For the vast majority of American football fans, when the big game is on, they simply have to watch it. However, as shared on social media and discussed in the group chat, sometimes other commitments can get in the way. To combat this common annoyance, many NFL fans stream games on their smartphone devices.
Of course, your boss or your family members might not always be keen on the idea of you streaming content during your various commitments, but it’s what loyal fans simply have to do when a season-defining encounter is taking place.
Even if you’re waiting for your coffee to arrive or you’re relaxing in the garden after a grueling workout in the gym, you can easily live-stream NFL games thanks to options like Hulu and YouTube TV. It’s an opportunity many football fans struggle to resist.
Despite the ease with which you can stream NFL games this season, some smartphones are more suitable for live streaming than others, though.
Sure, your current device will suffice for posting your game predictions on X and selecting a player of choice after looking at the current NFL MVP odds, but it might not be ideal for watching the action unfold on the field. After all, a phone suitable for streaming needs a variety of features. Here’s a look at some of them below.
Size matters
First and foremost, nobody wants to be squinting while they’re watching a massive NFL clash due to a tiny screen. As such, it’s important you aim to purchase a device with a large screen size, preferably over 6.5”.
This type of screen will more than suffice, providing you with a clear view of proceedings and ensuring you don’t miss a second of the action.
Resolution should be next
Alongside the screen size, resolution also matters. In fact, it’s more important than the size of the screen at their disposal for most NFL fans.
In terms of what you should be looking for, a high resolution of 1080p or 1440p should do the job, helping to provide a more immersive experience and giving you the uninterrupted view of the action you deserve.
Strong display is a must
Another must-have feature you should look for is an OLED/AMOLED display, with both options specializing in showcasing any streaming material in a perfect manner. Offering superb contrast and showing vibrant colors in the best way possible, superb display options of this type are ideal for any NFL fixture.
Focus on refresh rate
A high refresh rate is another element to consider when shopping for a smartphone device that will enable you to stream NFL games smoothly.
Anything above 120Hz is worth considering here, with a refresh rate around this range helping the action unfold in a smooth motion, without any glitches and poor picture quality. Essentially, given the fast-moving nature of live sporting products like football, a higher refresh rate is a necessity.
Don’t ignore brightness
The next thing to look at when considering a few devices is brightness. It sounds obvious, but it’s a key feature many phone owners forget to look into, only to realize their device has poor brightness when they’re out and about in the sunshine.
Crucial for outdoor viewing, in particular, brightness should therefore be factored into any potential purchase you make. 1000 nits or more should work here.
Devices to consider
For many NFL fans, the Apple iPhone 16 Pro is the best option around. For a cheaper alternative, though, the Sony Xperia 1 VI is a good option. Other options include the iPhone 16 and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
