YouTube TV is one of the most popular cable TV alternatives for cord-cutters. It combines the best of everything that cable TV and streaming have to offer, including on-demand films and series, access to live TV, on-demand movies, complete seasons of major TV shows, unlimited DVR storage space, and of course, YouTube videos.
But, with the increasing competition and the attempt of cable TV providers to up their game, is YouTube TV still worth it this 2022? Let’s find out.
What Is YouTube TV?
First things first, let’s define what YouTube TV is. YouTube TV is a subscription streaming service that allows you to watch local live TV channels while offering on-demand titles. Unlike cable TV, YouTube TV does not involve contracts, hidden costs, and special equipment. It is only available in the US as of writing. It works similarly to Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Go Latino TV.
YouTube TV Pros and Cons
YouTube TV is not a perfect streaming platform. It shares its own advantages and disadvantages. But still, it remains one of the most significant live TV streaming services as of writing. Here are some of YTTV’s pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| More than 85 channels Unlimited cloud DVR storage Easy user interface | No A&E, Lifetime, and VICE Missing several regional sports networks Massive price hike from $35 to $65 |
There are many distinct advantages to YouTube TV. This streaming platform still provides cord-cutters with one of the best live TV streaming experiences at a more affordable cost compared to cable packages, even though its price has been rising rapidly over the past years.
For those who prefer to watch traditional TV programs but have a schedule that doesn’t offer much flexibility for sitting in front of the TV at a specific time, the unlimited cloud DVR is a definite plus.
Additionally, it’s very simple to distinguish between adult content and children’s programming and vice versa, thanks to the ability to build unique DVR storage spaces for individuals within a family. But, before anything else, let’s discover how YouTube TV compares to cable and other live streaming services.
YouTube TV vs. Major US Cable TV Providers
YouTube TV only offers one plan that costs $64.99 per month. If you’re a new subscriber, you are entitled to a total of $30 off for the first three months, cutting down the cost to $54.99. Its price is not that far from major cable TV providers in the US, but it can be quite expensive at first glance. Let’s see how cable TV providers and YouTube TV compare.
| Monthly Fee | Channels Offered | Contract Terms | |
| YouTube TV | $64.99 | 85+ | No |
| Verizon | $70–$110 | 125-425+ | No |
| Spectrum | $49.99-$99.99 | 125+ | No |
| Xfinity | $49.99–$59.99 | 125-185+ | Yes |
| Cox | $30–$115 | 75-250+ | Yes |
| Optimum | $53–$138 | 50-420+ | No |
As you can see, the prices for cable TV providers and YouTube TV are quite similar. Cable TV providers offer a wider range of channels, but that doesn’t mean that YouTube TV skimps on its offering. In fact, you may even find that some of the channels offered by YouTube TV are not available on your cable TV provider.
If we were to look at the number of offered channels, of course, cable TV is the real winner. The thing is, that’s what keeps cable TV providers from charging hefty fees. They justify their costs with the long list of channels that are even too much for most households.
Let’s also take note that most major cable providers have discontinued their annual contracts to keep up with no-contract streaming services. This is great news, as it gives users more flexibility and choices – tightening the competition between streaming services and cable TV subscriptions.
YouTube TV vs. Other Live TV Streaming Services
YouTube TV is still a great option even when comparing it to other live TV streaming services. Familiarity is the biggest advantage YouTube TV has over its competitors, as the majority of people have been using YouTube for many years. Moreover, its price and channel offerings are definitely a catch. Let’s take a look at how YTTV and other streaming services compare.
| Monthly Fee | Channels | DVR | Streams | |
| YouTube TV | $64.99 | 85+ | Unlimited for 9 months | 3 |
| Hulu + Live TV | $69.99–$75.99/mo. | 75+ | Unlimited for 9 months | 2 |
| DISH TV | $69.99 | 190+ | 500 hours | 5 |
| Sling TV | $35.00–$50.00/mo. | 30–50+ | 50 hours | 1-3 |
| fuboTV | $69.99–$79.99/mo. | 120–160+ | 1,000 hours | 10 |
| DIRECTV STREAM | $69.99–$149.99/mo. | 65–140+ | 20 hours | 3–unlimited |
The prices between these streaming services are not that far from each other, except for DIRECTV STREAM, which falls on the higher end. In this list, the biggest competitors of YouTube TV are Hulu Live TV, Sling TV, and DISH TV.
DISH TV has been a popular cable TV alternative due to its long list of channels and on-demand content for an affordable price. But, you have to take note that it offers a 24-month contract, which most streaming services don’t have.
On the other hand, Sling TV has become a cord-cutter favorite because it is affordable, and you definitely get what you pay for. While it offers a much shorter list of channels, this streaming platform also offers on-demand content. Sling TV also allows you to choose what channels you want so that you don’t have to pay for channels you don’t watch.
Hulu + Live TV has also been gaining attention from cord-cutters. It offers a combination of live TV and on-demand content from Hulu’s library. You also get access to Hulu’s ad-supported plan, which is not available with other live TV streaming services.
The Verdict: Is YouTube TV Worth It in 2022?
YouTube TV is a great cable TV alternative that offers a wide range of channels and features without the need for contracts. If you are looking for a streaming service that will give you value for your money, then YouTube TV is definitely worth it. But to sum it up, each of these services has its own pros and cons. In the end, it all boils down to your preferences as a TV viewer.
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