Best Streaming Services of 2024

Updated on
July 31, 2024
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Which streaming service is your perfect match for binge-watching in 2024?

Struggling to pick your next binge-watching haven? 🤔 The streaming service you choose can make or break your chill time. In 2024, the options are vast and varied – from Netflix's ever-growing library to Disney+'s family favorites, Amazon Prime Video's hidden gems, HBO Max's prestige collection, and Hulu's TV show paradise. But which one will be your entertainment soulmate?

A person point a remote at a TV with multiple streaming service apps on it
Photo: Canva

Let's cut through the noise and find your streaming sweet spot! I'll guide you through each contender's highlights and drop some insider tips to enhance your viewing experience. Ready to discover your perfect streaming match? Let's dive in!

1. Netflix

An Apple monitor with Netflix's video player open showing a white background with the red Netflix logo
Photo: Canva

Netflix has transformed the world of entertainment, offering a vast collection of movies, TV shows, and exclusive originals. With personalized recommendations and the option to download shows for offline viewing, Netflix ensures you can enjoy your favorite content however you prefer.

How to Get Started

Follow these steps to embark on your Netflix journey:

  • Head to the Netflix website.
  • Click on ‘Join Free for a Month’ to initiate your trial.
  • Select a plan that aligns with your viewing preferences.
  • Create your account with an email and a password.
  • Enter your payment details, but rest easy knowing you won't be billed until after the trial period ends.
  • You're all set! Dive into Netflix's vast collection and start streaming.

Subscription Plans

Netflix provides a selection of plans to suit different preferences and budgets. Below is a comparison table to help you decide which plan is right for you:

Plan Name Video Quality Screens at Once Monthly Price*
Basic Standard 1 $8.99
Standard HD 2 $13.99
Premium Ultra HD 4 $17.99
  • Pricing is based on the US market and may vary by region.

Remember, every plan comes with a one-month free trial, and you're free to change or cancel your subscription anytime.

Exclusive Netflix Originals to Add to Your Queue

Stranger Things, The Crown, Narcos, and The Witcher TV posters next to each other
Photo: Netflix/ Canva

Netflix's original content has taken the streaming world by storm. Here are some of the platform's standout series and films:

  • Stranger Things: A gripping series infused with supernatural elements and '80s nostalgia.
  • The Crown: A richly detailed historical drama about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
  • Narcos: An intense, action-packed series delving into the infamous drug cartels.
  • The Witcher: A spellbinding fantasy adventure based on the popular novels and video games.

Trouble with Netflix? Here's How to Fix It

Encountering issues? Here are some quick solutions:

  • Streaming Issues: Ensure your internet connection is solid. If that doesn't help, try restarting your device or checking Netflix's streaming quality guide.
  • Payment Problems: Make sure all payment details are correct and up-to-date. If you're still having trouble, consider using a different payment method or reaching out to Netflix support for assistance.
Netflix's home page before logging in
Photo: Netflix
💡 Who Should Consider Netflix?

Box Set Devotees: If you love immersing yourself in long-running series, Netflix's extensive catalogue of TV shows will keep you captivated for hours on end.

Cinema Enthusiasts: Moviegoers seeking everything from indie flicks to blockbuster hits will find Netflix's movie selection to be robust and diverse.

Families: With a range of family-friendly content and the ability to create child profiles, Netflix ensures that viewers of all ages have something to enjoy.

Tech-Savvy Viewers: If you appreciate the highest quality streaming with the latest technology, Netflix's Premium plan offers Ultra HD content compatible with your 4K devices.

Commuters and Travelers: For those who are often on the move, the download feature allows you to watch your shows without an internet connection, making Netflix a great travel companion.

2. Amazon Prime Video

A blue background with the Amazon Prime Video black logo
Photo: Amazon Prime Video/ Canva

Amazon Prime Video is a treasure trove for those who love a wide array of content, including critically acclaimed Amazon Originals, popular movies, TV shows, and a stunning selection of 4K HDR titles. As part of an Amazon Prime membership, Prime Video offers a seamless blend of shopping and entertainment benefits.

