In a world filled with streaming services, choosing the right platform for your sports viewing needs can be a complex task. One burning question among sports enthusiasts across the nation is, “Can you get ESPN+ on YouTube TV?” If you’re an avid sports fan, you probably know that ESPN+ offers a treasure trove of exclusive content, live sports, and original programming. Meanwhile, YouTube TV boasts a diverse channel lineup that includes live sports networks, making it an attractive option for many. Let’s dive deep into whether these two platforms can meld together to enhance your sports-watching experience.
Understanding YouTube TV
YouTube TV has rapidly become one of the most popular streaming services in the United States. This platform offers a wide range of live television channels, including sports networks, entertainment, and news. Some of the notable characteristics of YouTube TV include:
- Extensive Channel Lineup: YouTube TV provides over 85 channels, including major networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX, as well as sports networks like ESPN, TNT, and more.
- Cloud DVR: Subscribers enjoy an unlimited cloud DVR storage space, allowing them to record and keep favorite shows and live events for future viewing.
YouTube TV targets cord-cutters who are looking for an alternative to traditional cable services while still being able to watch their favorite content.
The Allure of ESPN+
ESPN+ is a subscription-based sports streaming service that is part of the ESPN family, owned by The Walt Disney Company. It offers a wealth of exclusive sports content that isn’t available on the standard ESPN cable channels. Here are some key features that make ESPN+ particularly appealing:
- Exclusive Live Events: ESPN+ users can access live events from various sports, including UFC, NHL, MLB, MLS, college sports, and more.
- Original Programming: Subscribers can enjoy a range of original shows, films, and documentaries that delve deeper into the sports world.
This service is ideal for sports fans looking to catch niche sports, special events, and a plethora of sports-related content that goes beyond regular cable offerings.
Where Do YouTube TV and ESPN+ Stand?
Now, let’s get to the crux of the matter—Can you get ESPN+ on YouTube TV? To clarify, YouTube TV does not integrate ESPN+ into its platform; they are two separate services. YouTube TV is primarily a live TV streaming service that offers live programming, whereas ESPN+ is a dedicated sports streaming platform that focuses predominantly on exclusive sports content.
Independent Access to ESPN+
If you are looking to access ESPN+, you will need to subscribe separately from YouTube TV. Here’s how it works:
Subscription Requirement: To access ESPN+, you will need to sign up for a standalone subscription on the ESPN website or through the ESPN app.
Multiple Devices: Once subscribed, you can watch ESPN+ content on various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, or streaming devices (including Roku, Apple TV, etc.).
Complementary Viewing: While you won’t get ESPN+ directly within the YouTube TV interface, many sports fans choose to keep both subscriptions active, enabling them to watch a variety of sports and events.
How To Access ESPN+ Content
Now that you know that ESPN+ operates independently from YouTube TV, let’s look at how you can access ESPN+ after subscribing.
Accessing ESPN+ through Different Platforms
After subscribing to ESPN+, you can access it through various platforms:
Mobile Devices
- iOS: Download the ESPN app from the App Store to stream content on iPhones and iPads.
- Android: Google Play Store offers the ESPN app, which allows users to enjoy ESPN+ content on Android smartphones and tablets.
Smart TVs and Streaming Devices
- Roku: Add ESPN+ from the Roku Channel Store.
- Apple TV: ESPN+ is easily accessible for Apple TV users via the app.
Web Browsers
- Navigate to the ESPN website and log in to your account to watch on a computer.
What Sports Are Available on ESPN+?
As a sports fan, knowing what you can watch on ESPN+ is crucial. Here’s a look at some of the major sports and events that you can catch:
Major Sports Covered
- UFC: Exclusive live fights and events, including pay-per-view events.
- NHL: A selection of games and events every season.
- Soccer: Including international matches, MLS, and European leagues.
- College Sports: Coverage of select college football, basketball, and other sports.
- Tennis and Golf: Grand Slam events and PGA Tour events.
Original Series and Documentaries
In addition to live sporting events, ESPN+ also produces original series and sports documentaries that provide in-depth insights into various sports and their personalities.
Integration Possibilities: ESPN+ and YouTube TV
While you cannot directly watch ESPN+ through YouTube TV, it’s important to explore how you can enhance your sports viewing experience by utilizing both services.
Combining Services for Ultimate Sports Content
Using both YouTube TV and ESPN+ allows you to have the best of both worlds. For instance:
- Live Sports: Use YouTube TV for live broadcasts of sports available on channels like ESPN, ESPN2, and others.
- Exclusive Content: Turn to ESPN+ for hard-to-find matches or events that aren’t covered by standard networks.
- DVR Features: YouTube TV offers the ability to record live broadcasts, allowing you to never miss a game.
Costs and Subscriptions
When considering both services, budgeting is vital.
| Service | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | $72.99/month | Over 85 channels, unlimited DVR |
| ESPN+ | $9.99/month | Exclusive sports events, original programming |
This combination can provide a comprehensive sports viewing experience, encompassing a vast array of live and recorded content.
