YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that costs $72.99 per month and includes over 100 channels
YouTube TV lets you watch live television, sports, news, and on-demand shows through the internet instead of through a cable box. You stream it on your phone, tablet, computer, or TV device. The base plan includes ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, ESPN, CNN, and over 100 other channels. You can record shows to watch later, and those recordings stay available for nine months.
The service requires a broadband internet connection and a compatible device. You can watch on up to three screens at the same time with one account, though only one person can watch at a time on the same channel. YouTube TV does not require a contract — you can cancel anytime.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube TV costs $72.99 per month for the base plan, with optional add-on packages for sports, movies, and international channels that range from $10 to $15 each.
- You need a broadband internet connection and a compatible device such as a Roku, Apple TV, Fire Stick, Chromecast, smart TV, phone, tablet, or computer.
- The service includes cloud DVR storage that keeps your recordings for nine months at no extra cost.
- You can watch on up to three devices at the same time, but only one person can watch the same channel simultaneously.
What channels and content come with the base plan
The base YouTube TV plan includes the major broadcast networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox), cable news channels (CNN, Fox News, MSNBC), sports networks (ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports), and lifestyle and entertainment channels. The full channel list changes occasionally, so you should check YouTube TV's website to see the current lineup before you sign up.
You also get access to YouTube's on-demand library, which includes thousands of shows and movies available to watch anytime. This is separate from the live TV channels and does not count against your cloud DVR storage.
Optional add-on packages and their costs
YouTube TV offers several add-on packages beyond the base plan. Sports Plus adds regional sports networks and costs $10.99 per month. Movie Channels lets you add premium networks like HBO Max, Showtime, and Starz individually, with each costing between $10 and $15 per month. International packages add channels in Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and other languages, also ranging from $10 to $15 per month.
You can add or remove these packages anytime without penalty. The cost appears on your monthly bill alongside the base subscription.
Devices you can use to watch YouTube TV
YouTube TV works on most modern streaming devices and smart TVs. Compatible devices include Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Google Chromecast, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Android TV devices. You can also watch on your phone or tablet using the YouTube TV app, or on your computer through a web browser.
If your TV is not smart-enabled, you can add a streaming device for $30 to $100 depending on the model. Roku and Fire Stick are the most affordable options. Check YouTube TV's website for the complete list of supported devices before you buy.
How cloud DVR recording works
YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage at no extra cost. When you record a show, it is stored on YouTube's servers rather than on a device in your home. You can record as many shows as you want, and they remain available for nine months from the air date. After nine months, the recording automatically deletes.
You can record entire series with one click, and the service will automatically record new episodes as they air. You can watch your recordings on any device where you are signed in to your YouTube TV account.
Internet speed and data requirements
YouTube TV recommends a broadband connection of at least 3 megabits per second (Mbps) for standard definition and 7 Mbps for high definition. If you plan to watch on multiple devices at the same time, you should have faster speeds — ideally 15 Mbps or higher for three simultaneous streams.
Streaming video uses data, so if your internet plan has a data cap, watching YouTube TV will count toward that limit. Streaming one hour of HD video typically uses 2 to 3 gigabytes of data. Check your internet provider's data limits before you sign up if you plan to watch frequently.
How to cancel YouTube TV
You can cancel YouTube TV anytime through your account settings on the YouTube TV website or app. Go to Settings, select your membership, and choose Cancel Membership. The cancellation takes effect at the end of your current billing cycle, so you can continue watching until then.
YouTube TV does not charge a cancellation fee or require advance notice. If you cancel and later want to resubscribe, you can do so without penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share my YouTube TV account with family members?
Yes, you can add up to five family members to your account through YouTube's Family Library feature. Each person gets their own login and personalized recommendations. However, only three people can watch at the same time across all devices, and only one person can watch the same channel simultaneously.
What happens if my internet goes out?
You cannot watch YouTube TV without an active internet connection. Live channels require a constant connection. However, you can download some on-demand content to your phone or tablet to watch offline, though this feature is limited compared to the full library.
Does YouTube TV include sports channels?
The base plan includes ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC Sports, and some regional sports networks. If you want additional regional sports networks or specialized sports channels, you can add the Sports Plus package for $10.99 per month.
Can I watch YouTube TV on my phone while traveling?
Yes, you can watch on your phone anywhere you have an internet connection. However, some channels may have blackout restrictions for live sports depending on your location and the event.
Is there a free trial for YouTube TV?
YouTube TV occasionally offers free trial periods, typically ranging from three to seven days. Check the YouTube TV website to see if a trial is currently available in your area.