How to Get Started

Embark on your Amazon Prime Video adventure by following these simple steps:

  • Visit the Amazon Prime Video site.
  • Click on 'Start your 30-day free trial' to take advantage of the trial offer.
  • Sign in with your Amazon credentials or set up a new Amazon account.
  • Confirm your preferred payment method. Don't worry, you won't be charged until the trial period concludes.
  • Congratulations! You now have access to a world of entertainment. Start watching immediately.

Subscription Plans

Amazon Prime Video is included with your Amazon Prime membership, which comes with a variety of plans to fit different needs and budgets. Here's a breakdown:

Plan Type Monthly Price Annual Price Prime Video Included Additional Benefits
Prime Video Only $8.99 - Yes -
Amazon Prime $12.99 $119 Yes Free shipping, Amazon Music, and more
Prime Student $6.49 $59 Yes All Prime benefits at a discounted rate for students
  • Prices are based on the US market and may vary by region.

Remember, with Amazon Prime, you also enjoy benefits like free shipping on Amazon purchases, access to Amazon Music, and more.

Must-Watch Amazon Prime Video Originals

Marvelous Mrs. Masiel, The Boys, Bosch, and Fleabag TV posters lined up next to each other
Photo: Amazon Prime Video/ Canva

Prime Video offers a compelling lineup of originals that you shouldn't miss:

  • The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel: A comedy-drama series about a housewife in the 1950s who discovers she has a knack for stand-up comedy.
  • The Boys: A gritty and action-packed series that explores what happens when superheroes abuse their powers.
  • Bosch: A gripping detective series following Harry Bosch, a homicide detective with the LAPD.
  • Fleabag: A critically acclaimed comedy series about a young woman trying to cope with life in London.

Troubleshooting Common Prime Video Issues

If you encounter hiccups while using Prime Video, here are some tips to get back to smooth streaming:

  • Playback Errors: Verify that your Amazon account is active. If issues persist, clear your browser's cache or switch to a different browser.
  • Connection Issues: Check your internet connection stability. For persistent problems, consider rebooting your modem or router.
Back of a woman's head with her arms crossed behind her head watching TV
Photo: Canva
💡 Who Should Consider Amazon Prime Video?

Shoppers & Streamers:If you love the convenience of Amazon shopping and a diverse streaming library, Prime Video is a perfect match.

Quality Seekers:For those who enjoy high-definition and 4K content, Prime Video offers a vast array of titles in stunning quality.

Whole-Household Entertainment:With the ability to create multiple profiles and stream on three devices simultaneously, Prime Video caters to everyone in the household.

3. Disney+

Disney+ logo with several movie studios listed below it
Photo: Disney+

Disney+ is the go-to streaming service for fans of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. With its exclusive content and the innovative GroupWatch feature, Disney+ lets you enjoy your favorite stories with friends and family, no matter the distance.

How to Get Started

Embark on an enchanting streaming experience with these steps:

  • Navigate to the Disney+ website.
  • Click 'Subscribe' to begin.
  • Provide your email address and create a secure password.
  • Choose the subscription plan that best fits your magical needs.
  • Enter your payment information and get ready to explore a world of wonder.

Subscription Plans

Disney+ offers a simple and straightforward subscription model. Here's a comparison of the available plans:

Subscription Plan Monthly Price Annual Price Content Access Concurrent Streams
Disney+ $7.99 $79.99 Full Access to Disney+ library Up to 4
  • Prices reflect the US market and may vary by region.

Exclusive Disney+ Originals to Stream

Boba Fett, R2D2, and Storm Trooper lined up in a row
Photo: Canva

Disney+ is home to a number of exclusive series and films that have captured audiences worldwide:

  • The Mandalorian: A Star Wars series that follows a lone bounty hunter in the outer reaches of the galaxy.
  • WandaVision: A blend of classic television and the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which Wanda Maximoff and Vision begin to suspect that everything is not as it seems.
  • Loki: The mercurial villain Loki resumes his role as the God of Mischief in a new series that takes place after the events of "Avengers: Endgame."
  • Soul: An animated feature that takes you on a journey from the streets of New York City to the cosmic realms to discover the answers to life's most important questions.

