These days, sports fans everywhere follow their beloved pastimes live through a smartphone device. Streaming is growing, with people enjoying the convenience of it thanks to the powerful mobile phones of today. NFL fanatics, in particular, can stream games throughout the campaign thanks to streaming options like YouTube TV, Fubo, and Hulu. However, not every smartphone device out there is necessarily the best option when it comes to streaming football.
Generally, the finest phones for streaming sporting action need to possess a selection of features for fans to be able to watch the action unfold in the best way possible. With that in mind, below we assess some key features and then recommend some top-notch devices that will be able to handle your streaming marathons with ease. After all, with the new NFL season arriving, now is the perfect time to upgrade your device, right?
A high-quality display is a must
First and foremost, if your device’s display isn’t up to scratch, then streaming the big game can become tiresome. Thankfully, most phones in 2025 possess a high-quality display, but not all of them do. If your device doesn’t boast a high-resolution AMOLED or OLED display with a minimum refresh rate of 120Hz, then now’s the time to consider upgrading your device. Sure, it might suffice for watching the occasional YouTube video and assessing the NFL playoff odds for 2025 before having a bet, but when it comes to watching hard hits take place on the field, you deserve better.
5G should be prioritized
To stream an array of NFL games without buffering and similar issues, a phone that offers 5G should be prioritized. These devices are perfect for streaming while on the move, with fans being able to watch their beloved teams without any interruption. If you’re chasing a smooth streaming experience without any issues, then 5G is essential.
A strong battery is also needed
Another key component of any suitable device for streaming live NFL games, plus any other sporting events for that matter, is a strong and reliable battery. It sounds obvious, but a powerful battery will keep your phone working for longer and ensure you don’t miss out on any magical victories due to a shoddy battery that continually lets you down. Don’t settle for a power bank here or constantly having to keep your phone on charge. Instead, opt for a phone with a battery that lasts long and won’t be drained due to apps like YouTube Tv and Fubo.
A powerful processor is important
While other features also matter, we’re only focusing on the main things you should look out for. With that in mind, the last integral feature a potential purchase should possess is a powerful processor. These top-tier inclusions allow for a smooth all-round experience, with users being able to jump between various apps and watch the contest on the field in a perfect manner. Essentially, a smooth processor can handle streaming apps with ease, whereas an outdated option might struggle a bit.
A selection of devices to consider
Given the extensive selection of mightily impressive smartphone devices there are on the market in the modern environment, NFL fans certainly aren’t short on options when it comes to streaming the Super Bowl and other must-watch encounters on the calendar. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra delivers in all areas here, with its high-brightness AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate providing a faultless viewing experience. Likewise, if Android phones aren’t for you, then the Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max is fantastic with its high-performance system, its powerful A18 chip, and more.