Article
Best Streaming Services in 2026
Find the best streaming services for movies, TV shows, and entertainment. We compare Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Max, and more to help you choose the perfect streaming platform.
The streaming wars have transformed how we watch TV and movies, with more options than ever before. From Netflix’s original powerhouse to Disney’s family-friendly empire, choosing the right streaming service depends on your content preferences and budget.
Our team tested and compared the top 10 streaming services in 2026, evaluating content libraries, pricing, features, and overall value. Whether you love binge-worthy dramas, family movies, or niche content, we’ve found the best streaming platform for every viewer.
Quick Comparison
| Service | Best For | Price | Content Type | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Disney+ / Hulu Bundle | Best Overall Value | $10.99/month | Two streaming services | ★4.9/5 |
| 2. Netflix | Best Original Content | $7.99/month | Single service | ★4.8/5 |
| 3. Amazon Prime Video | Best with Prime Membership | $8.99/month | Single service | ★4.7/5 |
| 4. Max (HBO Max) | Best Premium Content | $9.99/month | Single service | ★4.6/5 |
| 5. Apple TV+ | Best for Apple Users | $9.99/month | Single service | ★4.5/5 |
| 6. Peacock | Best for NBC/Universal Fans | $7.99/month | Single service | ★4.4/5 |
| 7. Paramount+ | Best for CBS/MTV Fans | $7.99/month | Single service | ★4.3/5 |
| 8. Discovery+ | Best for Reality & Documentaries | $4.99/month | Single service | ★4.2/5 |
| 9. Crunchyroll | Best for Anime | $7.99/month | Single service | ★4.5/5 |
| 10. Tubi | Best Free Streaming | $0.00/month | Single service | ★4/5 |
Our Top Picks in Detail
Disney+ / Hulu Bundle
The Disney+/Hulu Bundle is the clear winner for value in 2026, offering two major streaming services for just $10.99/month with ads. You get Disney's family content plus Hulu's extensive TV library—a savings of 45% compared to subscribing separately. The ad-free bundle costs $19.99/month.
Features
Offline downloads, 4K/HDR streaming, personalized profiles, parental controls, content from multiple studios
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Best value: Two services for $10.99 with ads
- ✓Massive combined content library
- ✓Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic
- ✓Hulu's extensive TV show collection
- ✓Can upgrade to include ESPN+ for $14.99
Cons
- ✗Ad-supported tier (ad-free costs $19.99)
- ✗Some content still separated between services
- ✗Password sharing restrictions in effect
Netflix
Netflix remains the streaming king with the most subscribers worldwide. The ad-supported tier starts at $7.99/month, Standard (ad-free) is $17.99, and Premium (4K) is $24.99. With award-winning originals like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Wednesday, Netflix delivers unmatched exclusive content.
Features
Original series and films, offline downloads, 4K/HDR, personalized profiles, games included, no ads (Standard+)
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Industry-leading original content and exclusives
- ✓Massive library of movies and TV shows
- ✓Excellent recommendation algorithm
- ✓Available in 190+ countries
- ✓Mobile downloads for offline viewing
Cons
- ✗No free trial available
- ✗Standard plan increased to $17.99/month
- ✗Premium 4K plan costs $24.99/month
Amazon Prime Video
Prime Video is included with Amazon Prime ($14.99/month or $139/year) or available standalone at $8.99/month with ads. With acclaimed originals and the added benefits of Prime membership (free shipping, Prime Music, photos), it offers exceptional overall value beyond just streaming.
Features
Original content, 4K/HDR streaming, X-Ray bonus features, offline downloads, add-on channels, rentals/purchases
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Included with Amazon Prime ($14.99/month or $139/year)
- ✓Standalone option at $8.99/month with ads
- ✓Excellent original content (The Boys, Jack Ryan, Rings of Power)
- ✓Rent or buy new releases
- ✓Prime benefits include free shipping, music, photos
Cons
- ✗Ad-supported even for Prime members (2024 change)
- ✗Interface can be cluttered with rentals
- ✗Less intuitive navigation than competitors
Max (HBO Max)
Max (formerly HBO Max) combines HBO's premium content with Warner Bros. films and Discovery+ programming. Starting at $9.99/month with ads, it delivers prestige shows like The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, and Succession, plus blockbuster movies and documentaries.
