What Is a Comcast Sports Tier?

While channel options may differ slightly depending on your area, the Digital Starter package offers ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPN 3D, the Golf Channel and Versus. The Digital Preferred package offers those channels plus NFL Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, ESPN News and ESPN U. For the true sports fanatic, the Sports Entertainment Package offers extra sports programming, including local sports channels from around the country and channels dedicated to soccer, horse racing, outdoor sports, motor sports, tennis and more.

Naturally, as the packages increase in channels offered, they also increase in price. Pricing may vary depending on location and special offers that are running at the time of purchase, but at the time of publishing, the Digital Preferred package costs about $20 per month more than the Digital Standard package. The Sports Entertainment Package is an add-on that can considered a premium channel for pricing purposes. Premium Channels and package add-ons typically cost about $8 to $10 per month.

Keep in mind that certain sports channels will experience blackouts during professional sporting events, depending on the market. This can help you determine what package is right for you, as regional sports channels from other markets than your own may only allow you access to non-professional sports such as college, high school and little-league sports.

Sports packages are typically the most valuable to consumers who either enjoy a wide range of sports programming, or are interested in a specific sport that is only available in the sports package. For the casual sports fan, the channels offered in the Digital Standard package may be enough. For fans of an out-of-market sports team, the major professional leagues such as MLB, NBA, NFL and NHL all offer packages that allow consumers access to every game without blackouts. These packages are available for additional monthly or yearly fees.