Learning how to use YouTube opens the door to the largest video library in the world, from music and tutorials to news, gaming, and full-length shows. YouTube is free to watch, works on nearly every device, and does not even require an account to start browsing. This beginner’s guide covers everything you need, from finding your first video to subscribing to channels and building playlists.
We will also explain how the free, ad-supported experience compares with YouTube Premium, so you know exactly what you get for nothing and what an upgrade adds. Whether you are on a phone, a laptop, or a smart TV, you will be watching confidently in minutes.
Getting started with YouTube
YouTube works in any web browser and has free apps for iPhone, Android, smart TVs, and streaming devices. You can watch millions of videos without signing in, but creating a free Google account unlocks the good stuff: subscriptions, playlists, likes, comments, and a personalized home feed. If you already use Gmail, you already have a YouTube account.
The layout is simple. Home shows recommendations, the Search bar finds anything, Subscriptions collects videos from channels you follow, and the Library stores your history, playlists, and Watch Later list. For more walkthroughs, browse our how-to guides.
YouTube free vs YouTube Premium
Watching YouTube is completely free, supported by ads. YouTube Premium is an optional paid plan that changes the experience in a few key ways.
| Feature | Free YouTube | YouTube Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Watch any public video | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | Yes | No |
| Background play (phone) | No | Yes |
| Offline downloads | No | Yes |
| YouTube Music included | Ad-supported | Yes, ad-free |
How to use YouTube step by step
Here is the quickest way to get watching and make the app your own.
- Open the YouTube app or go to youtube.com in any web browser.
- Type a topic, song, or channel name into the Search bar at the top and press enter.
- Tap a video thumbnail to start watching; tap again to pause or show the controls.
- Sign in with a free Google account to subscribe, like, and comment.
- Tap Subscribe on channels you enjoy so their new videos appear in your Subscriptions feed.
- Tap Save below a video to add it to Watch Later or a custom playlist.
- Adjust quality, captions, and playback speed using the gear icon on any video.
Subscribing, playlists, and comments
Subscribing is free and simply follows a channel so you never miss new uploads. You can organize videos into playlists from the Save button, which is handy for building a music mix or a tutorial series. Signed-in viewers can also like videos and leave comments, which helps creators and lets you join the conversation.
- Unlimited video watching
- Subscriptions and playlists
- Captions and playback speed control
- Cast to a TV with Chromecast
- Ads before and during videos
- No background play on mobile
- No offline downloads
- No ad-free YouTube Music
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an account to watch YouTube?
No. You can watch almost any public video without signing in. A free Google account is only needed to subscribe, like, comment, save playlists, or get a personalized home feed.
Is YouTube really free?
Yes. Watching YouTube is free and supported by ads. YouTube Premium is an optional paid upgrade that removes ads and adds background play, offline downloads, and ad-free YouTube Music.
How do I remove ads on YouTube?
The only official way to remove ads is to subscribe to YouTube Premium. It also unlocks background play and offline viewing across the app.
Can I download videos to watch offline?
Offline downloads within the YouTube app require a YouTube Premium subscription. Free users can stream videos but cannot save them for offline viewing.
How do I watch YouTube on my TV?
Most smart TVs and streaming devices have a built-in YouTube app. You can also cast from your phone using Chromecast or use the YouTube app on game consoles.