Features
HBO originals, Warner Bros. films, Discovery+ content, 4K/HDR, offline downloads, personalized profiles
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓HBO's prestigious original programming
- ✓Warner Bros. film library and new theatrical releases
- ✓Discovery+ content included
- ✓Same-day streaming for some Warner films
- ✓High-quality, award-winning content
Cons
- ✗Smaller library than Netflix
- ✗Ad-free tier costs $16.99/month
- ✗Ultimate 4K plan at $20.99/month
Apple TV+
Apple TV+ focuses on quality over quantity at $9.99/month with critically acclaimed originals like Ted Lasso, Severance, The Morning Show, and Foundation. While the library is smaller, every show and film is high-quality, ad-free, and often award-winning. Free for 3 months with Apple device purchases.
Features
Exclusive originals, 4K HDR/Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, offline downloads, family sharing (6 users), no ads
Supported Devices
Apple TV, Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android (limited), PlayStation, Xbox, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Outstanding original content quality
- ✓Ad-free experience at all times
- ✓Exceptional video and audio quality
- ✓3 months free with new Apple device purchase
- ✓Apple One bundle savings available
Cons
- ✗Smallest content library among major services
- ✗Limited catalog beyond originals
- ✗Mostly beneficial for Apple device owners
Peacock
Peacock offers NBC and Universal content for $7.99/month (with ads) or $13.99/month (ad-free). Get access to The Office, Parks and Recreation, WWE, Premier League soccer, and new NBC shows the day after they air. A limited free tier is also available with ads.
Features
NBC shows, Universal films, live sports, originals, offline downloads (Premium Plus), live channels
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Affordable at $7.99/month with ads
- ✓NBC and Universal content library
- ✓Live sports including Premier League, WWE
- ✓Next-day access to NBC current shows
- ✓Some free content available
Cons
- ✗Ads on basic tier can be frequent
- ✗Premium Plus (ad-free) costs $13.99/month
- ✗Library smaller than Netflix or Hulu
Paramount+
Paramount+ delivers CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and Paramount Pictures content for $7.99/month (with ads). The Showtime tier at $12.99/month combines both services and removes ads. Watch Star Trek series, Yellowstone universe shows, and live CBS programming including sports.
Features
Live CBS, Paramount films, originals, Showtime (Premium), offline downloads, local channels in some markets
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Affordable pricing at $7.99/month
- ✓CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central content
- ✓Live CBS in many markets
- ✓Paramount films and originals
- ✓Showtime included in Premium tier ($12.99)
Cons
- ✗Ads on Essential tier
- ✗Limited 4K content
- ✗Interface needs improvement
Discovery+
Discovery+ specializes in reality TV and documentaries for just $4.99/month with ads or $8.99/month ad-free. Access content from Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Animal Planet, and more. Perfect for fans of home improvement, cooking, true crime, and nature content.
Features
Reality shows, documentaries, 4K on select content, offline downloads, personalized profiles
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Very affordable at $4.99/month
- ✓Extensive reality TV and documentary library
- ✓Discovery, HGTV, Food Network, TLC content
- ✓4 simultaneous streams
- ✓Ad-free option only $8.99/month
Cons
- ✗Niche appeal (reality and documentaries only)
- ✗No scripted dramas or major films
- ✗Content available on Max (HBO Max) overlap
Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is the premier anime streaming service with thousands of titles and simulcasts from Japan. The Fan tier at $7.99/month removes ads, while Mega Fan at $9.99/month adds offline viewing and early access. Essential for anime enthusiasts with new episodes often within hours of Japanese broadcast.
