In the last ten years, streaming services have surpassed cable TVs as the main source of video content. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has incredibly contributed to the increase in demand for these services. The physical distancing protocols and community lockdowns have changed the way how people seek entertainment, especially when they put their safety first.
That said, many entertainment companies have developed and introduced their own streaming platforms to compete with the major streaming services we have right now. In this article, we will talk about the best streaming services you must have to take your streaming experience to the next level. Let’s begin!
- Netflix
Netflix is no doubt one of the best streaming services there is. No one can ever come close when it comes to its originals. Netflix features a wide variety of television shows, movies, and originals to suit any mood, any personality, and any time of day. The best thing about it is that Netflix’s library gets updated often.
You can watch Stranger Things one day and the Peaky Blinders the next day. Plus, you will find a variety of new and old series and movies in different genres. Currently, Netflix offers three subscription plans, and the only difference is the number of screens able to watch simultaneously and the streaming quality.
| Plan | Monthly Fee | Streaming Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Content Access |
| Basic | $9.99 | Standard Definition (SD) | One | All Netflix Titles |
| Standard | $15.99 | High Definition (HD) | Two | All Netflix Titles |
| Premium | $19.99 | HD and 4K Ultra HD | Four | All Netflix Titles |
- Sling TV
Sling TV is an excellent option for people who want to access their favorite live TV shows and on-demand content on all their devices. Unlike cable TV, you don’t have to pay for the channels that you don’t even watch. With Sling TV, you can choose the channels you want so that you don’t have to pay for others you don’t.Â
It currently offers three packages ranging from only $35 to $50 per month, with different selections and the number of devices you can stream. You can also add channels for only $5 per month. You can use Sling TV on your laptop, mobile, smart TV, gaming system, and more.
| Package | Monthly Fee | Channels | Simultaneous Streams | DVR Storage |
| Sling Orange | $35 | 32+ | One | 50 Hrs |
| Sling Blue | $35 | 43+ | Three | 50 Hrs |
| Sling Orange & Blue | $50 | 51+ | One to Three | 50 Hrs |
- Flex TV
Flex TV is a great option for people who like an excellent selection of Spanish and English shows. The best feature of this streaming service is that it doesn’t require any contract. Even if you don’t have a credit card, you can subscribe to Flex TV. That means you have the flexibility over your subscription, as you can activate, deactivate, or even change your package without fees and penalties. This no-contract DishLATINO option starts at $49.99.
- DISH TV
DISH TV is the streaming service of the satellite giant DISH Network. Its package contains more than 190 channels and 80,000 on-demand titles for only $69.99 per month. Plus, they offer several discounts for healthcare workers, teachers, military officers, and individuals aged 55 and up. Moreover, you can add a high-speed internet plan to your DISH TV package for only an additional $19.99 per month.
- Hulu
With Hulu, you have access to select recently shown television shows within hours of their broadcast. That means it’s possible for you to catch up on the latest episode of The Bachelor on Hulu even if you don’t have cable television. It’s also the biggest competitor of Netflix, especially with its extremely affordable streaming plans.
For Disney fans and sports fans, you can bundle Hulu with Disney+ and ESPN+, which is an excellent feature, to be honest. However, it would be more challenging to get off your couch. Hulu currently offers two plans, ad-supported, which costs $6.99 per month, and ad-free, which costs $12.99 per month.
- Amazon Prime Video
Considering the long list of titles Amazon Prime Video provides, you won’t have any trouble finding anything to watch. Forrest Gump and The Proposal are simply among their best original shows. Aside from that, it offers numerous perks when you opt for Amazon Prime Video.
You can enjoy a free 2-day Amazon Prime shipping, full access to Amazon music, a free Kindle book every month, and access to its on-demand content library. You will also have easy integration with Amazon Fire TV. For as low as $8.99 per month, you can enjoy these perks and a whole lot more.
| Plan | Monthly Fee | Simultaneous Streams |
| Amazon Prime Video | $8.99 | Three |
| Amazon Prime Monthly Subscription w/ Prime Video | $14.99 | Three |
| Amazon Prime Annual Subscription w/ Prime Video | $139.99 | Three |
What’s the Best Streaming Service?
If you’re looking for the most friendly streaming service in the US, Netflix has always been a great option. However, it doesn’t offer live TV shows like Sling TV or DISH TV. If you live with your parents or grandparents, for example, these people love watching live channels, unlike the younger generation who prefers on-demand content over live TV.
If you’re on a budget, your best option would be Hulu with their ad-supported plan. But if you’re more into perks, Amazon Prime Video offers numerous perks along with their exceptional content library. Every streaming service on this list offers a unique advantage that others don’t so it’s all about your needs and preferences, as well as your budget.
Some of the most notable streaming services that didn’t make this list are:
- Disney Plus
- Apple TV+
- HBO Max
- Peacock
- Paramount+
- Discovery+
Key Takeaways
The top streaming services you must definitely have or at least try are Netflix, Sling TV, Flex TV, and DISH TV. They offer a wide variety of content, benefits, and unique features that sets them apart from other streaming platforms. Don’t forget to give these streaming services a try, and let us know what you think below!