YouTube TV: Everything you need to know

If you're ready to cut ties with cable, YouTube TV is one of the best live TV streaming services around. While the service isn't exactly cheap, starting at $62.99 per month for the first three months, its selection of live channels and on-demand content make it a top contender. With that in mind, we've gathered everything you need to know about YouTube TV to make an informed decision.

YouTube TV: Starting at $62.99/month for three months, then $72.99/month

YouTube TV provides access to your favorite shows across over 100 live channels, without the cable drama. You can also record new episodes to view later and add premium channels to your monthly plan. New members can join for $62.99 per month for the first three months, after which your subscription will jump up to $72.99 per month.

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What is YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is one of the most expansive cable replacement streaming platforms currently available in the United States right now. Like Hulu with Live TV, YouTube TV provides access to many live TV channels, including the Big Four broadcast networks and PBS in most markets. Both platforms also include on-demand video content, but only YouTube TV features unlimited cloud-based DVR storage.

YouTube TV subscribers also have access to various region-specific channels and programming, including a variety of professional sports, for one flat monthly fee. YouTube TV also currently airs Discovery channels — including Animal Planet, HGTV, Food Network, and more.

How much does YouTube TV cost? 

YouTube TV offers one plan for $72.99 per month ($62.99 for the first three months) and has over 100 broadcast and cable networks, including ESPN, HGTV, and TNT. Additionally, YouTube TV's base plan includes unlimited Cloud DVR storage and an impressive lineup of live sports coverage.

YouTube TV also offers a variety of premium channel add-ons, which can be added to your monthly subscription for an extra fee. This includes the Sports Plus premium add-on, which costs an additional $11 per month, or the Entertainment Plus bundle for $30 a month. That bundle also includes HBO Max, Showtime, and STARZ and saves you about $5 compared to adding each channel separately.

What channels are on YouTube TV?

The sheer number of programs that are available to be watched, recorded, and re-watched is just a bit staggering. If you picked up a subscription to stay caught up on your favorite shows, then you'll need to know how to find them. There are simply too many channels to list here, but you can find the full list of YouTube TV channels on the official site. 

What devices support YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is accessible on most streaming devices, including Roku, Chromecast with Google TV, and Apple TV. You can also stream YouTube TV on a selection of smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Vizio, Hisense, and Sharp. Here's what other devices are compatible with YouTube TV:

You will also be able to access YouTube TV on mobile devices via web browser and by downloading the YouTube TV app on your computer.

YouTube TV also launched a 4K streaming add-on in June 2021, bringing higher resolution content to several networks already available on the platform for an extra $10 per month for the first year and $20/month after that. The 4K Plus add-on also allows subscribers to download content for offline viewing, which wasn't previously available on YouTube TV.

Account limits, profiles, and parental controls

Like various other streaming platforms, each YouTube TV subscription allows for up to six separate user accounts. This allows each viewer in a household to customize suggestions and private DVR libraries within their individual account. Regarding simultaneous streaming, YouTube TV allows users to stream on up to three different devices at the same time.

YouTube TV also offers the option to add parental controls, blocking certain content from younger viewers on the account. All you need to do is tap the lock icon in the top corner of any page in the app and enter the numbers that appear. You can also set a custom passcode, which must be entered when selecting more mature content.

Does YouTube TV offer a free trial?

Yes! While the exact amount of time can vary depending on when you sign up, YouTube TV generally offers some kind of free trial throughout the year. When I tried to sign up this morning, I was offered five days of the streaming service for free, but there have been times when YouTube TV offers up to 30 days for 100% free. You'll just have to check and see which trial is being offered when you're interested in trying the service. Signing up for the free trial will give you access to all YouTube TV channels and the service's unlimited DVR space for a limited time. 

Once the free trial expires, you'll automatically be charged $62.99 per month for three months, then $72.99 per month for as long as you keep your subscription. There are no hidden fees or contracts associated with your membership, so you can cancel at any time.  

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YouTube TV: Starting at $62.99/month for three months, then $72.99/month

Sign up for YouTube TV and you'll get instant access to all of your favorite shows and movies across 100 live channels, with no contract or hidden fees whatsoever. You can record content to watch later and even add premium channels and other add-ons for additional monthly fees. There's even a free trial available if you aren't ready to commit, so there's really never been a better time to ditch your cable provider. 

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• Streaming deals: Disney+ | HBO Max | Sling | Fubo | Peacock | Paramount+