software
ESPN+ vs YouTube TV 2026: Price, Sports, Channels
ESPN+ is a dedicated sports streaming service with 20,000+ live events annually at $11.99/month, while YouTube TV is a comprehensive cable replacement with 100+ channels including sports for $72.99/month. ESPN+ excels for sports-only viewers seeking value, while YouTube TV suits cord-cutters wanting complete entertainment and local channels.
E
ESPN+
Sports-focused streaming service with exclusive ESPN content, college sports, and MMA.
Sports enthusiasts, college football/basketball fans, and UFC followers who want affordable dedicated sports streaming without cable content.
Score71%
VS
YT
YouTube TV
Cable alternative streaming service with 100+ live TV channels including sports, news, and entertainment.
Cord-cutters wanting a complete television replacement with diverse entertainment, news, and sports across 100+ channels for the entire household.
Score71%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryESPN+ is a dedicated sports streaming service with 20,000+ live events annually at $11.99/month, while YouTube TV is a comprehensive cable replacement with 100+ channels including sports for $72.99/month. ESPN+ excels for sports-only viewers seeking value, while YouTube TV suits cord-cutters wanting complete entertainment and local channels.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose ESPN+ if you're a dedicated sports fan who wants affordable access to 20,000+ annual events across ESPN, college sports, and combat sports without paying for non-sports channels. Choose YouTube TV if you want a complete cable replacement with 100+ entertainment channels, local programming, and broad sports coverage justified by the higher cost.
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E
ESPN+
7/10
YouTube TV
8/10
Y
E
Choose ESPN+ if
Sports enthusiasts, college football/basketball fans, and UFC followers who want affordable dedicated sports streaming without cable content.
Y
Choose YouTube TV if
Best pickCord-cutters wanting a complete television replacement with diverse entertainment, news, and sports across 100+ channels for the entire household.
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Monthly Cost:✓ ESPN+ wins($11.99 vs $72.99)
- Total Live Sports Events (Annual):✓ ESPN+ wins(20,000+ vs 5,000+)
- Included TV Channels:✓ YouTube TV wins(100+ vs 0 (sports-only))
Key Facts & Figures
128 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | ESPN+ | YouTube TV | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) | $99.99 | $839.88 | |
| Live Events Per Year(events) | 20,000+ | Varies (included in channels) | — |
| Total Channels(channels) | 8-10 (ESPN networks only) | 70+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens) | 1 | 6 | |
| Original Content Library(titles) | 500+ originals | Limited (under 50) | |
| NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games) | 10+ games | Included via ESPN networks | — |
| Total Channels Available(channels) | ESPN networks only (~8-10 ESPN channels) | 70+ channels | |
| Live Sports Events Monthly(events) | 150+ | 500+ | |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 2 streams | 3 screens | |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | 10+ hours (sports documentaries, analysis shows) | Minimal original content focus | |
| Total Content Library Size(titles) | 4,000+ | — | — |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 25 million | — | — |
| Base Monthly Cost (US)(USD) | $11.99 | — | — |
| Premium Monthly Cost (Ad-Free US)(USD) | $11.99 | — | — |
| Live Sports Events (Annual)(events) | 5,000+ | — | — |
| Original Content Produced (Annual)(titles) | 150+ | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free, US)(USD) | $11.99 | — | — |
| Global Subscriber Count(millions) | 25 million | — | — |
| Original Content Produced Annually(titles) | 50+ shows and documentaries | — | — |
| Bundle Pricing (With Other Services)(USD/month) | $14.99 (Disney+, Hulu bundle) | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $11.99 | $72.99 | |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 20,000+ | 3,000+ (sports only) | |
| Total Live Channels(channels) | 15-20 (sports only) | 100+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 2 | 6 (1 in 4K) | |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 500+ | 0 | |
| Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) | $143.88 | $875.88 | |
| Standard Monthly Price (USD)(USD) | $11.99 standalone | — | — |
| Original Titles Produced(titles) | 150+ | — | — |
| Live Sports Events Per Year(events) | 500+ | — | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | 7 days | |
| Year Founded | 2018 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Price(USD) | $11.99 | $72.99 | |
| Live Channels Available(channels) | 3 (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU) | 150+ channels | |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 2 | 3 | |
| Family Profiles(profiles) | 1 | 6 | |
| Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps) | 8 Mbps (4K) | 3 Mbps (HD) | |
| Sports Content Types(types) | 4 (MLS, UFC, NHL, MLB) | All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) | |
| Global Subscriber Base(millions) | 25+ million | — | — |
| Standard Monthly Price (US)(USD) | $11.99 | — | — |
| Content Library Size(titles) | 1,500+ titles (mostly sports) | 150 channels | |
| Annual Sports Events(events) | 20,000+ | 5,000+ | |
| Total Live TV Channels(channels) | 0 (sports-only feed) | 100+ | |
| Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets) | 0% | 90% | |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | 11.1 | |
| Family Sharing Accounts(profiles) | 6 accounts standard | 6 accounts standard | |
| Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams) | Up to 3 | Up to 3 | |
| Household Accounts(accounts) | Up to 6 | Up to 6 | |
| Free Trial Length(days) | None | None | |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.86 | $0.86 | |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $82.99/month | $82.99/month | |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | 2,500+ | 2,500+ | |
| Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) | 6 simultaneous | 6 simultaneous | |
| Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $95.99/month | $95.99/month | |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $73.99 | $73.99 | |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | +$32.99 | +$32.99 | |
| Base Monthly Cost(USD) | $99.99 | $99.99 | |
| Sports Networks Included(count) | 20+ networks | 20+ networks | |
| Price per Channel(USD per channel) | $1.04 per channel | $1.04 per channel | |
| Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) | $82.99 | $82.99 | |
| Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens) | 6 simultaneous streams | 6 simultaneous streams | |
| Sports Content Percentage(percent) | ~50% | ~50% | |
| Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) | ~50% | ~50% | |
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | |
| Live TV Channel Count(channels) | 150+ channels | 150+ channels | |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ | 100+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 6 | 6 | |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | 7 | |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) | $99.99 | $99.99 | |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | 270 days (9 months) | |
| Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) | 3 streams | 3 streams | |
| Number of User Profiles(profiles) | 6 profiles | 6 profiles | |
| On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) | Minimal (YouTube originals only) | Minimal (YouTube originals only) | |
| Monthly Base Price(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Live Channels Included(channels) | 70+ | 70+ | |
| Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) | $875.88 | $875.88 | |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 70+ channels | 70+ channels | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) | 3 streams | 3 streams | |
| DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) | None (unlimited included) | None (unlimited included) | |
| DVR Content Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | 270 days (9 months) | |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 150+ | 150+ | |
| Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) | $875.88 | $875.88 | |
| On-Demand Library Size(titles) | ~500 (YouTube Originals) | ~500 (YouTube Originals) | |
| DVR Recording Retention Period(months) | 9 months | 9 months | |
| On-Demand Content Library(titles) | ~3,000 | ~3,000 | |
| Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) | 6 | 6 | |
| Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $659.88 | $659.88 | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) | 5 | 5 | |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99/month | $72.99/month | |
| Annual Cost Difference(USD) | $995.88/year | $995.88/year | |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ channels | 100+ channels | |
| Bundle Customization Options(bundles) | 1 fixed lineup | 1 fixed lineup | |
| Sports Channels(channels) | 40+ | 40+ | |
| Device Compatibility(supported devices) | 200+ devices | 200+ devices | |
| Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) | 25+ | 25+ | |
| 4K Channel Availability(channels) | 10+ channels | 10+ channels | |
| Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $82.99 | $82.99 | |
| Sports Channel Count(channels) | 15+ channels | 15+ channels | |
| News Channel Count(channels) | 10+ channels | 10+ channels | |
| User Profiles Per Household(profiles) | 5 profiles | 5 profiles | |
| Included On-Demand Library(titles) | 0 (separate subscription required) | 0 (separate subscription required) | |
| Base Channel Count(channels) | 70+ | 70+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams) | 3 (no upgrade needed) | 3 (no upgrade needed) | |
| Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month) | $10.99 | $10.99 | |
| HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month) | $15.99 (separate sub) | $15.99 (separate sub) | |
| Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD) | $72.99 | $72.99 | |
| Original Content Production (Annual)(titles) | 5-10 | 5-10 | |
| Global Availability(countries) | USA only | USA only | |
| Subscriber Base (2026)(millions) | 8 | 8 | |
| Included Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ channels | 100+ channels | |
| Default Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 3 streams | 3 streams | |
| Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month) | $72.99 (included) | $72.99 (included) | |
| Concurrent Streams(streams) | 3 | 3 | |
| On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated)) | 0 (separate purchase) | 0 (separate purchase) | |
| Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD) | $887.88 | $887.88 | |
| Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month) | $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) | $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) | |
