Best TV streaming services 2019

by Phonada Admin

The streaming wars are upon us, but which is the best one out there? We take a look at Netflix vs Amazon Prime vs Disney Plus and more to see what has the best content for the best price

Once upon a time, Netflix used to rule the roost when it came to streaming TV and movies, offering content both old and new for all kinds of genres. However, the last few years have brought some new rivals to the table.

We’ve taken a look at nine different streaming subscriptions across both the UK and the US, and ranked them based off of the TV and film libraries on offer, the costs of each one and any other pros and cons that we’ve discovered. These are:

  • Netflix
  • Amazon Prime

What should I look for in a streaming service?

First and foremost - the best range of content to suit your tastes. Having the biggest library may not mean anything if you’re looking to watch a specific show, or aren’t interested in a platform that doesn’t allow content above a 12A rating (hello Disney+). We recommend checking out each of the libraries for these services before discounting any completely, as there may be a hidden gem that sparks your TV taste buds.

The price of course is also a big factor. Investing in a streaming service is fortunately quite a flexible way to get your content, meaning that if one platform isn’t doing it for you, and can easily switch to another without losing out on a lot of money. The majority of these services also offer free trials to get a taste of what’s on offer. These are mostly seven days, but Britbox offers a month, so it’s absolutely worth shopping around.

Consider the number of devices that an account boasts. You can save a lot of money if you split a streaming service subscription with a family member or friend, but this is only useful if you can all watch the platform at the same time on various devices. Some platforms like Netflix offer a tiered payment system which is influenced by this, so investigate to see what’s right for you.

The level of accessibility is another thing to keep in mind. We’ve included a range of services - some of which are exclusive to either the UK or US. Whilst many of these are still accessible using a VPN, it may end up making your streaming a lot more convoluted than what it needs to be.

Finally, some subscriptions offer extras or bundles that may be a draw. Amazon has its Prime benefits, Disney+ can be bought with two other channels for a reasonable bundle, and Apple TV+ can be accessed for free with any new Apple product purchase.

Netflix

Netflix

Pros

  • Biggest range of content
  • Competitive pricing
  • Worldwide accessibility
  • Mix of originals and syndicated work

Cons

  • Cheapest plan doesn’t offer the same benefits as competitors
  • Will eventually lose content to rivals

 

Sure it’s obvious to start with this one, but Netflix is still the big cheese when it comes to streaming services. With over 4,000 films and 1,500 shows, this service has carved out a niche for itself as becoming a household name. It’s the most accessible service worldwide, now available in over 200 countries - though some shows and movies vary depending on the region.

The pricing for the UK and US currently stands at £5.99/$9 per month for its most basic plan (one screen and no ultra-HD), £8.99/$13 per month for the standard plan (two devices for streaming and HD content), and £11.99/$16 per month for premium which comes with HD, Ultra HD and the ability to stream on up to four screens.

 

Netflix Originals are also available in huge abundance now. Some of the most well-known include Stranger Things, Orange Is The New Black, Narcos and Queer Eye. These can obviously be hit and miss (there was a lot of money sunk into an average Adam Sandler movie), but there’s some real gems that stand up with the likes of HBO content.

Originals however aren’t the most popular thing on the platform. It may come as no surprise to know that Friends holds that top spot, and other syndicated content is not far behind. However, with Disney Plus and HBO Max bidding for the rights of some of the most popular content, Netflix may see some of its flagship shows and films eventually fall to rivals. But for now, it still stands on the gold podium for streaming.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime

Pros

  • Offers other benefits besides video streaming
  • Amazon Originals are much better now
  • Worldwide accessibility

Cons

  • Original content not quite on par with Netflix
  • May also lose out on future content

 

Amazon may dominate when it comes to online shopping, but it still can’t quite match Netflix on streaming content just yet - though it is very close. With classic shows like The Office to cinema blockbusters like Wonder Woman, there’s a mixed bag to keep you streaming.

 

Back to News