YouTube is a well-known platform for watching videos. While you can always enjoy videos for free, there’s also a subscription service with extra perks. These perks include watching videos without ads, playing videos in the background, and downloading videos for offline viewing.
You might wonder if this subscription, known as YouTube Premium, is worth your money. This article aims to provide all the information you need to make that decision.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube Premium offers ad-free videos, background playback, and offline viewing.
- It may be worth subscribing if you spend a lot of time on YouTube.
- Consider your viewing habits to decide if you really need the subscription.
What Is YouTube Premium?
YouTube Premium is a paid subscription service for the widely used Google video platform. There are various membership types available to suit different needs.
- Individual Membership: Costs $13.99 per month. After a one-month free trial, there’s an option to pay $139.99 for a 12-month plan.
- Family Plan: Priced at $22.99 per month, this option also includes a free month for trial. It allows you to share the plan with up to 5 family members (ages 13 and above). Additionally, in certain countries like the US, Germany, France, Australia, and the UK, the primary member can share purchased Primetime Channels with the group.
- Student Plan: The most affordable at $7.99 per month, with a one-month free trial. This plan is available to those enrolled in a higher education institution that offers YouTube student memberships.
All kinds of YouTube Premium plans come with YouTube Music Premium, providing additional benefits worth considering.
Note
YouTube TV is a different service and isn’t included in the YouTube Premium subscription.
Why You Should Subscribe to YouTube Premium
Ad-Free Viewing Experience
Watching videos without ads is a major advantage. Whether you’re on your smart TV, game console, tablet, or phone, you can enjoy uninterrupted videos. Though embedded ads by video creators may still appear, all other types of ads are blocked.
Note
YouTube shares subscription revenue with creators, allowing them to provide ad-free content to premium subscribers.
No Interruptions on YouTube Kids
For families, YouTube Kids without ads is invaluable. Children can watch their favorite shows without interruptions, ensuring a more enjoyable and age-appropriate viewing experience.
Unlimited Music Streaming
Music lovers benefit from ad-free songs and playlists. You get the same perks as YouTube Music Premium, making it easier to enjoy your music without any interruptions.
Note
If you only want music options, YouTube Music Premium is available as a standalone subscription.
Offline Viewing
YouTube Premium allows you to download videos and music for offline viewing. This is perfect for trips or areas with poor Wi-Fi. Even the YouTube Kids app supports this feature, keeping children entertained without needing internet access.
Tips
Use the Smart Downloads feature to automatically download recommended content, saving you time and effort.
Background Play
You can play videos or music in the background while using other apps or when your device is locked. This is great for multitasking, like listening to a podcast while jogging without keeping the app open.
Picture-in-Picture
Picture-in-Picture (PiP) lets you watch videos while using other apps. While some free users in the U.S. can use PiP on Android, it’s fully functional for premium subscribers, except for specific content like music videos.
Seamless Device Switching
You can resume your videos or songs from where you left off when switching devices. YouTube saves your spot, making it easy to continue watching or listening on any device.
Additional Features of YouTube Premium
Here’s a list of extra features exclusive to YouTube Premium members:
- Create a queue of videos to watch next while viewing another video.
- Change video quality settings, like watching in 1080p on iPhones and iPads.
- Access an informative page with stats on your viewing habits.
- Try experimental features like free-to-play games on YouTube Playables.
Why You Don’t Need a YouTube Premium Subscription
Saving Money
YouTube offers the same wide range of content with or without a Premium subscription. If you don’t mind dealing with ads, you can watch your favorite videos for free. This way, you can save money and possibly spend it on other forms of entertainment.
Family Plan Tip
Consider the YouTube Premium family plan if multiple members of your household are interested. Sharing the subscription cost can make it more affordable for everyone involved.
Occasional Music Listening
If you don’t listen to a lot of music or already have a music subscription like Spotify, YouTube Premium might not be necessary. You can still enjoy YouTube Music for free, though you might have to deal with some limitations.
Library of YouTube Originals
The original shows that made YouTube Premium attractive, like “Cobra Kai,” have moved to other platforms like Netflix. While some old favorites like “Mind Field” and “BTS: Burn the Stage” are still available, you can watch them without the subscription, just with ads.
By carefully considering these points, you might find that a YouTube Premium subscription isn’t necessary for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are YouTube Premium Benefits Worth It?
If you use YouTube heavily, YouTube Premium is a good investment. Getting rid of ads is a major perk. You can watch videos offline, play them in the background, and download them for later. If you also need a music streaming service, this could meet that need.
Why Would You Buy YouTube Premium?
Buying YouTube Premium makes sense if you value an ad-free experience. Offline viewing and background play add to the convenience. If you watch a lot of YouTube or want these extra features, the cost is justifiable.
Is YouTube Premium Unnecessary?
Some may feel YouTube Premium isn’t needed since free YouTube already offers a lot. If ads don’t bother you and you don’t need offline viewing or background play, you might see it as unnecessary.