| Trial Period(days) | 3 months ($1/month) | 3 months ($1/month) | |
| Included Streaming Services(services) | YouTube Premium only (1) | YouTube Premium only (1) | |
| Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets) | 95% coverage | 95% coverage | |
| Additional Stream Cost(USD/month) | No additional cost | No additional cost | |
| Sports Channels Included(channels) | 12+ channels | 12+ channels | |
| Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served) | 150+ markets | 150+ markets | |
| Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens) | 6 screens | 6 screens |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
E
3ESPN+Evenly matched1 tie
YT
3YouTube TVESPN+
Attribute
YouTube TV
- $11.99(winner)Monthly Cost$72.99
- 20,000+(winner)Total Live Sports Events (Annual)5,000+
- 0 (sports-only)Included TV Channels100+(winner)
- UnlimitedCloud DVR StorageUnlimited
- 2Simultaneous Streams3(winner)
- ESPN networks, college sports, MMA(winner)Sports Content FocusBroad sports coverage across multiple networks
- Not includedLocal News & ChannelsLocal affiliates in most markets(winner)
- Monthly Cost
ESPN+
$11.99(winner)
YouTube TV
$72.99
- Total Live Sports Events (Annual)
ESPN+
20,000+(winner)
YouTube TV
5,000+
- Included TV Channels
ESPN+
0 (sports-only)
YouTube TV
100+(winner)
- Cloud DVR Storage
ESPN+
Unlimited
YouTube TV
Unlimited
- Simultaneous Streams
ESPN+
2
YouTube TV
3(winner)
- Sports Content Focus
ESPN+
ESPN networks, college sports, MMA(winner)
YouTube TV
Broad sports coverage across multiple networks
- Local News & Channels
ESPN+
Not included
YouTube TV
Local affiliates in most markets(winner)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | ESPN+ | YouTube TV |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) | $99.99(winner) | $839.88 |
| Base Monthly Cost (US)(USD) | $11.99 | — |
| Premium Monthly Cost (Ad-Free US)(USD) | $11.99 | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free, US)(USD) | $11.99 | — |
| Bundle Pricing (With Other Services)(USD/month) | $14.99 (Disney+, Hulu bundle) | — |
Show 34 more attributesMonthly Subscription Cost(USD) $11.99 $72.99 Standard Monthly Price (USD)(USD) $11.99 standalone — Monthly Subscription Price(USD) $11.99 $72.99 Standard Monthly Price (US)(USD) $11.99 — Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) — Free Trial Length(days) None — Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) $82.99/month — Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) $95.99/month — Starting Monthly Price(USD) $73.99 — Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) +$32.99 — Base Monthly Cost(USD) $99.99 — Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) $82.99 — Base Monthly Price(USD) $72.99 — Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) $99.99 — Monthly Base Price(USD) $72.99 — Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) $875.88 — Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) $72.99 — DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) None (unlimited included) — Bundle Discount Available(boolean) No official bundles — Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) $875.88 — Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD) Not available — Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) $659.88 — Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) $72.99 — Ad-Free Plan Availability Yes ($79.99/month) — Base Monthly Price(USD) $72.99/month — Annual Cost Difference(USD) $995.88/year — Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) $72.99 — Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $82.99 — Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month) $10.99 — HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month) $15.99 (separate sub) — Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD) $72.99 — Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD) $887.88 — Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month) $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) — Additional Stream Cost(USD/month) No additional cost — | ||
| Live Events Per Year(events) | 20,000+ | Varies (included in channels) |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 20,000+(winner) | 3,000+ (sports only) |
| Annual Sports Events(events) | 20,000+(winner) | 5,000+ |
| Total Channels(channels) | 8-10 (ESPN networks only) | 70+(winner) |
| Original Content Library(titles) | 500+ originals(winner) | Limited (under 50) |
| Total Channels Available(channels) | ESPN networks only (~8-10 ESPN channels) | 70+ channels(winner) |
| Total Content Library Size(titles) | 4,000+ | — |
| Original Content Produced Annually(titles) | 50+ shows and documentaries | — |
