Between print journalism, social media, and cable news, you have plenty of options to catch up on the day’s current events. Prime-time nightly news might be for you if you’re a fan of classic news shows that wrap up a day’s worth of headlines in a tidy package. “CBS Evening News” has been around since the 1940s because people trust it. It has been home to some of the greatest anchors in American history and where generations of viewers have heard the first announcements of world-changing events. It’s a place for straightforward, unbiased, all-American news, which is more important than ever in an election year.
Cord-cutters are probably wondering if you need a cable subscription to watch “CBS Evening News,” and, luckily, the answer is no. You can get “CBS Evening News” through a variety of streaming services, giving you plenty of options. Many people will also be able to watch the same way their grandparents did, with a good old-fashioned TV antenna. This guide will take you through all the ways to watch “CBS Evening News” without a cable subscription.
How to Watch ‘CBS Evening News’ Online Without Cable
For decades, Americans have turned to “CBS Evening News” for reliable and timely information on world events, from the devastating bombing of Pearl Harbor to the triumph of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Anchors have included Walter Cronkite, Katie Couric, and now, Norah O'Donnell. CBS News is also home to the iconic investigative journalism program “60 Minutes,” which follows “CBS Evening News” on Sundays. “60 Minutes” has reported in-depth on world controversies including the Vietnam War, the Chornobyl disaster, and Iraq’s Abu Ghraib prison. It’s clear why you wouldn’t want to miss out on major events like those shown on “CBS Evening News,” so here are your options to watch.
“Skinny bundle” streaming services offer a hybrid experience combining on-demand streaming with cable TV. These services provide access to a streaming library while also allowing you to add various cable TV channels to your subscription. You’re not locked into a contract and pay only for the channels you choose, making it a more cost-effective and streamlined alternative to traditional cable. “CBS Evening News” is available on several skinny bundle platforms, like Hulu + Live TV and fuboTV.
The next option is to tune in for free over the air with a quality TV antenna. “CBS Evening News” is broadcast through local TV towers across the country, just like it has been for decades, so there’s a good chance you can access it in your neighborhood. Availability and clarity can vary depending on obstructions and your distance from the tower, but plenty of viewers still watch this way without problems. Check out our guide on how to set up free over-the-air TV and choose a TV antenna.
Here are all the ways to watch “CBS Evening News” without cable:
Can I Watch ‘CBS Evening News’ on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or Chromecast?
If you’re watching “CBS Evening News” through a streaming service and want the authentic experience of watching the evening news on your TV, you can. Streaming devices allow you to switch between any screen by connecting your streaming service of choice. Connect one of the streaming services above with Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV, Chromecast, iOS/Android or your web browser to watch anywhere. However, this isn’t an option if you watch for free over the air.
More to Love for ‘CBS Evening News’ Fans
You also can find morning and evening news on the other “Big Three” networks, NBC and ABC.
“NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt” is another staple prime-time news show covering important events, from natural disasters to elections. Check out our guide to watch “NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt” without cable. Anchor David Muir heads a team of world-class journalists on ABC’s “World News Tonight.” Read about how to watch ABC’s “World News Tonight” on our blog.
Turn to CNN for 24/7 news and commentary on the biggest events of the day. Its lengthy and detailed topic discussions are a great place to go in-depth on the latest news. Read our guide on how to watch CNN without cable for more information.
Fox News also provides comprehensive news coverage and detailed commentary. For more information, read our guide on how to watch Fox News without cable.