When it comes to watching sports on your FireStick, ESPN is a popular choice for many viewers. However, ESPN offers two different apps to access its content: the ESPN app and the ESPN+ app.
While the ESPN app can be downloaded from the Amazon App Store, the ESPN+ app cannot. Additionally, you’ll need to sign in with your TV provider to watch ESPN channels and content on the ESPN app.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to install and activate the ESPN app on your FireStick, so you can enjoy all the sports programming ESPN has to offer.
What is ESPN?
ESPN is a US-based cable television network and multimedia sports entertainment company. ESPN broadcasts live sporting events, sports news, and sports-related programming to a global audience.
The network is known for its coverage of major professional and college sports leagues, including the National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), National Basketball Association (NBA), and the National Hockey League (NHL), among others.
ESPN is a traditional TV network. It’s available through cable and satellite TV providers and can also be streamed through the ESPN app on a variety of devices.

Features of ESPN
- With the ESPN app, you can watch live games from major professional and college sports leagues, including the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, NCAA, and more.
- Provides real-time scores and highlights for a variety of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more.
- Offers personalized content based on your favorite teams and sports.
- Latest news and analysis from ESPN’s team of experts.
- Offers a variety of sports-related podcasts.
- The WatchESPN feature allows you to stream live games and events from ESPN’s family of networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, and more.
- Allows you to set up alerts and notifications for your favorite teams and sports.
- Provides a wide range of video content, including highlights, analysis, interviews, and original programming.
- Includes support for fantasy sports leagues.
How to Install ESPN on FireStick?
Here’s how you can install ESPN on FireStick.
- Turn on your FireStick and make sure it is connected to your TV.
- Navigate to the Search icon on the Home screen.
- Type “ESPN” in the search bar and press enter.
- Select the ESPN app from the list of search results.
- Click on “Get” to start downloading and installing the app on your FireStick.
- Wait for the installation to complete.
- Launch the ESPN app from your FireStick’s Apps & Channels section.
- Log in with your cable or streaming service provider credentials.
- Enjoy all the content ESPN has to offer on your TV.
Note: (You cannot watch ESPN without a valid cable or streaming service provider subscription).

How to download ESPN Plus content on Amazon Fire Stick
ESPN Plus introduced an offline viewing feature to its ESPN app in early 2019. But this feature is currently only available for mobile devices, so you won’t have the option to download ESPN+ content on your Amazon Fire Stick.
This is true for all major streaming services that offer offline viewing. You can only download content to watch offline on your mobile or tablet. And you won’t have the option to download content to watch offline on streaming media players.
Keep in mind that the offline viewing feature only works for select ESPN+ content such as scripted programming and reality shows. That means you won’t have the option to download live events to watch offline. But some of them might be available to watch on-demand after they air.
How to use ESPN on FireStick?
Now that you’ve installed ESPN on your FireStick, prepare to activate it. Here’s how you can do that:
To activate ESPN on your FireStick, navigate to the settings menu and choose the “Activate ESPN” option. Next, you will be prompted to enter the activation code, which can be found on the ESPN website. Once the code is entered correctly, you will be able to access ESPN programs on your FireStick.
If you encounter any difficulties while trying to activate ESPN on your FireStick, ensure that you have entered the correct activation code, which can be found on the ESPN website under the “Activate ESPN” option. If you are still having issues, you can seek assistance from ESPN’s customer support team.
After successfully activating ESPN on your FireStick, you can begin watching ESPN programs by opening the ESPN app and selecting the “Watch ESPN” option. The app features a broad range of programming, catering to different interests such as sports, news, and entertainment.
With ESPN, you have access to a diverse selection of programs, so there’s something for everyone. Take the time to explore the app on your FireStick and enjoy all the offerings that ESPN has to offer.
Why do you Need a VPN to Watch ESPN Outside the US?
Although ESPN is accessible outside the USA, the availability of their content may vary depending on your location. ESPN has different regional versions and programming rights agreements, which means that certain sports events or programs may not be available in all countries.
In some countries, ESPN has local partnerships with broadcasters to show their content, while in others, they offer their own streaming service, ESPN Player, which provides access to live and on-demand sports content.
If you’re traveling outside the US, you may also be able to access ESPN’s content through a VPN service. A VPN can allow you to connect to a server in the US and appear as if you’re located there, allowing you to access ESPN’s content as if you were in the US.
One of the best VPNs in the market is ExpressVPN, known for its fast speed and secure connections.

How to Install ExpressVPN on FireStick?
- Get ExpressVPN for FireStick.
- Download & Install the app on your device.
- Launch the app and connect to the US server.
- Launch ESPN & enjoy streaming.
ESPN Alternatives
Here are a few popular alternatives to ESPN:
- Fox Sports
- NBC Sports
- The athletic
- CBS Sports
What is the Difference Between ESPN and ESPN+?
ESPN and ESPN+ are both sports streaming services offered by ESPN.
ESPN is a traditional TV network that offers a variety of sports programming, including live games, highlights, analysis, and more. It’s available through cable and satellite TV providers and can also be streamed through the ESPN app on a variety of devices.
Whereas, ESPN+ is a separate subscription-based streaming service that offers exclusive sports programming, including live games, events, and original shows. It’s available as a standalone service and can be streamed through the ESPN app on a variety of devices.

Frequently Asked Questions
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What devices can ESPN be installed on?
You can install the ESPN app on all streaming devices including Amazon FireStick.
How Do I Subscribe to ESPN?
You can get a subscription to ESPN from your satellite or cable TV provider or through popular streaming services that offer ESPN in their subscription plan.
How much does ESPN Plus cost?
The monthly plan of ESPN plus cost $9.99.