ESPN+ is not included in YouTube TV's base package, but you can add it as a separate subscription
YouTube TV does not bundle ESPN+ with its standard channel lineup. ESPN+ is a standalone streaming service owned by Disney that requires its own subscription, separate from YouTube TV. However, you can subscribe to ESPN+ independently and use both services together on the same device or account.
The confusion often arises because YouTube TV does carry ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU as cable channels within the base package. These are the traditional broadcast networks. ESPN+, by contrast, is a digital-only service that shows different content — primarily out-of-market sports, original shows, and events that do not air on the cable channels.
Key Takeaways
- YouTube TV includes ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU as cable channels, but not ESPN+ as a streaming service.
- ESPN+ is a separate subscription you purchase directly from ESPN or through the Disney Bundle, which also includes Disney+ and Hulu.
- You can watch ESPN+ on the same device as YouTube TV, but you will need to log into the ESPN+ app or website separately.
- The Disney Bundle costs less per month than subscribing to ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu individually.
- ESPN+ content includes live sports, original documentaries, and exclusive events not shown on cable ESPN channels.
What ESPN+ offers that cable ESPN does not
ESPN+ carries live games and events that the cable channels do not broadcast. This includes select NFL games, NHL games, MLS matches, college sports, boxing, UFC events, and international soccer. The service also produces original documentaries and shows about athletes and sports history.
If you want to watch a specific sport or team, you should check the ESPN+ schedule before subscribing. Some games are exclusive to ESPN+, meaning they will not air on ESPN or ESPN2 even if you have YouTube TV. Other games appear on both the cable channel and the streaming service simultaneously.
How to subscribe to ESPN+ alongside YouTube TV
You can subscribe to ESPN+ directly through the ESPN website or through the ESPN app on your phone, tablet, or streaming device. You will create a separate ESPN+ account and pay a monthly subscription fee. This account is independent from your YouTube TV login.
Alternatively, you can purchase the Disney Bundle, which includes ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu for a lower combined price than buying each service separately. The bundle pricing changes periodically, so check Disney's official website for current rates. If you already subscribe to Disney+ or Hulu through another method, the bundle may not save you money.
Watching ESPN+ on your devices
Once you have an ESPN+ subscription, you can watch on most devices that also support YouTube TV: phones, tablets, computers, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast. You will need to read the ESPN app or visit ESPN.com and log in with your ESPN+ credentials each time.
You do not need to switch between apps to watch both services. If you are watching YouTube TV on your television and want to switch to ESPN+, straightforward open the ESPN app on the same device and log in. Both services can run on the same streaming device without conflict.
Differences between ESPN cable channels and ESPN+
| Feature | ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU (on YouTube TV) | ESPN+ (separate subscription) |
|---|---|---|
| Included with YouTube TV base package | Yes | No |
| Requires separate login | No | Yes |
| Live cable broadcasts | Yes | No |
| Exclusive streaming events | No | Yes |
| Original documentaries | Occasionally | Yes |
| Out-of-market sports | No | Yes |
When ESPN+ is worth adding to YouTube TV
If you follow a sport that ESPN+ streams exclusively — such as certain MLS games, international soccer, or specific college sports — then the subscription makes sense. Check the ESPN+ schedule for your team or league before committing. Many fans find that the cable ESPN channels on YouTube TV cover the major games they want to watch, and ESPN+ becomes useful only for niche sports or out-of-market matchups.
The Disney Bundle becomes more attractive if you already watch Disney+ or Hulu. If you use all three services, the bundle typically costs less than paying for ESPN+ alone. If you only want ESPN+, compare the standalone price to the bundle price to see which option works for your household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch ESPN+ through the YouTube TV app?
No. ESPN+ is a separate service with its own app and login. You must open the ESPN app or visit ESPN.com to watch ESPN+ content, even if you also use YouTube TV on the same device.
Do I need YouTube TV to watch ESPN+?
No. ESPN+ is completely independent. You can subscribe to ESPN+ without YouTube TV, or use YouTube TV without ESPN+. They are two separate services.
Will ESPN+ give me access to live cable ESPN games?
No. ESPN+ shows different content than the cable channels. Some games air on both, but ESPN+ does not replace cable ESPN. If you want cable broadcasts, you need YouTube TV or another cable provider.
Is ESPN+ included in the Disney Bundle?
Yes. The Disney Bundle includes ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu. It costs less per month than subscribing to all three separately, though pricing varies by region and changes over time.
Can I use ESPN+ on my TV if I have YouTube TV?
Yes. read the ESPN app on your streaming device (Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, etc.) and log in with your ESPN+ account. You can switch between YouTube TV and ESPN+ on the same device.