Which Streaming TV Service Is Right for You?
A few years ago, we all thought we were SO smart (and budget-savvy) for canceling cable in favor of streaming TV. That was back when Nextflix and Hulu were our only binge-watching options. But now, our streaming TV bills are beginning to resemble those of traditional cable TV packages—and adding on new services (just to watch that one show you love) can start to add up! While Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video all offer expansive libraries, it’s the renowned original programs (Stranger Things! Watchmen! The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel!) that set them apart. Now, with Disney+ and Apple TV+ in the mix, it’s even more difficult to know where to start. Below is a brief rundown to help ease your decision fatigue.
Netflix
Pricing: Choose from one of three plans—Basic ($8.99/month), Standard ($12.99/month), and Premium ($15.99/month)—which are differentiated by the number of devices that can be streamed at once and screen definition.
The goods: With 27 Emmy wins this year, some of Netflix’s top shows are Stranger Things, Umbrella Academy, and La Casa de Papel (aka Money Heist).
This is the streaming service for you if: You love so-good-they-are-bad holiday films like A Christmas Prince. Want to feel the warm embrace of The Great British Baking Show. Need to stream Oscar bait like The Irishman from the comfort of your own couch.
You can probably skip if: You want to watch network TV in real-time, have any interest in sports, or are startled by loud noises.
HBO NOW
Pricing: For $14.99/month, this standalone HBO service doesn’t require an actual cable TV package.
The goods: You’ll find original HBO content like Westworld, Barry, and Watchmen.
This is the streaming service for you if: You don’t want to be left out of the cultural conversation. HBO shows tend to dominate think pieces as much as they do awards shows. Or if you just really miss Arli$$.
You can probably skip if: You already have Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Hulu, which let you access HBO programming via HBO Now (for an additional fee).
Disney+
Pricing: Unlock “the vault” for just $6.99/month. A Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle can be purchased for an additional $12.99/month.
The goods: Access to most Marvel films, childhood shows and films, and original content. The Mandalorian and standalone Marvel shows that expand on the Marvel universe are a few of the offerings.
This is the streaming service for you if: You’re a big-time Disney fan. Its expansive library of Disney content will be difficult to find anywhere else.
You can probably skip if: You’re not a big Disney/Marvel/Star Wars fan.
Hulu
Pricing: $5.99/month (with ads) or $11.99/month (ad-free). There’s also the option to purchase Hulu (with ads) with live TV for $44.99/month or Hulu (ad-free) with live TV for an additional $50.99/month.
The goods: Original shows like The Handmaid’s Tale and Dollface, a roster of holiday content that includes Holiday Baking Championship and A Saturday Night Live Christmas Special.
This is the streaming service for you if: You want the live option to watch sports, awards shows, or anything else in real-time.
You can probably skip if: You’re an original-content junkie. While The Handmaid’s Tale has racked up award noms, it’s not as known for its original programming as other streaming networks.
Apple TV+
Pricing: $4.99/month. Plus those who’ve purchased an Apple device after September 10 get one year of Apple TV+ free.
The goods: M. Night Shyamalan, Steven Spielberg, and Reese Witherspoon are just a few of the names attached to Apple TV+ projects. Witherspoon’s newsroom drama The Morning Show with Steve Carell and Jennifer Aniston is among the titles.
This is the streaming service for you if: You're really into Apple’s original shows. Unlike the other options, its exclusive offerings can’t be found on other services.
You can probably skip if: You’re not already an Apple household.
Amazon Prime Video
Pricing: Free for Amazon Prime members. No membership? No problem. For $8.99/month you get access to everything.
The goods: A library of shows, movies, and original content streamers get access to its content and original programs like the award-winning Fleabag and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. The ability to access cable channels such as HBO, Showtime, and Starz sans cable subscription also makes the service unique. Plus, its roster of holiday classics include It’s a Wonderful Life and Christmas Story.
This is the streaming service for you if: You want access to premium channels in one spot, are a fan of comedy (Amazon’s originals are truly top-notch), and are interested in more niche add-ons like Britbox and Pantaya.
You can probably skip if: You actually have a cable login—yours, or a parent's, or a friend of a friend's, we don't judge!
Kanopy
Pricing: Free! All you need is a library card or university login.
The goods: Documentaries, award-winning films, foreign movies. (Basically what you would expect from the library.)
This is the streaming service for you if: You minored in film studies, love PBS, or just want access to a ton of movies for no extra money!
You can probably skip if: You want the original programming and blockbusters the other services offer.
Still indecisive? HBO Max, which will be the only streaming service with Friends come 2020, Quibi, and Peacock will soon join the sea of services. Basically, it’s a great time to never leave the house.
Originally Appeared on Architectural Digest
