How to Watch the Olympics 2024: The Streaming Services, Websites, and TV Channels Showing Events

The 2024 Summer Olympics are nearly here, and soon you’ll be able to cheer on top athletes like Simone Biles, Katie Ledecky, LeBron James, and Caleb Dressel. While cable channels including NBC, USA, E!, and Golf Channel will broadcast some of the Olympic games, there are plenty of other ways to watch the Olympics, including streaming services and online platforms. With these viewing options, you won’t have to miss a moment of the action.

Our top picks for how to watch the Olympics 2024

How to watch the Olympics with streaming services

Whether you have cable TV or will be using a streaming service, there are plenty of ways to catch most of the Olympic action. Depending on the service you choose, you can watch the Olympics live or view DVR content later (which may be helpful, given the time difference between the United States and Paris).

No matter what platform you’re using, now is the time to check the service’s Olympic schedule to see what will be available. I’ve made some recommendations below of TV channels and streaming services to help you find the platforms that offer the best Olympics viewing.

How to stream the Olympics online for free

When you sign up for a free Olympic membership, you can watch live sports and films and also view videos of past Olympic games. The official Olympics website maintains a streaming schedule of Olympic sports you can watch online using a computer, tablet, or phone.

You can also stream the Olympics online using one of the subscription streaming services listed below. If you sign up for a streaming service, make sure that you’re using the latest version of any recommended web browser for an optimal viewing experience. You should also verify your device meets the service’s minimum operating service requirement.

How to watch the Olympics on TV

If you want to watch the Olympics on TV, your best bet is to tune into NBC first. NBC is the main Olympics broadcaster this year and has swimming, track and field, diving, and gymnastics in its lineup. Other channels, like CNBC, NBCSN, USA, and Telemundo, will also show some of the games.

How to watch the Olympics with VPN

If you’re planning to watch the Olympics online, using a VPN might be a good choice. A VPN hides your IP address while you browse websites, and its data encryption can help to keep your data safe.

By using a VPN, you can access Olympics coverage that’s broadcast overseas, meaning you aren’t limited to the coverage that’s available here in the United States. For example, if you want to watch an event that isn’t broadcast here, you can use a VPN to connect to a server in that other country. Then, you can choose a server in that country where the event is broadcast, choose that server, and use an app to stream the games.

NordVPN

NordVPN features numerous security measures, including built-in antivirus tools, and you can choose from more than 500 servers. With NordVPN, you can also use up to six devices simultaneously. Its Standard plan is at $12.99 per month.

Surfshark

Surfshark also has many safety features, including data breach alerts, malware protection, and a tracker and ad blocker. Encryption helps to protect your identity, and rather than routing traffic through a single VPN tunnel, Surfshark can route that traffic through a network of servers. While many VPNs limit your simultaneous connections, Surfshark allows for unlimited simultaneous connections. The Starter plan is $15.45 per month, though you can get discounts for 12- and 24-month subscriptions.

What to consider when choosing a streaming service to watch the Olympics

Olympic programming availability

Consider how much Olympic coverage a streaming service will offer. Some services give you access to many Olympic channels, meaning you can watch most of the games. If you want to watch a particular Olympic game, you’ll need to research which channels will broadcast that game and then confirm the streaming service includes that channel. You may be able to purchase the channel as an add-on.

Other types of programs

Choosing a streaming service that also features other programming you enjoy will maximize the investment you get from that service. Review the other programming available and consider whether you’re likely to watch it.

DVR capabilities

If you’re not able to watch the games live, it’s important to have the option to DVR them and watch later. Look for a streaming service that allows you to record content, and consider whether any recording limits will be high enough to capture the Olympic content you want to see.

Supported devices

Make sure you can stream the service on your favorite devices. Whether you’re going to be watching on a smart TV, using a streaming device like a Fire TV Stick, or want to watch on your computer, it’s important to confirm the subscription service supports your device.

Price

If price is a concern, choose a streaming service that’s reasonably priced. Some services offer free trials, and many offer bundles to maximize the value you get from your subscription.

How I selected the best streaming services to watch the Olympics

Access

In choosing the best streaming services to watch the Olympics, I looked for services that give you lots of access to the games while delivering an overall good value. I tried to include services that work with a wide variety of devices and have important features like DVR capability.

Price

I highlighted services available at a numerous price points, including services you can cancel after just a month if you only want to subscribe for Olympic coverage.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

When do the 2024 Olympics start?

The Paris 2024 Olympics start on Wednesday, July 24 with events like men’s soccer and rugby. Women’s soccer, handball, and archery are scheduled for July 25. The opening ceremony takes place on Friday, July 26 and marks the official start of the Olympics.

What’s the Olympics schedule?

The Olympics starts on July 24 and concludes on August 11. The lineup includes 32 sports. While you can see the full schedule on the official Olympics site, a few highlights include:

• Swimming: July 27 - August 10
• Gymnastics: July 27 - August 5
• Diving: July 27 - August 10
• Basketball: July 27 - August 11
• BMX: July 30 - August 3
• Soccer: July 24 - August 10
• Triathlon: July 30 - August 5

Are there any new Olympics sports this year?

Break dancing, also called breaking, makes its Olympic debut in Paris this year. The Olympic breaking competitions will feature one men’s and one women’s events. Sixteen athletes will compete in each event. You can watch the break dancing competitions on August 9 and 10.