How to Choose Which Streaming Services Are Right for You

As a seasoned television enthusiast who has traversed the vast landscapes of streaming services, I must say that Paramount+ stands out as a veritable treasure trove for those with eclectic tastes. Having grown up on classics such as “His Girl Friday” and “Once Upon A Time In The West”, it warms my heart to see these timeless masterpieces reside within the same digital realm. Yet, I must admit, while Paramount+ offers a robust collection of films from Hollywood’s golden age, its library pales in comparison to some of its more robust competitors when it comes to original and acquired content.

As someone who’s always been a bit indecisive, I can certainly relate to that feeling of being overwhelmed by too many options! Whether it’s scrolling through the endless listings on my streaming service or scrutinizing last month’s bank statement, the sheer volume of choices can sometimes leave me frozen in place. It seems like there’s always something that catches my eye and makes me question whether I really need it, but figuring out which expenses to cut can be a daunting task. In my experience, it helps to take a step back, evaluate my priorities, and make decisions based on what truly matters most to me.

Since multiple entertainment companies started their own streaming services, we’ve found ourselves overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. Back then, we had just Netflix and YouTube videos to pick from. However, now there’s a wide range of options like Apple TV+, Prime Video, Max, and Peacock that offer an extensive library for our viewing pleasure.

In this modern age, we’ve swapped traditional cable for numerous streaming services, each offering unique deals. These services have emerged rapidly, but they’re also shrinking together – just recently, Disney+, Hulu, and Max unveiled a joint bundle, featuring both ad-supported and ad-free options. Plus, they’re not shy about increasing their prices.

If you’re seeking a blend of hilarious comedies, timeless films, exciting live sports, and top-notch dramas, this guide will help you decide which streaming services are best for your unique viewing preferences – those that you might even consider setting up automatic payments.

Netflix

As a movie buff, I can’t help but give credit where it’s due, and that goes to none other than Netflix! At this moment, it sets you back $6.99 for its ad-supported plan, $15.49 for standard, or $22.99 for premium. But let me tell you, Netflix is the original trailblazer in the streaming world. It was Netflix who revolutionized prestige TV by making it accessible directly through streaming platforms, and it’s them we have to thank for introducing binge-watching into our everyday lingo! Here are some reasons why Netflix continues to shine as the best:

True crime

Regardless of your specific interest in crime, Netflix offers a wealth of documentaries and series that cater to this topic. The platform boasts an extensive collection, ranging from standalone documentaries to ongoing crime series like “Crime Scene”, as well as detailed investigations into some of history’s most infamous characters, such as the multi-part “Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes”. If murder isn’t your preference, there are numerous other crime genres to explore, including con artists and unsolved mysteries.

Defining original films and series

Discussing Netflix without acknowledging its influence on premium streaming TV is like trying to describe the ocean without mentioning waves. A decade ago, “Orange is the New Black” popularized the term “binge-watching,” and since then, it has consistently delivered shows that capture the spirit of the times, such as “House of Cards,” “Stranger Things,” and many more. The film side of Netflix also aims for prestige, with movies like “Rustin” (2023), “The Power of the Dog” (2021), and “Roma” (2018) striving for Academy Awards. While it’s challenging to sift through the wealth of Netflix originals because they aim to compete not only with studios like Universal and Warner Bros., but also with smaller networks like Hallmark and TLC, there are undeniably some hidden treasures in their extensive library.

Read more: The Best Movies to Watch on Netflix Right Now

Local language series

Discovering the rich diversity of non-English programming on Netflix might not be immediately apparent depending on your chosen algorithm. Besides global sensations such as the Korean drama “Squid Game”, the French series “Lupin”, and the Spanish crime drama “Money Heist”, there’s a vast array of additional content to explore. For instance, Korean dramas have expanded significantly following the success of “Squid Game”, with offerings like “Crash Landing on You”, “Business Proposal”, and “All of Us Are Dead”. Similarly, content in Spanish, German, and Arabic has experienced a surge in popularity, attracting more viewers. Furthermore, some Western shows and films have been remade in various languages, including “Bird Box”, “Queer Eye”, and “Love is Blind”.

Comedy specials

Competing directly with Max, Netflix has established itself as one of the premier destinations for humor, hosting an annual event called “Netflix is a Joke” to emphasize its dedication to laughter. The selection is impressive, catering to various tastes – from light-hearted jibes like the The Roast of Tom Brady, to deep explorations of human nature such as Bo Burnham’s Inside. The streamer has produced a wealth of specials from renowned comedians including Dave Chapelle, John Mulaney, and Ali Wong. Furthermore, Netflix offers numerous avenues for you to uncover your next favorite comedy sensation.

