Streaming Services and Prices for Every Budget

Updated: October 31, 2024

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The best streaming service will depend on your specific viewing habits and budget. Whether you prefer a vast library of original content, live TV options or family-friendly programming, evaluate what each service offers to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

From budget-friendly Paramount+ to more premium options like FuboTV, there’s a platform to suit every budget and viewing preference. If you're looking to save, consider bundle deals like Disney+ with Hulu and ESPN+, or take advantage of student discounts on platforms like Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video.

Top 11 Video Streaming Services

To help you navigate the crowded streaming landscape, we’ve selected some of the most popular platforms available today, each offering unique features and content. These options made the list for their broad appeal, ranging from exclusive original series to live sports and family-friendly programming.

Whether you’re looking for budget options or premium experiences, these platforms offer something for everyone, making it easier to find the streaming service that best caters to your needs.

1. Netflix

Netflix logo against a backdrop of its trending originals and other titles.

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Best for: Binge-watchers who want diverse and original content

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Plans: Standard With Ads ($6.99/month); Standard ($15.49/month); Premium ($19.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: 1–4 devices

With nearly 278 million subscribers in 190+ countries, Netflix offers a vast library of timeless classics and exclusive original content. Its intuitive interface features customizable subtitles, audio settings and multi-device syncing for an effortless viewing experience. Across all plans, Netflix provides unlimited access to movies, TV shows and mobile games, which can be watched on your TV, laptop, phone or tablet.

Netflix offers HD and Ultra HD plans starting at $6.99 per month to suit various preferences. While the platform’s wide selection and user-friendly design make it a top choice for diverse entertainment, users may experience regional content restrictions and occasional delays in adding new releases.

Take a look at the various Netflix plans and their features to find the one that suits your viewing habits:

Plan
Key Features
Price*

Standard with Ads

  • 2 simultaneous screens
  • 2 devices for downloads
  • HD available

$6.99/month

Standard

  • 2 simultaneous screens
  • 1 extra member slot**
  • 2 devices for downloads
  • HD available

$15.49/month

Premium

  • 4 simultaneous screens
  • 2 extra member slots**
  • 6 devices for downloads
  • HD and 4K available
  • Spatial audio

$19.99/month

*Taxes may apply based on your location.
**Extra member slots can be added for $7.99 each monthly.

2. Disney+

Disney+ logo featuring a background with popular family-friendly films and exclusive series.

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Best for: Families and superfans of iconic franchises

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Plans: Disney+ Basic ($7.99/month); Disney+ Premium ($13.99/month); Disney Bundle Duo ($9.99–19.99/month); Disney Bundle Trio ($14.99–24.99/month); Max Bundle ($16.99–29.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: Multiple devices at a time

Disney+ is a must-have for families and superfans of iconic franchises like Marvel, Star Wars and Disney classics. The platform offers a blend of nostalgic favorites and fresh originals, including popular titles like The Mandalorian and Loki. With plans starting at $7.99 per month, Disney+ provides a range of viewing experiences across multiple devices.

While the service offers an extensive library and high-quality streaming options like 4K UHD, HDR and Dolby Atmos, some premium titles may require additional fees. Content availability can vary by region, and downloads are not available on the basic ad-supported plan. However, Disney+ stands out for its bundle deals with Hulu and ESPN+, offering a comprehensive entertainment package that covers everything from movies and series to live sports.

For a dive deep into what Disney+ has to offer, here’s a breakdown of the different plans and their features:

Plan
Key Features
Price

Disney+ Basic

  • With Ads
  • 4K UHD & HDR
  • Stream on multiple devices

$7.99/month

Disney+ Premium

  • No Ads
  • Dolby Atmos
  • 4K UHD & HDR
  • Downloads on up to 10 devices

$13.99/month $139.99/year

Disney Bundle Duo Basic

  • Disney+ (With Ads)
  • Hulu (With Ads)

$9.99/month

3. Apple TV+

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Best for: Viewers who prioritize high-quality, original programming

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Plans: $9.99 monthly (Free with Apple Music Student Plan or included in Apple One)

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Simultaneous Streams: Up to five additional family members with Family Sharing

Apple TV+ is renowned for its high-quality original programming, offering a curated selection of shows, movies and documentaries. With award-winning titles like Ted Lasso and The Morning Show, the platform delivers content that appeals to viewers who appreciate finely crafted storytelling and production.

