The best video streaming services

In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, streaming services have become a mainstay, providing viewers with instant access to countless movies, TV shows, and other content. As more people cut the cord from traditional cable and satellite services, the streaming industry has grown exponentially, giving rise to numerous platforms catering to diverse tastes and preferences. In this article, we'll look at eight of the best streaming services available in 2023: Netflix, Disney+, Mubi, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Apple TV+, Hulu, and Paramount+. We will explore their features, price points, and content offerings, as well as offer insights on how to choose the best streaming service for you.

Which are the best video streaming services?

Netflix

The pioneer of the streaming industry, Netflix has continued to maintain its reputation for delivering high-quality, original content, as well as a vast library of movies and TV shows. With an impressive array of genres, languages, and categories, Netflix caters to a broad audience. Popular original series such as "Stranger Things," "The Crown," and "Squid Game" have become cultural phenomena, solidifying Netflix's status as a content powerhouse.

Price per month: Plans range from $6.99 (with ads) to $19.99
Subscription options: Basic, Standard, Standard with Ads, and Premium
Content available: Original series, movies, documentaries, and licensed content
Country availability: Over 190 countries

Pros:

• Extensive library of original and licensed content
  Available in over 190 countries
  Regular updates to content catalog
  Multiple subscription plans to suit different budgets

Cons:

• Pricing may be higher than some competitors
  Popular licensed content may be removed as rights expire

"Stranger Things", Netflix

Disney+

Disney+ has quickly become a force in the streaming world, thanks to its massive library of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content. Disney+ also offers exclusive access to new releases and timeless classics from its franchises. Popular series like "The Mandalorian" and "WandaVision" have captured audiences' attention, while the platform's extensive animated film library appeals to viewers of all ages.

Price per month: $7.99 with ads, $9.99 without ads
Subscription options: Monthly or annual
Content available: Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and exclusive originals
Country availability: Over 60 countries

Pros:

• Rich content library featuring iconic franchises
• Exclusive access to new releases
• Family-friendly programming

Cons:

• Limited availability in countries compared to some competitors
• Focused primarily on Disney-owned content

"The Mandalorian", Disney

Mubi

Mubi is a niche streaming service catering to cinephiles and fans of independent, international, and classic films. With a carefully curated selection that changes daily, Mubi offers a unique viewing experience and encourages exploration beyond mainstream cinema. Highlights include renowned films from directors like Akira Kurosawa, Jean-Luc Godard, and Ingmar Bergman.

Price per month: $12.99
Subscription options: Monthly or annual
Content available: Independent, international, and classic films
Country availability: Over 190 countries

Pros:

• Curated selection of independent, international, and classic films
• Daily film rotation encourages discovery
• High-quality content catering to cinephiles
• Wide country availability

Cons:

• Niche content may not appeal to all viewers
• Smaller content library compared to other major streaming services

 

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video is a powerful contender in the streaming world, offering a mix of original content, popular movies, and TV shows. With its integration into the Amazon Prime ecosystem, subscribers also enjoy additional perks like free shipping and access to music streaming. Notable Amazon originals include "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," "The Boys," and "The Man in the High Castle."

Price per month: $8.99 for Prime Video standalone or $14.99 as part of Amazon Prime
Subscription options: Monthly or annual
Content available: Original series, movies, documentaries, and licensed content
Country availability: Over 200 countries

Pros:

• Wide variety of original and licensed content
• Additional benefits as part of Amazon Prime membership
• Regularly updated content catalog
• Broad country availability

Cons:

• May require a separate subscription for additional content (e.g., add-on channels)
• Content library may not be as extensive as some competitors

"The Boys", Amazon Prime Video

HBO Max

HBO Max combines the high-quality programming of HBO with an extensive catalog from WarnerMedia. The platform offers a diverse selection of content, including prestige dramas, comedies, and blockbuster films. Critically acclaimed series like "Succession," "Euphoria," and "Westworld" are available alongside iconic classics such as "The Sopranos" and "The Wire."

