YouTube TV Channels, Packages, and Cost

Streaming television services are becoming predominant with the development and advancement of digital technology and internet services.

To this effect, the streaming service providers are providing desirable shows and television content for your pleasure.

In contrast, these digital distributions of television content over the internet offer more services in comparison to dedicated television.

The flexibility of watching your favorite shows and television content is one of the major selling points.

What is YouTube TV?

YouTube is a top player for digital distribution service providers of television content. YouTube TV offers live television service, on-demand video, and over 85 television networks.

Since launching its operations in February of 2017, YouTube TV now boasts about having over three million subscribers and digitally broadcasting several shows live for its users. YouTube TV is a partner of the World Series and the NBA finals.

This service is a simple to use service that offers flexibility and a great monthly subscription rate for its users. Its catalog of channels is also another great point of attraction for its users.

These great benefits and offering from YouTube TV is a direct cause of the large expansion into all 210 markets in the US to broadcast its over 85 channels live to its users.

It is important to note, YouTube TV is not YouTube. These two separate entities are not the same. They operate as different entities under the Google brand.

If you desire to enjoy both services, you would need to have two separate applications for streaming their services.

YouTube TV is a seamless alternative to traditional TV setup that requires less cable during setup and offers unlimited storage for DVR. This alternative provides all the channels you would want to watch on-demand and at the best resolution possible.

Its lineup of channels is the best and a frontrunner in cloud-based DVR storage for recording all live shows you might miss.

YouTube TV and all its services are available on the web and in the mobile application version. Depending on the type of device you are accessing its service from, YouTube TV works on all compatible devices with a proper internet connection. Smart TVs, modern phones, tablets, and Google Chromecast are the go-to option for accessing YouTube TV.

What Channels are on YouTube TV?

There are varieties of live streams channels on YouTube TV. This digital streaming service allows you to stream live shows, sports, news, and entertainment television content from anywhere in the world with the internet.

If you have a smart TV, modern phone, computer, tablet that connects to the internet, you have everything you need to watch YouTube TV. You need to have a charger for your devices to ensure your show does not suffer any interruption.

As a catalog, YouTube TV provides a competitive channel collection. It takes care of the regular day-to-day television stations on cable TV. It also provides other interesting stations that you normally will not find on your traditional cable TV.

As of September 2021, YouTube TV has over 85 streaming services that viewers can enjoy. Sports channels like NBA TV, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU are available. Children’s stations like Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior, and more are available.

For news and the latest happenings, you enjoy CNN, Fox Business, Fox News and so much more. Of course, for your entertainment and live shows, you get ABC, BET, BET Her, MTV among others.

YouTube TV Channel List

Regional Sports on YouTube TV

One of the big selling points of YouTube TV is its sports channels. For sports lovers, this is an easier way of getting the best sports content from anywhere they may be when their favorite team is playing.

YouTube is going a step further is providing regional sports channels like beIN sports for continent-wide sports coverage. This will make sports content of any and every type available for YouTube TV users.

As a soccer fan, YouTube aims to bring the top leagues on every continent via its partnership with beIN sports stations.

Soccer fans will now be able to watch La Liga, Ligue 1, and other interesting leagues. In addition to beIN sports, YouTube TV is also introducing gambling, sports betting, and other specialty sport to its collection.

These additional sports packages come with a little bump in the monthly subscription fee for your YouTube TV access. However, this addition is a welcome development for subscribers who want to have regional sports on YouTube TV and do not mind the increase in subscription.

YouTube TV Features

Some features are hard to miss on YouTube TV. These features make users keep coming back for more content and their favorite shows on this platform.

One of the top features of YouTube TV is the flexibility to watch the same TV channels across different devices asides from your television. As far as you have your internet connection and a modern device like a smartphone, tablet, or computer, you are good to go.

In association with the flexibility of watching across different devices, you can also watch your favorite movies and shows when you choose.

With this feature, you can catch all the shows and movies of your choice when they are premiering or watch them later at your convenience. Below are some of the other top YouTube TV features you should look out for –

On-Demand Access

Gone are the days when you have to be in your seat when your favorite show airs on traditional television. With YouTube TV, you can have your favorite shows and entertainment on demand even after their initial airing. You can catch up on previous and older episodes of your shows with the DVR function available via YouTube TV.

Multiple Devices

This digital streaming platform allows you to watch your shows on up to three different devices at the same time.

This means that different users can use the same account to log into YouTube TV and enjoy the content on different devices at the same time. Depending on the subscription, you can enjoy all of YouTube TV’s services on unlimited devices.

