Where To Watch VMAs Live Without Paying Extra Fees
- 01. Where to Watch VMAs: The Complete Guide for Cord-Cutters
- 02. Primary Streaming Options Without Cable
- 03. Complete Viewing Methods Comparison Table
- 04. Step-by-Step: How to Watch VMAs Without Cable
- 05. Free Viewing Options and Trials
- 06. Mobile and Digital Viewing Options
- 07. Red Carpet and Pre-Show Coverage
- 08. Why This Matters for Music Fans
Where to Watch VMAs: The Complete Guide for Cord-Cutters
You can watch the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards live without cable by streaming on Paramount+ Premium, which costs $13/month and offers a 7-day free trial, or through live TV streaming services including Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Sling TV that carry MTV and CBS. The ceremony airs Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT from UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, marking the first time the VMAs broadcast simultaneously on CBS and MTV.
Primary Streaming Options Without Cable
The most reliable streaming platform option is Paramount+ Premium, which provides exclusive live access to the VMAs broadcast on CBS and MTV. Unlike the Essential plan, only the Premium tier includes the live feed needed for the awards show.
- Paramount+ Premium: $13/month or $119.99/year; includes 7-day free trial for new subscribers
- Hulu + Live TV: $76.99/month; includes MTV, CBS, and unlimited cloud DVR
- YouTube TV: $72.99/month; carries MTV and local CBS affiliates nationwide
- FuboTV: $56/month (Pro plan); includes CBS and MTV with 5-day free trial
- Sling TV: $39/month (Orange + Blue); includes MTV but CBS availability varies by market
- DirecTV Stream: Entertainment package starts at $30/month; offers 5-day free trial
Complete Viewing Methods Comparison Table
| Service | Monthly Cost | Free Trial | MTV Included | CBS Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paramount+ Premium | $13 | 7 days | Yes (streaming) | Yes (live) | Budget cord-cutters |
| Hulu + Live TV | $76.99 | No | Yes | Yes | All-in-one entertainment |
| YouTube TV | $72.99 | Often 10-14 days | Yes | Yes | Interface quality |
| FuboTV | $56 | 5 days | Yes | Yes (Pro+) | Sports + awards |
| Sling TV | $39 | Occasional promotions | Yes | Varies by market | Lowest cost |
| DirecTV Stream | $30 | 5 days | Yes | Yes | Cable replacement |
Step-by-Step: How to Watch VMAs Without Cable
Follow this simple setup process to ensure you don't miss any moments of the awards show:
- Choose your streaming service: Select Paramount+ Premium for the most cost-effective option, or a live TV service if you want broader channel access
- Sign up for a free trial: New subscribers can access 5-7 day trials on Paramount+, Fubo, DirecTV, or Philo to watch the VMAs for free
- Download the app: Install Paramount+, Hulu, YouTube TV, or your chosen service on your smart TV, smartphone, tablet, streaming device (Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV), or computer
- Log in before 8 p.m. ET: Start the stream 15-20 minutes early to catch red carpet coverage and pre-show content
- Tune to CBS or MTV: On Paramount+, navigate to the live CBS feed; on live TV services, find MTV or CBS in your channel lineup
- Record for later: If you miss the live broadcast, most services offer cloud DVR to record the show for on-demand viewing
Free Viewing Options and Trials
Several no-cost trial options let you watch the VMAs completely free if you sign up before September 7, 2025:
Philo offers a 7-day free trial and includes MTV, making it ideal for budget-conscious viewers who want just the essentials. DirecTV Stream provides a 5-day free trial with their Entertainment package at $30/month, which includes both MTV and CBS in most markets. FuboTV's 5-day free trial on the Pro plan ($56/month) carries CBS in most regions and MTV nationwide. Paramount+ Premium's 7-day free trial is the most direct route, as it streams the VMAs exclusively on the Premium tier.
Mobile and Digital Viewing Options
For viewers who prefer mobile device access, the MTV app (available on iOS and Android) streams the VMAs live with a valid TV provider or streaming service login. The MTV website also provides live streaming at MTV.com, requiring authentication through your cable or streaming provider account. Smart TV apps for Paramount+, Hulu, YouTube TV, and other services enable direct viewing on television screens without additional hardware.
"This year, for the first time ever, the big show will air live on CBS - and stream live on Paramount+ (with the Paramount+ Premium plan)." - Official 2025 VMA announcement
Red Carpet and Pre-Show Coverage
Full red carpet coverage begins approximately 30 minutes before the main broadcast, featuring fashion analysis, celebrity interviews, and behind-the-scenes content. Paramount+ Premium includes the complete pre-show experience, while MTV's social media channels (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, TikTok) provide real-time clips and highlights throughout the event.
Why This Matters for Music Fans
The VMAs represent music culture's premier annual event, combining unforgettable performances, surprise collaborations, fashion moments, and industry recognition. With Taylor Swift leading nominations this year and multiple historic performances expected, the 2025 ceremony promises to be a landmark broadcast. Having reliable access through streaming options ensures you never miss these cultural moments, regardless of your cable subscription status.
Helpful tips and tricks for Where To Watch Vmas Live Without Paying Extra Fees
What time do the VMAs start?
The 2025 VMAs begin at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) on Sunday, September 7, 2025, with red carpet coverage starting approximately 30 minutes earlier at 7:30 p.m. ET.
Can I watch VMAs on Paramount+ Essential?
No, the VMAs are only available on Paramount+ Premium, not the Essential plan. The Premium tier ($13/month) is required for live CBS and MTV streaming.
Where is the 2025 VMA ceremony located?
The 2025 VMAs are broadcast live from UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Long Island, marking a return to the New York metropolitan area.
Will the VMAs be available on demand?
Yes, MTV typically makes the VMAs available for on-demand replay shortly after the live broadcast ends through the MTV website, MTV app, and most cable/streaming provider on-demand services.
How can I watch VMAs internationally?
International viewers should check local MTV channels and TV listings in their country, as MTV has international partnerships. A VPN service may also help access U.S. streaming services while traveling.