Show 35 more attributesLive Sports Event Coverage(hours per week) 150+ hours weekly — Total Live Channels(channels) 15-20 (sports only) 100+ Live Channels Available(channels) 3 (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU) 150+ channels Sports Content Types(types) 4 (MLS, UFC, NHL, MLB) All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) Content Library Size(titles) 1,500+ titles (mostly sports) 150 channels Content Library Size(titles) 100+ live channels — Live TV Channels(channels) 100+ — Original Content Focus (2026) Moderate (licensed dominant) — Sports Networks Included(count) 20+ networks — News Networks Included(major networks) CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News — Sports Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Live TV Channel Count(channels) 150+ channels — Live Channels(channels) 100+ — On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) Minimal (YouTube originals only) — Live Channels Included(channels) 70+ — Regional Sports Networks Standard coverage only — Live TV Channels(channels) 70+ channels — On-Demand Library Size(titles) ~500 (YouTube Originals) — On-Demand Content Library(titles) ~3,000 — Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) 5 — Live Channels(channels) 100+ channels — Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) 25+ — Sports Channel Count(channels) 15+ channels — News Channel Count(channels) 10+ channels — Included On-Demand Streaming No (separate subscriptions needed) — Included On-Demand Library(titles) 0 (separate subscription required) — Base Channel Count(channels) 70+ — Original Content Production (Annual)(titles) 5-10 — Included Live TV Channels(channels) 100+ channels — Major Sports Channel Inclusion(channels) Included (ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, MLB Network, Pac-12, others) — On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated)) 0 (separate purchase) — Included Streaming Services(services) YouTube Premium only (1) — Sports Channels Included(channels) 12+ channels — Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served) 150+ markets — | ||
| Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens) | 1 | 6(winner) |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 2 streams | 3 screens(winner) |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(streams) | Unlimited devices | — |
| Premium Tier Video Quality(resolution) | Up to 4K (varies by sport) | — |
| Offline Download Feature | Limited on select content | — |
Show 38 more attributesSimultaneous Streams (Standard)(devices) Unlimited — Family Profiles(profiles) 1 6 Unlimited DVR All plans included — Family Sharing Accounts(profiles) 6 accounts standard — Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams) Up to 3 — Household Accounts(accounts) Up to 6 — Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) 6 simultaneous — Multiview Sports Feature Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026) — DVR Storage (Standard)(hours) Unlimited — Customizable Channel Selection(yes/no) Genre-based plans (2026) — No-Contract Cancellation(yes/no) Yes, anytime — DVR Recording Storage(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens) 6 simultaneous streams — Cloud DVR Storage(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Streams(streams) 6 — DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited — Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) 3 streams — Number of User Profiles(profiles) 6 profiles — Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) 3 streams — Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours or months) Unlimited (12 months retention) — DVR Content Retention Period(days) 270 days (9 months) — Live TV Channels Included(channels) 150+ — Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited — DVR Recording Retention Period(months) 9 months — Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) 6 — Offline Download Capability No — Bundle Customization Options(bundles) 1 fixed lineup — DVR Storage Limit(hours or unlimited) Unlimited — Cloud DVR Retention(days) Unlimited days — 4K Channel Availability(channels) 10+ channels — User Profiles Per Household(profiles) 5 profiles — Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams) 3 (no upgrade needed) — Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours) Unlimited — Default Simultaneous Streams(streams) 3 streams — Cloud DVR Storage Standard Tier(hours) Unlimited — Concurrent Streams(streams) 3 — 4K Live Streaming Available (select channels) — Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens) 6 screens — | ||
| Cloud DVR Storage(capacity) | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games) | 10+ games | Included via ESPN networks |
| Live Sports Events Monthly(events) | 150+ | 500+(winner) |
| NFL Game Broadcasts Available(percent) | Select games (ESPN/ABC) | All major broadcasts (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, ABC) |
| Live Sports Events Per Year(events) | 500+ | — |
| Local Broadcast Network Access(markets covered) | Not available | 90% of U.S. markets(winner) |
| Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets) | 0% | 90%(winner) |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | 10+ hours (sports documentaries, analysis shows)(winner) | Minimal original content focus |
| Original Content Produced (Annual)(titles) | 150+ | — |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 25 million | — |
| Global Subscriber Count(millions) | 25 million | — |
| Live Sports Events (Annual)(events) | 5,000+ | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Tier)(devices) | Unlimited | — |
| Countries Available(countries) | US primarily (limited international) | — |
| Global Availability(countries) | USA only | — |
| Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets) | 95% coverage | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 2 | 6 (1 in 4K)(winner) |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 500+(winner) | 0 |
| Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) | $143.88(winner) | $875.88 |
| Original Titles Produced(titles) | 150+ | — |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | 2,500+ | — |
| Maximum Video Resolution(pixels) | 1080p Full HD | — |
| 4K Streaming Available | Yes ($9.99/month add-on) | — |
