By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man – Follow me on X.
This is the latest in a series of articles that will explain in simple words what a new TV product or industry term means and/or how it works. Today, we examine YouTube TV.
TV Answer Man, I am thinking of subscribing to YouTube TV. Could you give us a rundown of some of the basics of the service. Many thanks for the informational stories you do. – Dani, Orlando, Florida.
YouTube TV: The Basics
YouTube TV is Google’s answer to the cord-cutting revolution—a live TV streaming service that delivers the traditional pay TV lineup over the Internet. Launched in 2017, it’s designed to compete with the likes of Sling TV, Hulu Live, Fubo and cable/satellite providers like Comcast and Spectrum TV or DIRECTV. Like other live streaming services, YouTube TV offers flexibility with streaming available on your smart phone, tablet or Smart TV device.
YouTube TV: Cost
YouTube TV costs $82.99 a month as of March 31, 2025 although the streamer often provides short-term discounts for new subscribers. For that base price, the service gives you access to more than 100 channels, including local broadcasts (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX), sports networks (ESPN, FS1), news outlets (CNN, MSNBC), and entertainment staples (TNT, HGTV, AMC).
How Does YouTube TV Work?
You sign up at the YouTube TV web site, download the service’s app (or access it through a web browser), and start watching. Unlike cable and satellite, there is no technician visit or equipment rental fees. You just need an Internet connection and a compatible streaming device such as Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Chromecast, gaming consoles, and even your smart phone.
What Is Special About YouTube TV?
YouTube TV is the exclusive carrier of the NFL Sunday Ticket, a significant reason why it has more than eight million subscribers, more than any other live streaming service. The live streamer also offers some innovative features such as Multiview’s multiple-screen displays;
Stats for Nerds; and 4K programming for an additional $9.99 a month. There are also no contracts to sign up. You can cancel at any time.
As a current YouTube TV subscriber, I can also attest to the HD picture quality. The streamer’s picture is as good or better than any other pay TV service, including cable and satellite.
What’s Not So Great About YouTube TV?
The price has more than doubled since its launch. Other live streamers have also raised their prices but long-time subscribers have sharply criticized YouTube TV’s increase, remember the good old days when the base rate was just $35 a month.
YouTube TV also carries relatively few regional sports networks, a sore point for sports fans who were lured to the service by the NFL Sunday Ticket.
Finally, as with all live streaming, YouTube TV is susceptible to buffering issues, particularly during high-profile events. Thanks to Google’s technical prowess, the issues are infrequent but not non-existent.
Is YouTube TV Worth Your Money?
YouTube TV has many nice features, the NFL Sunday Ticket and a strong programming lineup save the paltry regional sports network offering. If you’re used to paying top dollar to watch TV, it’s a good value for you, particularly if you love football and the NFL Sunday Ticket. But be prepared to find an alternative way to watch your local teams.
Dani, hope that answers your question. Happy viewing and stay safe.
Have Questions? Ask The TV Answer Man!
Have a question about a favorite show, streaming service, or new TV technology? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com. Please include your first name and hometown in your message.
Phillip Swann
Who Is The TV Answer Man?
The TV Answer Man is veteran journalist Phillip Swann who has covered television for more than three decades. He will report on the latest news and answer your questions regarding new devices and services that are changing the way you watch TV. See the bio for Phillip Swann here.
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What about access to local Dodger and Laker games like on Spectrum?
YouTube TV has neither.