Overcoming Disney+ Difficulties

Should you face any technical troubles with Disney+, here are some quick fixes:

  • Login Issues: If you're having trouble logging in, reset your password or check for any reported service outages.
  • Buffering or Streaming Quality: Adjust the streaming quality in your account settings to suit your internet connection speed.
A blonde woman watching TV holding popcorn on the sofa
Photo: Canva
💡 Who Should Consider Disney+?

Family-Friendly Viewing:Disney+ is ideal for families and fans of all ages, with content that spans generations.

Marvel & Star Wars Aficionados: Exclusive access to the latest series and movies from these beloved universes makes Disney+ a must-have.

Animation Enthusiasts: With the complete collections of Disney and Pixar at your fingertips, animation lovers will be in heaven.

4. HBO Max

The blue Max logo by HBO
Photo: HBO Max/ Canva

HBO Max is the streaming platform for those who crave variety and quality, offering everything from HBO's critically acclaimed original series to a diverse selection of Max Originals and a comprehensive library from WarnerMedia.

How to Get Started

Join HBO Max by following these steps:

  • Head to the HBO Max website.
  • Click on 'Sign Up Now' to find the subscription option that fits your entertainment needs.
  • Create your account using an email and password.
  • Enter your payment details and get ready to dive into a vast selection of content.

Subscription Plans

HBO Max offers a variety of subscription plans, each with its own set of perks. Here's a comparison to help you choose:

Subscription Plan Monthly Price Annual Price Content Access Concurrent Streams
HBO Max (With Ads) $9.99 $99.99 Full Library Access (with ads) Up to 3
HBO Max (Ad-Free) $14.99 $149.99 Full Library Access (ad-free) Up to 3
  • Prices are for the US market and may vary by region.

HBO Max Originals Worth Watching

Live News, Comedy, Reality, and Food shows from HBO Max lined up
Photo: HBO Max

HBO Max isn't just about HBO's legacy content; it also boasts a growing list of exclusive Max Originals:

  • Lovecraft Country: A horror drama series that follows a young African-American who travels across the segregated United States in the 1950s in search of his missing father.
  • The Flight Attendant: A thriller series about a flight attendant who wakes up in the wrong hotel, in the wrong bed, with a dead man – and no idea what happened.
  • Raised by Wolves: A science fiction series centering on two androids tasked with raising human children on a mysterious virgin planet.
  • Doom Patrol: A band of super-powered freaks fight for a world that wants nothing to do with them.

Solving HBO Max Streaming Snags

If you're facing issues with HBO Max, here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Sign-In Troubles: Confirm that your subscription is active and you're using the correct login credentials.
  • App Glitches: Update the app to the latest version or try reinstalling it if you're experiencing persistent problems.
A TV remote and a bowl of popcorn
Photo: Canva
💡 Who Should Consider HBO Max?

Series Bingers: HBO Max is perfect for those who love to binge-watch series, especially with its wide range of HBO originals.

Cinephiles: With a library that includes classic films and new releases, movie lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Family-Friendly Options: The service offers content suitable for all ages, along with robust parental controls.

5. Hulu

Green Hulu logo
Photo: Hulu

Hulu stands out with its vast selection of current TV shows available shortly after airing, a growing list of acclaimed Hulu Originals, a rich library of films, and an option for Live TV with additional channels.

How to Get Started

To get started with Hulu, follow these instructions:

  • Visit the Hulu website.
  • Click on 'Start Your Free Trial' to explore the available plans.
  • Choose the plan that best suits your streaming preferences.
  • Fill in your personal information and set up your payment method.
  • Start streaming your favorite content right away.

Subscription Plans

Hulu offers a variety of plans to cater to different viewer preferences. Here's a detailed comparison:

Plan Monthly Price Ads Live TV Concurrent Streams
Hulu $5.99 With Ads No 2
Hulu (No Ads) $11.99 No Ads No 2
Hulu + Live TV $64.99 With Ads Yes 2
Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV $70.99 No Ads Yes 2
  • Prices are based on the US market and may vary by region.