YouTube TV uses advanced algorithms to recommend new shows that you would want to know about and watch. It uses the information on these devices from which you log in with your account to determine which movies and shows you might want to watch. You can set up different profiles for up to six people so that the recommendations do not clash and intersect with each other.

Dark or Light Mode

Your device has its settings. YouTube TV is a device adaptable application that produces the best viewing services convenient for your eyes.

If you prefer to watch your series and movies in dark mode, you can be sure to have the dark mode feature available on YouTube TV. You do not have to worry about straining your eyesight to enjoy your shows and other content on your YouTube TV account.

Program Segment

Control over which segment of your program you want to watch totally depends on you. For the live shows available on record, you can jump to specific areas of these shows for your best enjoyment.

This program segment feature allows you to jump to a specific segment depending on the content itself. This feature is available on the YouTube TV app currently and will soon be available on mobile devices.

Voice Control

Together with Google Home speakers, YouTube TV is able to create a wholesome viewing experience when watching any channel.

Voice control is an option you can use to choose the station you wish to watch, specify the shows you want YouTube TV to show, pause and resume your viewing, and even record your shows.

Taking advantage of this feature removes the need to have a remote control for selecting and imputing commands on what you want to watch.

Picture-in-Picture Mode

Gone are the days when you have to watch your favorite shows on television when it airs. Moreover, you also do not have to have a dedicated device to watch your favorite show.

With modern devices like your Android and iPhones, you can watch your shows in a picture-in-picture mode. This allows you to use your device for other tasks while watching your channels on YouTube TV.

Unlimited Recordings

Cloud DVR is one of the standout features of YouTube TV. Recording your favorite show on YouTube TV is free for every active subscription for up to 9months.

You can record unlimited screen time and play your shows and television programs whenever you want. The best part about this feature is that it is free.

Digital Video Recorder (DVR)

One of the biggest differentiators of YouTube TV from other digital television providers is its unlimited digital video recorder. This feature combines well with YouTube TV’s channel lineup and competitive price tag to give viewers the premium service they desire.

With this DVR feature, you never have to miss your show or game. You can simply record your favorite programs, sports, events, and movies and save them to your personal library.

To enjoy this DVR feature, you have to navigate to your library and add programs to your library. Your favorite program automatically shows up once it airs in your library.

When you select the shows you want to appear on your library, it automatically records when its airs the first time. You can always access your shows and favorite program by navigating to the My Library section of your YouTube TV app.

YouTube TV DVR feature has some amazing benefits that you should know about. Below are some of the benefits of using DVR on YouTube TV.

Simultaneous Recording

In a scenario where your favorite team is playing their game and your favorite show is airing simultaneously, you can use DVR to record one of it and catch up on it later. You can watch your live event and record the other premiering simultaneously for later.

Live Recording

You can watch your shows live even when you add them to your library. You can pause your show and continue watching when you are ready.

You do not have to watch your live shows on a stretch. YouTube TV helps you continue recording and you can resume your playback from where you left off.

Fast Forward Live TV

In a scenario where you pause your live show to attend to something else and return to continue, you can fast-forward your program past any ads that might pop up to resume your program.

DVR Storage Limitation

YouTube TV has no storage limits for video playback time. This is a huge point of attraction as it allows YouTube TV users not to miss their favorite shows. It is useful to keep up with the latest happenings on their favorite programs.

Premiere Channels on YouTube TV

Since its inception, YouTube TV began streaming national U.S. networks that their viewers would love to watch. Channels like CNBC, MSNBC, BBC World News, and the Smithsonian channel were some of the initial channels that were available on YouTube TV.

Subsequently, Disney channel, BBC America, and a host of other channels were available on the channel catalog on YouTube TV.

Understanding that the list of channels is a major selling point, YouTube TV’s channel list is continually growing with local channels and cross-country channels across different ZIP codes.

The YouTube TV channel list also features sports and news networks. Its channel list is incomparable to its closest competitor. Its channel list keeps getting better and better. 

Sports Plus Add-On Package

YouTube TV provides the option for extra packages to your subscription. You can jump on the offer to add extra sports channels to the package you are on via YouTube TV.

The sports plus option is a package that contains 16 channels you can add to your subscription at an extra cost of $10.99 per month extra.

For this extra sports plus add-on package, you get channels like beIN Sports, FOX soccer plus, Billiard TV, PokerGO+, SportsGrid among others.

You should note that sports plus add-on is not available as an individual add-on. It is a package deal that comes with all the list of channels on the package. If your interest is in a specific channel, you need to buy the entire package to enjoy the content on the channel.

Adding the sports plus package to your subscription provides you with the opportunity to watch and record every live game and sporting event available.