Read more: The Best TV Shows to Watch on Netflix

Prime Video

As a cinephile, I can confidently say that Amazon has mastered the art of making entertainment effortlessly available at your fingertips. Their streaming platform, Prime Video, is no exception. Priced affordably at $8.99 per month, it seamlessly aligns with Amazon’s commitment to delivering an extensive library of content right when you need it, with just a few clicks.

New film releases

If a movie you wanted to watch in the cinema slipped past, don’t worry, as it likely won’t take long before it appears on Amazon Prime Video. As the time between theater release and streaming becomes shorter, you might only have to wait a few weeks before seeing its small icon. Even if it isn’t included in your Prime subscription, there will be an option to rent or buy it, which gives Prime Video an edge over other streaming services. The interface could do a better job of making it clear which movies are and aren’t free until clicked on, but once you’ve encountered this issue a few times, you learn to be more selective. However, for new releases, it’s hard to find a better option.

Binge watches

At times, you might find yourself in a mood where you want an endless stream of a television series without any distinct ending point. For those shows that seem perfect for continuous playing, Amazon Prime offers a wealth of content. Its box sets collection spans beyond the typical eight-episode seasons, allowing you to play shows such as House, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Charmed endlessly. Additionally, you can subscribe to additional services like AMC+ and Paramount+ within your Prime subscription, granting access to more series, such as Mad Men and Criminal Minds.

Old film favorites

Apart from featuring fresh releases, Prime Video also offers an extensive library of classics, ranging from the high-octane action movies of the ’80s to the hilarious slapstick comedies of the ’50s. However, navigating through Prime Video’s interface might not be the most straightforward process, so you may find yourself scrolling through a long list of genre suggestions before finding something that suits your taste. While this might not be ideal for those suffering from choice overload, the wide variety of titles like the martial arts film “Bloodsport” (1988) and the original “Guys and Dolls” (1955) make it possible to discover hidden gems that you may never have considered otherwise.

Max

“Someone suggested, ‘Ditch HBO and stick with Max instead.’ It seems they’ve chosen to focus on Max over HBO, given its simpler structure. Although HBO has faced changes, including the removal of shows unexpectedly from their library, Max still offers a wealth of content. It costs $9.99 per month with ads, $16.99 without ads, or $20.99 for an ad-free plan that offers more downloads, device support, and HD streaming options. You can also save by paying annually.”

Prestige TV

2024 still brings a thrill when you encounter the sliced static opening of an HBO series, signifying a captivating television experience ahead. Max houses nearly every bit of this premium content. For decades, HBO has been synonymous with TV excellence, and its dominance remains unshaken. Max is where you’ll find the latest HBO shows that spark office conversations such as Succession and The Last of Us. Additionally, its original productions like the gripping true-crime drama The Staircase and the hilarious instant classic Hacks are waiting to captivate your discerning gaze.

Modern classic TV favorites

HBO earned its prestigious status in television not without merit. Established in the ’70s, it truly exploded in popularity during the 2000s with series that made people reconsider their social engagements. Iconic shows like “The Sopranos” and “The Wire,” often ranked as the best TV shows ever, and “Sex and the City,” still sparking conversation more than two decades later, are part of this legacy. Plus, its recent spin-off, “And Just Like That,” continues to generate discussion on Max.

Comedy hub

Max isn’t merely a destination for indulging in the finest drama spanning the last two decades; it has also evolved into a comfortable haven for comedy, both in its original series and stand-up performances. In terms of specials, it holds its own against Netflix, boasting an impressive array of comedians sharing exclusive access to their material. You’ll find yourself laughing out loud at specials featuring Nikki Glaser, Rami Youssef, Jerrod Carmichael, alongside timeless sets from legends such as George Carlin and Mel Brooks. What sets it apart from Netflix is its exceptional scripted comedy. Shows like “Sex and the City,” “Veep,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and the beloved “Flight of the Conchords” are just a few options to keep you giggling through the night.

Read more: The Best Shows to Watch on Max

Apple TV+

Although it’s relatively new among streaming services (Apple TV+ at $9.99 per month), it certainly hasn’t held back, packing a punch right from the start. While it shares a good number of movies and series with other platforms, its collection of high-quality original productions truly distinguishes it from its peers.

Star power

As a movie aficionado, it seems like throwing a dart at a list of A-listers these days will likely land on someone who’s currently involved with an Apple TV+ project. Leonardo DiCaprio? You’d be surprised, but he is. Tom Hanks? Absolutely. Reese Witherspoon? Bingo! It seems that either the industry’s eagerness to back any intriguing pitch with a big name or Apple TV+’s deep pockets have made it the go-to platform for star power. From their compelling series like “The Morning Show” and “Presumed Innocent” to their award-winning films like “Killers of the Flower Moon,” if you’re craving your Hollywood dose, there’s no other streaming service that boasts as many superstars on speed dial as Apple TV+.