| 4K Streaming Support | Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo) | — |
| 4K Content Available(yes/no) | Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on) | — |
| 4K Content Support(boolean) | No | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | 7 days |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | — |
| Trial Period(days) | 3 months ($1/month) | — |
| Year Founded | 2018 | — |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 2 | 3(winner) |
| Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps) | 8 Mbps (4K) | 3 Mbps (HD)(winner) |
| Global Subscriber Base(millions) | 25+ million | — |
| Countries with Service(countries) | Primarily US and select regions | — |
| Ad-Free Tier Availability | Yes, $11.99/month (no ads) | — |
| Total Live TV Channels(channels) | 0 (sports-only feed) | 100+(winner) |
| Sports League Coverage Breadth(primary leagues) | ESPN networks, college sports, UFC, MMA | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports across ABC/Fox/ESPN |
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | — |
| Ad-Free Viewing | Standard feature (no ads) | — |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.86 | — |
| Price per Channel(USD per channel) | $1.04 per channel | — |
| Bundled Premium Services(services) | None included | — |
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | — |
| Included Premium Services | YouTube Premium, YouTube Music | — |
| Mobile App Quality | Excellent with quick guide navigation | — |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | — |
| Contract Required | No | — |
| Free Trial Period(days) | No free trial (5-day trial historically) | — |
| Sports Channels(channels) | 40+ | — |
| Major Sports Networks Included(networks) | Most major networks | — |
| Device Compatibility(supported devices) | 200+ devices | — |
| 4K Streaming Support(availability) | Available (select channels + $10.99/mo add-on) | — |
| 4K Content Availability(% of library) | Yes | — |
| Streaming Device Compatibility | All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile) | — |
| Supported Devices(count) | 40+ devices | — |
| User Interface Rating(out of 5 stars) | 4.3 stars | — |
| Live Sports Coverage | All major (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS) | — |
| Subscriber Base (2026)(millions) | 8 | — |
| Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month) | $72.99 (included) | — |
EESPN+
YYouTube TV
Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD)
$99.99
$839.88
Base Monthly Cost (US)(USD)
$11.99
—
Premium Monthly Cost (Ad-Free US)(USD)
$11.99
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free, US)(USD)
$11.99
—
Bundle Pricing (With Other Services)(USD/month)
$14.99 (Disney+, Hulu bundle)
—
Show 34 more attributes
Monthly Subscription Cost(USD)
$11.99
$72.99
Standard Monthly Price (USD)(USD)
$11.99 standalone
—
Monthly Subscription Price(USD)
$11.99
$72.99
Standard Monthly Price (US)(USD)
$11.99
—
Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$60 (intro) / $83 (standard)
—
Free Trial Length(days)
None
—
Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$82.99/month
—
Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD)
$95.99/month
—
Starting Monthly Price(USD)
$73.99
—
Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month)
+$32.99
—
Base Monthly Cost(USD)
$99.99
—
Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD)
$82.99
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99
—
Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD)
$99.99
—
Monthly Base Price(USD)
$72.99
—
Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD)
$875.88
—
Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month)
None (unlimited included)
—
Bundle Discount Available(boolean)
No official bundles
—
Annual Cost (12-month)(USD)
$875.88
—
Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD)
Not available
—
Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$659.88
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
Ad-Free Plan Availability
Yes ($79.99/month)
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99/month
—
Annual Cost Difference(USD)
$995.88/year
—
Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD)
$72.99
—
Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$82.99
—
Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month)
$10.99
—
HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month)
$15.99 (separate sub)
—
Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD)
$72.99
—
Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD)
$887.88
—
Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month)
$14.99 (Sports+ add-on)
—
Additional Stream Cost(USD/month)
No additional cost
—
Live Events Per Year(events)
20,000+
Varies (included in channels)
Live Sporting Events Per Year(events)
20,000+
3,000+ (sports only)
Annual Sports Events(events)
20,000+
5,000+
Total Channels(channels)
8-10 (ESPN networks only)
70+
Original Content Library(titles)
500+ originals
Limited (under 50)
Total Channels Available(channels)
ESPN networks only (~8-10 ESPN channels)
70+ channels
Total Content Library Size(titles)
4,000+
—
Original Content Produced Annually(titles)
50+ shows and documentaries
—
Show 35 more attributes
Live Sports Event Coverage(hours per week)
150+ hours weekly
—
Total Live Channels(channels)
15-20 (sports only)
100+
Live Channels Available(channels)
3 (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU)
150+ channels
Sports Content Types(types)
4 (MLS, UFC, NHL, MLB)
All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.)