Price per month: $9.99 with ads, $15.99 without ads
Subscription options: Monthly or annual
Content available: HBO series, movies, documentaries, and WarnerMedia content
Country availability: Over 60 countries

Pros:

• High-quality original programming
• Extensive library of movies and TV shows
• Prestige dramas and critically acclaimed series

Cons:

• Pricing may be higher than some competitors
• Limited availability in countries compared to some competitors

"Chernobyl", HBO

Apple TV+

Apple TV+ focuses on original content, offering a smaller but well-curated selection of movies and TV shows. With a strong emphasis on quality, Apple TV+ has attracted big-name talent and received critical acclaim for many of its productions. Standout series include "Ted Lasso," "For All Mankind," and "Severance".

Price per month: $6.99
Subscription options: Monthly or annual
Content available: Original series, movies, and documentaries
Country availability: Over 100 countries

Pros:

• High-quality original programming
• Affordable pricing
• Ad-free streaming
• Wide country availability

Cons:

• Smaller content library compared to other major streaming services
• Limited licensed content

"Severance", Apple TV+

Hulu

Hulu offers a vast library of content, including TV shows, movies, and documentaries. It also features live TV options, making it a popular choice for cord-cutters. With a variety of subscription plans, Hulu caters to diverse preferences and budgets. Some popular series exclusive to Hulu include "The Handmaid's Tale," "Little Fires Everywhere," and "Ramy".

Price per month: Plans range from $7.99 (with ads) to $82.99 (including Live TV, ad-free)
Subscription options: Ad-supported, ad-free, and live TV options
Content available: TV shows, movies, documentaries, and live TV
Country availability: United States

Pros:

• Large content library with a mix of original and licensed content
• Live TV options available
• Multiple subscription plans to suit different budgets
• Exclusive access to some popular series

Cons:

• Available only in the United States
• Ad-supported plans may detract from viewing experience

"The Handmaid's Tale", Hulu

Paramount+

Paramount+ is a rapidly growing streaming service that brings together a diverse selection of content from the extensive libraries of ViacomCBS. With a focus on both original programming and popular shows and movies from CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and more, Paramount+ offers something for everyone. Notable original series exclusive to the platform include "Star Trek: Strange New Worlds", "The Good Fight", and "Halo", while also providing access to fan-favorites like "SpongeBob SquarePants" and classic sitcoms such as "Frasier".

Price per month: Plans range from $4.99 (with ads) to $9.99 (without ads)
Subscription options: Ad-supported and ad-free options
Content available: Original series, movies, TV shows from ViacomCBS networks, and live TV
Country availability: Over 20 countries

Pros:

• Diverse content from various ViacomCBS networks
• Original programming and exclusive series
• Live TV options available
• More affordable plans with ad-supported option

Cons:

• Limited availability in countries compared to some competitors
• Smaller content library compared to other major streaming services

"Star Trek: Strange New Worlds", Paramount+

 

Choosing the right streaming service

When selecting a streaming service, it's essential to consider various factors, such as the price per month, subscription options, content available, and country availability. It's also important to think about your personal preferences and interests, as each platform caters to different tastes.

For instance, if you're a fan of independent and international films, Mubi may be an ideal choice. Conversely, if you're looking for a broad range of content with a mix of original series and licensed movies and shows, Netflix or Amazon Prime Video might be more suitable.

Additionally, consider the devices you'll be using to access the streaming service, as compatibility may vary across platforms. Many services offer free trials, allowing you to explore their content and features before committing to a subscription.

The abundance of streaming services available in 2023 provides viewers with a wealth of choices for entertainment. Whether you're a movie buff, a TV series enthusiast, or just looking for a wide selection of content, there's a streaming service to suit your needs. By carefully considering factors such as price, content offerings, and personal preferences, as well as weighing the pros and cons of each platform, you can find the perfect platform to enjoy endless hours of entertainment.