There are more great shows than ever, spread across more services than ever. Paying for all of them adds up fast. So which ones are actually worth the money?
We ranked the major US streaming services by value: the size and quality of the library, how often new things arrive, and the extras you get for the price.
Prices, plans and libraries change often. We focus on value and fit, not exact prices. Check each service's site for current plans, including cheaper ad-supported tiers.
1. Netflix — the biggest hit machine
The largest library of original series, films and international hits, with something new almost every week.
- Best for: households that watch a bit of everything
- Watch out for: the price has gone up; the ad tier is the budget option
2. Disney+ (with Hulu) — best for families
Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic, with Hulu's adult series and next-day TV available in bundles.
- Best for: families with kids, and fans of the big franchises
- Watch out for: bundles offer the best value — check them
3. Prime Video — the "free extra"
Included with Amazon Prime, with a strong lineup of originals, movies to rent or buy, and add-on channels. Ads are included by default, with an ad-free upgrade available.
- Best for: anyone who already has Prime for shipping
- Watch out for: add-on channels can quietly raise your bill
4. Max (HBO) — best for prestige TV
HBO's award-winning series and movies, plus Warner Bros. films, Discovery reality and documentaries.
- Best for: fans of prestige drama and big films
- Watch out for: many people subscribe for one show and forget to cancel
5. Peacock — best budget pick with live sports
NBC shows the next day, Universal movies, and lots of live sports, including Premier League soccer and NBC sports events.
- Best for: sports fans and NBC viewers on a budget
- Watch out for: the smaller library outside NBC content
6. Paramount+ — news, sports and CBS
CBS shows, Paramount movies, Nickelodeon for kids, and sports including NFL games on CBS and the Champions League. Higher plans include your live local CBS station in most markets.
- Best for: CBS viewers and European soccer fans
- Watch out for: plan differences — check what's included
7. Apple TV — best quality per show
A smaller library of mostly originals, but with a high hit rate and excellent picture quality. It's also the home of MLS soccer.
- Best for: people who value quality over quantity
- Watch out for: limited back catalog
8. Hulu (standalone) — next-day TV
Current network shows the day after they air, plus FX series and a large library. Most viewers get the best value bundling it with Disney+.
- Best for: keeping up with current network shows
- Watch out for: better value in a bundle
The smart way to subscribe
- Keep one "home base" service your household uses weekly.
- Rotate the rest — subscribe for a month to binge a show, then cancel. Our guide to rotating streaming subscriptions explains how.
- Use ad tiers if you don't mind short breaks.
- Fill the gaps for free with free streaming options.
Frequently asked questions
Which streaming service has the most content?
Netflix has the largest overall library of originals and licensed shows, followed by Prime Video's large movie catalog.
Which streaming service is best for families?
Disney+ is the top pick for families thanks to Disney, Pixar and Marvel, with Hulu available in bundles for adult viewers.
Are ad-supported plans worth it?
For many households, yes. They cost less, and the ad breaks are usually shorter than on cable TV.
How many streaming services should I have?
Most households are happy with one or two at a time, rotating others in when a show they want is released.
