Are you looking to cut the cord with traditional cable but don’t want to miss your favorite live shows, news, and sports? You’ve come to the right place. Streaming live TV directly through YouTube is not only possible, it’s incredibly popular. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the service that makes it happen: YouTube TV.
First, let’s clear up a common point of confusion. When people talk about streaming live TV on YouTube, they are referring to a specific subscription service called YouTube TV. This is a separate, paid service from the regular YouTube website where you watch free videos.
Think of YouTube TV as a modern replacement for a cable or satellite subscription. It’s a live TV streaming service, also known as an MVPD (multichannel video programming distributor), that delivers live channels over the internet. You get access to major broadcast networks, popular cable channels, live sports, and local news without needing a cable box, a satellite dish, or a long-term contract.
YouTube TV works by streaming live television channels directly to your supported devices through your internet connection. All you need is a stable internet connection and a compatible device. There is no special equipment to install or rent.
You can watch on a wide variety of devices, making it a flexible option for your entire household. Supported devices include:
This is one of the most important questions for anyone considering the service. YouTube TV offers a robust channel lineup with over 100 channels in its base plan. The exact local channels you receive will depend on your zip code, but most users get their primary local affiliates.
Here is a breakdown of the types of channels you can expect:
On top of the base plan, you can also subscribe to premium add-on channels and packages. This includes services like Max (formerly HBO Max), Showtime, and STARZ. There are also special add-on packages like Sports Plus, which gives you access to more niche sports channels like NFL RedZone and beIN SPORTS.
YouTube TV isn’t just about the channels; its features are a huge part of its appeal.
This is arguably YouTube TV’s single best feature. Every account comes with an unlimited cloud-based DVR. This means you can record as many shows, movies, and games as you want without ever worrying about running out of storage space. Your recordings are saved for up to nine months, giving you plenty of time to catch up on your favorites.
A single YouTube TV subscription can be shared with your family. You can create up to six individual user profiles, so each person gets their own personalized library, DVR recordings, and viewing recommendations. The service also allows you to watch on up to three different devices simultaneously, which is perfect for households with different viewing tastes.
If you’re already familiar with the regular YouTube app, the YouTube TV interface will feel intuitive and easy to navigate. It has a clean layout with three main sections: Library (for your DVR), Home (for recommendations), and Live (for a traditional channel guide).
YouTube TV operates on a simple, no-contract subscription model. You pay month-to-month and can cancel at any time without penalty.
The price for the base plan can change, but it generally competes with other premium live TV streaming services. It’s always best to check the official YouTube TV website for the most current pricing. They almost always offer a free trial period, so you can test out the service for a week or more to see if it’s the right fit for you before you are charged.
The cost of add-ons, like the 4K Plus package (which allows for 4K streaming and offline downloads) or premium channels, is extra.
Getting started is a straightforward process that only takes a few minutes.
Is YouTube TV the same as YouTube Premium? No, they are two different services. YouTube TV is a full cable replacement service for streaming live TV channels. YouTube Premium is an add-on for the regular YouTube website that removes ads, allows for background playback on mobile, and includes access to YouTube Music.
Can I watch my local channels? In most areas of the United States, yes. YouTube TV has excellent coverage for local ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates. The best way to be certain is to enter your zip code on their website before signing up.
Can I skip commercials? Yes. When you watch a show from your DVR library, you can fast-forward through the commercials. However, if you are watching a show live or through on-demand, you will typically have to watch the ads.