Features
Anime library, simulcasts, manga access, offline downloads (Mega Fan+), dubbed and subbed content, community
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Largest anime library in the West
- ✓Simulcasts from Japan (new episodes quickly)
- ✓Fan (ad-free) tier only $7.99/month
- ✓Mega Fan tier at $9.99 includes offline viewing
- ✓Active community and manga access
Cons
- ✗Limited appeal outside anime fans
- ✗Free tier has ads and delays
- ✗Some content only available in Japanese with subtitles
Tubi
Tubi is the best free streaming service, offering 250,000+ movies and TV shows with ads. Owned by Fox Corporation, it's completely legitimate and requires no account or payment. While you won't find the latest blockbusters, Tubi offers an impressive library of classic films, cult favorites, and TV series at no cost.
Features
Free streaming, 78+ channels, diverse library, no account needed, family-friendly sections
Supported Devices
Smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Android, Xbox, PlayStation, web browsers
Pros
- ✓Completely free with ads
- ✓Large library of 250,000+ titles
- ✓No subscription or account required
- ✓Wide variety of movies and TV shows
- ✓Owned by Fox (legitimate service)
Cons
- ✗Ads throughout content (it's ad-supported)
- ✗Mostly older content, few recent releases
- ✗No offline downloads
How We Evaluate Streaming Services
Our comprehensive testing methodology ensures accurate real-world evaluation:
Content Library Analysis
We evaluate the breadth and quality of available content:
- Library size: Total number of movies, shows, and exclusives
- Original content: Quality and quantity of exclusive programming
- Content freshness: How often new content is added
- Popular titles: Availability of trending and award-winning content
- Variety: Coverage across genres (drama, comedy, action, documentaries, kids)
User Experience Testing
We measure real-world viewing experience across devices:
- Interface design: Ease of navigation and content discovery
- Search functionality: How well you can find specific content
- Recommendation engine: Quality of personalized suggestions
- Video quality: 1080p, 4K/HDR availability and performance
- Buffering and load times: Streaming reliability
Features and Functionality
We test advanced capabilities:
- Offline downloads: Availability and download limits
- Simultaneous streams: Multi-user household support
- Profiles: Personalization for family members
- Parental controls: Content filtering and restrictions
- Platform support: Device compatibility and app quality
Value Assessment
We analyze pricing and overall value:
- Price-to-content ratio: Value per dollar spent
- Bundle opportunities: Multi-service discounts
- Ad experience: Frequency and intrusiveness (ad-supported tiers)
- Hidden costs: Upgrade paths and premium tiers
- Free trial availability: Testing before committing
Understanding Streaming Service Options
Ad-Supported vs Ad-Free
Most streaming services now offer multiple tiers:
Ad-Supported (Lower cost)
- Netflix: $7.99/month
- Hulu: $9.99/month
- Disney+/Hulu Bundle: $10.99/month
- Max: $9.99/month
- Peacock: $7.99/month
Ad-Free (Higher cost, better experience)
- Netflix Standard: $17.99/month
- Hulu (No Ads): $18.99/month
- Disney+/Hulu Bundle (No Ads): $19.99/month
- Max (Ad-Free): $16.99/month
- Peacock Premium Plus: $13.99/month
Ad-supported tiers typically show 4-5 minutes of ads per hour, similar to cable TV but usually less intrusive.
4K and HDR Streaming
Premium video quality requires:
- 4K/Ultra HD: 4x the resolution of standard 1080p HD
- HDR (High Dynamic Range): Enhanced colors and contrast
- Dolby Vision/Atmos: Premium picture and sound
Not all services include 4K in base pricing:
- Included: Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Max (Ultimate tier)
- Extra cost: Netflix Premium ($24.99/month)
- Limited: Hulu, Peacock (select titles)
Simultaneous Streams
How many people can watch different content at once:
- 1-2 streams: Budget or basic tiers
- 3-4 streams: Standard for most services
- 6+ streams: Apple TV+ (6), some premium tiers
Consider your household size when choosing a service and tier.
