AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Subscription services: Apple One Premier vs. YouTube Premium

Quick Verdict

Apple One Premier is a comprehensive bundle for Apple enthusiasts, offering a wide array of services. YouTube Premium is best for those who heavily use YouTube and its music platform, providing an ad-free experience with convenient features like background playback and offline downloads. The choice depends on the user's preference for Apple's ecosystem versus YouTube's content.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeApple One PremierYouTube Premium
Subscription Cost (Monthly)$37.95Individual: $13.99, Family: $22.99, Student: $7.99, Premium Lite: $7.99
Subscription Cost (Annually)No annual optionIndividual: $139.99
Included ServicesApple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, Apple News+, Apple Fitness+, iCloud+ (2TB)Ad-free YouTube, YouTube Music, YouTube Kids, YouTube Music Premium
Ad-Free AccessApple Arcade and Apple MusicYouTube, YouTube Music, YouTube Kids (creator branding may still appear)
Offline Content AvailabilityApple Music (downloadable songs), Apple Arcade (playable games)Downloadable videos/playlists, Smart Downloads (up to 30 days, 10 devices)
Family SharingUp to 6 usersUp to 5 family members (same household)
Content QualityApple TV+ (4K HDR), Apple Music (lossless audio, Spatial Audio)Enhanced bitrate 1080p, High-quality audio (256 kbps)
Original Content LibraryApple TV+ (Apple Originals), Apple Music (exclusive content)YouTube Originals (program ended January 2022)
Device CompatibilityiPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, Apple TV, HomePod, Apple Watch, Android (Apple Music), select smart TVsDevices with Google Account sign-in (smart TVs, gaming consoles, mobile apps)
Background PlaybackGenerally supportedSupported (can be turned off)
Exclusive FeaturesApple News+ Food section (iOS 18.4/iPadOS 18.4), Invites app (iCloud+)Picture-in-picture, Smart Downloads, Continue Watching, Queue videos
Free Trial1-month (for services not already subscribed to)1-month (eligible new members), extended trials via promotions
Cancellation PolicyCancel 1 day before renewal, access until end of billing cycleCancel anytime, benefits continue until end of billing period

Overall Comparison

Apple One Premier: $37.95/month for 6 services. YouTube Premium: $13.99/month for ad-free YouTube and Music.

Pros and Cons

Apple One Premier

Pros:
  • Saves about $29/month compared to subscribing individually if you use all services
  • Family Sharing allows up to six family members to access all included services with their own personal accounts and preferences
  • Apple Music offers lossless streaming, providing a listening experience similar to that of a CD
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

YouTube Premium

Pros:
  • Ad-free viewing across YouTube, YouTube Music, and YouTube Kids
  • Background playback for uninterrupted listening
  • Offline downloads for viewing content without internet
  • Access to YouTube Music Premium features
  • Family plan option for sharing with up to 5 members
  • Enhanced bitrate for 1080p videos and high-quality audio
  • Convenient cancellation policy
Cons:
  • YouTube Originals program ended in January 2022, limiting original content
  • Family plan requires members to reside in the same household
  • Premium Lite lacks YouTube Music Premium, downloads, and background play
  • Ad-blocking may not remove branding or promotions embedded by creators

User Experiences and Feedback