Content Library Size(titles)
1,500+ titles (mostly sports)
150 channels
Content Library Size(titles)
100+ live channels
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
100+
—
Original Content Focus (2026)
Moderate (licensed dominant)
—
Sports Networks Included(count)
20+ networks
—
News Networks Included(major networks)
CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News
—
Sports Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Live TV Channel Count(channels)
150+ channels
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+
—
On-Demand Content Library Size(titles)
Minimal (YouTube originals only)
—
Live Channels Included(channels)
70+
—
Regional Sports Networks
Standard coverage only
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
70+ channels
—
On-Demand Library Size(titles)
~500 (YouTube Originals)
—
On-Demand Content Library(titles)
~3,000
—
Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations)
5
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+ channels
—
Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels)
25+
—
Sports Channel Count(channels)
15+ channels
—
News Channel Count(channels)
10+ channels
—
Included On-Demand Streaming
No (separate subscriptions needed)
—
Included On-Demand Library(titles)
0 (separate subscription required)
—
Base Channel Count(channels)
70+
—
Original Content Production (Annual)(titles)
5-10
—
Included Live TV Channels(channels)
100+ channels
—
Major Sports Channel Inclusion(channels)
Included (ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, MLB Network, Pac-12, others)
—
On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated))
0 (separate purchase)
—
Included Streaming Services(services)
YouTube Premium only (1)
—
Sports Channels Included(channels)
12+ channels
—
Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served)
150+ markets
—
Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens)
1
6
Maximum Simultaneous Streams(streams)
2 streams
3 screens
Maximum Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(streams)
Unlimited devices
—
Premium Tier Video Quality(resolution)
Up to 4K (varies by sport)
—
Offline Download Feature
Limited on select content
—
Show 38 more attributes
Simultaneous Streams (Standard)(devices)
Unlimited
—
Family Profiles(profiles)
1
6
Unlimited DVR
All plans included
—
Family Sharing Accounts(profiles)
6 accounts standard
—
Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams)
Up to 3
—
Household Accounts(accounts)
Up to 6
—
Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings)
6 simultaneous
—
Multiview Sports Feature
Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026)
—
DVR Storage (Standard)(hours)
Unlimited
—
Customizable Channel Selection(yes/no)
Genre-based plans (2026)
—
No-Contract Cancellation(yes/no)
Yes, anytime
—
DVR Recording Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens)
6 simultaneous streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
6
—
DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
—
Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams)
3 streams
—
Number of User Profiles(profiles)
6 profiles
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams)
3 streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours or months)
Unlimited (12 months retention)
—
DVR Content Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
150+
—
Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
—
DVR Recording Retention Period(months)
9 months
—
Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts)
6
—
Offline Download Capability
No
—
Bundle Customization Options(bundles)
1 fixed lineup
—
DVR Storage Limit(hours or unlimited)
Unlimited
—
Cloud DVR Retention(days)
Unlimited days
—
4K Channel Availability(channels)
10+ channels
—
User Profiles Per Household(profiles)
5 profiles
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams)
3 (no upgrade needed)
—
Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours)
Unlimited
—
Default Simultaneous Streams(streams)
3 streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage Standard Tier(hours)
Unlimited
—
Concurrent Streams(streams)
3
—
4K Live Streaming
Available (select channels)
—
Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens)
6 screens
—
Cloud DVR Storage(capacity)
Unlimited
Unlimited
NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games)
10+ games
Included via ESPN networks
Live Sports Events Monthly(events)
150+
500+
NFL Game Broadcasts Available(percent)
Select games (ESPN/ABC)
All major broadcasts (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, ABC)
Live Sports Events Per Year(events)
500+
—
Local Broadcast Network Access(markets covered)
Not available
90% of U.S. markets
Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets)
