The Best Streaming Services of 2025: Complete Comparison Guide
- Eliodra Rechel
- Jul 27, 2025
- 13 min read
Choosing the best streaming service in 2025 has become increasingly complex as platforms compete for your attention with exclusive content, varying price points, and different features. With Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Hulu, and others all vying for your subscription dollars, how do you decide which service deserves your monthly payment? This comprehensive guide breaks down the top streaming platforms, comparing everything from content libraries and original programming to pricing tiers and device compatibility, helping you make an informed decision based on your viewing preferences and budget.
Top Streaming Services at a Glance
Before diving into detailed reviews, here's a quick comparison of the top streaming services available in 2025. This table highlights key features like pricing, content libraries, and simultaneous streams to help you quickly identify which services might best fit your needs.
Streaming Service | Starting Price | Ad-Free Price | Simultaneous Streams | Original Content | Content Library Size | 4K Streaming |
Netflix | $8.99/month (with ads) | $15.49/month | 2-4 (plan dependent) | Extensive | 5,000+ titles | Yes (Premium plan) |
Disney+ | $7.99/month (with ads) | $13.99/month | 4 | Growing | 2,500+ titles | Yes (included) |
HBO Max | $9.99/month (with ads) | $16.99/month | 3 | High-quality | 3,000+ titles | Yes (ad-free plan) |
Hulu | $7.99/month (with ads) | $17.99/month | 2 | Moderate | 4,000+ titles | Limited |
Amazon Prime Video | $8.99/month (video only) | $12.99/month | 3 | Growing | 10,000+ titles | Yes (included) |
Apple TV+ | $9.99/month | $9.99/month (no ads) | 6 | Exclusive focus | 200+ titles | Yes (included) |
1. Netflix: Best Overall Streaming Service
Netflix remains the gold standard for streaming services in 2025, offering an unmatched combination of original content, user experience, and device compatibility. While its prices have increased over the years, the platform continues to deliver value through its massive content library and steady stream of high-quality original programming.
Key Features
Largest library of original content with new releases weekly
Intuitive user interface with personalized recommendations
Available on virtually every streaming device and smart TV
Downloads available for offline viewing on mobile devices
Multiple user profiles with parental controls
4K HDR and Dolby Atmos support on Premium plan
Content Library
Netflix boasts over 5,000 titles spanning every genre imaginable. The service has invested heavily in original content, producing acclaimed series like "Stranger Things," "The Crown," "Squid Game," and "Bridgerton." Its movie selection includes both licensed content and Netflix originals, with the platform increasingly focusing on producing its own films, including award-winning titles.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
Standard with ads | $8.99/month | 1080p HD | 2 | Yes |
Standard | $15.49/month | 1080p HD | 2 | No |
Premium | $22.99/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 4 | No |
Pros
Unmatched original content production
Excellent recommendation algorithm
Consistent release of new content
User-friendly interface across all devices
No extra charge for mobile downloads
Cons
Higher pricing compared to competitors
4K streaming limited to Premium tier
Shrinking licensed content library
Frequent cancellation of shows before completion
Strict password-sharing limitations
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2. Disney+: Best for Families and Franchise Fans
Disney+ has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the streaming world, offering an impressive collection of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. If you're a fan of these franchises or have children, Disney+ provides exceptional value with its family-friendly focus and growing library of exclusive content.
