TV streaming is increasingly becoming a way of life. While sports matches and games often remain appointment TV, original series, shows, and thousands of films are now available on-demand through various TV streaming platforms. These platforms require a monthly subscription fee for access. All you need is a device with the platform's app downloaded. In contrast to the past, when you had to tune in on Thursday night to catch the latest episode of 'Friends' or 'Seinfeld' – at least until enough episodes were produced for syndication on different channels – today, appointment TV still exists, but access to it is increasingly shifting from cable boxes to streaming apps.
Which are the best paid TV streaming platforms in 2023? Here’s a short list.
| Streaming Service | Price with Ads | Price Without Ads | Premium Price | Number of Streams per Account |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max (HBO Max) | $9.99/month | - | - | 2 (4 with Ultimate tier) |
| Hulu | $7.99/month | $17.99/month | - | - |
| Netflix | $6.99/month | $15.49/month | $22.99/month | 2-4- |
| Disney+ | $7.99/month | $13.99/month | $24.99/month Disney Bundel- | 4 |
| Sling TV | - | $30/month (Orange + Blue) | - | - |
| Peacock | $11.99/month | - | 3 | |
| Amazon Prime Video | $0.00/month for Freevee | $8.99/month (Prime Video only) $14.99/month (Full Prime Membership) |
- | 3 |
| Paramount+ | $5.99/month | $11.99/month | - | 3 |
| Apple TV+ | $6.99/month | - | 6 | |
| Discovery+ | $4.99/month | $8.99/month | - | 4 |
Each of these streaming services has its unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different viewer preferences and needs.
HBO Max
Pros:
Extensive library of high-quality original content, including HBO series, movies, and Max Originals.
Offers a wide range of genres, from drama to documentaries.
Includes content from WarnerMedia's vast portfolio, like Warner Bros., New Line Cinema, DC, CNN, TNT, TBS, truTV, Cartoon Network, and more.
Cons:
Higher subscription cost compared to some other streaming services.
Some users have reported issues with the app's performance across different devices.
Pros:
Offers next-day streaming of current TV shows from major networks.
Diverse content library including TV shows, movies, and Hulu Originals.
Flexible pricing options, including an ad-supported plan.
Cons:
The ad-supported plan can be intrusive for some viewers.
Limited availability outside the United States.
Pros:
Large selection of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and Netflix Originals.
Strong international availability with content tailored to different regions.
User-friendly interface and robust recommendation system.
Cons:
Frequent price increases.
Some popular shows and movies are removed as Netflix loses licensing rights.
Pros:
Exclusive home for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
Family-friendly programming suitable for all ages.
Offers 4K streaming at no additional cost.
Cons:
More limited content library for adult audiences.
Some new releases require an additional Premier Access purchase.
Pros:
Offers live TV streaming with a focus on cable channels.
Flexible packages and the ability to customize channel lineups.
Generally more affordable than traditional cable subscriptions.
Cons:
Can get expensive as you add more channel packages.
Some key channels are split between different base packages.
Pros:
Offers a free tier with a decent selection of content.
Includes popular NBC shows and Universal movies.
Live sports and news coverage on premium tiers.
Cons:
The free tier has limited content and includes ads.
Some content rotates off the service regularly.
Pros:
Included with Amazon Prime membership, offering additional benefits like free shipping.
Diverse selection of movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals.
Allows renting or buying movies not included in the subscription.
Cons:
The interface is less user-friendly compared to other streaming services.
Some Prime Video content requires an additional purchase or rental fee.
Pros:
Offers live CBS streaming and a library of CBS shows.
Includes content from Paramount, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, and Comedy Central.
Competitive pricing with an ad-supported option.
Cons:
Smaller content library compared to major competitors.
Some users have reported streaming quality and app issues.
Pros:
Focuses on quality over quantity with a growing library of critically acclaimed Apple Originals.
Ad-free streaming experience.
Available on a wide range of devices beyond Apple products.
Cons:
Limited content library compared to other services.
Lacks a back catalog of licensed shows and movies.
Pros:
Extensive library of non-fiction and reality content from Discovery networks.
Includes content from HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Animal Planet, and more.
Reasonably priced with an ad-supported option.
Cons:
Niche focus on reality and documentary content may not appeal to all viewers.
Limited original programming compared to other platforms.
TV streaming platforms continually change their channel lineup and can put rate increases into effect with little warning. At times, certain channels can be blacked out without warning (this can happen with cable providers as well) when contract negotiations between broadcasters and programmers hit snags. Blackouts can last days, weeks, or forever. Monetizing the value of content has never been more competitive and challenging for the entire chain of distribution. The good news for viewers is that you have more options than before.
Price increases can now be expected annually if not more often, unfortunately, which is why it’s very important to check the channel lineup of the streaming platforms you like before subscribing. Try to get the best deal you can on the content you prefer.
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