How to Install and Watch YouTube TV on Roku
Like most of the public channels on Roku, installing and watching YouTube TV is a very simple process. To install, simply add YouTube TV as a channel on Roku via the channel store. By activating the channel, using the code you’ll be shown in the process you can begin enjoying content from YouTube TV.
As the world is becoming increasingly digital, more and more people are moving away from cable and satellite services. Smart TVs are beginning to take center stage with content streaming becoming more popular as an alternative option to cable services.
Roku is at the leading front when it comes to streaming alternatives. It offers a variety of content for all types of users, including favorite cable and satellite TV channels, so code-cutters don’t have to miss out on shows they’ve grown to love. Through various streaming channels, Roku can still offer the live TV experience, only with more viewing control. One of the most popular streaming services on Roku that offer this is YouTube TV.
YouTube as a brand needs no introduction. It’s a highly resourceful and popular platform, especially when looking for creative ideas, and how-to solutions to problems or DIY project. Unlike that, however, YouTube TV is a streaming channel that offers you Live TV services as well as on-demand and original content.
Table of Contents
About YouTube TV – A Brief Overview.
Summary of features
- 85+ Channels
- Quality video
- A great varied content line-up
- Great for sports viewing
- Friendly user interface
- Allows 3 device streams and 6 registered accounts
- Unlimited cloud DVR
- Parental control
YouTube TV owned by YouTube now has over 3 million paying subscribers and the numbers keep growing. It’s no surprise to give the great program line-up it offers you. With more than 85 channels to pick from, you get a varied selection of content from categories like comedy, drama, sports, entertainment, news, and lifestyle. YouTube TV is also great for you if you’re a sports fanatic looking for an extensive selection of sports channels, starting with big channels like ESPN.
The interface is also user friendly, with a simple display that groups all its content under three tabs, Library, Home, and Live. You can find all your recorded content under Library. Have an overview of featured content you can pick from under Home. As for the Live tab, you’ll get a TV guide list that shows you shows currently playing, those coming up next.
YouTube TV also allows you to register up to 6 accounts and can stream up to 3 devices at the same time. This means you and other family members can each enjoy different shows simultaneously and with the Parental controls provided you can restrict what the children watch as well.
The biggest and best feature YouTube TV offers, however, is the unlimited cloud DVR you get. So even if it lacks the offline mode feature, you can still record as many of your favorite shows to watch later. This ensures you never miss anything.
Pros…
- Great overall channel line up
- Offers a lot of sports channel options
- Unlimited DVR
- Friendly user interface
- Highly compatible with many devices
- A great option for local channels
Cons…
- Basic parental control options
- Highly-priced compared to other services like Hulu
- Only accessible in the US
How Does YouTube TV Work?
YouTube TV is a paid streaming service for live TV channels. Its basic package starts at $64.99/month, which is affordable compared to cable service fees, but more expensive compared to other streaming services. But its unlimited DVR and cable-like experience, unlike what is offered by other services, more than makes up for the price.
You can customize and vary your payment plan by adding extra channels and features at an extra cost. Additional channel monthly subscription options include>
- The Sports Plus package @ $11
- HBO Max @ $15
- Showtime @ $11
- Starz @ $9
- Acorn TV @ $6
- AMC Premiere @ $5
Aside from Roku, YouTube TV is supported by Android and iOS smartphones, Smart TVs like Samsung, Game consoles like Xbox, and Browsers like Chrome and Mozilla Firefox.
List of Popular Channels on YouTube TV
Out of the 85+ channels offered by YouTube TV, there is a selection for everyone, sports to kids’ content. Here is a list of some of the major and popular channels offered:
- Fox
- ABC
- MotorTrend
- NBA TV
- Nat Geo Wild
- NBC
- ESPN
- Nickelodeon
- Disney Junior
- Telemundo
- E!
- CNN
- CBS
- BET
- BBC World News
List of Roku Devices Supported by YouTube TV.
While YouTube TV is highly compatible, it is however not supported with some of the older Roku models. Here is a list of the Roku devices that do support streaming from YouTube TV:
- 4K Roku TV
- Roku Ultra
- Roku TV
- Roku 3
- Roku 4
- Roku 2 (4210)
- Roku Premiere
- Roku Premiere+
- Roku Express
- Roku Streaming Stick (from 3500)
- Roku Express+
The Process of Installing and Watching YouTube TV on Roku
With knowledge of what you’re getting out of YouTube TV, you can now go ahead and install it on your Roku. The process is simple and involves very easy steps. The table below summarizes the process for you:
Step |
Process |
Installing YouTube TV on Roku
|
· Plug your Roku Device into the TV via the HDMI port
· Turn on the TV and open Roku · Connect Roku to home internet · Log in to Roku · On the remote, press Home · Under Home, choose Streaming Channels · Go to Channel Store · Select Search Channel · Search for and select YouTube TV · Under Channel details, select Add Channel option · YouTube TV app will now install |
Activating YouTube TV on Roku |
· Navigate to the Channel section on Roku
· Open YouTube TV app · Select “already a member” · Note down the Activation Code displayed · Browse tv.youtube.com/activate · Key in activation code · YouTube TV app is now Activated for use and linked to your Roku device. |
Conclusion
By following the simple process given, you can easily install and activate YouTube TV on your Roku. In no time, you’ll be enjoying the best of cable experience from YouTube TV at an affordable cost. In case of any issues during the process, contact customer support, for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
1. Why can’t I find YouTube TV on my Roku?
If you are not within the US or are using an older Roku model, then YouTube TV may not be supported on your device.
2. Why am I experiencing a playback error on my YouTube TV?
This could be due to slow internet or continuous running of the Roku device over long hours. Check your connection and consider giving the device a break.