Hulu Originals You Can't Miss

Elizabeth Moss next to The Handmaid's Tale logo TV poster
Photo: Hulu

Hulu has an impressive array of original content that's worth checking out:

  • The Handmaid's Tale: A dystopian series about a totalitarian society that treats women as property of the state, forcing many into sexual servitude to repopulate a devastated world.
  • Castle Rock: A psychological-horror series set in the Stephen King multiverse, combining the mythological scale and intimate character storytelling of King's best-loved works.
  • Ramy: A comedy-drama series that follows a first-generation American Muslim who is on a spiritual journey in his politically divided New Jersey neighborhood.
  • Little Fires Everywhere: Based on the bestselling book, this drama follows the intertwined fates of the picture-perfect Richardson family and the enigmatic mother and daughter who upend their lives.

Tackling Hulu Hurdles

If you encounter issues with Hulu, here's how to address them:

  • Playback Problems: Ensure your subscription and payment details are current. If that's not the issue, try clearing your device's cache or updating the Hulu app.
  • Streaming Troubles: For consistent streaming problems, check your internet connection or look for app updates to ensure optimal performance.
A woman pointing a TV remote at a mounted TV screen
Photo: Canva
💡 Who Should Consider Hulu?

TV Series Fans: If you like keeping up with the latest episodes of your favorite shows, Hulu's next-day streaming service is perfect for you.

Customized Viewing: With the option to choose plans with or without ads, Hulu lets you tailor your streaming experience to your preferences.

Live TV Lovers: For those who don't want to miss out on live TV, Hulu's Live TV option brings the best of both worlds.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Whether you're new to the streaming scene or looking to optimize your experience, these tips can help you navigate the landscape more effectively:

  • Look for Bundles: Many services, like Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+, offer bundles that can save you money compared to subscribing to each service separately. More isn't always more expensive!
  • Family Sharing: Use family sharing plans to your advantage. Services like Netflix allow for account profiles and simultaneous streams, making it easy to share with family or roommates.
  • Free Trials: Don't forget to sign up for free trials to test out streaming services. Just set a reminder to cancel if the service doesn't meet your needs to avoid automatic billing.
  • Discounts for Students: If you're a student, keep an eye out for student discounts. Services like Amazon Prime offer a reduced rate, giving you access to Prime Video and other benefits without straining your budget.

Stream Your Way to Entertainment Bliss

Embark on a streaming odyssey that caters to every taste and preference. From the storytelling prowess of Netflix to the eclectic library of Amazon Prime Video, the enchanting realms of Disney+, the bold originals of HBO Max, and Hulu's fresh TV episodes, there's a world of digital delights at your command. Seize the opportunity to sample these cinematic treasures with free trials, indulge in cost-saving bundles, and make the most of family sharing options. Your perfect streaming match is out there, ready to transform your screen into a portal of thrills, laughter, and awe. So grab that remote, settle in, and let the streaming serenade begin!

Comparison Table of Streaming Services

Service Monthly Price Range Top Originals Unique Features Who It's Best For
Netflix $8.99 - $17.99 Stranger Things, The Crown, Narcos, The Witcher Offline downloads, personalized recommendations, extensive catalogue Box set devotees, cinema enthusiasts, families, tech-savvy viewers, commuters
Amazon Prime Video $8.99 for Video Only, $12.99 with Prime The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Boys, Bosch, Fleabag Included with Prime membership, 4K HDR titles, multiple profiles Shoppers & streamers, quality seekers, whole-household entertainment
Disney+ $7.99 (or $79.99 annually) The Mandalorian, WandaVision, Loki, Soul GroupWatch feature, family-friendly content, vast Disney library Family-friendly viewing, Marvel & Star Wars aficionados, animation enthusiasts
HBO Max $9.99 with ads, $14.99 ad-free Lovecraft Country, The Flight Attendant, Raised by Wolves, Doom Patrol Extensive library from WarnerMedia, Max Originals Series bingers, cinephiles, those seeking family-friendly options
Hulu $5.99 - $70.99 The Handmaid's Tale, Castle Rock, Ramy, Little Fires Everywhere Current TV shows post-airing, Live TV option, acclaimed originals TV series fans, those who prefer customized viewing, live TV lovers

Best Streaming Services of 2024
Sohee Kim

Researcher

I am skilled in enhancing AI systems with creative solutions, especially in the field of sound technology. My position highlights the importance of maintaining data accuracy and structured management, key elements for the progress of AI. Furthermore, I concentrate on the excellence of sound synthesis and the pre-processing.

Best Streaming Services of 2024Best Streaming Services of 2024