For $9.99 per month, you can enjoy ad-free viewing with 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos support, along with the option to download content for offline access. The service also allows Family Sharing, enabling up to five additional members to enjoy Apple TV+ under one subscription.

Apple TV+ is best experienced on Apple devices or through the Apple TV app, making it a seamless addition for those already in the Apple ecosystem. For users subscribed to multiple Apple services, the Apple One bundle combines Apple TV+ with Apple Music and iCloud, starting at $19.95 per month. Students can also get Apple TV+ included with the Apple Music Student Plan for just $5.99 per month.

4. Amazon Prime Video

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Best for: Entertainment lovers who enjoy added Prime membership perks

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Plans: Amazon Prime Video ($14.99/month); Prime Student ($7.49/month); Prime Access ($6.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: Three devices

Amazon Prime Video offers a wide content library with the added perks of an Amazon Prime membership, making it a versatile choice for both entertainment and everyday convenience. With Prime Video, you gain access to a range of movies, TV shows and exclusive Amazon Originals like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Boys. The service also includes perks like free two-day delivery and exclusive shopping deals, which are perfect for those who want more than just streaming.

One of Prime Video's standout features is the ability to customize your viewing experience through Prime Video Channels. You can add premium networks like Max and Showtime or explore free channels like ViX and Freevee, expanding your content options without extra costs. However, while Prime Video offers great value, some content may include limited ads, and accessing premium channels requires additional subscriptions. For students and those eligible for assistance programs, discounted memberships make Prime Video even more accessible to a broader audience.

Whether you're looking for the full suite of Prime benefits or a more tailored streaming experience, there's a plan that fits your needs.

Plan
Key Features
Price

Amazon Prime Video

  • Includes Amazon Prime membership benefits
  • Full Prime Video library

$14.99/month $139/year

Prime Student

  • Discounted membership for students
  • Includes all Amazon Prime and Prime Video benefits

$7.49/month $69/year

Prime Access

  • Discounted membership for eligible assistance program recipients

$6.99/month

Prime Video Channels

  • Additional premium channels (Max, Showtime, etc.)
  • Free channels available (ViX, Freevee)

Varies by channel

5. Hulu

Hulu logo with its user interface displaying a mix of current TV episodes and original series.

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Best for: TV enthusiasts who want both live broadcasts and streaming options

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Plans: With Ads ($7.99/month); No Ads ($17.99/month); Hulu + Live TV ($76.99–81.99/month); Live TV ($75.99/month); Student Plan ($1.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: Two devices (Unlimited with add-on)

Hulu provides a versatile streaming experience, offering a wide range of current TV shows, classic series and movies. Beyond on-demand content, Hulu + Live TV includes access to live sports, news and entertainment channels, making it perfect for those who want to stay updated on live events without the need for cable.

Popular exclusives like The Handmaid's Tale and Only Murders in the Building are just some of the highlights of Hulu’s vast library. While its ad-supported plans are budget-friendly, opting for ad-free or live TV plans can increase the cost. However, the comprehensive offerings and integration with Disney+ and ESPN+ make Hulu a strong contender for anyone’s streaming lineup.

Explore Hulu's plan options below to find the best fit for your streaming needs:

Plan
Key Features
Price

Hulu (With Ads)

Ad-supported streaming library

$7.99/month $79.99/year

Hulu (No Ads)

Ad-free streaming (except select shows)

$17.99/month

Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV

On-demand and live content with ads

$76.99/month

Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV

On-demand ad-free content (except select shows) + live content

$89.99/month

Hulu (With Ads) + Live TV (No Ads for Disney+)

On-demand content with ads, live content and ad-free Disney+

$81.99/month (not available for new subscribers)

6. Sling TV

Sling TV logo with an image of its customizable live TV interface and channel options.