Auteur’s choice

Apart from being the preferred live-streamer for your favorite actor, Apple TV+ has evolved into a creative sanctuary where visionary filmmakers can breathe life into their most ambitious and extensive concepts. For instance, Ridley Scott filmed his grand production, Napoleon, under Apple TV+, while Martin Scorsese pushed viewer endurance with the sprawling Killers of the Flower Moon. Remarkably, even Steven Spielberg was drawn to Apple TV+, where he produced Masters of the Air – a spiritual successor to his legendary series Band of Brothers.

Prestige picks

Having well-known stars both in front of and behind the camera ensures high-quality content, a strategy Apple TV+ took early on by investing heavily in original films and shows instead of focusing first on licensed content like most competitors. This bold move has proven successful, with productions such as “Flower Moon”, “CODA” (which they acquired for $25 million at Sundance), earning Oscar nominations and wins, while shows like the critically acclaimed “Pachinko”, “Severance” starring Ben Stiller, and “Slow Horses” featuring Gary Oldman have been consistently favored in TV awards.

Hulu

Hulu generally finds itself in the moderate category when it comes to streaming services that people consider worth their investment. Although it shares many similarities with other streaming platforms, there are certain aspects where it truly excels. For instance, Hulu costs $7.99 per month with ads or $17.99 without, and offers the choice to include live TV or combine with other services for an extra expense.

Prestige TV

If HBO crafted the golden age of TV in the noughties, you could say that Hulu is on track to at least give its competitor a run for its money. This is thanks, in large part, to FX, which is also owned by Hulu’s parent company Disney. FX is home to so many of the buzziest shows in recent memory, including American Horror Story, Sons of Anarchy, and Pose. Its current reigning champions, though, are The Bear and Shogun, which earned 23 and 25 Emmy nominations in July, respectively.

Classic binge watches

As a devoted streamer, I’ve noticed that many platforms provide a diverse array of timeless series for binge-watching. Over time, iconic shows in television history seem to switch between services due to licensing agreements coming to an end and then renewing. Although many non-original shows on Hulu can be found elsewhere, it’s important to acknowledge that its collection, overall, is quite robust. For instance, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” shares space with “Lost,” which in turn rubs shoulders with “30 Rock.” This could make for one of the most unpredictable TV marathons ever envisioned.

Adult animation

Over the past few years, adult animation has flourished, much like other artistic forms, offering a diverse range of styles and genres. For instance, there’s anime, boasting an extensive collection on Hulu. Then there are comedy series that provide insightful social commentary, such as The Simpsons and Bob’s Burgers, which you can also watch on the platform. Lastly, there is a realm of peculiar yet captivating animations, including shows like Rick and Morty and Adventuretime, that transport viewers into vibrant, absurd worlds.

Read more: The Best Shows to Watch on Hulu

Disney+

With a great deal of anticipation, not many streaming platforms have debuted like Disney+ (priced at $7.99 with ads, $13.99 without, offering bundle deals and reduced costs if paid annually). This service promised to transport your childhood memories and virtually every blockbuster hit from the past four decades right into your living room.

Childhood classics

2019 saw the much-anticipated arrival of Disney+, akin to hearing Tim Allen’s voice echo from a Toy Story recording booth. The excitement was palpable, and one key factor that fueled it was the service’s immense library of timeless animated classics. Even now, this aspect remains one of its most appealing features. You can rediscover your childhood favorites, along with many more, at your fingertips. From 90’s Disney Renaissance gems like The Lion King and The Little Mermaid, to older treasures such as Cinderella and Snow White, up to modern Pixar masterpieces and the latest live-action adaptations (though their quality has been a mixed bag). Essentially, every day can feel like those endless afternoons spent in front of the TV with a VHS tape, ready for another magical journey.

Franchises galore

At this point, Disney owns basically every major franchise going, from Marvel to Star Wars. They have The Muppets, The Pirates of the Caribbean, Indiana Jones, and the entire Pixar catalogue too. Disney+ also houses STAR and the remains of 20th Century Fox, meaning it has the X-Men franchise and Diary of a Wimpy Kids. Sure, monopolies are bad, but when almost every major blockbuster from the last three decades is in one place, it at least helps to justify the price of admission. 

Forgotten gems

One of the standout moves by Disney when they launched Disney+ was to compile all their forgotten treasures from their archives into a massive collection on one platform – this included long-forgotten Disney Channel Original Movies, shows that ended after just a few seasons and vanished without a trace like “Even Stevens” and the short-lived “Jonas” series starring the Jonas Brothers, as well as spin-offs you didn’t even know existed. With the addition of random shows and films from STAR and 20th Century Fox, there’s an opportunity for some wildly entertaining viewing experiences!

Read more: The Best Shows to Watch on Disney+

Peacock

At first glance, Peacock (priced at $7.99/month without ads, $13.99/month with ads, or cheaper when paid annually) might not appear to be a leading option among essential streaming services. However, it offers a deep selection in certain categories, and if you’re familiar with the acronym SUR, then you likely know its intended audience.

Reality TV

If you’re a fan of reality TV shows, Peacock is definitely the platform to check out. In recent years, Netflix has been making efforts to claim the title of reality TV king, but it seems that Peacock has already secured its place. They landed the production rights for “Love Island USA,” which gets more engaging with each season, and they’re also home to shows like “The Traitors,” “Below Deck,” “Vanderpump Rules,” “Project Runway” and over 10 seasons of the “Real Housewives” franchise. In essence, if you enjoy watching people with a touch of drama and slightly exaggerated expressions, you’ll find them on Peacock in one form or another.

Live TV

While the freedom to pick whatever I desire at any given moment is certainly appealing, there’s a soothing charm in the unending flow of live television. Although Peacock isn’t the sole provider of this service, it skillfully fills the gap left by traditional channel-surfing with its diverse array of live content. Among the offerings are reality TV shows, news channels broadcasting around the clock, and sports events such as the Premiere League and NFL Channel.

NBC’s golden age

When it comes to top-tier TV comedies, it’s challenging to find a match for NBC’s success during its Must-See-TV period. Shows like “The Office”, with its relatable humor helping us navigate modern dating and social media interactions, or “Parks and Recreation”, have become essential references in our daily lives. Not to forget other gems such as “The Good Place”, “30 Rock”, “Community”, as well as classics like “Seinfeld”, “Frasier”, “Cheers”, “Will & Grace”, and a significant portion of the “SNL” archive.

Paramount+

Boasting one of the most illustrious collections of movies and TV shows in media history, Paramount+ (available at $5.99 per month, or $11.99 when paired with Showtime; lower prices if paid yearly), delivers an abundance of captivating content for viewers to enjoy.

Prestige originals

Paramount+, similar to many other streaming platforms, has started venturing into the realm of premium content. While it’s not quite matching heavyweights like Hulu or Apple TV+ just yet, it has certainly left its mark. Original series such as “1883”, a spin-off from the massively popular “Yellowstone” (which is also accessible), and “The Good Fight”, a spin-off from “The Good Wife” (also available) are among its offerings. Additionally, you can find shows like “Dexter”, “Twin Peaks”, and “Yellowjackets” there as well. It’s a haven for Star Trek fans too. However, it’s important to note that its content library isn’t the most extensive when compared to other streaming services.

Old classics

If you’re a fan of timeless cinema, it seems natural to seek out those gems on Paramount. With offerings spanning nearly every decade, you can enjoy films like “His Girl Friday” from the ’40s, “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” from the ’50s, “Once Upon a Time in the West” from the ’60s, “Cabaret” from the ’70s, “Airplane!” from the ’80s, and “Twister” from the ’90s. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! The perks of being one of Hollywood’s most legendary film studios are evident when you delve deeper into their extensive collection.

Live TV and sports

Among Peacock and Paramount+, viewers have numerous live television choices at their disposal. Paramount+ provides a variety of news and sports channels. While many users may not primarily use streaming services for live TV, it’s more about whether this additional feature enhances the overall value they receive from the service.

YouTube TV

Rather than expanding their libraries of original and licensed content like other streaming platforms, YouTube TV focuses more on providing live TV and sports, aiming to replace the void left by traditional cable TV. The Base Plan costs $72.99 per month (with a discount for the initial months after subscribing).

Live TV

As a movie enthusiast, I’d like to share my thoughts on YouTube TV – it’s not just streaming video, it’s an alternative to traditional cable TV. Unlike YouTube Originals, the content here isn’t exclusive to YouTube TV, but it does provide a channel-surfing experience similar to what you might be used to with cable. The focus on live content sets it apart from many competitors where live programming is more of a bonus feature.

Live sports

In the array of channels provided by YouTube TV, there’s an extensive sports selection with access to numerous sports channels such as CBS Sports, ESPN, NBC Sports, and NBA TV. However, some live games from Major League Baseball, NBA, and NHL may still be unavailable occasionally. A notable feature introduced a few years ago is the simultaneous viewing of four different streams on one screen, eliminating the need to pick between sports events. This multi-stream option also extends to news channels, which could prove useful during significant events (if any are scheduled for this year).

NFL hub

YouTube TV’s sports-focused platform provides an opportunity for users to subscribe to NFL Sunday Ticket, granting access to numerous NFL games on Sundays that are not available in your local market. However, it’s important to note that this service comes at a premium price of $349 per year and has certain limitations. For instance, it does not include weekday games, and there may be restrictions when trying to watch your local team’s games. Despite these constraints, the NFL Sunday Ticket stands out as a unique streaming option tailored for a particular audience with a strong interest in football.

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2024-08-02 15:08