You can follow your favorite team and watch all other specialty and fantasy sport on the go. You can record your favorite game and not miss anyone of them with the DVR storage feature from YouTube TV.

You can also add specific leagues, teams, and groups to your library so you can record their game and watch it again if you wish.

The 4k Plus Add-On

YouTube TV is a simple and easy streaming service that anyone can use. This streaming service provides controls that let users navigate the platform.

One of the controls in place is the selection of streaming resolution. In most cases, people leave their streaming resolution service on auto mode.

However, there is the option to downshift the resolution if you see fit. You can also move up the resolution when you want to stream a clearer image frame.

Furthermore, YouTube TV is a forerunner in streaming service providers that offer their content in 4k resolution. You can watch your favorite shows and live events on different channels streaming at 4K resolution on-demand.

All the resolution service is dependent on the strength of your home network. It is also dependent on the content providers and the transferable content.

To stream in 4K, some moving parts need attention. First, you will need a 4K display screen. Some go-to 4k hardware devices will give you the satisfaction you desire when streaming on YouTube TV. You can go for Chromecast with Google TV, 2021 model of Apple TV 4K, NVIDIA shield, and 4K Android smart TVs. 

Next is the content providers on YouTube TV. Not all content providers transmit their content in 4k. For your top content providers like ESPN, Fox Sports, Nat Geo, Discovery, and others, you can get 4K content without any hassle.

YouTube TV Cost

For these services, YouTube TV charges $65 per month. In direct comparison with its nearest competitor Hulu, YouTube TV offers more channels and streaming features for the same amount.

For some add-on packages, you get to pay a bit extra on your initial subscription cost for the package channels. This gives you the opportunity to customize your YouTube TV and get the channels you need to watch your favorite shows and sports.

For over 85 channels and counting, YouTube TV is a great substitute for your everyday traditional cable television with its out-of-the-box solution. Its robust channel selection with its cross-device availability is all you need to satisfy your viewing experience.

YouTube TV also provides the option of adding available packages to your base plan. Below are some of the options you should consider for your YouTube TV account:

1. 4K Plus Package

This is a package you should consider when looking for the perfect base subscription add-on. This allows you to watch and switch between video resolutions. You can select 4K resolution to enjoy the best video quality available.

For your on-demand shows and series, you can see all the details in 4K video resolution. This quality video resolution extends to live sports from sports channels like ESPN and NBC.

The cherry on top is you can watch your recordings offline if you are on the 4K plus package. For $20 per month, all the above benefits and more is available for you via YouTube TV’s 4K plus add-on package.

2. NBA League Pass

True NBA fans will appreciate this add-on especially. YouTube TV offers an NBA league pass to catch all your favorite NBA games on YouTube TV. With this add-on package, you can watch all out-of-market regular-season NBA games from the comfort of your home.

The NBA League pass package includes NBA TV, ESPN, TNT, and other local sports channels. NBA League pass comes at an additional cost of $40 per month.

3. Entertainment Plus Package

For your premium entertainment, you can add the entertainment plus package to your base subscription. This packages channels like HBO Max, Starz, and SHOWTIME.

It comes at a discount in comparison to the cost you would pay if you were getting them individually. Entertainment Plus costs an extra $30 a month.

4. HBO Max

Streaming your favorite shows on HBO Max is possible on YouTube TV. You can catch all-new episodes and original HBO content on HBO MAX. This includes new and legacy HBO content that you know and love. This add-on channel costs $15 extra per month.

5. Cinemax Package

You can also watch premium movies and series via the Cinemax add-on channel on YouTube TV. For an extra $10 per month, all premium blockbusters and series are available on this channel. You can enjoy it free during your trial period with YouTube TV.

Where is YouTube TV Available?

YouTube TV, its features, and benefits are available throughout the United States. It is capable of broadcasting over 85 channels and networks to subscribers in the United States.

For a monthly subscription fee, YouTube TV provides premium shows, movies, local sports, news, and entertainment to its users.

However, you could invest in a good YouTube TV VPN to enjoy watching your content from anywhere in the world. Using YouTube TV with VPN is very simple and straightforward.

With a VPN, your data traffic is sent to an internet service provider (ISP) in the location you specify in the United States. This rerouting is anonymous and safe depending on the VPN provider you choose to use.

The VPN service allows you to access the content, both local and regional, in the country you specify.

If you are traveling or away from home, you can select a great VPN service provider to access your YouTube TV account from anywhere around the world. You can also use the 4k plus add-on package to watch your YouTube TV DVR recording in your library offline.

YouTube TV Supported Devices

Modern technology hardware allows you to stream YouTube TV with no hassle. If you have a modern phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV, you are already ready to watch your favorite show on YouTube TV.