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Best for: Budget-conscious viewers seeking customizable live TV

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Plans: Sling Orange ($40/month); Sling Blue ($40/month); Sling Orange + Blue ($55/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: One to four devices

Sling TV allows you to tailor your live TV experience with affordable, customizable plans. Sling Orange is ideal for sports enthusiasts and families, as it has channels like ESPN and Disney, while Sling Blue offers a broader range of news and entertainment options, including FOX and NBC. New subscribers can enjoy a 50% discount on their first month, making it an easy and cost-effective way to get started.

For those looking to expand their channel lineup, Sling TV offers a variety of add-ons, so you only pay for the content you want to watch. This flexibility, combined with features like cloud DVR and multi-device support, makes Sling TV an appealing choice for diverse households.

Check out the different Sling TV plans to customize your viewing experience:

Plan
Key Features
Price*

Sling Orange

  • 31 channels (including ESPN, Disney)
  • 1 stream at a time

$40/month

Sling Blue

  • 42 channels (including FOX, NBC, MSNBC)
  • 3 simultaneous streams

$40/month

Sling Orange + Blue

  • 47 channels from both Orange and Blue
  • 1–4 simultaneous streams (depending on channel)

$55/month

*Additional taxes and fees may apply.

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MIND YOUR BANDWIDTH

Constantly streaming videos online can take a toll on your bandwidth, which can affect your monthly internet bill. Manage your bandwidth usage through your streaming service’s data usage settings or your device and limit how much data you use to ensure you keep your internet bill in check.

7. YouTube TV

YouTube TV logo over an interface view featuring multiple live TV channels and DVR options.

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Best for: Live TV enthusiasts who need unlimited DVR storage

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Plan: $72.99 monthly

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Simultaneous Streams: Three

With YouTube TV, viewers can access over 100 live channels, spanning sports, news and entertainment — all for $72.99 per month. New subscribers can enjoy a $20 discount on the first four months, providing an $80 savings upfront. The platform’s unlimited cloud DVR stands out, letting you record all the shows and events you want without worrying about storage space or expiration.

Sports fans will find added value in the NFL Sunday Ticket, available as an add-on or standalone option, which offers comprehensive coverage of major games. With the ability to stream on up to three devices at once — or upgrade for unlimited streams — YouTube TV is a great fit for busy households.

8. Max (formerly HBO Max)

Max logo against a backdrop of its wide range of critically acclaimed dramas and comedies.

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Best for: Premium content lovers who enjoy sports and cinema

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Plans: With Ads ($9.99/month); Ad-Free ($16.99/month); Ultimate Ad-Free ($20.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: Two to four devices

Max offers a premium mix of HBO originals, blockbuster movies and live sports, catering to viewers who appreciate high-quality entertainment. With exclusive hits like Succession and The Last of Us, Max delivers top-tier content alongside a vast library of classic and contemporary shows. Sports enthusiasts can also benefit from the B/R Sports add-on, which includes live NBA, NHL and MLB games.

Max provides ad-supported and ad-free plans, with premium options offering 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos for an enhanced viewing experience. While the higher price points may be a consideration, the extensive content and advanced streaming features make this platform a top choice for cinephiles and sports fans alike.

Discover the plan that suits your viewing style with Max's options below:

Plan
Key Features
Price*

With Ads

  • 2 simultaneous streams
  • Full HD 1080p

$9.99/month $99.99/year

Ad-Free

  • 2 simultaneous streams
  • Full HD 1080p
  • 30 downloads for offline viewing**

$16.99/month $169.99/year

Ultimate Ad-Free

  • 4 simultaneous streams
  • 4K UHD, Dolby, HDR 10
  • 100 downloads for offline viewing**

$20.99/month $209.99/year

*Prices do not include applicable taxes.
**Restrictions may apply to certain content categories.

9. Paramount+

Paramount+ logo with a background featuring CBS shows, live sports, and movies.

