Streaming services are getting more expensive, but not all of them are overpriced. Some still offer impressive content libraries and unique perks that make them worth the price.
Streaming services are getting more expensive, but not all of them are overpriced. Some still offer impressive content libraries and unique perks that make them worth the price.
5. Netflix
Netflix remains one of the best values for streaming services, even as competition intensifies. While it's no longer the cheapest option—with Standard starting at $17.99/month and Premium at $24.99/month— Netflix is still worth the price thanks to its vast content and global reach. Even the ad-supported Basic plan, which costs $7.99/month, includes nearly the entire catalog. If that's still too steep for you, there are plenty of ways to watch Netflix for less.
What sets Netflix apart is its rich and diverse catalog of original content, from reality TV shows and stand-up comedy specials to international dramas and anime.
4. Peacock
Peacock is one of the most affordable Netflix alternatives. Owned by NBCUniversal, Peacock offers a strong mix of current NBC shows, classic sitcoms, blockbuster movies, live sports, and original programming. Ad-supported plans start at just $7.99/month (or $79.99/year), while the ad-free Premium Plus plan costs $16.99/month (or $169.99/year).
Compared to other streaming services that offer sports content, like Hulu + Live TV, Peacock offers a better experience. And if you love NBC and Bravo shows, Peacock will add them the day after they stream. This makes Peacock an easy, cable-free way to stay up to date on NBC content.
3. Apple TV+
Apple TV+ offers some of the best value in streaming, especially if you care about quality over quantity. At just $9.99 a month, it's cheaper than the big players, and what's more, it doesn't employ modern practices like ads or multiple pricing tiers, making it one of the few streaming services that's still worth paying for.
Not only that, the streaming quality is also set to 4K by default , something you won't find on other streaming services' $10 packages. Apple TV+ is all about original content, so you won't find old sitcoms or licensed blockbusters here.
2. Disney+
At $9.99/month with ads or $15.99/month ($159.99/year) for the ad-free plan, Disney+ offers a huge catalog of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic in one place, making it a must-have for families and fans of blockbusters.
Disney+'s standout feature is its collection of franchise content. The service also offers access to Disney's theatrical releases, despite launching a few months later. The platform supports 4K, Dolby Vision , and up to four simultaneous streams at no extra cost.
1. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video stands out for integrating streaming functionality into an already popular service. Prime Video is included for free if you're an Amazon Prime member ($14.99/month or $139/year), making it one of the most cost-effective options if you're already a frequent Amazon shopper. Alternatively, you can subscribe to Prime Video separately for $8.99/month for the basic ad-supported plan or $11.99 for the ad-free plan.
Prime Video's main strength is its vast and diverse content library, which includes a mix of originals (like The Boys, Reacher, and The Rings of Power) and licensed TV shows and movies. Prime Video is particularly rich in blockbusters like The Fall Guy, Oppenheimer, and Heads of State, among others.