How we consume television has evolved significantly in the digital age. As a result of the proliferation of streaming services, cable TV subscriptions are no longer the only means of entertainment. YouTube TV is a streaming service that provides 100+ top TV channels, on-demand content, and a distinctive user experience. But is YouTube TV worth it? We’ll examine its features, pricing, user experience, advantages, and disadvantages in order to give you an honest YouTube TV review. It will be up to you to make an informed decision about your streaming needs.
What is YouTube TV?
YouTube TV is a paid streaming service that provides access to live TV channels and video-on-demand. It functions identically to cable or satellite TV, but uses an internet connection rather than a physical set-top box. This allows you to view your favorite television shows and films through multiple sources, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers.
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Features of YouTube TV
5. Live channels
YouTube TV’s expansive array of live television channels is one of its most prominent selling points. Subscribers have access to a variety of networks, including ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and CNN, among others. The programs available include news, sports, entertainment, and live programming content.
4. Cloud DVR
YouTube TV features a DVR so that everyone can record their shows to watch later. The service offers unlimited DVR storage, removing the need to be concerned about running out of capacity. As we know, this can be a problem with my streaming platforms. You can record multiple programs at once and view them from any wifi-powered device. YouTube TV has certainly made this super convenient for any interested streamers.
3. Multiple user profiles
When some platforms like Netflix are beginning to cut their screen limit, you can rest assured that YouTube TV lets you have six profiles within a single YouTube TV subscription. Each profile can have its personalized recommendations, viewing history, and content recordings. This is great for homes that have multiple viewers because they can keep track of their own TV and customize their experience.
2. On-Demand Content
YouTube TV offers a library of on-demand content in addition to its live television channels. You can check out flicks, TV programs, and other forms of content from a variety of networks. This allows subscribers to catch up on anything they missed or try something new.
1. Premium Channels
YouTube TV provides access to tons of “premium” networks that are hard to come by. For example, HBO, Showtime, and STARZ can be added to your account with the “entertainment plus package” for just $29.99 per month. This allows you to watch exclusive content from these networks.
YouTube TV Review: Pricing
YouTube TV provides a subscription model that offers three main options: the Base Plan, Spanish Plan, and NFL Sunday Ticket Bundled or Standalone. Regardless of package, there are no hidden fees or annual contracts. If one of these plans isn’t perfect, you can pay a bit more per month to add on things like more live sports, more entertainment, or 4k.
Base Plan, $72.99 per month
Right now, YouTube TV is offering a deal of $64.99 per month for the first three months. However, regularly, the price is $72.99 per month. This includes all 100+ live channels, unlimited DVR, and six household accounts.
Spanish Plan, $34.99 per month
In this plan, YouTube TV provides 30+ Spanish networks, unlimited DVR space, and six household accounts. The only difference here is the number of channels that your household can access. This is to target audiences that would mainly watch Spanish channels anyways, so the hope is that you don’t miss anything even though it is more affordable.
NFL Sunday Ticket, $349 per season
YouTube TV has been making headlines in sports, so it would be impossible to do a YouTube TV review without considering this third package option. Right now, they are offering $50 off the Fall NFL season, but normally, the price is $349 per season. This gives you access to every Sunday game. You can use this as a standalone package to watch NFL games or bundle it with other YouTube TV packages and channels.
From our perspective, these prices are a bit high as compared to other streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, etc. However, this is because it resembles a cable and streaming hybrid option for those who are looking to cut their cable cords. If you were spending up to $100-200 a month for cable, this is definitely a great option. It’s more accessible, easy to use, and portable. But it’s cheaper without sacrificing most of your current channels.
In its history, YouTube TV has endured price increases, which can be concerning for budget-conscious consumers. Although the service provides a competitive standard plan and you can cancel when you want, it’s essential to note that prices may change over time.
YouTube TV Review: User Experience
When considering any new streaming platform, user experience is super important. Let’s check out YouTube TV’s interface, streaming quality, and devices in detail.
