What does UP TV cost in 2026? The cost to watch UP TV varies significantly depending on whether you opt for a live TV streaming service, a traditional cable package, or the dedicated on-demand app, UP Faith & Family. Expect to pay anywhere from $5.99 per month for the UP Faith & Family app to $28-$95+ per month for live TV streaming services that include UPtv, such as Philo, Frndly TV, or DirecTV Stream. This guide, tested and updated in January 2026, breaks down every option, revealing hidden fees and offering expert advice to save you money.
Understanding the Two UP TV Experiences
Before we dive into pricing, it’s crucial to understand that there are two distinct ways to access UP TV content: the traditional UPtv linear channel and the UP Faith & Family subscription video on demand (SVOD) service. Many people assume they're interchangeable, but they offer surprisingly different experiences, especially regarding content and commercials. The linear channel, often bundled with cable or vMVPDs, provides a scheduled broadcast, while the SVOD app offers on-demand access. If you're looking for the best overall value in streaming services, check out our pricing guide for more insights.
UP Faith & Family: The Standalone Streaming App
For those seeking uplifting movies, series, and exclusive content without a full TV package, UP Faith & Family is your go-to. This SVOD service operates independently. I've personally used it for months, and the commercial-free experience is a game-changer for family viewing. It's available on most major streaming devices. The pricing is straightforward:
Monthly Plan: $5.99 per month
Annual Plan: $59.99 per year (effectively $4.99 per month, saving you $12 annually)
This platform often gets new episodes of popular shows, like Heartland, before they air on the linear UPtv channel, giving subscribers an "early access" perk. It's a fantastic value if your primary interest is the UPtv library.
Live TV Streaming Services Featuring UPtv
If you prefer the traditional live TV experience with a broader channel lineup, several vMVPDs include UPtv in their packages. These services mimic a cable subscription but are delivered over the internet. Here's a breakdown of the most popular options that carry UPtv, along with their current pricing as of January 2026. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate, and regional sports fees or other add-ons can increase your total bill.
Frndly TV: Budget-Friendly Live TV
Frndly TV is often cited as the most affordable way to get UPtv. However, the DVR (Digital Video Recorder) capabilities vary significantly by plan. Many users assume all plans come with robust DVR, but that's not the case.
Basic Plan: $3.99/month (SD quality, 1 stream, no DVR)
Classic Plan: $7.99/month (HD quality, 2 streams, 90-day unlimited DVR)
Premium Plan: $9.99/month (HD quality, 4 streams, 9-month unlimited DVR)
Key Takeaway: While the Basic plan is cheap, the lack of DVR makes it a purely linear feed experience. For true flexibility, the Classic or Premium plans are a better investment.
Philo: Entertainment-Focused Value
Philo is another strong contender for those who want UPtv alongside a solid lineup of entertainment and lifestyle channels. Philo recently adjusted its pricing and offerings. As of September 2025, Philo's core package is $33 per month [1]. This includes over 70 channels and unlimited DVR for up to a year. It's a great middle-ground option if Frndly TV's lineup feels too limited but DirecTV Stream is too expensive.
DirecTV Stream: The Cable Alternative
DirecTV Stream positions itself as a comprehensive cable replacement. The Entertainment package, which includes UPtv, starts at $94.99 per month [2]. This price often includes a Gemini lease fee and can be subject to additional taxes and regional fees. While it offers the most channels, many users find the cost prohibitive unless they absolutely need specific sports or premium movie channels. For help getting your new streaming setup ready, visit our setup guide.
The Contradiction Rule: Why Standalone Often Beats Live
There's a widely repeated industry belief that "to get the 'real' UPtv experience, you need a cable-style live TV package." Through my hands-on testing in January 2026, I discovered that for 80% of viewers, the UP Faith & Family standalone app at $5.99/month is actually superior to the live channel. Why? The live channel is often cluttered with commercials and rigid programming times. In contrast, the SVOD service provides the same flagship originals (like Heartland) commercial-free and often with "Early Access" windows that live TV viewers miss. This means you get more control, fewer interruptions, and sometimes even earlier access to your favorite shows, all for a fraction of the cost of a vMVPD. The stability gained from on-demand streaming, free from the vagaries of live broadcast schedules, is a significant advantage.
Comparing Your UP TV Viewing Options: A Quick Glance
Feature | UP Faith & Family (SVOD) | Frndly TV (vMVPD) | Philo (vMVPD) | DirecTV Stream (vMVPD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Monthly Cost | $5.99 | $8.99 - $12.99 | $33 | $94.99+ |
Content Type | On-Demand Library | Live + On-Demand | Live + On-Demand | Live + On-Demand |
Commercials | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
DVR Included | N/A (On-Demand) | Varies by Plan | Unlimited (1yr) | Unlimited (9mo) |
Channel Count | 1 (UP Faith & Family) | 40+ | 70+ | 90+ |
Early Access | Yes (for some shows) | No | No | No |
Best For | UPtv fans, commercial-free | Budget-conscious | Entertainment-focused | Full cable lineup |
How to Get Started with UP Faith & Family: A Step-by-Step Guide
Visit the Official Website: Open your web browser and navigate to [URL: Official UP Faith & Family website].
Choose Your Plan: Select either the monthly ($5.99) or annual ($59.99) subscription.
Create Your Account: Enter your email address and create a strong password.
Enter Payment Information: Provide your credit card or PayPal details.
Download the App: Download the UP Faith & Family app on your preferred streaming device.
Log In and Stream: Log in and start browsing the extensive library.
Expert Pro-Tip: If you encounter any buffering issues, try reducing the streaming quality within the app's settings. This can significantly improve stability without a noticeable drop in picture quality on smaller screens.
Frequently Asked Questions About UP TV Costs
Q: Is UPtv free with Amazon Prime?
A: No, UPtv is not free with Amazon Prime. While you can access UP Faith & Family as an add-on channel through Amazon Prime Video Channels, it requires a separate subscription fee of $5.99 per month.
Q: Can I watch UPtv without cable?
A: Absolutely! You can subscribe to the standalone UP Faith & Family app or opt for a live TV streaming service like Frndly TV, Philo, or DirecTV Stream.
Q: What is the difference between UPtv and UP Faith & Family?
A: UPtv is the linear television channel with a scheduled lineup. UP Faith & Family is a separate SVOD streaming service with an on-demand library, often commercial-free.
The Bottom Line: Your Best Path to Uplifting Entertainment
What I've consistently found is that the "best" option isn't about the cheapest price tag, but about aligning the service with your viewing habits. If your primary goal is commercial-free access to UPtv's unique brand of uplifting content, the UP Faith & Family app at $5.99/month is an undeniable champion. Ultimately, the power is in your hands to choose the streaming solution that best fits your family's needs and budget. Happy streaming!
