Netflix has been on an incredible run. They single-handedly ended the weekend routine of going to Blockbuster for a movie rental; they started us on streaming and bingeing, and overall changed how people consume television and movies on a daily basis. They’ve operated somewhat unchallenged for well over a decade; but now, much like Android closed the gap between itself and iPhone, Netflix’s competitors have also stepped their game up. Here is a list of Netflix’s competitors, both new and old.
Related: Best Netflix API Alternatives
Disney+
Price: $6.99/mo
In a matter of days, the world will be able to stream decades upon decades of classic Disney content, as well as some brand new programming. The Disney machine is no doubt the biggest threat to Netflix’s dominance due to its deep vault of content and deep pockets for green-lighting new content.
Pros
- Classic content
- New content
- Family-friendly
- A lot of potential
Cons
- Another streaming service to pay for
- The focus on “family-friendly” content
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HBO Max
Price: $14.99/mo
Last year, HBO announced they would be heading in a new direction after they were acquired by AT&T. Obviously this direction was to enter into the crowded streaming landscape, and HBO is out to carve an impressive slice. The new Watchmen series is off to a great start, along with the announcement of a Green Lantern show and future DC movies premiering on the site, HBO Max is not looking to settle for anything less than first.
Pros
- HBO brand
- Classic & Newer Content
- DC library
Cons
- Another streaming service to pay for
- Less “family-friendly” content
- Price point
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Apple tv+
Price: $4.99/mo
A truly new kid on the block, Apple has decided to throw their hat in the very competitive arena of streaming content. Coming in with a consumer-friendly cost of $4.99, Apple is no doubt looking to cause major waves out the gate. This service is bound to be popular with millennials and people who are “all in” on Apple, but whether or not they can produce great content remains to be seen.
Pros
- Integration of the Apple brand
- Price point
- Six profiles
Cons
- Unproven in the world of television and cinema
- Another streaming service to pay for
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CBS All Access
Price: $5.99/mo
The first of the big three to truly read the writing on the walls and carve out a space for themselves was CBS. With the successful launch of another Star Trek series, Twilight Zone, and a host of new and old content, CBS has made an impressive splash. 2020 seems to be the year that CBS attempts to swing for the fences with a host of new and returning content coming consumers’ way.
Pros
- New Star Trek
- Classic CBS content
- Exclusive online content
- Affordable options
Cons
- 24hr wait period for local programming to update
Peacock
Price: $6.99/mo
Following their fellow big three brothers (or sisters), NBC will also step foot in the streaming arena with their service named Peacock. While the name leaves a lot to be desired, their ability to provide content should not. Much like Disney, CBS, and HBO Max, Peacock also has an impressive vault of classic programming that is sure to lure folks their way. Shows like The Office, Fresh Prince, Friends, This is Us, and SNL are all sure to be on the service for your bingeing pleasure. NBC has also announced that they will be debuting new streaming exclusives as well.
Pros
- deep vault
- price point
Cons
- another streaming service
- horrible, horrible name
Starz On Demand
Price: $8.99/mo
For over a decade now, Starz has been building up an impressive resume of content. Spartacus, Outlander, and Power have singled Starz out as an impressive competitor. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been too much else coming out that would warrant adding yet ANOTHER streaming service.
Pros
- good adult content
Cons
- pricey for only 3 shows
- another streaming service
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Summary: Best Netflix Streaming Alternatives
| Top Content | Pros | Cons | Price Per Month | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disney+ | Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars | Classic content, New content, Family-friendly, lots of potential | Focus on family-friendly content | $6.99 |
| HBO Max | Game of Thrones, Watchmen | HBO Brand, DC library | Less family-friendly | $14.99 |
| Apple tv+ | Dickinson, The Morning Show, For all Mankind | Price, profiles | Unproven | $4.99 |
| CBS All Access | Star Trek, Classic CBS Shows | Affordable options | 24 hr waiting period | $5.99 |
| Peacock | The Office, Friends, Fresh Prince, This is Us, SNL | Deep vault, classic shows | Unproven | $6.99 |
| Starz on Demand | Spartacus, Outlander, Power | Good adult content | Only 3 shows | $8.99 |
While Netflix is clearly out in front, Disney and HBO Max are sure to be on their heels in the upcoming year. Netflix is not lying down though. They release new content for every genre, every week. Let the streaming wars begin!
Honorable Mentions
Amazon Prime Video
Another great on-demand service that offers television shows and films for rent or purchase. They also have a selection of content available for free if you have a prime subscription.
Related APIs
Related Resources:
- Netflix API Overview
- How to use the Netflix API with Python
- Top TV APIs
- How to use the IMDB API
- Sites like Netflix
Do you agree with our list? What do you think is the best Netflix alternative? Let us know in the comments.
Thanks, On the overall plus side Netflix is really great what I like about it is that You can watch as much as you want, whenever you want without a single commercial – all for one low monthly price. There’s always something new to discover and new TV shows and movies are added every week!.