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Best for: CBS and Showtime fans who also love live sports

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Plans: Paramount+ Essential ($5.99/month); Paramount+ with Showtime ($11.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: Three devices

Paramount+ combines a rich mix of CBS series, blockbuster movies and live sports with the added value of Showtime’s premium programming in the higher-tier plan. The platform offers exclusive shows like Yellowjackets and Dexter, along with Paramount+ originals, making it a versatile option for diverse viewing preferences.

The service’s Essential plan provides a budget-friendly way to enjoy over 40,000 episodes and movies, while the premium plan adds Showtime content and local CBS access. Paramount+ also supports offline viewing on the premium plan so you can take your favorite content on the go.

Review Paramount+ plans to discover which one offers the content and features you’re looking for:

Plan
Key Features
Price*

Paramount+ Essential

  • 40,000+ episodes and movies with limited commercials
  • NFL on CBS and UEFA live feeds

$5.99/month $59.99/year

Paramount+ with Showtime

  • Includes SHOWTIME and local CBS
  • Commercial-free (except live TV and select shows)
  • Download for offline viewing

$11.99/month $119.99/year

*Prices do not include applicable taxes.

10. Peacock

Peacock logo set against a selection of NBC shows, films, and always-on channels.

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Best for: Nostalgia seekers and sports fans on a budget

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Plans: Premium ($7.99/month); Premium Plus ($13.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: Three devices

Peacock features classic NBC and Bravo shows with a broad selection of movies, sports and original series, delivering a well-rounded entertainment experience. A standout feature is its live sports coverage, including major events like the Premier League and WWE.

Peacock’s ad-supported and ad-free plans are affordable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious viewers. The service also includes always-on channels, giving users a traditional TV-like experience alongside its on-demand content.

Browse through Peacock’s plan offerings and select the option that aligns with your entertainment preferences:

Plan
Key Features
Price*

Premium

  • 80,000+ hours of TV, movies and sports
  • New & hit shows, films and originals
  • Live sports, NBC and Bravo shows
  • 50+ always-on channels

$7.99/month $79.99/year

Premium Plus

  • Everything in Premium
  • No ads (limited exclusions)
  • Download select titles for offline viewing
  • Stream local NBC channel live, 24/7

$13.99/month $139.99/year

*Prices do not include applicable taxes.

11. FuboTV

FuboTV logo with an image displaying its extensive sports and live TV channel offerings.

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Best for: Sports enthusiasts needing extensive live TV coverage

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Plans: Pro ($79.99/month); Elite ($89.99/month); Premier ($99.99/month)

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Simultaneous Streams: 10 devices

FuboTV is a go-to choice for sports fans, offering a wide range of channels focused on live sports, news and entertainment. With plans that include 4K streaming and up to 1,000 hours of cloud DVR storage, FuboTV ensures you never miss a moment of the action. The Elite and Premier plans also offer an extensive lineup of channels, making FuboTV great for households with multiple viewers.

For Spanish-speaking audiences, the Latino plan provides a tailored selection of sports, TV, news and entertainment, with Unlimited Cloud DVR. This plan is available for $24.99 for the first month and $32.99 per month after that, with streaming on up to two screens.

Discover the range of FuboTV plans and choose the one that best fits your preferences:

Plan
Key Features
Price*

Pro

  • 191 channels
  • Unlimited Cloud DVR
  • Up to 10 devices simultaneously

$79.99/month

Elite

  • 225 channels
  • 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
  • 4K streaming included
  • Stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously

$89.99/month

Premier

  • 234 channels
  • 1,000 hours Cloud DVR
  • 4K streaming and Showtime included
  • Stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously

$99.99/month

*Additional taxes, fees and regional restrictions may apply.

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START WITH ONE SERVICE

To avoid overspending or subscribing to too many streaming services, try to stick to one service per month and determine if the service’s offerings are a good fit for you.

How to Select the Best Streaming Service for Your Needs

Evaluating your options is key when it comes to sticking to a budget. Keep the following tips in mind before you subscribe to one or more streaming services.

