Do You Get YouTube Premium with YouTube TV? The Ultimate Guide

No, a YouTube TV subscription does not automatically include YouTube Premium. They are two separate subscriptions with distinct features and pricing. Let’s dive deep into the differences and explore everything you need to know about these popular YouTube services.

Understanding the Difference: YouTube TV vs. YouTube Premium

Think of YouTube TV and YouTube Premium as cousins, not siblings. They both live under the vast YouTube umbrella but offer vastly different experiences. One delivers live television, the other provides an enhanced YouTube viewing environment.

YouTube TV: Your Cord-Cutting Solution

YouTube TV is designed as a replacement for traditional cable TV. It provides access to a wide range of live TV channels, including major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN, as well as various cable channels. You can watch these channels live as they air, record programs to a cloud DVR for later viewing, and access on-demand content from participating networks.

Key features of YouTube TV include:

• Live TV Streaming: Watch your favorite channels live, just like cable.
• Cloud DVR: Record your favorite shows and movies to watch later. Storage limitations are usually generous.
• Multiple Devices: Watch on your TV, computer, phone, or tablet.
• Family Sharing: Share your subscription with family members.
• On-Demand Content: Access a library of on-demand movies and TV shows.

YouTube Premium: The Ad-Free Experience and More

YouTube Premium enhances your general YouTube viewing. The core benefit of YouTube Premium is an ad-free experience across all YouTube platforms. This means no more pre-roll ads, mid-roll ads, banner ads, or overlay ads interrupting your viewing pleasure.

However, YouTube Premium provides much more. It also includes:

• YouTube Music Premium: Access to YouTube’s music streaming service, offering ad-free listening, background playback, and offline downloads.
• Background Playback: Continue listening to videos even when your phone is locked or you’re using other apps.
• Offline Downloads: Download videos to your device for offline viewing, perfect for travel or areas with limited internet access.
• YouTube Originals: Access to exclusive YouTube Originals content, including movies, TV shows, and documentaries.

Can You Bundle YouTube TV and YouTube Premium?

While there isn’t a direct bundled package that combines both services at a discounted rate, there are ways to save money if you want both. Look out for special promotions that Google occasionally offers. These might include temporary discounts or free trial periods for one service when subscribing to the other.

Here’s the most cost-effective strategy:

1. Subscribe to YouTube TV if you want to cut the cord and watch live television.
2. Subscribe to YouTube Premium separately for the ad-free YouTube experience, YouTube Music Premium, and other benefits.

While it might seem more convenient to have a single package, the separate subscriptions offer flexibility. You can cancel either service at any time without affecting the other.

Weighing the Value: Are Both Subscriptions Worth It?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to subscribe to both YouTube TV and YouTube Premium depends on your individual viewing habits and preferences.

• Consider YouTube TV if: You watch a lot of live TV and want a cable alternative. You need access to major networks and sports channels. You want to record your favorite shows and movies.

• Consider YouTube Premium if: You watch YouTube frequently and are annoyed by ads. You listen to music on YouTube Music. You want to download videos for offline viewing. You want background playback.

For many, the ad-free experience alone makes YouTube Premium worth the cost. Combining it with YouTube TV offers a comprehensive entertainment solution, covering both live television and on-demand video content. However, carefully evaluate your usage to determine if the benefits justify the expense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the current pricing for YouTube TV and YouTube Premium?

YouTube TV typically costs around $73 per month in the US. YouTube Premium costs around $14 per month for individuals. Family plans and student discounts are available for both services. Pricing may vary depending on location and promotional offers. Always check the official YouTube websites for the most up-to-date pricing information.

2. Can I watch YouTube TV within the YouTube app?

No, YouTube TV has its own dedicated app. While YouTube Premium enhances the experience within the regular YouTube app, YouTube TV requires its separate application for accessing live TV and DVR recordings.

3. Does YouTube Premium remove ads from YouTube TV?

No, YouTube Premium only removes ads from the standard YouTube platform. Ads within YouTube TV, particularly those shown during live TV broadcasts or on-demand content from networks, are not affected by a YouTube Premium subscription.

4. Can I share my YouTube Premium subscription with my family?

Yes, YouTube Premium offers a family plan. This allows you to share your subscription with up to five family members living in the same household. It’s a cost-effective way for multiple users to enjoy the benefits of YouTube Premium.

5. Is YouTube TV available everywhere?

YouTube TV is primarily available in the United States. Availability may vary depending on your specific location. Check the YouTube TV website to confirm coverage in your area.

6. Can I cancel my YouTube TV or YouTube Premium subscription at any time?

Yes, both YouTube TV and YouTube Premium subscriptions can be canceled at any time without penalty. You will typically retain access to the service until the end of your current billing cycle.

7. What devices are compatible with YouTube TV and YouTube Premium?

Both services are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku and Chromecast), computers, smartphones, and tablets.

8. Does YouTube Premium include access to all YouTube content?

YouTube Premium does not unlock any content that is otherwise restricted. It primarily enhances the viewing experience by removing ads and providing additional features like background playback and offline downloads.

9. Does YouTube TV offer a free trial?

YouTube TV typically offers a free trial period for new subscribers. This allows you to test out the service and see if it meets your needs before committing to a paid subscription. Check the YouTube TV website for current trial offers.

10. Can I use YouTube Music Premium without YouTube Premium?

No, YouTube Music Premium is bundled with YouTube Premium. You cannot subscribe to YouTube Music Premium as a standalone service.

11. Are there any hidden fees associated with YouTube TV or YouTube Premium?

There are no hidden fees associated with either service. The price you see listed is the price you pay, plus any applicable taxes.

12. How does YouTube TV’s cloud DVR work?

YouTube TV’s cloud DVR allows you to record live TV programs and watch them later. You simply select the shows or movies you want to record, and YouTube TV will automatically record them to your cloud DVR storage. You can then access these recordings from any device that supports YouTube TV.