Streaming video-on-demand services have existed for many years now, although their rise in use came in the pandemic where most were in self-isolation. People found it hard to access their usual forms of entertainment which means theaters or even live events were not possible, and that the applications for streaming such content became a central focus in helping people overcome the challenges of isolation and bring joy, laughter, and at times even tears into their daily lives. These offered a well-deserved break from the monotony and anxiety dominating the routines of activities at that period in time.
The same is the case with streaming apps after such restrictions were lifted. These apps have become commonplace and showcase everything from blockbusters to award-winning television shows and even classic older films. But with this broad range, how do you know which one is right for you?
Here’s what we evaluated when ranking the top streaming apps:
- Price: How much will you need to pay for access to the platform?
- Amount of Content: Does it offer a vast library of movies and TV shows, or is the selection limited?
- Content Quality: Are you getting top-tier entertainment, or will you be scrolling endlessly for something decent to watch?
- Unique Content: Does the platform offer original shows or exclusives you won’t find anywhere else?
- Update Frequency: After you’ve watched the most popular content, how often is new content added to keep you coming back for more?
With these criteria in mind, let’s dive into the list of top streaming platforms and what makes them stand out.
1. Netflix
- Subscribers: Over 200 million
- Availability: Worldwide
- Unique Features: Netflix leads the pack with a wide variety of content across genres and some of the best original shows and movies, including global hits like Stranger Things, The Witcher, and Squid Game.
- Subscription Cost: Ranges from $9.99 to $19.99 per month.
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 4 streams.
Netflix excels in delivering fresh, original content alongside classics and popular licensed titles. Whether you’re into binge-worthy series or documentaries, this platform rarely disappoints.
2. Disney+
- Subscribers: 130 million
- Availability: North and South America, Europe, Asia-Pacific.
- Unique Features: Perfect for families, Disney+ offers a mix of beloved classics and modern hits from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. The platform also delivers exclusive content like The Mandalorian.
- Subscription Cost: $7.99 per month (some content may require an additional fee).
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 4 streams.
For nostalgic fans or superhero enthusiasts, Disney+ is a treasure trove of content that feels both comforting and fresh.
3. Hulu & Hulu+ Live TV
- Subscribers: Around 45 million
- Availability: United States
- Unique Features: Hulu offers a mix of recently aired TV shows, original series, and live TV options through Hulu+ Live TV. This is a fantastic choice for those looking to cut the cord on traditional cable.
- Subscription Cost: Hulu: $6.99–$12.99 per month; Hulu + Live TV: $66.99–$75.99 per month.
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 2 streams.
Hulu bridges the gap between on-demand streaming and live TV, making it a strong contender for diverse entertainment.
4. HBO Max
- Subscribers: Over 70 million
- Availability: US, Latin America, Europe
- Unique Features: Known for its high-quality library of content, HBO Max offers popular original shows like Game of Thrones, Succession, and Euphoria.
- Subscription Cost: $9.99 (ad-supported) or $14.99 (ad-free) per month.
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 3 streams.
HBO Max is perfect for movie buffs and drama enthusiasts looking for critically acclaimed titles.
5. Peacock
- Subscribers: 24 million
- Availability: Austria, Germany, Ireland, Italy, UK, US
- Unique Features: Offers a free tier with classic TV shows and movies alongside premium options for additional content.
- Subscription Cost: Free or $4.99 per month (premium).
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 3 streams.
Peacock combines nostalgia with affordability, making it a great entry-level option for streaming.
6. Paramount+
- Subscribers: 32 million
- Availability: Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, Middle East.
- Unique Features: Home to CBS, MTV, and Paramount content, it provides a mix of live TV, sports, and on-demand streaming.
- Subscription Cost: $4.99 (with ads) or $9.99 (ad-free) per month.
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 3 streams.
7. Amazon Prime Video
- Subscribers: 175 million
- Availability: Worldwide
- Unique Features: With over 12,000 titles, Amazon Prime Video offers everything from Hollywood blockbusters to award-winning originals like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Boys.
- Subscription Cost: $8.99–$14.99 per month (Prime membership).
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 3 streams.
Prime Video’s inclusion with an Amazon Prime membership makes it an excellent value.
8. Discovery+
- Subscribers: 22 million
- Availability: US, Brazil, Canada, UK, Japan, and more.
- Unique Features: Offers content from channels like HGTV, Food Network, and Animal Planet, focusing on non-fiction and lifestyle programming.
- Subscription Cost: $4.99 (ad-supported) or $6.99 (ad-free).
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 4 streams.
9. Apple TV+
- Subscribers: 20 million
- Availability: Worldwide
- Unique Features: Known for original content like Ted Lasso and The Morning Show.
- Subscription Cost: $4.99 per month.
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 6 streams.
10. iQIYI
- Subscribers: 103 million
- Availability: Worldwide
- Unique Features: Offers a mix of originals and licensed Asian content.
- Subscription Cost: $0.99–$6.99 per month.
- Simultaneous Streams: Up to 4 streams.
Honorable Mentions
Other platforms include YouTube Premium, Crunchyroll, Rakuten TV, and ESPN+. While newer or more niche, these apps cater to specific audiences.
Staying Safe While Streaming
Streaming applications are indeed irresistible as they provide amazing convenience, but installing the streaming application from an untrusted source can be extremely dangerous like the installer can include viruses or steal data. It is advisable to prevent these scenarios by utilizing protective instruments such as Trend Micro Mobile Security that can protect against illegitimate applications and other internet threats. Once secure, it is time to relax and enjoy endless hours of binge-watching!