YouTube Premium vs. YouTube TV: Untangling the Streaming Web

No, YouTube Premium does not include YouTube TV. These are two separate services offered by YouTube, each with distinct features and pricing structures. Think of it this way: one is a deluxe movie theater experience (Premium), while the other is a cable TV replacement (TV). Understanding their differences is key to optimizing your viewing experience and budget.

Understanding the Core Differences

YouTube’s streaming ecosystem can feel a little like a nested doll. You’ve got the free, ad-supported YouTube, then YouTube Premium offering a refined experience, and then YouTube TV offering a completely different type of content. Let’s break down what makes each unique.

YouTube Premium: Enhancing the Standard YouTube Experience

YouTube Premium is all about leveling up your regular YouTube viewing. It removes ads from all YouTube videos, gives you background playback on mobile (a lifesaver for podcasts), allows offline downloads, and grants you access to YouTube Music Premium, which is a respectable music streaming service in its own right. It’s essentially a suite of enhancements designed to make watching YouTube more enjoyable and seamless. Consider it the “VIP” upgrade to the standard, free YouTube service.

YouTube TV: A Cable-Cutting Champion

YouTube TV, on the other hand, is a live TV streaming service designed to replace your traditional cable or satellite subscription. It offers access to a wide range of popular TV channels, including major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, as well as cable channels like ESPN, CNN, and FX. Crucially, it includes a cloud DVR for recording your favorite shows. It’s positioned as a cord-cutting solution, offering a modern, internet-based way to watch live TV. This is your “cable killer” option.

Why They’re Separate Services

The core reason YouTube Premium and YouTube TV are separate is the different types of content they provide and the associated licensing costs. YouTube Premium deals primarily with user-generated content and some YouTube Originals, whereas YouTube TV deals with traditional television networks. These networks require substantial fees for their content to be streamed live, which explains the higher price point of YouTube TV. Bundling both into a single subscription would drastically increase the cost, potentially alienating users who only want one service or the other.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the sometimes confusing world of YouTube subscriptions:

1. What exactly do I get with YouTube Premium?

With YouTube Premium, you get:

• Ad-free viewing: Enjoy all YouTube videos without interruptions.
• Background playback: Continue watching or listening even when your phone screen is off.
• Offline downloads: Download videos to watch later without an internet connection.
• YouTube Music Premium: Access to YouTube’s music streaming service, including ad-free listening, offline downloads, and background playback for music.
• YouTube Originals: Access to exclusive content produced by YouTube.

2. What channels are included in YouTube TV?

The channel lineup for YouTube TV varies by location, but typically includes major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, as well as popular cable channels like ESPN, CNN, FX, HGTV, and many more. It’s best to check the specific channel lineup available in your area on the YouTube TV website.

3. How much does YouTube Premium cost?

As of late 2024, YouTube Premium costs $13.99 per month for an individual plan in the United States. There are also family plans available that allow you to share your subscription with up to five household members, usually priced around $22.99 per month. Student discounts are sometimes available as well.

4. How much does YouTube TV cost?

YouTube TV’s base plan costs $72.99 per month in the United States. Add-on packages, such as sports or movie channels, are available for an additional monthly fee.

5. Can I cancel either subscription at any time?

Yes, both YouTube Premium and YouTube TV subscriptions can be canceled at any time. Your access will continue until the end of your current billing cycle.

6. Can I get a free trial of YouTube Premium or YouTube TV?

Yes, both services typically offer free trials to new subscribers. These trials usually last for around one to two weeks, giving you a chance to test the service before committing to a subscription.

7. Is YouTube TV available everywhere?

YouTube TV is currently only available in the United States. Its availability within the US can also be limited based on your zip code because certain local channels might not be included in your area.

8. Can I watch YouTube TV on multiple devices at the same time?

Yes, YouTube TV allows you to stream on up to three devices simultaneously with the base plan. Add-on options may allow more simultaneous streams.

9. What is the cloud DVR storage limit for YouTube TV?

YouTube TV offers unlimited cloud DVR storage, meaning you can record as many shows and movies as you want without worrying about running out of space. Recordings are typically stored for nine months.

10. Does YouTube Premium work on YouTube TV?

No, YouTube Premium benefits, like ad-free viewing, do not extend to YouTube TV. YouTube TV has its own ad structure for the channels it streams.

11. Is it possible to bundle YouTube Premium and YouTube TV for a discount?

Unfortunately, YouTube doesn’t officially offer a direct bundle or discount when subscribing to both YouTube Premium and YouTube TV separately. Keep an eye out for potential promotions, but currently, they are treated as entirely separate subscriptions.

12. Which subscription is right for me?

Choosing between YouTube Premium and YouTube TV depends on your viewing habits and needs.

• Choose YouTube Premium if: You primarily watch content on the standard YouTube platform and want to eliminate ads, enjoy background playback, and download videos for offline viewing. You also value access to YouTube Music Premium.
• Choose YouTube TV if: You want to replace your traditional cable or satellite TV subscription with a live TV streaming service. You want access to a wide range of TV channels, including major networks and cable channels, and a cloud DVR for recording shows.
• Consider both if: You heavily utilize both the standard YouTube platform and want to watch live TV. The cost may be higher, but you’ll get the best of both worlds.

Ultimately, understanding the distinct benefits of each service and aligning them with your entertainment preferences will help you decide which, if any, YouTube subscription is right for you. Remember to take advantage of free trials to test the waters before fully committing!