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Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Frustrated with skyrocketing cable bills? YouTube TV delivers live TV from over 60 popular networks at roughly half the cost of basic cable—no hidden fees, no cable box required.

As streaming experts with years of hands-on testing, we've evaluated top services and found YouTube TV stands out for cord cutters. Let's dive into what you get and why it's worth switching.

What You Get with YouTube TV

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Sign up easily at the YouTube TV welcome page by clicking Try it free. First, enter your 5-digit ZIP code to see available local channels and networks.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Key features include:

  • Six household accounts.
  • Unlimited cloud DVR per account with simultaneous recordings.
  • Streaming on Chromecast, Roku, smart TVs, Android, and iOS devices.
  • Add-ons like Starz, Showtime, and sports networks available.

YouTube TV includes ads on live and recorded TV, like cable. YouTube Premium removes ads from on-demand content but not live TV.

Watching Live TV on YouTube TV

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Access live TV at tv.youtube.com. Scroll the top ribbon to channel surf or filter by genre below.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Live shows open full-screen; hover at the bottom for controls. Picture-in-picture lets you browse while watching.

Channel schedules occasionally show 'No broadcast available,' but live feeds work fine.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Your YouTube TV Library

YouTube TV's cloud DVR is a game-changer. Add series via the 'More' icon to auto-record future episodes.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Series pages list all episodes—past and upcoming. No manual recording needed; catch up anytime.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

It's like Netflix meets cable: binge current seasons episode-by-episode as they air.

Setting Up Family Sharing on YouTube TV

For households, create a Google Family Group at families.google.com/families. Click Create family group and invite members.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

In YouTube TV settings, go to Family sharing, click Setup, then Share.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord CuttersWhy YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Everyone in the group accesses the same subscription.

Other Essential YouTube TV Settings

Customize your Live Guide by adding/removing channels.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Update Home area for moves or Playback area for travel to access local channels.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

YouTube TV offers unmatched flexibility over traditional cable.

YouTube TV on Any Device

Cast from laptop to TV with the cast icon.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Mobile apps support full access: browsing, watching, DVR.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord CuttersWhy YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord CuttersWhy YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Mobile settings include notifications, kids' profiles, and subtitles.

Why YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord CuttersWhy YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord CuttersWhy YouTube TV is the Best Cable Replacement for Cord Cutters

Account-based access works anywhere, even on borrowed devices.

Is YouTube TV Better Than Cable?

At half the price, yes—for these reasons:

  • More networks than basic cable.
  • Unlimited free DVR.
  • Kids' content filters per device.
  • Travel-friendly mobility.
  • Easy location changes.
  • Multi-device flexibility.

Perfect for long-time subscribers ready to save or cord cutters wanting live TV without waiting.