3. Navigation
YouTube TV’s interface is intuitive and simple to navigate. The layout is also simple, allowing anyone to navigate channels, access DVR recordings, and probe on-demand content. The search function is comprehensive, making it easy to find specific TV programs.
2. Resolution
YouTube TV’s streaming resolution is generally outstanding, assuming a stable internet connection. The service supports high-definition streaming, so you’ll have the option to stream 4k quality content.
1. Devices
YouTube TV is compatible with a variety of devices such as smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and desktops. You open the service through the internet, too, so this helps if you can’t access the app on your device for some reason. Regardless, wifi is all you need on a device to access YouTube TV, so you could watch from all over.
How does YouTube TV compare to other streaming platforms?
To determine whether YouTube TV is worth the cost, it’s useful to compare it to other streaming services. When you put options side by side, it ultimately comes down to what you’re comfortable spending and committing to in terms of contracts. Plus, the channels will differ for each service.
Hulu Live TV, $69.99 per month
Hulu Live TV provides a similar live television streaming experience, combining an expansive channel lineup with on-demand content. Hulu + Live TV could be an enticing option if you enjoy Hulu or Disney’s original content or are interested in a combination of live television and on-demand content.
Sling TV, starting at $40 per month
Sling TV provides more affordable subscription options, with customizable channel packages that enable you to select the channels you want. It offers less control over your channel choices than YouTube TV since different channels come in their three packages. YouTube TV, on the other hand, offers their 100+ live channels with the option to add on anything else. This makes Sling TV better for those on a budget or for people who aren’t concerned with getting tons of channel options.
DIRECTV, starting at $64.99 per month
DIRECTV provides a comprehensive TV experience with live television channels and on-demand content, but it is contract-grounded for at least 1-2 years. It offers a wide range of packages that go from $64.99 to $154.99 per month. If you want more than 100 channels, this is probably a better bet than YouTube TV, although more expensive.
Is YouTube TV Worth It?
To gain a deeper understanding of whether YouTube TV is worthwhile, it’s important to consider user evaluations and feedback. The client support and overall satisfaction can be determined based on user and subscriber reviews. In addition, you can probe online forums and communities to discover what other cord cutters have to say about YouTube TV. From our point of view, the general consensus is positive as long as people were clear on what channels they were getting versus giving up.
People really like the sports and live TV additions. Based on our YouTube TV review, it certainly seems like it is worth cutting your cords if you pay more than $75 a month for cable and don’t watch all the channels you are getting.
FAQs
Can I simultaneously view YouTube TV on multiple devices?
Yes, YouTube TV permits simultaneous streaming on up to three devices per subscription.
Can I terminate my subscription to YouTube TV at any time?
Yes, YouTube TV subscriptions can be canceled at any time. There are no long-term commitments, and you are free to start or cancel your subscription at any time.
Are local channels accessible through YouTube TV?
The availability of local channels varies by location. On the YouTube TV website, you can verify the availability of local channels in your area.
Can I avoid ads on YouTube TV?
While YouTube TV provides a cloud DVR feature, the ability to avoid commercials varies by network and program. Some content on demand may contain advertisements that cannot be ignored.
Can I evaluate YouTube TV before subscribing?
Yes, YouTube TV offers new subscribers a complimentary trial period. It’s a fantastic option to investigate the service’s features before committing to a subscription.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the value of YouTube TV depends on your particular conditions and preferences. However, based on our YouTube TV review, we think it’s a great solution for those trying to move away from cable. It provides a vast array of live channels, a robust DVR storage, and an intuitive interface. You should definitely double check what channels they offer in the Base Plan package and try it out for free before signing up. The nice thing is that you don’t have to commit to YouTube TV for any period of time. You can try it for free, sign up, and cancel without worry or extra charges.
Also Read: Sling TV Review and FAQ: Channels, Prices, and More