Here's What Hardware You Need To Run YouTube TV

YouTube TV wants to be your cable replacement, but the entry commitment is much easier than what cable companies require. That includes the hardware needed for YouTube TV.

YouTube TV launched back in 2017, and since then, it has grown up a lot — even though it’s gone through multiple price hikes. The platform now offers up to 4K content among a wide variety of shows, with tons of add-ons if you’re into specific categories. Still, the base plan offers plenty of channel options, including local and national.

One of the biggest draws for YouTube TV is its ease of use as a new cable alternative. Rather than requiring you to purchase or loan a cable box or unit, YouTube TV runs through an app on your TV. Not only does it require just an app, but that app is available on every major TV operating system, including Apple TV.

The platform only requires an active subscription to work. That being said, it starts at $82.99, an increase from $72.99 in January 2025. Still, YouTube TV offers a competitive option against other services with less inviting features.

For instance, YouTube TV stores DVR-recorded shows on the cloud and has no storage limit in place for users. On top of that, up to 3 separate streams can be played simultaneously, which makes it a pretty good option for a larger household. The cable options that still exist can be a little limiting in this as some companies still rely on physical hardware, which limits streaming locations in the home. YouTube TV, on the other hand, can be used on any TV in the house as long as it can handle downloading apps.

YouTube TV can also be used on other devices. Again, the app-based nature of it means it can stream on iPads, Android tablets, phones, and more. Even modern monitors have Google TV built-in, which makes streaming possible.

YouTube TV is a great option for those looking to switch up cable providers and move to something simpler. The price is really the only factor that determines if it’s worth it or not.