Smart Streaming Strategies
Bundle and Save
Several bundle deals offer significant savings:
Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+): $14.99/month with ads (save $10+)
Verizon Bundles:
- Netflix + Max: $10/month with ads (save $9)
- Disney Bundle: $10/month (save $10)
Walmart+ ($98/year): Includes Paramount+ or Peacock free
Amazon Prime ($139/year or $14.99/month): Includes Prime Video plus shopping benefits
Rotate Subscriptions
Save money by rotating services:
- Subscribe to one service
- Binge your favorite shows
- Cancel and switch to another
- Return when new content releases
No contracts mean you can cancel anytime without penalties.
Free Trials and Promotions
Take advantage of free trials before committing:
- Prime Video: 30 days
- Paramount+: 7 days
- Apple TV+: 7 days (3 months with Apple device)
- Peacock: Limited free tier available
- Tubi: Always free with ads
Frequently Asked Questions
Which streaming service has the most content?
Netflix has the largest overall library with thousands of movies and TV shows, though the exact number varies by country. Tubi technically has 250,000+ titles but mostly older content. For quality over quantity, Disney+/Hulu Bundle, Max, and Prime Video offer the best balance of extensive libraries and exclusive originals.
Can I share my streaming account with family?
Policies vary by service. Most allow multiple profiles and simultaneous streams within a household. However, Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and others now restrict password sharing outside your household, requiring additional fees for extra members. Check each service’s sharing policy before subscribing.
What’s the cheapest way to stream?
The cheapest options are:
- Free: Tubi (ad-supported)
- $4.99/month: Discovery+ (with ads)
- $7.99/month: Netflix (with ads), Peacock (with ads), Paramount+ (with ads)
- $10.99/month: Disney+/Hulu Bundle (best value for content)
Bundles like Disney+/Hulu ($10.99) offer the most content per dollar.
Do I need multiple streaming services?
It depends on your viewing habits. Most households subscribe to 3-4 services to get comprehensive content coverage. Consider:
- One major service: Netflix, Disney+/Hulu Bundle, or Prime Video
- One specialty: Max (HBO content), Apple TV+ (quality originals)
- One free option: Tubi, Pluto TV
Rotate subscriptions to save money while accessing different content.
Which streaming service is best for families?
Disney+/Hulu Bundle ($10.99-$19.99/month) is ideal for families, offering:
- Kid-friendly Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars content
- Adult content on Hulu
- Robust parental controls
- Multiple profiles
Netflix also offers excellent family content with strong parental controls and kids’ profiles.
Can I download shows to watch offline?
Most major services offer offline downloads:
- Yes: Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Prime Video, Max, Apple TV+, Peacock Premium Plus
- Limited: Some free or ad-supported tiers restrict downloads
- No: Tubi, most free services
Check your specific tier—some ad-supported plans don’t include downloads.
Will streaming services work on my TV?
Yes! All major streaming services support:
- Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio, TCL, Hisense)
- Streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast)
- Gaming consoles (Xbox, PlayStation)
- Mobile devices (iPhone, iPad, Android)
- Web browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
If you have an older TV, a $30-50 streaming device like Roku or Fire TV Stick provides full access.
How much internet speed do I need for streaming?
Recommended speeds:
- SD (480p): 3-5 Mbps
- HD (1080p): 5-10 Mbps
- 4K/Ultra HD: 25+ Mbps
- Multiple streams: Add requirements together
Most home internet plans (50-100+ Mbps) easily handle multiple simultaneous streams.
Are streaming services worth it compared to cable?
For most people, yes. Streaming offers:
- Lower costs: $10-20/month vs $100+ for cable
- No contracts: Cancel anytime
- On-demand viewing: Watch what you want, when you want
- Multiple devices: Watch anywhere
Cable may be better if you need extensive live sports and news channels, in which case consider live TV streaming services instead.
Can I get live sports on streaming services?
Yes, but you need specific services:
- Peacock: Premier League, WWE, Olympics
- Paramount+: NFL, Champions League
- ESPN+: UFC, international soccer (included in Disney Bundle)
- Prime Video: Thursday Night Football
For comprehensive sports, consider live TV streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV.