YouTube TV is one of the most popular live TV streaming services, offering a range of channels, sports, and on-demand content. With its flexibility and affordability, it’s no wonder that millions of people have made the switch to YouTube TV. However, one of the most frequently asked questions about YouTube TV is whether you can watch two screens at once. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of YouTube TV and explore the answer to this question.
What is YouTube TV?
Before we dive into the specifics of watching two screens on YouTube TV, let’s take a quick look at what the service has to offer. YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service that provides access to a range of channels, including local channels, sports networks, and popular cable channels. It’s a subscription-based service, with prices starting at $64.99 per month for a single subscription.
YouTube TV is available on a range of devices, including Android and iOS devices, Chromecast, Apple TV, Roku, and more. It offers a range of features, including unlimited cloud DVR storage, live TV pause and rewind, and the ability to create up to six individual accounts.
Watching Two Screens on YouTube TV
So, can you watch two screens on YouTube TV? The short answer is yes, but there are some limitations and caveats to be aware of.
Simultaneous Streams
YouTube TV allows for simultaneous streams, which means you can watch two different channels or programs on two different devices at the same time. This is perfect for households with multiple people who want to watch different shows or sports events.
However, there is a limit to the number of simultaneous streams you can have. With a standard YouTube TV subscription, you can have up to three simultaneous streams. This means you can watch three different channels or programs on three different devices at the same time.
Additional Streams
If you need more simultaneous streams, you can upgrade to YouTube TV’s “3 Streams + Unlimited” add-on, which costs an additional $14.99 per month. This add-on allows for unlimited simultaneous streams on your home Wi-Fi network, so you can have as many devices streaming as you like.
However, it’s worth noting that this add-on only applies to streams within your home Wi-Fi network. If you’re streaming on a mobile device or outside of your home network, the standard three-stream limit applies.
Device Limitations
While YouTube TV allows for simultaneous streams, there are some device limitations to be aware of.
Mobile Devices
On mobile devices, you can only watch one stream at a time. This means you can’t have multiple tabs or apps open, watching different channels or programs simultaneously.
TV Devices
On TV devices such as Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast, you can watch multiple streams at once, but only if you have the 3 Streams + Unlimited add-on. Without this add-on, you’re limited to three simultaneous streams, and only one stream per device.
Workarounds for Multiple Screens
If you need to watch multiple screens on YouTube TV, but don’t want to upgrade to the 3 Streams + Unlimited add-on, there are some workarounds you can try.
Casting
One option is to use casting to send multiple streams to different devices. For example, you can cast one stream to your TV and another stream to a tablet or laptop. This way, you can watch two different channels or programs on two different devices, even if you don’t have the add-on.
Multi-Device Viewing
Another option is to use multiple devices to watch different streams. For example, you can have one person watching a sports game on the TV, while another person watches a different channel on their tablet or laptop. This way, you can still watch multiple streams, even if you’re limited to three simultaneous streams.
Conclusion
In conclusion, YouTube TV does allow for watching two screens at once, but there are some limitations and caveats to be aware of. With a standard subscription, you’re limited to three simultaneous streams, and if you need more, you can upgrade to the 3 Streams + Unlimited add-on.
By understanding the device limitations and workarounds, you can make the most of your YouTube TV subscription and enjoy multiple screens on different devices. Whether you’re watching sports, TV shows, or movies, YouTube TV offers a flexible and affordable way to enjoy your favorite content.
| Feature | Standard Subscription | 3 Streams + Unlimited Add-on |
|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous Streams | Up to 3 | Unlimited (on home Wi-Fi network) |
| Additional Cost | $0 | $14.99/month |
By considering the features and limitations of YouTube TV, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right live TV streaming service for your needs.
Can I watch YouTube TV on multiple devices at the same time?
You can watch YouTube TV on multiple devices at the same time, but there’s a limit. YouTube TV allows you to create up to six profiles, and each profile can have its own stream. This means that you can have multiple devices streaming different content simultaneously, as long as they’re linked to different profiles.
However, if you want to watch the same content on multiple devices at the same time, you’re limited to three concurrent streams. This is a standard practice among streaming services to prevent abuse and ensure a good viewing experience for all users. So, if you’re planning to have a party or game night, you can have up to three devices showing the same content.
Is there an extra charge for watching on multiple devices?
No, there’s no extra charge for watching YouTube TV on multiple devices. You can use as many devices as you want, as long as they’re linked to your account, and you won’t incur any additional fees. This is one of the advantages of YouTube TV over traditional cable or satellite TV, which often charges extra for additional screens or devices.
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to make sure you have a stable internet connection to support multiple streams. You’ll also want to ensure that your devices are compatible with YouTube TV, and that you have the app or a compatible browser installed.
Can I watch YouTube TV on my TV and phone at the same time?
Yes, you can definitely watch YouTube TV on your TV and phone at the same time. As long as you’re using the same account, you can have one device streaming a live show or sports event, and another device streaming a different show or recording.
Just make sure you’re logged in to the same account on both devices, and that you have a strong internet connection. You can also use the YouTube TV app on your phone or tablet to stream to your TV using Chromecast or AirPlay.
How do I set up multiple devices on YouTube TV?
To set up multiple devices on YouTube TV, you’ll need to install the app or access the website on each device. Then, sign in to your account using your email and password. Once you’re logged in, you can start streaming content right away.
If you’re having trouble getting devices to connect, make sure you’re using the same account credentials on each device. You can also restart your devices or check your internet connection to troubleshoot any issues.
Can I use YouTube TV with a shared account?
Yes, you can definitely use YouTube TV with a shared account. If you’re living with roommates or family members, you can create separate profiles for each person, and everyone can have their own stream. This way, you can share the cost of the subscription and still have your own personalized viewing experience.
Just keep in mind that you’ll need to create separate profiles for each person, and make sure everyone knows their login credentials. You can also set up parental controls to restrict access to certain content or features.
Will watching on multiple devices affect my internet speed?
Watching YouTube TV on multiple devices at the same time can affect your internet speed, especially if you have a slower connection. Streaming high-quality video content requires a lot of bandwidth, and multiple streams can add up quickly.
To avoid buffering or lag, make sure you have a fast and stable internet connection. YouTube TV recommends a minimum speed of 3 Mbps for SD streaming, 7 Mbps for HD streaming, and 13 Mbps for 4K streaming. If you’re experiencing issues, try reducing the video quality or disconnecting some devices.
Can I watch YouTube TV on multiple devices outside my home?
Yes, you can watch YouTube TV on multiple devices outside your home, but there are some limitations. You can use the YouTube TV app on your phone or tablet to stream content when you’re on the go, as long as you have a stable internet connection.
However, if you’re trying to stream content on multiple devices outside your home network, you might run into some issues. YouTube TV uses your home network to verify your location, so you might not be able to stream content on multiple devices if you’re away from home.