Launched in 1998 as Pax TV, Ion Television (Ion) is an entertainment network that prides itself on having binge-worthy dramas and other popular shows. National sports that air on the network via Scripp Sports include the WNBA and the NWSL; regional sports include the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes and Vegas Golden Knights and the Big Sky Conference’s Montana and Montana State.
Owned by the E.W. Scripps Company, the Scrips Network is the parent company of Ion and its sister channels Ion Mystery, Ion Plus (Ion+), Bounce TV, Court TV, Laff, Grit, Defy TV, and Scripps News.
In 2024, Ion had 44 owned-and-operated stations and 20 network affiliates and is available on various paid TV providers. You can find the network in all of the top 20 markets in the country.
Luckily, you can save a fortune by watching your favorite series and sports on Ion without cable.
How to Watch Ion Without Cable TV
No need for bulky equipment or long-term contract, with Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, or any other compatible device you can watch live TV with a streaming service like DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Sling TV, Frndly TV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV.
The following streaming platforms offer Ion TV in their channel lineup.
Also, if you have an antenna, you can find out which ION affiliates are near you by using a tool like AntennaWeb.
You can find out more about each streaming platform, below.
Can I Watch Ion TV Live on DIRECTV STREAM?
Yes, DIRECTV STREAM offers ION in its lineup of channels.
Boasting a lineup of over 75 channels, the Entertainment plan from DIRECTV STREAM includes ION and many popular entertainment, news, sports, and lifestyle networks.
Record your favorite movies, shows, and more with unlimited DVR. Everyone can watch simultaneously with unlimited devices on their home network and up to 3 devices on the go with every plan.
New subscribers can take advantage of a 5-day free trial before subscribing.
Can I Watch Ion With Sling TV?
No, unfortunately, Sling TV does not currently offer Ion TV in its channel lineup.
As for those who need something more affordable that offers a solid lineup then Sling TV is a great choice. Sling has three different plans: Sling Orange, Sling Blue, and the combination package of Sling Orange & Blue with numerous add-ons to expand your lineup.
Each Sling plan offers 50 hours of DVR, Sling Blue allows you to stream on up to 3 channels simultaneously, while Sling Orange allows a single stream, however, Sling Orange & Blue gives you access to up to 4 simultaneous streams.
Can I Watch Ion TV Live On Fubo?
Yes, Fubo offers Ion TV in its channel lineup.
Known as a sports-oriented streaming service, Fubo gives you 100s of live sporting events and a base plan of over 195 channels. With Fubo, you can stream your favorite shows on Ion, and many other of the most-watched networks live.
Each Fubo plan includes on-demand shows and movies, the ability to record up to 1000 hours with cloud DVR, and you can stream on 10 screens simultaneously.
New subscribers can try Fubo for free.
Can I Watch Ion Live On Frndly TV?
Yes, Ion is available as part of Frndly TV’s channel lineup.
Sporting a lineup of over 40 channels, Frndly TV offers Ion and its sister channels Ion Mystery, Ion Plus (Ion+), Bounce TV, Court TV, Laff, and Grit. The budget-friendly platform offers unlimited DVR recording, live and on-demand programming, 72 Hour Lookback, and the ability to stream on up to four screens simultaneously.
New subscribers can try Frndly TV for free for seven days.
Can I Watch Ion Live On Hulu + Live TV?
No, unfortunately, Ion is not part of Hulu + Live TV’s channel lineup.
As a Disney-owned streaming service, Hulu + Live TV is the perfect place to watch many popular shows and series due to its lineup of over 95 live channels. In addition to live channels, thousands of hours of on-demand content is available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu’s library. Plus, don’t miss any ESPN+ exclusive games or sports as it is also available in the membership.
Rewatch your favorite movies and shows for up to 9 months with unlimited cloud DVR, and watch on up to 2 screens simultaneously.
Can I Watch Ion On YouTube TV?
Yes, Ion is available on YouTube TV.
YouTube is one of the best overall streaming services due to its lineup of over 100 live channels, including popular news, sports, lifestyle and entertainment networks. Plus, you can record with unlimited DVR and save your content for up to 9 months.