1
Be honest about what you’ll watch

It’s easy to want to watch the latest and most talked about shows or movies, but finding the time to watch them is another thing altogether. Think about what shows interest you most and what you’ll have time to watch consistently to help guide your streaming service choice. For instance, if you want to watch one or two Disney movies but like entertainment series better, you may want to subscribe to Hulu with a Disney add-on over Disney+.

2
Set your budget

How much do you want to or can you spend monthly on streaming content? Evaluate what your budget allows and stay within a set amount that you determine. It’s more cost-effective to start small and add on or change plans as you go.

3
Narrow your choices

Based on your interests, research what providers are truly offering. Peruse their movie and series listings, noting your interests and determining how much of their content you would watch. This can help ensure the shows you want to watch are actually available from your desired provider.

4
Try a free trial, one at a time

Many streaming services offer free trials — from a few days to 30 days — to encourage new subscribers. It’s a good idea to test them out before you decide on one. However, it’s best to try them one at a time so you maximize your trail periods and have time to explore their content offerings and platform settings.

5
Compare costs and offerings

After narrowing your list of favorites, finalize your decision by comparing costs, available plans and add-ons for each streaming provider. Consider the pros and cons to ensure you choose the service that best fits your needs.

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BEWARE OF HIDDEN COSTS

Some streaming services entice you with low base prices, but be aware of extra charges for add-ons like premium channels or early access to new releases. Additionally, set a reminder to cancel a free trial in case you decide not to continue; otherwise, you’ll be automatically billed once the trial ends. Always review what’s included in your subscription to avoid unexpected fees.

How to Get the Best Video Streaming Deals

Being strategic about your video streaming subscriptions and finding the best deals can help you save money across the board — and it’s easier than you might think. Review the tips below to reduce your monthly spending.

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    Examine all the plan types

    Certain video streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ have different tiers and plans. While some of the cheapest plans come with ads, opting for one of these may help you save in the long run.

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    Stop when you have to

    Video streaming services don’t come with strings attached and you can leave any time. If you anticipate that you won’t be watching due to a busy month, like if you have exams or have a project to do at work, you can cancel and restart your plans after your busy period.

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    Share it with a friend or family member

    Most streaming subscriptions offer family plans or let you watch on several devices simultaneously using different profiles. Given this setup, you can opt to share the costs of an account with a friend or family member. However, keep in mind that some services — most notoriously, Netflix — have cracked down on password sharing and no longer allow people in different households to share an account unless they're added for an additional monthly cost.

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    Use a rewards card

    There are plenty of credit cards that can offer you some form of savings on video streaming subscriptions. For instance, plenty of cash back credit cards can give you between 1% and 4% back, depending on the available categories.

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    Look for bundle deals

    Many streaming services offer bundle deals that combine multiple platforms at a reduced rate. For example, Disney+ offers bundles with Hulu and ESPN+ for a lower combined price than subscribing to each separately. Bundles can provide more content for less money, so it’s worth checking if your favorite services offer any package deals.

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CREDIT CARDS THAT REWARD YOU FOR STREAMING SERVICES

If you’re paying for streaming services, consider using a credit card that offers cash back or rewards on these expenses. Here are some credit cards that can help you save on your streaming subscriptions:

  • U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature® Card: Earn 5% cash back on two categories of your choice, including streaming services. You also get 2% cash back on an everyday category like groceries or gas and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Enjoy 6% cash back on selected streaming subscriptions and U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually). You also earn 3% cash back on transit and U.S. gas stations and 1% on all other purchases.
  • Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: This card offers 3% cash back on streaming services, dining, groceries and entertainment. Plus, it offers 1% cash back on all other purchases, making it a versatile option for everyday spending.

FAQ on Streaming Services Costs

Below are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate streaming service options and find the best service for your needs.

Is streaming cheaper than cable and why?
What are the disadvantages of streaming TV?
What TV streaming service is best?
What's the most popular streaming service?
What is the cheapest streaming service?

About Nathan Paulus


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Nathan Paulus is the Head of Content Marketing at MoneyGeek, with nearly 10 years of experience researching and creating content related to personal finance and financial literacy.

Paulus has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of St. Thomas, Houston. He enjoys helping people from all walks of life build stronger financial foundations.