Final Thoughts
While you cannot access ESPN+ through YouTube TV due to their independent operations, both platforms offer unparalleled advantages for sports fans. By subscribing to both, you can enrich your viewing experience by gaining access to a broader array of sports content—live games, exclusive events, documentaries, and more.
For serious sports aficionados, the combination of YouTube TV for coast-to-coast sports coverage and ESPN+ for special events represents a formidable game plan. Investing in both services is undoubtedly a wise choice when aiming to catch every thrilling moment in the world of sports.
In conclusion, while you can’t get ESPN+ directly on YouTube TV, combining the two can set you up for unbeatable sports coverage, allowing you to never miss a game again. Whether it’s the final moments of a nail-biting match or the excitement of a championship fight, having multiple platforms at your disposal can significantly elevate your sports-watching experience.
What is ESPN+ and what does it offer?
ESPN+ is a subscription-based streaming service that provides a vast array of sports content, including live events, original programming, and exclusive shows. It features coverage of various sports, such as UFC, soccer, NHL, MLB, and college sports, ensuring that fans have access to a diverse selection of content throughout the year. Subscribers can enjoy not only live games but also documentaries, analysis, and highlights that contribute to a comprehensive sports viewing experience.
In addition to live events, ESPN+ also allows users to access on-demand content, including replays and highlights of past matches. The service is designed for sports enthusiasts who want more than what’s available on traditional television channels, offering a unique blend of sports programming that caters to different interests and preferences.
Can you get ESPN+ on YouTube TV?
As of now, ESPN+ is not available directly through YouTube TV as a part of its channel lineup. YouTube TV offers a range of live TV channels, including ESPN, but ESPN+ operates as a separate subscription service. Therefore, if you want access to ESPN+ content, you will need to subscribe to it independently in addition to your YouTube TV subscription.
While you can stream ESPN and other related channels on YouTube TV, ESPN+ has exclusive rights to certain events and additional programming that you cannot access through standard cable or streaming bundles. To watch ESPN+ content, you’ll need to utilize the ESPN app or website after signing up for the service.
How can I subscribe to ESPN+?
Subscribing to ESPN+ is a straightforward process. You can visit the official ESPN website or download the ESPN app on your mobile device or Smart TV. Once there, you can find the “Sign Up” option, where you will be guided through a series of prompts to create an account. This typically involves providing your email, creating a password, and entering your payment information.
Keep in mind that ESPN+ also offers bundled subscriptions with other services, such as Disney+ and Hulu, often at a discounted rate. This option is ideal for those who are also interested in streaming movies or TV shows, providing more value for your entertainment budget.
Do I need a cable subscription to access ESPN+?
No, you do not need a cable subscription to access ESPN+. This service is designed to be standalone, meaning you can subscribe directly and enjoy its content without the need for traditional cable television. The convenience of streaming allows users to watch games, shows, and events on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
This flexibility means that ESPN+ can be an excellent option for cord-cutters who want to enjoy sports programming without being tied to a cable package. Just remember that while ESPN+ offers extensive sports coverage, some live events may still be available on regular ESPN channels that are provided through cable or live TV streaming services like YouTube TV.
Can you watch ESPN+ live events on YouTube TV?
While you can watch ESPN channels, like ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN3, on YouTube TV, you will not be able to access the exclusive live events that ESPN+ offers. ESPN+ streams certain games, fights, and sports events that are not available on the regular ESPN networks. Therefore, if you want to watch those specific events, you will need to have a separate ESPN+ subscription.
If you find yourself interested in the exclusive content that ESPN+ provides, it may be worthwhile to subscribe to both YouTube TV and ESPN+. This way, you can enjoy the full range of sports content available, from regular televised events to unique programming offered through ESPN+.
Is there a free trial available for ESPN+?
Yes, ESPN+ often provides new users with a free trial option, allowing you to explore the service’s features and content before fully committing to a subscription. However, the availability of a free trial may vary based on promotions or changes in marketing strategy. It’s a good practice to check the official ESPN website for any current offers that include a free trial.
During your trial period, you can watch live events, access on-demand content, and explore all the features that ESPN+ has to offer. If you decide during or after the trial that you want to continue, you can easily convert to a paid subscription without any hassle.
What devices are compatible with ESPN+?
ESPN+ can be accessed on a variety of devices, making it convenient to watch your favorite sports content wherever you are. Compatible devices include smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV, smartphones and tablets running iOS or Android, and game consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox.
To watch ESPN+ on these devices, you simply need to download the ESPN app, sign in with your ESPN+ account, and start streaming. This level of accessibility makes it easy for subscribers to catch live games and exclusive content from virtually anywhere.
Can I cancel ESPN+ at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your ESPN+ subscription at any time without any long-term commitment. The cancellation process is simple and can be done through the ESPN website or app. You will still have access to the service until the end of your billing cycle, so you will not lose access immediately after your cancellation is processed.
After canceling, you will not be charged for subsequent billing periods, making it easy for you to decide if the service meets your needs. Whether you’re trying it out temporarily or reconsidering your subscription, ESPN+ provides flexibility in managing your sports streaming options.