0%
90%
Original Content Hours Monthly(hours)
10+ hours (sports documentaries, analysis shows)
Minimal original content focus
Original Content Produced (Annual)(titles)
150+
—
Global Subscribers(millions)
25 million
—
Global Subscriber Count(millions)
25 million
—
Live Sports Events (Annual)(events)
5,000+
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base Tier)(devices)
Unlimited
—
Countries Available(countries)
US primarily (limited international)
—
Global Availability(countries)
USA only
—
Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets)
95% coverage
—
Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams)
2
6 (1 in 4K)
Original Sports Content Library(titles)
500+
0
Annual Cost (12 months)(USD)
$143.88
$875.88
Original Titles Produced(titles)
150+
—
On-Demand Content Titles(titles)
2,500+
—
Maximum Video Resolution(pixels)
1080p Full HD
—
4K Streaming Available
Yes ($9.99/month add-on)
—
4K Streaming Support
Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo)
—
4K Content Available(yes/no)
Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on)
—
4K Content Support(boolean)
No
—
Free Trial Duration(days)
7 days
7 days
Free Trial Length(days)
7
—
Trial Period(days)
3 months ($1/month)
—
Year Founded
2018
—
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
2
3
Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps)
8 Mbps (4K)
3 Mbps (HD)
Global Subscriber Base(millions)
25+ million
—
Countries with Service(countries)
Primarily US and select regions
—
Ad-Free Tier Availability
Yes, $11.99/month (no ads)
—
Total Live TV Channels(channels)
0 (sports-only feed)
100+
Sports League Coverage Breadth(primary leagues)
ESPN networks, college sports, UFC, MMA
NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports across ABC/Fox/ESPN
Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions)
11.1
—
Ad-Free Viewing
Standard feature (no ads)
—
Cost Per Channel(USD per channel)
$0.86
—
Price per Channel(USD per channel)
$1.04 per channel
—
Bundled Premium Services(services)
None included
—
AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year)
2026 (multiview, interactive features)
—
Included Premium Services
YouTube Premium, YouTube Music
—
Mobile App Quality
Excellent with quick guide navigation
—
DVR Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Contract Required
No
—
Free Trial Period(days)
No free trial (5-day trial historically)
—
Sports Channels(channels)
40+
—
Major Sports Networks Included(networks)
Most major networks
—
Device Compatibility(supported devices)
200+ devices
—
4K Streaming Support(availability)
Available (select channels + $10.99/mo add-on)
—
4K Content Availability(% of library)
Yes
—
Streaming Device Compatibility
All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile)
—
Supported Devices(count)
40+ devices
—
User Interface Rating(out of 5 stars)
4.3 stars
—
Live Sports Coverage
All major (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS)
—
Subscriber Base (2026)(millions)
8
—
Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month)
$72.99 (included)
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
E
YT
E
ESPN+
+5-2
Pros
- Lowest price at $11.99/month with 20,000+ live sports events annually
- Exclusive access to ESPN Original Shows and premium college football/basketball
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage for recording live events
- UFC and MMA fights exclusive to ESPN+ subscribers
- Seamless integration with ESPN app and ESPN.com for live score tracking
Cons
- No access to cable news, entertainment, or non-sports channels
- Limited to 2 simultaneous streams (requires multiple subscriptions for larger households)
YT
YouTube TV
+5-2
Pros
- Comprehensive 100+ channel lineup including sports, news, entertainment, and local affiliates
- 3 simultaneous streams (vs. ESPN+'s 2) for multi-device households
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage with standard definition archival
- Live access to NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL across multiple networks (ABC, Fox, ESPN)
- Includes local news and weather stations in most U.S. markets
Cons
- Higher monthly cost at $72.99 ($61 more than ESPN+ annually) limits sports-only appeal
- Significant content overlap with cable; may include channels users don't watch
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
No, YouTube TV's $72.99/month package includes all 100+ channels as a bundle—you cannot customize or remove channels. If you only want sports, ESPN+ at $11.99/month offers significantly better value, though it has no entertainment or news content.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more about our affiliate disclosure
Wikipedia
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