Key Features
Exclusive home to Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars content
GroupWatch feature for synchronized viewing with friends
Strong parental controls with kid-friendly profiles
4K HDR and Dolby Atmos included in standard subscription
Bundle options with Hulu and ESPN+ for additional savings
IMAX Enhanced format for select Marvel films
Content Library
Disney+ features over 2,500 titles, including nearly the entire Disney animated catalog, all Pixar films, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars saga, and National Geographic documentaries. Original content includes hit series like "The Mandalorian," "WandaVision," "Loki," and "Andor," plus exclusive movie releases. The service continues to expand with new franchise installments and original programming.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
Disney+ Basic | $7.99/month | 1080p HD | 4 | Yes |
Disney+ Premium | $13.99/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 4 | No |
Disney Bundle (with Hulu, ESPN+) | $14.99/month (with ads) | Varies by service | Varies by service | Yes |
Pros
Unmatched collection of family-friendly content
4K and HDR included at no extra cost
Strong franchise content (Marvel, Star Wars)
Excellent bundle value with Hulu and ESPN+
Regular release of high-profile original content
Cons
Limited content outside of Disney-owned properties
Fewer original series compared to Netflix
No mature content options (R-rated films)
Basic tier includes advertisements
Less frequent content additions than competitors
Bring Disney magic home today!
Access the entire Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar libraries for just $7.99/month, or bundle with Hulu and ESPN+ for even more content. Start Your Disney+ Subscription
3. HBO Max: Best for Premium Content
HBO Max continues to deliver some of the highest-quality content in the streaming world, combining HBO's prestigious original programming with a robust library from Warner Bros., DC, Studio Ghibli, and more. For viewers seeking premium, critically acclaimed content, HBO Max offers an impressive catalog that justifies its slightly higher price point.
Key Features
Home to HBO's entire catalog of acclaimed series
Same-day releases for select Warner Bros. films
Curated collections from TCM, Studio Ghibli, and Criterion
High-quality streaming with 4K HDR for select titles
Downloadable content for offline viewing
Multiple user profiles with customizable avatars
Content Library
HBO Max features over 3,000 titles, including HBO's complete catalog of prestigious series like "Game of Thrones," "The Sopranos," "Succession," and "The Last of Us." The service also includes content from Warner Bros., DC, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and Studio Ghibli. Original Max productions complement the library with series like "The White Lotus," "Hacks," and "House of the Dragon," making it a destination for quality programming.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
HBO Max With Ads | $9.99/month | 1080p HD | 3 | Yes |
HBO Max Ad-Free | $16.99/month | 1080p HD | 3 | No |
HBO Max Ultimate | $20.99/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 4 | No |
Pros
Highest-quality original programming
Diverse content library spanning multiple studios
Access to Warner Bros. theatrical releases
Excellent curation and themed collections
Strong selection of classic and international films
Cons
Higher price point than most competitors
4K content limited to Ultimate tier
Fewer original series than Netflix
Interface can be somewhat cluttered
Smaller overall library than some competitors
Experience premium entertainment
Get access to HBO's acclaimed series, blockbuster movies, and exclusive Max Originals starting at $9.99/month. Subscribe to HBO Max
4. Hulu: Best for Current TV Shows
Hulu stands out for its unique ability to offer next-day access to current TV shows from major networks, making it the go-to streaming service for cord-cutters who don't want to miss their favorite network programs. With a growing library of originals and an extensive back catalog of series, Hulu provides excellent value, especially with its various bundle options.
Key Features
Next-day streaming of current shows from major networks
Growing library of acclaimed Hulu Originals
Live TV option available (Hulu + Live TV)
Bundle options with Disney+ and ESPN+
Downloads available for offline viewing (ad-free plan)
Multiple user profiles with personalized recommendations
Content Library
Hulu's library includes over 4,000 titles, with a strong focus on current TV shows from networks like ABC, NBC, Fox, and FX. The service offers next-day access to many popular series, plus a deep catalog of past seasons. Hulu Originals have gained critical acclaim, including "The Handmaid's Tale," "Only Murders in the Building," "The Bear," and "Dopesick." The movie selection is solid, though not as extensive as some competitors.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
Hulu (With Ads) | $7.99/month | 1080p HD | 2 | Yes |
Hulu (No Ads) | $17.99/month | 1080p HD | 2 | No |
Disney Bundle (Hulu, Disney+, ESPN+) | $14.99/month (with ads) | Varies by service | Varies by service | Yes |
Hulu + Live TV | $76.99/month | 1080p HD | 2 | Yes |
Pros
Next-day access to current network shows
Strong original content library
Excellent bundle value with Disney+ and ESPN+
Live TV option available
Affordable ad-supported tier
Cons
Ad-free tier is significantly more expensive
Limited 4K content
Only 2 simultaneous streams
Some shows still have ads even on No Ads plan
Live TV option is expensive compared to competitors
Never miss your favorite shows
Stream current episodes the day after they air, plus Hulu Originals and thousands of shows and movies starting at just $7.99/month. Start Your Hulu Subscription
5. Amazon Prime Video: Best Value Bundle
Amazon Prime Video offers exceptional value as part of the broader Amazon Prime membership, which includes free shipping, music streaming, and other benefits. With a massive content library, growing original productions, and the ability to rent or purchase titles not included in the subscription, Prime Video provides a comprehensive streaming solution.
