Hallmark Channel is available through cable, streaming services, and the Hallmark Channel app itself

You can watch Hallmark Channel in three main ways: through a traditional cable or satellite subscription, through a streaming service that carries it, or through the Hallmark Channel's own streaming app. The method you choose depends on what you already subscribe to and whether you want access to other channels or just Hallmark content. Each route has different costs and different libraries of shows available.

The Hallmark Channel app (called Hallmark+) is the direct option run by Hallmark Media itself. Cable and satellite providers like Comcast, Charter, and DirecTV include Hallmark Channel as part of their standard packages. Streaming services like Sling TV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Frndly TV also carry the channel as part of their lineups.

Key Takeaways

  • Hallmark+ (the Hallmark Channel app) costs around $6 per month for ad-supported viewing or $10 per month for ad-free, and includes original movies and exclusive content not on cable.
  • Cable and satellite providers include Hallmark Channel in standard packages, so if you already have cable you likely have access at no additional cost.
  • Live TV streaming services like Sling TV and YouTube TV carry Hallmark Channel but cost $40 to $75 per month depending on the package.
  • Hallmark+ offers a free tier with limited content and ads, letting you sample the service before paying.
  • The content library differs between Hallmark+ and cable broadcasts, so you may see different movies depending on which service you use.

Hallmark+ (the Hallmark Channel app) pricing and what you get

Hallmark+ is the streaming app owned and operated by Hallmark Media. It offers three tiers: a free ad-supported version, a $6-per-month ad-supported paid tier, and a $10-per-month ad-free tier. The free version includes some full episodes and movies but with limited selection and frequent ads. The paid tiers unlock the full library, which includes original Hallmark movies, series, and content from other Hallmark networks like Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

Hallmark+ is where you'll find new original movies and shows before they air on cable, and it's the only place to watch some exclusive content. The app works on phones, tablets, computers, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Samsung Smart TVs. You can download episodes to watch offline on the mobile app. If you only want Hallmark content and don't need other channels, this is usually the cheapest option.

Cable and satellite TV: Hallmark Channel included in your package

If you have cable or satellite TV through providers like Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, AT&T DirecTV, or Dish Network, Hallmark Channel is included in most standard packages at no extra charge. You watch it the same way you watch any other cable channel — through your set-top box or through the provider's app on your phone or streaming device.

Cable and satellite also let you watch Hallmark Channel live, which means you can tune in to seasonal programming like the Countdown to Christmas in October and November. The trade-off is that cable and satellite packages cost significantly more overall (typically $50 to $150 per month depending on your package and provider), and you're paying for many channels you may not watch. If you already have cable for other reasons, though, you're not paying extra for Hallmark Channel access.

Live TV streaming services that carry Hallmark Channel

Several live TV streaming services include Hallmark Channel as part of their channel lineup. Sling TV includes it in the Sling Blue package ($40 per month). YouTube TV includes it in the base package ($73 per month). Hulu + Live TV includes it ($77 per month). Frndly TV, which focuses on family-friendly content, includes Hallmark Channel and costs $7 per month.

These services let you watch Hallmark Channel live and usually include cloud DVR storage so you can record shows to watch later. They work on most streaming devices, phones, tablets, and computers. The advantage over cable is lower cost and no contract, but the disadvantage is that most of these services cost more than Hallmark+ alone. Use them if you want Hallmark Channel plus other live TV channels, or if you prefer the live broadcast experience.

Comparing costs: which option saves the most money

If Hallmark Channel is your only priority, Hallmark+ at $6 or $10 per month is the cheapest option. If you want live TV and multiple channels, Frndly TV at $7 per month is the next step up. Sling TV's Sling Blue at $40 per month is the least expensive full live TV option that includes Hallmark Channel, though you're paying for many other channels too.

If you already have cable or satellite, you're not paying extra for Hallmark Channel — it's included. The question then is whether you'd save money by cutting cable and switching to Hallmark+ or a streaming service instead. A cable package typically costs $50 to $150 per month, so switching to Hallmark+ alone would save you $40 to $140 per month, though you'd lose access to other channels and live TV.

Free trial periods and how to test before paying

Hallmark+ offers a free tier with ads and limited content, so you can watch some shows and movies without paying anything. This is a good way to see whether you like the app's interface and whether the content library appeals to you. The free tier is permanent — you don't have to upgrade if you don't want to.

Most cable and satellite providers and live TV streaming services offer free trials ranging from three days to one week. Check the provider's website for current trial offers before signing up. YouTube TV, for example, sometimes offers a free trial period, though this changes. Hallmark+ does not currently offer a paid trial period — you either use the free tier or start paying immediately.

Watching Hallmark Channel on multiple devices

Hallmark+ works on phones and tablets (iOS and Android), computers (web browser), and major streaming devices including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, and Samsung Smart TVs. You can log in on multiple devices and watch simultaneously on different screens if your plan allows it. The free and $6-per-month tiers allow one stream at a time; the $10-per-month tier allows two simultaneous streams.

Cable and satellite apps vary by provider, but most let you watch on your phone, tablet, or computer by logging in with your account. Live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and Sling TV also work across phones, tablets, computers, and streaming devices. Check the specific service's website to confirm which devices it supports before signing up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch Hallmark Channel for free?

Yes, Hallmark+ offers a free ad-supported tier with limited content. You can watch some full episodes and movies without paying. If you have cable or satellite TV, Hallmark Channel is included in most packages. Some live TV streaming services offer free trial periods, though these vary by provider and change over time.

What's the difference between watching on Hallmark+ and on cable?

Hallmark+ has exclusive original content and movies that don't air on cable, and you can watch on-demand anytime. Cable broadcasts shows on a schedule and includes live programming like seasonal events. The movie and show libraries are different between the two, so you may see different content depending on which service you use.

Can I download Hallmark movies to watch offline?

Yes, Hallmark+ lets you download episodes and movies on the mobile app (iPhone and Android) to watch offline. This feature is available on all paid tiers. Cable and satellite apps may also offer downloads depending on your provider.

Do I need a cable subscription to use Hallmark+?

No. Hallmark+ is a standalone app that works without cable. You only need an internet connection and a device that supports the app. You can sign up directly through the Hallmark+ app or website.

Which streaming service is cheapest if I want Hallmark Channel plus other channels?

Frndly TV at $7 per month is the cheapest option that includes Hallmark Channel and other family-friendly channels. Sling TV's Sling Blue package at $40 per month is the least expensive full live TV option with Hallmark Channel and a wider range of channels. Costs vary and may change, so check current pricing on each service's website.