As we enter 2024, many cord-cutters are wondering if YouTube TV includes a subscription to YouTube Premium. With more streaming services competing for our time and money, getting the best value is key.
As someone who has subscribed to YouTube TV for the past couple of years, I have investigated whether Premium is included or available as an add-on.
What is YouTube Premium?
YouTube Premium is an upgraded version of regular YouTube that offers several benefits, including:
- Ad-free viewing across YouTube
- Ability to download videos to watch offline
- Access to YouTube Originals series and movies
- Background/audio play on mobile
It normally costs $11.99/month in the US, so it would be nice if it was bundled with YouTube TV in some way.
Does YouTube TV Include YouTube Premium?
As of the start of 2024, YouTube TV does NOT include YouTube Premium by default. They are still separate subscriptions and billing.
However, for YouTube TV subscribers, you can add on YouTube Premium for $7/month, which is $4 less than the regular price.
So while it is not technically included or free, you do get a special discounted rate by being a YouTube TV user already.
With how much Premium normally costs on its own, that $4 in savings each month is still decent if you want premium features like no ads, offline downloads, and background audio.
Considering Premium does not cost that much more with the YouTube TV discount, I recommend adding it on if you stream a lot of YouTube or would enjoy the bonus perks. But Premium is not automatically bundled in with a base YouTube TV subscription yet. I will update this article if that changes down the line!
FAQ on YouTube TV and Premium
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions on whether Premium comes with a YouTube TV membership:
Does the $7 YouTube Premium add-on include family sharing?
Yes! With Premium added to YouTube TV, you get all the same family-sharing benefits as with a regular Premium subscription. Everyone in your household group can access ad-free YouTube plus offline downloads.
Can I get YouTube Originals with just YouTube TV?
Unfortunately, no. To unlock unlimited access to YouTube Originals series and movies, you need to have a Premium add-on subscription. Without it, you may only be able to watch some trailers or first episodes.
Is background play available on YouTube TV alone?
Background play is only available with a YouTube Premium membership. YouTube TV allows streaming to your TV with the app closed, but audio-only in the background is limited to Premium users.
I find the $7 Premium add-on worthwhile for avoiding ads and allowing offline downloads. But assess your viewing habits. If you rarely need background audio or offline access, sticking with YouTube TV itself may suffice.
More about YouTube TV:
- Is Reelz on YouTube TV? – Full Details
- A Beginner’s Guide to Managing Your YouTube TV Account: YouTube TV Login Account Management
- How to Make YouTube TV Default on LG TV – (Best Way)
- How to Make YouTube TV Default on Samsung Smart TV
- How to Turn Off Closed Caption on YouTube TV – [7 Ways 2024]
- A Beginner’s Guide to Sign up for YouTube TV – Everything for New Users
- How Many People Can Watch YouTube TV At Once? – New Tricks
- Does YouTube TV come with ESPN Plus? – Full Details
Conclusion
While a full Premium membership is not bundled automatically with YouTube TV in 2024, subscribers can unlock discounts making it more affordable as an add-on.
With the potential $4 monthly savings plus valuable features like ad-free viewing, Premium becomes a decent value-add. But the choice comes down to your budget and how much you would utilize the premium perks.
I hope this clears up whether YouTube Premium currently comes included with a YouTube TV subscription.
Let me know if you have any other questions by commenting in the comment box.