Key Features
Included with Amazon Prime membership
Option to rent or purchase titles not included in subscription
X-Ray feature provides instant access to scene information
4K HDR streaming included at no extra cost
Downloads available for offline viewing
Add-on channels available (HBO, Showtime, etc.)
Content Library
Amazon Prime Video boasts over 10,000 titles included with Prime membership, plus thousands more available for rent or purchase. The service has invested heavily in original content, producing acclaimed series like "The Boys," "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," "Reacher," and "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power." The library includes a mix of recent releases, classics, and international content, with additional premium channels available as add-ons.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
Prime Video (standalone) | $8.99/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 3 | Yes |
Amazon Prime (includes Video) | $14.99/month or $139/year | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 3 | Yes |
Ad-free upgrade | +$2.99/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 3 | No |
Pros
Excellent value as part of Amazon Prime
4K HDR included at no extra cost
Ability to rent/purchase titles not in subscription
X-Ray feature provides useful content information
Channel add-ons create customizable experience
Cons
User interface can be confusing
Difficult to distinguish included vs. paid content
Recently added ads to Prime membership
Original content library smaller than Netflix
Extra fee required for ad-free viewing
Get more than just streaming
Join Amazon Prime for $14.99/month or $139/year and get Prime Video plus free shipping, music streaming, and more. Or try Prime Video standalone for $8.99/month. Join Amazon Prime
6. Apple TV+: Best for Quality Over Quantity
Apple TV+ takes a different approach from other streaming services, focusing exclusively on original content rather than licensing existing shows and movies. While its library is smaller, the quality is consistently high, with award-winning series and films produced with top talent and high production values.
Key Features
Exclusive focus on high-quality original content
4K HDR and Dolby Atmos included standard
Family Sharing for up to six family members
No ads on any content
Downloads available for offline viewing
Often bundled free with Apple device purchases
Content Library
Apple TV+ features over 200 original titles, focusing on quality over quantity. The service has produced acclaimed series like "Ted Lasso," "Severance," "The Morning Show," and "Slow Horses," plus films including Oscar winner "CODA" and "The Tragedy of Macbeth." While the library is smaller than competitors, new content is added regularly, and all productions feature high production values and top talent both in front of and behind the camera.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
Apple TV+ | $9.99/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 6 (Family Sharing) | No |
Apple TV+ Annual | $99.99/year | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 6 (Family Sharing) | No |
Apple One (includes Music, Arcade, iCloud) | $19.95/month | 4K Ultra HD + HDR | 6 (Family Sharing) | No |
Pros
Consistently high-quality original content
4K, HDR, and Dolby Atmos included standard
No advertisements on any content
Family Sharing for up to six users
Often bundled with Apple device purchases
Cons
Much smaller content library than competitors
No licensed content or back catalog
Limited genre variety compared to other services
Not available on Android devices
Higher price point for limited content
Experience award-winning originals
Watch Apple's exclusive original series and films in stunning 4K HDR for $9.99/month, with a 7-day free trial for new subscribers. Try Apple TV+ Free for 7 Days
7. Peacock: Best Free Option with Premium Upgrades
NBCUniversal's Peacock offers a unique tiered approach with a free ad-supported option, making it an excellent starting point for streaming. With content from NBC, Universal, and exclusive originals, Peacock provides a solid library that caters especially well to fans of NBC shows, Universal films, and sports content.
