Streaming services have taken over the way we consume entertainment, but with so many options available, finding the best value for money can be overwhelming. From Netflix to Hulu, Disney+, and Max, each service offers different content, features, and pricing structures. Below, we break down the best streaming services of 2025 based on affordability, content variety, and overall experience.
Best overall streaming service: Netflix
Price: Starts at $7 per month (ad-supported), $18 per month (ad-free), and $25 per month (premium 4K).
Netflix remains the go-to streaming service, offering a vast content library, an easy-to-use interface, and continuous updates with new original shows and movies. Some of the most anticipated titles of 2025, like Wednesday Season 2 and Stranger Things Season 5, make it a must-have for many viewers.
Netflix’s pricing has increased over time, but it still offers good value, especially with its ad-supported tier at $7 per month. However, if you prefer an ad-free experience, expect to pay more than competitors like Disney Plus or Hulu.
Why choose netflix?
- Expansive catalog with diverse genres.
- Regular release of high-quality originals.
- Easy-to-navigate interface with personalized recommendations.
Best streaming service for families & franchises: Disney+
Price: Starts at $10 per month (ad-supported), $16 per month (ad-free).
Disney Plus is a top choice for families and fans of blockbuster franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, and Pixar. It’s the only place where you can stream Disney classics, every Star Wars movie, and new Marvel releases like Deadpool & Wolverine.
Disney Plus also offers bundles with Hulu and ESPN Plus, which can be a cost-effective way to access even more content. The Trio Premium bundle (Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus ad-free) costs $27 per month.
Why choose Disney plus?
- Exclusive Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar content.
- Affordable bundles with Hulu and ESPN Plus.
- Ideal for families with kids.
Best for premium content: Max
Price: Starts at $10 per month (ad-supported), $17 per month (ad-free), $21 per month (premium 4K).
Max (formerly HBO Max) is home to some of the biggest franchises, including Game of Thrones, The Last of Us, and DC Universe movies. It also includes classic hits like Friends and The Lord of the Rings.
With the addition of Discovery Plus content, Max offers a mix of scripted TV, documentaries, and reality shows. However, its higher-tier pricing makes it one of the more expensive streaming options.
Why choose Max?
- High-quality originals and blockbuster movies.
- Discovery Plus content included.
- Sports add-ons are are available for an extra fee.
Best budget streaming service: Hulu
Price: $8 per month (ad-supported), $19 per month (ad-free).
Hulu is a strong budget option for those who want access to network TV shows without paying for cable. It offers next-day streaming for ABC, Fox, and FX shows, along with critically acclaimed originals like Only Murders in the Building.
If you’re looking for live TV, Hulu offers a $83 per month bundle with over 85 channels, making it a solid cable replacement.
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Why choose Hulu?
- Affordable for those who enjoy network TV.
- Strong lineup of original content.
- Live TV option for cord-cutters.
Best value for Amazon Prime members: Prime video
Price: Included with Amazon Prime ($139 per year) or $9 per month as a standalone service.
Prime Video is a great value for existing Amazon Prime members, as it’s included with the subscription. It offers a mix of originals (The Boys, Reacher), a massive back catalog, and live sports like NFL Thursday Night Football.
However, its user interface can be confusing, as some content requires an additional rental or purchase.
Why Choose Prime Video?
- Included with Amazon Prime membership.
- Strong lineup of originals.
- Live sports coverage.
Best ad-free streaming service: Starz
Price: $11 per month.
Starz is an underrated streaming service that offers a strong library of movies and TV shows. Known for Outlander and the Power series, it also has a deal with Universal, meaning new movies like Oppenheimer and Minions: The Rise of Gru arrive on the platform.
Its ad-free model and unlimited downloads make it a great choice for those who dislike interruptions while watching.
Why Choose Starz?
- Strong movie selection, including Universal films.
- Early access to TV show episodes.
- No ads for a lower price than competitors.
Best streaming service for sports: ESPN Plus
Price: $12 per month.
ESPN Plus is essential for sports fans, especially those following NHL, UFC, and MLS. It offers exclusive live events and pay-per-view fights (for an extra fee), but it doesn’t include live NFL or NBA games.
Many viewers get ESPN Plus as part of the Disney bundle, making it more cost-effective than a standalone subscription.
Why choose ESPN Plus?
- Exclusive coverage of NHL, UFC, and soccer.
- Part of Disney bundle deals.
- Large library of sports documentaries and analysis.
Best budget streaming for network shows & sports: Peacock
Price: $8 per month (ad-supported), $14 per month (ad-free).
Peacock is NBCUniversal’s streaming service and a great choice for fans of The Office, live sports (Premier League, WWE), and Universal movies. It offers both on-demand and live content, making it a unique hybrid service.
However, its free tier has been discontinued for new subscribers, and 4K HDR content is limited compared to competitors.
Why choose peacock?
- Access to NBC shows and sports.
- Affordable compared to other services.
- Unique mix of live and on-demand content.
Which streaming service is best for you?
The best streaming service depends on what you value most.
- For overall content variety: Netflix.
- For families and franchises: Disney Plus.
- For premium HBO content: Max.
- For budget-friendly TV shows: Hulu.
- For Amazon Prime members: Prime Video.
- For ad-free streaming: Starz.
- For sports fans: ESPN Plus.
- For NBC content and live sports: Peacock.
If you’re looking for the best value for money, consider bundling services like Disney Plus, Hulu, and ESPN Plus to save on subscriptions. Whatever your preference, there’s a streaming service that fits your needs in 2025.
