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How to Get ESPN+ on YouTube TV: The Ultimate Guide

Let’s cut to the chase: You cannot directly get ESPN+ on YouTube TV as a combined subscription. YouTube TV and ESPN+ are separate streaming services. To access both, you need to subscribe to each individually. Think of it like ordering pizza and wings; they’re both great, but you have to place separate orders. While there’s no all-in-one package directly, there are some handy workarounds and bundle opportunities we’ll dive into.

Understanding the Streaming Landscape

Before we get further, it’s crucial to understand the landscape. YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service offering a wide range of channels, mimicking a traditional cable or satellite subscription, but delivered over the internet. ESPN+, on the other hand, is a standalone streaming service focusing on live sports, on-demand content, and exclusive programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV channels. It’s a deep dive into specific leagues, college sports, international games, and original shows.

The Independent Subscription Route

The most straightforward way to watch both YouTube TV and ESPN+ is to subscribe to them separately.

Subscribe to YouTube TV: Visit the YouTube TV website, sign up for a free trial (if available), and select your desired subscription plan.
Subscribe to ESPN+: Head over to the ESPN+ website or access it through the ESPN app. Create an account and choose your subscription plan.

Once you’ve subscribed to both, you can access YouTube TV through its dedicated app or website and ESPN+ through the ESPN app. This method gives you maximum flexibility and access to all content each service offers.

The Disney Bundle: Your Best Bet

While you can’t bundle ESPN+ directly into YouTube TV, the Disney Bundle is your secret weapon. The Disney Bundle typically includes:

Disney+: Home to a vast library of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
Hulu: Offering a wide range of TV shows, movies, and original programming.
ESPN+: Your gateway to live sports and exclusive content.

Think of this as a ‘triple threat’ streaming deal. Since you can’t get ESPN+ through YouTube TV, you get it alongside two other killer streaming services, often at a significantly reduced price compared to subscribing to each individually.

To take advantage of this:

Check your existing subscriptions: If you already subscribe to Disney+ or Hulu, see if you can upgrade to the Disney Bundle to add ESPN+.
Subscribe to the Disney Bundle: Visit the Disney Bundle website to sign up.

This is the most cost-effective way to access ESPN+ alongside other premium streaming content, especially if you’re already interested in Disney+ or Hulu.

Integrating ESPN+ into Your Viewing Experience

Even with separate subscriptions, you can still integrate ESPN+ into your overall viewing experience. Consider these tactics:

Utilize the ESPN App: The ESPN app is your hub for all things ESPN, including ESPN+ content. Download it on your streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, etc.) and sign in with your ESPN+ credentials.
Personalize Your ESPN App: Tailor your ESPN app to follow your favorite teams and leagues. This ensures you’re notified about live games and on-demand content available on ESPN+.
Use Your Smart TV Interface: Most smart TVs have integrated app stores. Download both the YouTube TV and ESPN apps directly onto your TV for seamless switching between services.

Maximizing Your Value

Consider Ad-Supported vs. Ad-Free Options: ESPN+ offers ad-supported and ad-free subscription tiers. Weigh the cost difference against your tolerance for commercials. Some Disney Bundle options also include ad-free Hulu.
Seasonal Subscriptions: If you’re primarily interested in ESPN+ for a specific sport or league that’s only active during certain months, consider subscribing only during those periods. You can typically cancel and resubscribe without penalty.
Monitor Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions or bundled offers from Disney or ESPN, especially around major sporting events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most commonly asked questions, answered with the expertise you expect:

1. Can I Add ESPN+ as a Channel on YouTube TV?

Unfortunately, no. YouTube TV does not offer ESPN+ as an add-on channel like HBO Max or Showtime. You must maintain a separate ESPN+ subscription.

2. Will YouTube TV Ever Include ESPN+?

While anything is possible in the future, there are no current announcements or indications that YouTube TV will directly integrate ESPN+. They are fundamentally different services.

3. Is the Disney Bundle Cheaper Than Subscribing Separately?

In almost all cases, yes! The Disney Bundle is significantly cheaper than subscribing to Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ individually. Do the math; it’s a no-brainer for most people.

4. Can I Watch ESPN+ Content Directly Through YouTube TV?

No, you can’t. You need to use the ESPN app or website to access ESPN+ content. YouTube TV only provides access to its live TV channels and on-demand library.

5. What Kind of Content Does ESPN+ Offer That YouTube TV Doesn’t?

ESPN+ features a wide array of content not available on regular ESPN channels through YouTube TV, including:

Live games from various sports (college football, soccer, UFC, etc.)
Original shows and documentaries.
Expanded coverage of specific leagues and tournaments.
Exclusive analysis and commentary.

6. Do I Need a Separate ESPN Account for ESPN+?

Yes, you’ll need to create an ESPN account (if you don’t already have one) to subscribe to ESPN+. This account is separate from your Google account used for YouTube TV.

7. Can I Watch ESPN+ on the Same Devices as YouTube TV?

In most cases, yes. Both YouTube TV and the ESPN app are available on a wide range of streaming devices, including Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.

8. How Do I Cancel My ESPN+ Subscription?

You can cancel your ESPN+ subscription through the ESPN website or app. The process is straightforward, and you’ll typically retain access until the end of your current billing cycle.

9. Does ESPN+ Offer a Free Trial?

Free trials for ESPN+ are infrequent. Check the ESPN+ website for current promotional offers. The Disney Bundle may sometimes include a free trial period.

10. Can I Share My ESPN+ Account with Family Members?

Yes, you can share your ESPN+ account with family members within the same household. ESPN+ allows multiple devices to stream simultaneously, but there may be limitations on the number of simultaneous streams.

11. How Can I Find Out Which Games Are Streaming on ESPN+?

The best way to find out which games are streaming on ESPN+ is to check the ESPN app or website. The schedule is regularly updated, and you can filter by sport or league.

12. If I Have the Disney Bundle, Do I Still Need a YouTube TV Subscription?

That depends on your viewing habits. If you want access to live TV channels (news, entertainment, sports), YouTube TV is still necessary. The Disney Bundle primarily offers on-demand content and ESPN+ exclusives. If you only watch streaming and not live tv, you may not need YouTube TV and can save some money.

In conclusion, while you can’t get ESPN+ directly as an add-on to YouTube TV, the Disney Bundle provides the most convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy both services. Understanding the differences between YouTube TV and ESPN+ will help you choose the best streaming setup to satisfy your entertainment cravings. Happy streaming!