out for cord-cutters due to:
- Free Local Channels: Access ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and more without monthly fees.
- HD Quality: Enjoy crystal-clear broadcasts, provided your antenna receives HD signals.
- Multi-Device Streaming: Watch on TVs, smartphones, or tablets, in or out of the home (one stream outside home).
- DVR Functionality: Record shows with AirTV Anywhere’s 1TB DVR or AirTV 2 with an external hard drive (50GB–2TB).
- Sling TV Integration: Combine free local channels with Sling’s Orange or Blue plans for a unified guide.
- No Contracts: Pay once for the device and antenna, with no ongoing fees for local channels.
AirTV vs. Competitors
| Feature | AirTV 2 | AirTV Anywhere | Tablo 4th Gen | Amazon Fire TV Recast |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $49–$149 | $99–$199 | $99–$139 | $129–$279 |
| Tuners | Dual (2 streams) | Quad (4 streams) | Quad (4 streams) | Dual/Quad |
| DVR | External (2TB) | Built-in (1TB) | Built-in (128GB) | Built-in (500GB–1TB) |
| Sling Integration | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 4K Support | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly Fee | None | None | Optional ($4.99) | None |
AirTV’s Sling integration and lack of monthly fees make it unique, though it lacks 4K support compared to Tablo or Recast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Sling TV subscription for AirTV?
No, local channels are free with an AirTV device, antenna, and the Sling app. A Sling subscription adds cable channels like ESPN or CNN.
What antenna should I use?
Indoor antennas work within 25–50 miles of broadcast towers. Outdoor antennas are better for rural areas or weaker signals. Check signal strength with Channel Master.
Can I record shows with AirTV?
Yes, AirTV 2 requires an external hard drive (50GB–2TB), while AirTV Anywhere has a built-in 1TB DVR.
Which devices support AirTV?
Compatible devices include AirTV Mini, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, iOS, and Android. Web browsers and Apple TV don’t support local channels.
How many channels will I get?
Channel count varies by location. Urban areas may get 50–100 channels, while rural areas may get 10–30. Use zip code tools to check.
Conclusion
AirTV is a top choice for streaming free local TV channels in HD without monthly fees. With devices like AirTV 2, AirTV Anywhere, and AirTV Mini, you can watch local news, sports, and shows on multiple devices. Pair it with Sling TV’s Orange or Blue plans for access to over 100 cable channels. Use Channel Master or FCC’s DTV Maps to find your local channels, and check AirTV’s site for the latest deals. Start streaming today and enjoy TV on your terms.
Explore channels list for other TVs as well:
- LG TV Channels List: Complete 2025 Guide to Free Streaming
- Vizio TV Channels List 2025: Free Streaming & Apps Guide
- Tubi TV Channel List 2025: Discover Over 260 Free Live Channels
- Freebie TV Channels List: Your Guide to Free Streaming Entertainment in 2025
