There has been a considerable proliferation of online streaming platforms over the last few years, for all good reasons. The Television landscape is also rapidly transitioning, leading major studios struggling to stick up amongst massive competitions and deliver content that stays relevant and economical.
The more recent launches, which includes HBO Max, Paramount Plus and Peacock, are therefore focusing more on bringing out original content in order to entice more subscribers. The best part about these cable alternatives is that you aren’t forced into a lifetime commitment with them.
Since the majority of services do offer free trials to its new users, you can avail that to figure out whether you like the content or not. If you do, then you can proceed and select from their monthly, quarterly or annual subscription. Not only this, you are even free to cancel your subscription at any point of time, if you decide to change your time, regardless of what plan you have chosen.
Best Streaming Services Of 2021
When the range and services are this massive, fishing out the best one can be slightly tricky. But fret no more, we have curated a brief list of some of the best streaming platforms in the world that offer premium content without actually crumbling down your monthly budget.
- Netflix :
Let’s start off with the father of online streaming platforms. Chances are a good majority of you would already be enrolled with Netflix. Started off in the early 90’s, Netflix is now a household name. What makes it stand out from the rest is how it manages to provide top notch streaming services at relatively low monthly costs.
As of lately, Netflix is distancing itself from its original business model of offering other studios’ movies and shows, in favor of it’s originals. However, we do still see a constant addition of licensed shows on Netflix, thus, helping its subscribers to catch up on their favorite shows.
Available Platforms & Devices:
Nvidia Shield, Android, iOS, Chromecast, PS4, Xbox, web browsers, Apple TV, Fire TV,Roku, Smart TVs, set top boxes.
Free Trial Period: 1 Month
Pros:
- User friendly interface
- Premium selections
- Great recommendation system
Cons:
- Slightly pricely
- Titles keeps disappearing
- HBO Max:
The second in our rating for the best streaming platform of 2021, is HBO Max. Last year, HBO decided to bundle up all its classics, shows and movies and put them under HBO Max. Not only does this platform offer trending movies but is also constantly streaming out greatest and most popular TV shows as well. One of its key highlights is offering huge blockbuster movies on the same day they arrive in theaters.
Available Platforms & Devices: Windows, Roku, Xbox, Smart TVs, Roku, Apple TV, Android TV, Apple, Android, Amazon Fire devices, Google Chromecast.
Free Trial Period: 7 Days
Pros:
- Massive collection of shows and movies to choose from
- Easy to use
- All episodes of HBO classics & series
Cons:
- Original content lack in quality
- Limited 4k content
- Disney Plus
It’s better to opt for this one, if you are looking for a more family-friendly option. From Pixar and Star Wars to National Geographic and Marvel, Disney holds a stupendous range of studios under its umbrella. With just $8 per month subscription fees, it is also one of the cheapest streaming platforms. Moreover, the 4K streaming is included as part of the $8 monthly plan. Users can also subscribe for a year at $79.99, and club it up with ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99 per month.
Available Platforms & Devices:
PlayStation 4, Roku, Chrome cast, iOS, Chromebooks, iPadOS, Android, Android TV, Android-based Sony Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV and Fire tablets, Samsung and LG devices, Apple TV, Xbox.
Free Trial Period: 7 Days
Pros:
- Wide collection
- UHD resolution options
Cons:
- Uneven Gaps in content lineups
- Amazon Prime Video:
If you shop online, you probably already have an Amazon Prime subscription. The spectrum of perks and services aren’t just extensive for its shoppers, but similar to Netflix, Amazon Prime holds a veritable buffet of shows, movies and original contents as well. One of the biggest advantages would be that a subscription to Amazon would give you access to Amazon Music and premium delivery services.
Amazon Prime subscription fee stretches up to $12.99 per month, $1 less than Netflix, but of greater significance if you consider other benefits of the service.
Available Platforms & Devices:
Fire TV, iPhone, iPad, Xbox, Fire tablet, Smart TVs, Blu-ray players, Apple TV, Roku, Xfinity X1, PlayStation 4, Chromecast,
Free Trial Period: 30 Days
Pros:
- Good content selection
- A wide range of originals
- Regular Addition of shows
Cons: Extra costs for A la carte contents
Conclusion
Watch HD content requires 3GB data per hour and if you choose Ultra HD it would use 7GB. Platforms like Amazon and Netflix do allow its users to adjust their video quality based on their internet speed. Moreover, if you want some real concessions on the subscriptions fees of these aforementioned platforms, you can easily grab one from the numerous coupons and promo codes available online. So, peruse the pointers carefully and pick your plans accordingly to get started today!