For mobile devices, YouTube TV is available on Android devices that have Google apps capability. It also works well on iPhones. By extension, YouTube TV works on tablets if you need to watch on a bigger screen.

For smart televisions with their own unique operating systems, YouTube TV is continuing to provide compatible services to these devices.

Native applications for these operating systems are available for the smart TVs to work and stream. YouTube TV work with various smart TV manufacturers like Samsung, LG, Hisense, and others.

YouTube TV also works on streaming media players. YouTube TV is available on Roku and Amazon Fire TV. YouTube TV also works on Chromecast with Google TV, Apple TV, and legacy Android TV.

Game consoles are not left out. The newer Xbox series X and Series S lines can play YouTube TV. PlayStation 4 and the newer version can play YouTube TV.

YouTube TV also works across various web browsers. For now, it does not work on Safari. However, it works with other available web browsers that can access the internet. See below for a list of all supported devices.

If you are planning to purchase any of these devices to watch YouTube TV make sure you double-check the device to be certain that it’s supported.

A List of YouTube TV Supported Devices

Advantages of Using YouTube TV

Below are some of the advantages you get to enjoy when you decide to start streaming digital television content on YouTube TV.

1. Simple To Use

YouTube TV is a simple to use platform. It takes into account different age groups and other important factors when deciding the interface for user access.

You can expect nothing less from a subsidiary of the company that runs Google and other useful platforms.

2. Fair Pricing

Taking into account the different features that YouTube TV provides alongside its long channel list, all these are available for a fair cost monthly. It also provides add-on packages for a little extra cost.

3. Channel list

YouTube TV displays over 85+ channels on demand. There are several television channels to watch on the go.

With the flexibility that comes with YouTube TV, you can watch your favorite shows and programs on the go with compatible devices.

4. Quality Video Resolution

YouTube TV is a forerunner in providing 4K video resolution for your best viewing experience.

You get to watch and catch clear details of shows and sports programs with different video resolutions according to your specification.

5. Up to Six Profiles on a Subscription

YouTube TV allows up to six different profiles on a subscription. That way, your family can have their own recommendation without clashing with other people’s wishlist.

Disadvantages of Using YouTube TV

YouTube TV is constantly growing and developing to deliver the best viewing experience. Here are some of the drawbacks that YouTube TV is currently tackling.

1. Viewing Restriction

YouTube TV is expanding gradually into other territories and regions. For now, some sports events are may not be accessible depending on the location of access. YouTube TV is only available in the United States for now.

2. Sports Coverage

YouTube TV is working around the clock to bring full sports coverage. Presently, beIN sports is coming on to provide football sports content from major leagues around the world to YouTube TV.

YouTube TV Vs Hulu Live

Comparing Hulu Live and YouTube TV is useful to help you determine which of the streaming services fits your interest. Both services are alternatives to cable TVs that deserve your consideration.

However, you might as well go with the best option for your viewing expectation. Below are some of the comparative points for YouTube TV Vs Hulu Live

1. Price Point

Both streaming services have a starting price of $65 per month. Depending on the add-on packages that both streaming services offer, their price can go higher than the base price.

In most cases, you already have what you need from the base price subscription. However, you would have to pay extra if you want some extra channel to your channel lineup.

2. Channel List

YouTube TV provides more than 85 channels on its streaming platform. This includes YouTube Red original content among others. Hulu live overs a bit over 74 channels on its streaming service platform.

3. DVR

YouTube TV offers DVR features free on its platform. You can record your favorite shows and game with the DVR feature. You can decide to record unlimited minutes of your favorite show using YouTube TV’s DVR storage.

Whenever you choose, you can select the content you choose to watch and play it at any point from your library. Hulu live provides DVR features at an extra cost of $10 per month.

4. Device Support

Both streaming service supports an extensive list of devices. On Hulu Live, you can stream your shows from Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV stick, Android devices, Apple TV, Chromecast, LG Smart TVs, iOS devices, Consoles like Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and the PlayStation.

YouTube TV is also available on Android devices, Apple TV, iOS devices, Chromecast TVs, Computers, Roku, consoles like Xbox and PlayStation 4, and higher.

5. Simultaneous Access

Hulu live allows access to up to two devices at the same time on the same subscription. For YouTube TV, it allows you simultaneously use up to three devices. It allows unlimited device access with 4k plus plan package.

Frequently Asked Questions About YouTube TV

How much is YouTube TV Monthly?

YouTube TV costs $65 per month for its monthly subscription. However, you could decide to enjoy additional add-on packages for as low as $10.99 for sports plus packages.

