YouTube TV Base Plan: What's Included

YouTube TV's base plan gives you access to over 100 live TV channels, on-demand shows and movies, and cloud DVR storage. You watch on any device — phone, tablet, computer, or TV — and can stream on up to three devices at the same time. The plan costs $72.99 per month as of 2024, though pricing changes periodically and varies by region.

The base plan includes major broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox), cable news channels (CNN, MSNBC, Fox News), sports networks (ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports), and entertainment channels (HGTV, Food Network, Discovery). You also get YouTube's own content library and YouTube Originals. Cloud DVR storage is unlimited — you can record shows and keep them for up to nine months.

You do not need a cable box or satellite dish. YouTube TV streams everything over the internet, so you need a stable broadband connection. The service works on Roku, Apple TV, Google TV, Fire TV, Samsung Smart TVs, and most phones and tablets. You can start and stop your subscription any month without a contract.

Key Takeaways

  • The base plan includes over 100 live channels, unlimited cloud DVR, and the ability to stream on three devices at once.
  • You can watch on phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs without a cable box or satellite equipment.
  • The monthly cost is $72.99 as of 2024, and you can cancel anytime without penalty.
  • You need a broadband internet connection and a YouTube account to use the service.
  • Add-on packages for sports, international channels, and premium movie channels are available for extra fees.

Channels and Content in the Base Plan

The base plan includes most major U.S. broadcast and cable networks. You get ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS, and The CW for broadcast content. Cable news channels include CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and CNBC. Sports coverage comes through ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports, and regional sports networks in some markets.

Entertainment and lifestyle channels include HGTV, Food Network, Discovery, TLC, Animal Planet, and Bravo. You also receive AMC, FX, and Syfy for drama and sci-fi programming. Kids' content is available through Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and Cartoon Network. YouTube's own content and YouTube Originals are included at no extra cost.

The exact channel lineup varies slightly by location. YouTube TV's website shows your specific available channels when you enter your zip code. Some regional sports networks may not be included depending on where you live.

How Many Devices Can Watch at Once

The base plan allows three simultaneous streams. This means three people can watch different channels or shows at the same time on three different devices. If a fourth person tries to start watching, they will see a message that the limit has been reached.

Each household member can have their own profile within the account, and YouTube TV remembers their watch history and preferences separately. You can manage who has access to your account and remove devices remotely if needed. If you need more than three simultaneous streams, YouTube TV offers a higher-tier plan with additional features.

Cloud DVR Storage and Recording

The base plan includes unlimited cloud DVR storage at no extra cost. You can record as many shows as you want, and they stay available for up to nine months. You do not need to manage storage limits or delete old recordings to make room for new ones.

You can set up recordings for individual episodes or entire series. YouTube TV will automatically record new episodes as they air. You can fast-forward through commercials on most recorded content, though some programs may have restrictions depending on licensing agreements with networks.

Devices and Streaming Requirements

YouTube TV works on most modern devices. Supported platforms include Roku, Apple TV, Google TV, Fire TV, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Vizio Smart TVs. On phones and tablets, you can use the YouTube TV app on iOS and Android. Computers and laptops can access YouTube TV through a web browser.

You need a broadband internet connection with adequate speed — YouTube recommends at least 3 Mbps for standard definition and 7 Mbps for high definition. If multiple people are streaming at once, you may need faster speeds. YouTube TV does not work on older devices or those without internet connectivity.

You can download the YouTube TV app on your devices before you subscribe, so you can see whether your equipment is compatible. The service does not require any special hardware beyond what you already own.

Add-Ons and Premium Channels

Beyond the base plan, YouTube TV offers optional add-on packages. These include premium movie channels like HBO Max, Showtime, and Starz; sports packages for specific leagues or teams; and international channel packages. Each add-on costs extra per month, typically between $5 and $20 depending on the package.

You can add or remove these packages anytime. They appear in your channel guide alongside your base plan channels. Add-ons are billed together with your base plan subscription on a single monthly invoice.

Cancellation and Month-to-Month Billing

YouTube TV operates on a month-to-month basis with no long-term contract. You can cancel anytime, and your access ends at the end of your current billing cycle. There are no early termination fees or penalties for canceling.

If you cancel and later want to resubscribe, you can do so without restriction. Your saved recordings and preferences may or may not be available depending on how long you have been away, so YouTube TV recommends checking their support pages for current policies on account reactivation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch YouTube TV on my old TV without a smart TV box?

No, you need a compatible streaming device like Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, or Google TV connected to your TV. YouTube TV does not work on older televisions without these devices. You can also watch on a phone, tablet, or computer and cast to your TV if your TV supports casting.

What happens if someone outside my household uses my account?

YouTube TV's terms of service state that the account is for household use only. If you share your login with people outside your home, YouTube TV may ask you to verify your location or restrict access. The service uses IP addresses and device information to detect unusual activity.

Do I have to watch ads on the base plan?

Most live channels include commercials as they normally do on cable TV. On-demand content and recordings may have ads depending on the network and licensing. You cannot remove ads by paying more — all YouTube TV plans include the same ad structure.

Can I pause live TV and come back to it later?

Yes, you can pause live TV for up to 72 hours and resume watching. This is different from recording — it is a temporary hold on the current broadcast. After 72 hours, the paused content expires and you can no longer watch it.

Is YouTube TV available everywhere in the United States?

YouTube TV is available in most of the United States, but some rural areas may not have service. Enter your zip code on YouTube TV's website to confirm availability in your location before you subscribe.