YouTube Music
This photo illustration taken on March 23, 2018 shows YouTube logos on a computer screen in Beijing. / AFP PHOTO / NICOLAS ASFOURI

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YouTube: Is Premium worth paying for?

YouTube is a popular free streaming service, but you can also pay for Premium. How does Premium compare, and what do you get?

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02-05-24 23:25
YouTube Music
This photo illustration taken on March 23, 2018 shows YouTube logos on a computer screen in Beijing. / AFP PHOTO / NICOLAS ASFOURI

YouTube is a popular international streaming service.

However, you don’t have to get all your content for free. There’s also YouTube Premium, which offers you better quality content with added benefits.

South Africans don’t have money for wasting.

Is Premium worth it?

How does it compare to Netflix and Showmax?

Here’s what you should know.

About the Streaming Service

YouTube has existed since 2005, according to Britannica.

However, the Premium version has only been open to South Africans for a few years. Premium is better, cooler, and higher quality.

But is it really better?

Here’s more about its benefits.

YouTube: Premium Benefits

YouTube Premium is the streaming website’s upgraded version.

You can get free videos, but you can only download them with Premium YouTube.

However, is Premium worth paying for? What extra services will you get?

Premium Subscriptions are charged per month, however, you can also choose their weekly subscription plan.

Premium means higher quality video and audio. Although, it matters more for higher quality devices – but yes, it makes a noticeable difference.

You can also skip the ads, whereas regular subscribers still have to see advertisements.

Let’s not forget about South Africa’s other streaming services, like Netflix and Showmax.

YouTube Premium: Music

YouTube Premium has some more features, however, not everyone knows about it.

You can also download the Music App, but alongside the regular app!

The Music App gives you access to millions of songs and playlists. It’s one of Spotify’s biggest competitors.

Comparison: Premium versus Showmax versus Netflix

Showmax costs R99 per month for the Standard Plan. However, you can also choose another subscription plan, such as Mobile.

With Showmax, you’ll get exclusive access to local and international shows, like Spinners and Tracking Thabo Bester.

Netflix is available from R99 per month. However, you can also choose alternative Subscription Plans. Some of them are cheaper, and others are more expensive. Netflix has premium shows like Kings of Jo’burg.

Netflix also mixes local and international content. You can always find something to watch.

YouTube is best for music fans and influencers. However, subscribe to Showmax or Netflix if you prefer television shows.

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READ MORE ARTICLES BY FRANCOIS JANSEN (ALEX J. COYNE)

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