This adds the sports stations to your subscription and the cost to your base subscription. It is important to note that you will not be able to pay for individual channel addition. You can only add-on packages to your base subscription.

Is YouTube TV free With Amazon Prime?

Unfortunately, YouTube TV is not free with Amazon Prime. You can, however, download and install YouTube TV on your Fire TV device and watch it on your device.

YouTube TV provides its digital streaming service with its unique subscription fees. It does not come free with other services. As an Amazon Prime member, you will need to have a YouTube TV subscription before you can access YouTube TV.

What is The Downside of YouTube TV?

Summarily, YouTube TV has some downside they are working on improving for better service to their users. For starters, certain locations still do not have access to some stations because of viewing rights.

Some regional sports are still unavailable on YouTube TV. You also need to have an active and stable internet connection before you can stream YouTube TV’s content.

How Much is YouTube TV With Taxes and Fees?

Depending on your location and local tax laws, YouTube TV’s monthly subscription fees is $65 and $73.55 after taxes. Of course, tax varies depending on the state tax law where you are viewing your content.

Can I Get Local Channels on YouTube TV?

Yes, YouTube TV includes local channels to its channel list. It shows local channels and their content. This depends on the location where you are and the availability is dependent on the location. You can enjoy local content from ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC.

How Do I Get YouTube on My TV Free?

YouTube TV comes at a monthly subscription cost. You can have up to six accounts on your YouTube TV subscription. If you have a smart TV, you can use your YouTube TV account with your home internet to stream your favorite content.

At a monthly cost, you can enjoy all the features and channels on YouTube TV while using the DVR feature free to save your favorite shows and events airing on YouTube TV.

Is There Anything Better Than YouTube TV?

Because of their exclusive feature, channel list, and affordable monthly subscription fee, there is no direct substitute for what YouTube TV is currently offering.

It allows you to save your shows free with its unlimited storage DVR feature. It is constantly updating its channel list to bring more streaming networks to your screen.

Do You Need a Smart TV for YouTube TV?

Although smart TVs make the job easier, you do not necessarily need to own one to enjoy your favorite shows on YouTube TV. You can use Chromecast to watch YouTube TV on your regular television or monitor.

All you need is to plug a small device into the HDMI port on your television or monitor and you can cast YouTube TV from your computer or phone.

How Many People Can watch YouTube TV at Once?

YouTube TV allows up to six accounts on a single subscription. It also allows you to use up to three devices at once to watch YouTube TV’s content. This option is perfect for you and your family members to watch the content you desire across different devices.

Can You Skip Commercials on YouTube TV?

YouTube TV shows ads during a live broadcast. You will not be able to skip past the commercials while watching your favorite show or game live.

What you can do is to pause it when the commercial comes on and skip it when it is over to resume your show or game. If you record your favorite show or game when it airs, you can skip the commercial when it comes up while watching.

Can You Cancel YouTube TV Anytime?

Fortunately, you have the opportunity to either pause or cancel your YouTube TV membership at any time. When you cancel your membership, your access to YouTube TV is not immediately revoked as you might want to come back. However, if you are using a free trial account, you will lose your access immediately after canceling.

How Do I Purchase YouTube TV?

Depending on what you want to watch, there are basic steps you need before onboarding on the YouTube TV platform. First, you need to sign up on YouTube TV.

You should download the YouTube TV app, tap the button where you can begin your free trial, and sign in with your Google account. Next, you need to confirm your home location.

You should send your home zip code and YouTube TV may require you to confirm your location via your device permission. This is to localize your content and access.

To finish your sign-up, review the YouTube TV base plan. Here, you will see the price for your membership. Click the Next button to proceed to the next step.

During your free trial, you can add any premium networks to your subscription. You will have to enter your credit card details when you finish. Click on the Buy button to complete your purchase of YouTube TV streaming services.

Summary

YouTube TV is constantly growing and providing new features and satisfaction to its users. Test running its services will definitely help you get a feel about the offerings and test if it satisfies your viewing experience.

With its free trial period, you can check out all the services and possible features you will enjoy when you commit to this service.

Interestingly, YouTube TV now offers the ability to watch your recordings later offline. This is a handy feature that lets you watch your favorite shows when you are somewhere without an internet or Wi-Fi connection.

To enjoy this feature, you will have to upgrade your YouTube TV base plan with the 4K package add-on. This comes at $19.99 extra per month.

This allows you to enjoy the offline feature among other 4K package features. The 4K plus package allows you to stream unlimited from devices, which limits it to three devices for the base subscription. You also get to enjoy support for the channels that broadcast 4K content on your device.