Key Features
Free tier available with limited content and ads
Home to NBC's extensive TV show library
Live sports including Premier League and WWE
Next-day access to current NBC shows
Curated channels of themed content
Growing library of Peacock Originals
Content Library
Peacock's library includes thousands of hours of content from NBCUniversal's portfolio, including popular series like "The Office," "Parks and Recreation," "Saturday Night Live," and "Law & Order." The service also features films from Universal Pictures, sports content including Premier League soccer and WWE, plus Peacock Originals like "Poker Face," "Bel-Air," and "Dr. Death." The free tier offers a limited selection, while premium tiers unlock the full library.
Pricing
Plan | Price | Video Quality | Simultaneous Streams | Ads |
Peacock Free | $0 | 1080p HD | 3 | Yes |
Peacock Premium | $5.99/month | 1080p HD | 3 | Yes |
Peacock Premium Plus | $11.99/month | 1080p HD | 3 | No |
Pros
Free tier available with decent content selection
Strong NBC and Universal content library
Live sports including Premier League soccer
Affordable Premium tier with full content access
Curated channels for themed viewing
Cons
Limited original content compared to competitors
No 4K HDR content currently available
Free tier has limited selection
Some content still has ads even on Premium Plus
Interface can be cluttered
Start streaming for free
Try Peacock's free tier with thousands of hours of content, or upgrade to Premium for $5.99/month to unlock the full library including live sports and Peacock Originals. Sign Up for Peacock Free
Device Compatibility Comparison
Before choosing a streaming service, it's important to ensure it works on your preferred devices. Here's a comparison of device compatibility across the top streaming platforms to help you make an informed decision.
Device | Netflix | Disney+ | HBO Max | Hulu | Amazon Prime | Apple TV+ | Peacock |
Roku | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Amazon Fire TV | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Apple TV | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Chromecast | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Android TV | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Samsung Smart TV | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
LG Smart TV | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
PlayStation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Xbox | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
iOS | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Android | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Limited | ✓ |
Web Browsers | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Best Streaming Service Bundles
Bundling multiple streaming services can provide significant savings compared to subscribing to each service individually. Here are some of the best streaming bundles available in 2025, offering excellent value for viewers who want access to more content.
Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+)
The Disney Bundle combines three complementary services: Disney+ for family content and franchises, Hulu for current TV shows and adult content, and ESPN+ for sports. This bundle offers something for everyone in the household.
With ads: $14.99/month (saves $7/month)
No ads: $24.99/month (saves $13/month)
Access to 10,000+ titles across all services
Sports, family content, and current TV shows
Disney+, Hulu, Max Bundle
This newer bundle combines Disney's offerings with HBO Max, creating a powerhouse combination that covers nearly all major studios and content types, from family entertainment to prestige dramas.
With ads: $16.99/month (saves $10/month)
No ads: $29.99/month (saves $18/month)
Combines Disney's family content with HBO's prestige programming
Access to content from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, HBO, Warner Bros., and more
Apple One (Apple TV+, Music, Arcade, iCloud)
Apple One bundles Apple TV+ with other Apple services, including Apple Music, Apple Arcade, and iCloud storage. For Apple users, this provides excellent value across multiple service categories.
Individual: $19.95/month (saves $9/month)
Family: $25.95/month (saves $11/month, up to 6 users)
Premier: $34.95/month (adds News+, Fitness+, more storage)
Perfect for existing Apple ecosystem users
Which Streaming Service Is Right for You?
