YouTube Premium offers an ad-free experience and additional features for a monthly fee. But is it worth the cost compared to the free version? Let’s explore the key differences and benefits to help you decide if upgrading makes sense for your viewing habits.
Ad-Free Viewing
The most noticeable benefit of YouTube Premium is the complete removal of ads from videos. This creates an uninterrupted viewing experience, especially valuable for:
- Binge-watching longer content like documentaries or educational series
- Enjoying music videos without commercial breaks
- Maintaining focus during instructional or tutorial videos
While occasional ads may not bother casual viewers, heavy YouTube users often find the ad-free experience significantly improves their enjoyment of the platform.
Background Play and Offline Viewing
YouTube Premium enables two key mobile features:
Background Play
Continue listening to audio from videos even when your phone screen is off or you’re using other apps. This is particularly useful for:
- Listening to podcasts or interviews
- Playing music mixes or playlists
- Following along with guided meditations or workouts
Offline Downloads
Download videos to watch later without an internet connection. Ideal for:
- Saving content for long flights or trips
- Conserving mobile data usage
- Ensuring access to important tutorials or lectures
These features add considerable flexibility to how and when you can enjoy YouTube content.
YouTube Music Premium
A YouTube Premium subscription includes access to YouTube Music Premium, a standalone music streaming service. Key features:
- Ad-free music streaming
- Background play on mobile devices
- Offline downloads of songs and playlists
- Access to a vast library of official tracks, remixes, and live performances
For users already paying for a separate music streaming service, bundling YouTube Premium could potentially replace that subscription and save money.
YouTube Originals
Premium subscribers gain access to YouTube Originals – exclusive content produced or commissioned by YouTube. While the catalog isn’t as extensive as major streaming platforms, it includes:
- Original series and movies
- Documentaries
- Special creator-driven projects
The value of this content varies depending on your interests and the current lineup of shows.
YouTube Kids
For families, YouTube Premium extends its ad-free benefits to the YouTube Kids app. This creates a safer, distraction-free environment for children to watch age-appropriate content.
Pricing and Plans
As of 2025, YouTube Premium offers the following plans in the United States:
- Individual: $11.99/month
- Family Plan (up to 6 accounts): $22.99/month
- Student Plan: $6.99/month (with eligibility verification)
YouTube occasionally offers free trials for new subscribers to test the service.
Is YouTube Premium Worth It?
Consider upgrading to YouTube Premium if you:
- Watch YouTube daily or for extended periods
- Frequently listen to music or podcasts through the platform
- Want to download videos for offline viewing
- Are frustrated by frequent ad interruptions
- Have children who use YouTube Kids
- Already pay for a separate music streaming service
For casual viewers who only watch occasional short clips, the free version of YouTube may remain sufficient.
YouTube Premium transforms the platform into a more robust entertainment ecosystem. While not essential for everyone, it offers significant value for dedicated users who want a seamless, ad-free experience across all their devices.