Sling TV and YouTube TV are the two most-subscribed live TV streaming services in the U.S. Sling is cheaper and more customizable. YouTube TV is more expensive but more complete. The choice usually comes down to how much of a full cable replacement you actually need.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV wins for most cord-cutters who want a true cable replacement. Sling wins for budget-conscious subscribers who only need specific channel groups.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Sling TV | YouTube TV |
|---|---|---|
| Base price | $45/mo (Blue or Orange) | $72.99/mo |
| DVR storage | 50 hours (upgradeable) | Unlimited (9 months) |
| Simultaneous streams | 1 (Orange) / 3 (Blue) | 3 (unlimited home) |
| Local channels | Varies by package/market | ABC/CBS/NBC/Fox in most markets |
| ESPN | Orange and combined only | Yes |
Channel Lineup
YouTube TV includes 100+ channels with local ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox in most markets, plus ESPN, CNN, MSNBC, TBS, TNT, AMC, and more. It's a comprehensive cable replacement. No haggling over packages.
Sling is split into Blue ($45/mo), Orange ($45/mo), or both ($60/mo). Blue has Fox and NBC but no ESPN. Orange has ESPN and ABC but no Fox or NBC local channels. You have to know what you're doing to build the right Sling package. The a la carte model is flexible but requires homework.
DVR
YouTube TV includes unlimited cloud DVR storage — record everything, store for 9 months, no limits. This is genuinely one of the best features in the product and something no other live TV service matches cleanly.
Sling includes 50 hours of DVR on all plans. Additional storage is available for an add-on fee. For a household that records a lot, this is a real limitation.
Pricing
YouTube TV is $72.99/mo. It's gone up several times in recent years and is no longer the bargain it launched as. Sling Blue or Orange is $45/mo; both together are $60/mo. Sling is materially cheaper.
Sling also offers a free trial and has more promotional pricing. YouTube TV occasionally offers deals through Google/YouTube promotions.
Sling TV Strengths
- Cheaper — $45/mo for Blue or Orange package
- More customizable with add-on packages
- Sports-focused add-ons available
- Free trial available
YouTube TV Strengths
- Unlimited cloud DVR (9-month storage)
- 100+ channels including all major locals in most markets
- Cleaner, more intuitive interface
- No package confusion — one plan, everything included
Sling TV Weaknesses
- No unlimited DVR (50-hour limit)
- Confusing Orange vs Blue channel split
- Local channel availability varies by market
YouTube TV Weaknesses
- $72.99/mo — expensive for a streaming service
- No a la carte options
- Price has increased significantly since launch
Best For
- a: Budget cord-cutters who only need specific channel groups and can navigate the Orange/Blue package structure
- b: Households wanting a complete cable replacement with unlimited DVR and no channel-picking headaches
FAQ
Does Sling TV include local channels?
It depends on your market and package. Sling Blue includes Fox and NBC affiliates in select markets; Sling Orange includes ABC in some markets. CBS is generally not available. YouTube TV has broader local channel availability.
Can I pause my Sling subscription?
Yes — Sling allows subscribers to pause service for up to three months at a time, which is useful for seasonal households or travelers.