Is ESPN Select the ESPN+ plan?

Yes. ESPN describes Select as the plan consisting entirely of ESPN+ content. The ESPN+ label does not mean access to every ESPN television channel.

Does Unlimited include Select's content?

Yes. Unlimited includes ESPN+ alongside ESPN networks and ESPN on ABC. Check the listing for the specific event you want.

Do I need another subscription if I already have ESPN?

Check with your TV provider or bundle first. You may already have the access you need. Provider-activated Unlimited content can differ when the provider does not carry particular content.

Comparison

ESPN Select vs Unlimited: Is ESPN+ Enough?

Start with the event you want and the access you already have. The cheaper ESPN plan may be enough, but neither is an all-sports package.

Last reviewed October 18, 2026 · ~3 min read

Is ESPN+ enough, or do you need ESPN Unlimited?

ESPN Select contains ESPN+ content. Choose it when the specific event you want is available through ESPN+. For live ESPN or ESPN2, compare Unlimited with access through your existing TV provider. First check any TV or bundle benefits you already pay for. Neither plan alone guarantees every game for a league or team.

Quick FAQ

Is ESPN Select the ESPN+ plan?: Yes. ESPN describes Select as the plan consisting entirely of ESPN+ content. The ESPN+ label does not mean access to every ESPN television channel.
Does Unlimited include Select's content?: Yes. Unlimited includes ESPN+ alongside ESPN networks and ESPN on ABC. Check the listing for the specific event you want.
Do I need another subscription if I already have ESPN?: Check with your TV provider or bundle first. You may already have the access you need. Provider-activated Unlimited content can differ when the provider does not carry particular content.

Sources

Check existing access before paying twice

Sign in to your current TV provider or review your bundle benefits before buying standalone ESPN. ESPN recommends asking your TV provider whether Select or Unlimited is already included. Confirm which plan you have, then follow that provider's activation process.

A provider activation is not always identical to standalone access. ESPN says some Unlimited content may be unavailable if your TV provider does not carry it. Try the event through your existing authenticated access before adding another bill.

Monthly and annual costs at a glance

US standalone list prices checked October 18, 2026.
Plan	Monthly	Annual upfront	Coverage distinction
ESPN Select	$13.99	$139.99	ESPN+ content
ESPN Unlimited	$31.99	$319.99	ESPN networks, ESPN+ and ESPN on ABC

Annual prices are full-year payments, not monthly bills. Bundle pricing and provider benefits are separate comparisons. Check the current checkout terms before choosing a billing period.

Choose for the games you actually watch

If you only want an event listed on ESPN+, Select is the plan to check first. Verify that event's availability for your location.
If you want a live ESPN or ESPN2 broadcast, compare Unlimited with your existing authenticated TV access. Select alone does not provide those live channels.
If you want a whole NBA or team schedule, neither plan alone guarantees every game. Identify each game's outlet and your team's local viewing options before buying.

Treat ESPN as one part of your viewing plan. Use the NBA viewing guide for that league's wider coverage choices. Compare only the missing access after accounting for subscriptions you already have. For a short list of must-watch games, check their dates before committing to a full year.

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