Choosing the Right Streaming Service for Your Viewing Preferences
By CBSi Editorial Staff | July 13, 2023
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Choosing the right streaming service can be challenging. Having multiple services with monthly fees can add up fast. Your wallet will thank you for being decisive and choosing to utilize only a few monthly subscription services. This article will help you navigate the options available to you in the growing world of streaming. 

When choosing the right streaming service, there are a variety of factors to take into consideration including the user-friendly interface, the number of devices supported, prices, and the ability to download shows on the go. In addition, it is important to consider the content available on the platform. Some platforms offer different programming such as more children’s content or sports packages, and your choice in streaming services will depend on your entertainment desires.

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1. Paramount+

Paramount+ has an extensive content library with options for everyone in the family. With Nickelodeon shows for children and hundreds of movies and television shows for adults, Paramount+ is a high-value streaming service for an affordable price. In addition, Paramount+ recently acquired Showtime, so for one price, you receive the content of 2 platforms on a user-friendly interface. Paramount+ offers plans as low as $5.99 a month, and the plan for Paramount+ with Showtime is $11.99 a month. This pricing is significantly lower than other competitors. In addition, Paramount+ offers a student discount for 25% off your plan. Due to the pricing and extensive content library, Paramount+ is one the best value streaming services in the industry.

2. Disney+

Disney+ thrives with content dedicated to families. While they do have content that some adults enjoy, Disney+ has an extensive content library with content dedicated to children. Some content adults may enjoy is the Marvel and Star Wars movies and television shows. Disney+ offers a variety of pricing options and bundles with other streaming platforms such as ESPN+ and Hulu.

3. ESPN+

ESPN+ has extensive sports content available for fans of every sport! Between documentaries filled with behind the scenes footage to live broadcasts of your favorite teams, you will find content you love if you enjoy sports. However, it is important to consider that some other streaming platforms have contracts for different sports such as Paramount+ where there are soccer and football games streaming frequently. Do your research on your favorite teams to see where their games are streamed. 

4. Hulu

Hulu offers a variety of packages with their original shows as well as Hulu Live which has channels to replace traditional cable packages. If you love scrolling through cable channels, but no longer want to work with your local cable provider, then you may love Hulu Live. Hulu also offers a variety of movies and television shows on their streaming service. It is important to consider that there is a limitation affiliated with the Hulu Live package as the devices utilizing this part of the service must be in the same location. However, Hulu streaming shows and movies can be watched anywhere. 

5. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video is a great addition to your Amazon prime subscription if you are already a prime member. Amazon Prime Video is included in your Amazon Prime Subscription. If you regularly shop on amazon prime, or utilize other services such as Amazon Music or Amazon Photos, then you will find the Amazon Prime subscription to be worth the cost!

6. Netflix

Netflix has been a household name for years as one of the original streaming services. Netflix has a vast content library with original content and other movies, tv shows, and documentaries. Netflix allows downloading of some movies and shows for you to view on-the-go. 

Ultimately, the streaming services you choose are dependent on the content you like and the price you are willing to pay. Make sure you consider the number of devices allowed on your plan and any location limitations with the streaming service you choose. Also, consider testing out some of the different platforms by utilizing their free trials to determine what is best for you and your family.