With so many excellent streaming options available, the best choice depends on your specific viewing preferences, budget, and priorities. Here are our recommendations based on different viewer needs:
For Movie Buffs
Best Overall: HBO Max for its curated film library including TCM classics, Studio Ghibli, and new Warner Bros. releases
Runner-Up: Netflix for its extensive movie catalog and original films
Budget Option: Amazon Prime Video for included movies plus rental options
For TV Show Fans
Best Overall: Hulu for next-day access to current shows plus a strong back catalog
Runner-Up: Netflix for its extensive original series and complete seasons
Budget Option: Peacock's free tier for NBC shows and limited originals
For Families
Best Overall: Disney+ for its unmatched family-friendly content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars
Runner-Up: Netflix for its strong kids' section and family-friendly originals
Budget Option: Amazon Prime Video for included family content
For Sports Fans
Best Overall: ESPN+ (often bundled with Disney+/Hulu) for exclusive sports content
Runner-Up: Peacock for Premier League soccer, WWE, and select sports events
Budget Option: Amazon Prime Video for Thursday Night NFL games
For Budget-Conscious
Best Overall: Peacock Free tier for access to a limited but solid content library
Runner-Up: Disney+ with ads at $7.99/month for excellent value
Best Bundle: Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ with ads) at $14.99/month
For Quality Seekers
Best Overall: HBO Max for consistently high-quality programming
Runner-Up: Apple TV+ for premium original content with top talent
Best Bundle: Disney+/Hulu/Max bundle for comprehensive quality content
Frequently Asked Questions About Streaming Services
Which streaming service has the most content?
Amazon Prime Video has the largest overall library with over 10,000 titles included with Prime membership, plus thousands more available for rent or purchase. However, quantity doesn't always equal quality—Netflix and HBO Max are known for having more curated, high-quality libraries despite having fewer total titles.
Can I share my streaming service accounts with family?
Most streaming services allow sharing within a household, but many have implemented restrictions on sharing outside your home. Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max have all cracked down on password sharing, offering paid options to add members outside your household. Apple TV+ is the most generous with Family Sharing for up to six family members across different locations.
Which streaming services offer 4K content?
Most major streaming services now offer 4K content, but access varies by plan:
Netflix: 4K available only on the Premium plan ($22.99/month)
Disney+: 4K included with all plans
HBO Max: 4K available only on the Ultimate plan ($20.99/month)
Amazon Prime Video: 4K included with all plans
Apple TV+: 4K included with all plans
Hulu: Limited 4K content available
Peacock: No 4K content currently available
Are there any completely free streaming services?
Yes, several ad-supported streaming services are completely free:
Peacock (free tier with limited content)
Tubi (large library of free ad-supported content)
Pluto TV (free live TV channels and on-demand content)
The Roku Channel (free content for Roku users)
Amazon Freebee (formerly IMDb TV)
These free services generally have more advertisements and older content than paid services, but they can be a good option for casual viewing.
Which streaming service is best for live TV?
For those looking to replace cable with live TV streaming, specialized services include:
YouTube TV ($72.99/month)
Hulu + Live TV ($76.99/month, includes Disney+ and ESPN+)
Sling TV (starting at $40/month)
DirecTV Stream (starting at $69.99/month)
Fubo (starting at $74.99/month)
These services offer live channels similar to traditional cable packages but typically with more flexibility and no long-term contracts.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Streaming Service in 2025
The streaming landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with services constantly updating their content libraries, features, and pricing models. While Netflix remains the industry leader with its massive content library and user-friendly interface, competitors like Disney+, HBO Max, and Apple TV+ have carved out their own niches with distinctive content strategies.
For most viewers, the ideal approach is to choose one primary streaming service that best aligns with your viewing preferences, then supplement with either a bundle or a rotating selection of secondary services based on specific shows or movies you want to watch. Many viewers are now practicing "subscription cycling"—subscribing to a service for a month or two to binge specific content, then canceling and moving to another service.
Ultimately, the "best" streaming service is highly subjective and depends on your content preferences, budget, and viewing habits. We recommend starting with our top pick, Netflix, for its comprehensive library and excellent user experience, or considering one of the value-packed bundles like Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+ if you want variety at a lower total cost.
Ready to start streaming?
Choose from our top-rated streaming services below to find the perfect option for your entertainment needs.