Overview of Sling TV in 2017
In 2017, Sling TV operated as a live TV streaming service focused on delivering a selection of broadcast and cable channels at a lower cost than traditional cable. The platform offered a flexible channels list organized into color-coded packages, with add-ons that let users tune the lineup to their interests. This structure appealed to cord-cutters who wanted familiar networks without a full cable bundle.
Sling Orange and Sling Blue Core Packages
The foundation of the 2017 channels list was two core packages, each with a distinct emphasis and pricing. Sling Orange centered on family-friendly entertainment and localized broadcast stations, while Sling Blue emphasized sports, news, and broader cable variety. Both included common national cable networks, with key differences shaping which package matched a household’s viewing habits.
- Sling Orange: Local broadcast stations (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox where available), family-oriented cable channels, and a limited number of add-on networks.
- Sling Blue: Extensive sports coverage, news channels, and a larger selection of general entertainment and lifestyle networks.
Package Comparison at a Glance
| Package | Primary Focus | Key Network Examples | Typical Add-on Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sling Orange | Family and local broadcast | Local ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox; AMC, TBS | Limited sports and news add-ons |
| Sling Blue | Sports and variety | ESPN, Fox Sports, CNN, MSNBC | Expanded sports, news, and kids add-ons |
Shared and Exclusive Channels
Certain popular cable networks appeared on both Sling Orange and Sling Blue in 2017, ensuring a baseline level of choice regardless of the package picked. Other channels were positioned as differentiators, aligning one package more closely with sports fans or entertainment viewers. The channels list also included niche networks accessible only through specific add-on bundles, allowing a customized channels list without paying for a huge tier.
Highlights by Category
- News: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News available on Blue; limited local news on Orange where broadcast partners existed.
- Sports: ESPN, Fox Sports, and regional sports on Blue; Orange focused more on lifestyle and family content.
- Entertainment: Shared networks such as USA, Syfy, and Bravo; additional premium entertainment channels via add-ons.
- Kids: Select children’s networks on Blue; family-friendly options on Orange.
Add-Ons and Customization
To expand the core channels list, Sling TV offered several add-on packs in 2017. These add-ons let users layer specialized content onto Orange or Blue without restructuring the entire package. They were particularly useful for sports fans and viewers who wanted access to premium networks, international programming, or kids’ content tied to specific interests.
- Sports Extra: Focused on additional regional and national sports networks.
- News Extra: Broadened news coverage with niche and international news channels.
- Kids Extra: Added children’s networks and preschool programming options.
- Spanish-Language: Channels tailored to Spanish-speaking audiences.
Regional and Local Variations
The 2017 channels list was not identical for every viewer, because Sling TV supported regional lineups based on DMA (designated market area). Local broadcast affiliations could change which networks appeared on Orange or Blue in a given city, and some smaller markets received alternate or reduced channel selections. These geographic differences ensured better alignment with over-the-air availability while keeping the overall channels list predictable in most major metros.
How It Compared to Cable in 2017
Compared to traditional cable, the Sling TV channels list in 2017 offered fewer but more focused options, which helped streamline choosing a plan. Customers could avoid many unused channels that inflated cable bills, while still keeping access to major sports, news, and popular entertainment networks. The trade-off was occasional gaps in niche or ultra-local channels, which made the service ideal for viewers who prioritized flexibility and cost savings over a fully comprehensive lineup.
Availability and Platform Reach
Sling TV in 2017 supported a range of devices, enabling users to access the channels list across living rooms and on the go. This multidevice approach complemented the flexible channels list, making it easier to watch live sports, news, and entertainment without being tied to a single TV set. Device compatibility played a key role in how consumers perceived the value of the streaming lineup.
- Supported devices: Select smart TVs, streaming media players, game consoles, mobile and desktop platforms.
- Cloud DVR: Limited storage included with packages, allowing viewers to save certain live programs.
Considerations When Reviewing the 2017 Channels List
When evaluating the Sling TV channels list in 2017, prospective users benefited from comparing local broadcast coverage, sports and news availability, and the cost of add-ons against their existing cable or satellite plans. The service worked best for viewers who wanted core national networks with the option to supplement through targeted add-ons. Understanding which channels were included by default and which required extras helped users avoid surprises and choose the right package.
Summary
In 2017, Sling TV maintained a clear channels list built around two core packages with distinct personalities and a menu of add-ons for further customization. Orange leaned toward families and local broadcast access, while Blue catered to sports and news enthusiasts. Regional variations and device availability influenced how useful the lineup felt in practice, making it a flexible but carefully scoped alternative to traditional cable.