The Top 10 Streaming Services Worth Your Hard-Earned Cash – BGR

Cable had a good run, but the crown has slipped. According to Pew Research, 83% of U.S. adults are now streaming their favorite shows while cable and satellite are left fighting for crumbs. It’s not just about the cord-cutting freedom either. Streaming lets you pick what you want, when you want, and often without commercials ruining the mood.

The biggest players in the game are Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and a few others that sneak into the spotlight. Based on subscriber count, these platforms lead the pack and each one brings a mix of variety and binge-worthy originals. That said, complaints do float around: too many apps, rising prices, or shows vanishing overnight

Some platforms feel intuitive and sleek, while others make you hunt for a simple “play” button. So here’s the real question, are they worth your money? We’ll walk you through where each service shines, which shows to catch before they’re gone, and how these platforms grew from ideas into household staples.

It all started with a $40 late fee for a VHS tape. That’s what sparked Reed Hastings’ big idea for Netflix back in 1997. What if you could rent DVDs without ever setting foot in a video store? He teamed up with Marc Randolph, and Netflix was born, a mail-order DVD service that let you pick titles online and get them in bright red envelopes.

But as the world changed, so did Netflix. By 2007, internet speeds were up, DVDs were down, and Netflix made the bold move to streaming. It was a game-changer that would revolutionize the way people watched TV. That shift has helped Netflix grow to over 300 million subscribers, offering thousands of movies and shows for just $7.99 a month with ads.

What makes Netflix stand out is not just the massive library, it’s the quality of their Originals. From “Money Heist” to “Stranger Things,” Netflix’s shows are carefully crafted, binge-worthy, and always surprising. A recent example is “Adolescence,” a miniseries that surged on the streaming charts after sweeping eight Emmys, showing Netflix still knows how to deliver cultural moments.

Behind the scenes, Netflix’s tech is just as impressive. Their Open Connect network stores popular content close to viewers, making streaming faster and smoother. Plus, their smart compression keeps video quality high without using too much data. It’s a winning combination that keeps viewers hooked.

Prime Video is proof that Jeff Bezos didn’t just want to run an online bookstore. Back in 2006, Amazon launched Amazon Unbox, a movie download service that was more functional than flashy. But it laid the groundwork for Prime Video, which would later become a major player in the streaming world.

Fast forward to today, and Prime Video has over 200 million viewers worldwide. It comes bundled with an Amazon Prime membership, which costs $14.99 a month or $139 a year. That price covers perks like music streaming and grocery discounts, which is a great value if you use everything, but it can feel overwhelming if you’re only here for the shows and movies.

So, what sets Prime Video apart? Originals like The “Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “The Boys” are binge-worthy hits and fresh Hollywood releases are added regularly, making the platform a force to be reckoned with. The interface is not perfect, and rental ads sometimes clutter the experience, yet the strong lineup makes those drawbacks easier to forgive.

On top of that, Amazon is leaning into new technology. Prime Video recently introduced a generative AI feature that can recap what you’re watching, helping viewers catch up without needing to rewind or scroll back through episodes. It’s a small but clever touch that shows how Amazon is experimenting with AI to keep its platform ahead of the curve.

Whether you grew up rewinding VHS tapes of “The Lion King” or catching Disney classics on TV, there’s a certain magic that never fades. When Disney+ launched in 2019, it felt like opening a vault of animated treasures, live-action hits, and new originals all under one roof. It’s gained over 125 million subscribers, proving nostalgia mixed with fresh storytelling is a powerful combo.

If your heart is set on Disney magic, the standalone Disney+ plan is more than enough. For $10 a month, you get access to animated classics like “Cinderella” and “The Little Mermaid,” superhero blockbusters like “Loki” and “WandaVision,” and family favorites from “Frozen” to “Moana.” The parents get peace of mind, kids dive into colorful worlds, and fans revisit classics that feel just as good decades later.

But if you’re craving more variety, the bundle plan makes a strong case. Hulu steps in with buzzy originals and critically acclaimed dramas, while ESPN+ covers the sports angle with live matches and exclusive events. It’s the kind of mix that turns your subscription into an all-purpose package — something for the binge-watchers, something for the sports fans, and plenty in between.

Yes, managing three apps can feel a bit clunky, and price hikes are part of the streaming game now. But Disney+ keeps its edge by balancing comfort viewing with bold new projects. Case in point: the “Andor” creator recently revealed Disney is working on a “Star Wars” horror story, a twist that shows the platform isn’t afraid to experiment while still leaning on its timeless classics.

HBO churned out iconic shows like “The Sopranos,” “Sex and the City,” and “Game of Thrones” that have become part of watercooler conversations. When they launched HBO Max in 2020, it combined premium shows with Warner Bros. movies which sounds great, right? Except, HBO already had a couple of other streaming services floating around (HBO Go and HBO Now), so it was a bit of a branding mess. 

That constant rebranding made it hard to know which app you actually needed, but the platform still managed to grow. As of now, HBO Max (or simply Max, depending on what year you ask) has around 100 million subscribers. The standard plan costs $9.99 a month with ads, while ad-free is $16.99. 

Recent juggernauts have reinforced HBO’s reputation for bold storytelling. “House of the Dragon,” a “Game of Thrones” prequel, brought back dragons and political scheming. “Succession” turned into a cultural obsession, while “Euphoria” captured Gen Z with its glittery chaos. Together, these shows prove that Max is carrying HBO’s legacy forward.

However, HBO Max still faces challenges. The rebranding confuses casual viewers, and some users complain about titles disappearing without warning. For example, “Westworld,” once a flagship HBO original, was pulled in 2022, frustrating many fans. Despite these issues, HBO Max remains a major player in the streaming world, known for its high-quality content and TV shows.

Paramount+ might not be the trendsetter, but it’s got old-school Hollywood cred. Its parent company, Paramount Global, has been around since the silent film era. From CBS All Access to Paramount+, it’s evolved into a streaming powerhouse with Nickelodeon, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, and CBS all under one roof.

The platform pulls in around 79 million subscribers, and its subscription plan starts from $7.99 a month, so it’s easy on the wallet too. On top of that, it offers something for everyone: a) families love kids’ staples like “SpongeBob” and “Dora,” b) comedy fans take center stage with “The Daily Show” and “South Park,” and c) sports lovers aren’t left out since live CBS action, from NFL games to college hoops, delivers plenty of excitement.

For ’90s kids, it’s a nostalgia haven with Nickelodeon reruns that still hold up today. And if you’re feeling retro, MTV archives will transport you back to the music video era. But it’s not all about the past, new originals like “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” keep the sci-fi fans hooked.

Adding to the buzz, Paramount+’s hit series “Mobland” is returning for another season. Fans love the twists, tense drama, and morally messy characters, making it a binge-worthy thrill.

When Apple announced a streaming service in 2019, people raised eyebrows. Why would the company famous for iPhones and MacBooks dive into television? But Apple being Apple, it didn’t aim to compete with huge libraries. Instead, Apple TV+ came out swinging with sleek, high-quality originals. The idea was simple: fewer shows, but make them polished enough to win Emmys.

It worked. Within its first year, Apple TV+ became the first streaming service to snag an Oscar for Best Picture with “CODA.” That gave it bragging rights over Netflix, which had been chasing awards for years. The cost sits at $12.99 a month. Subscriber numbers are fuzzy since Apple bundles free trials with new devices, but estimates suggest about 45 million paying users. 

Its library is small compared to Netflix or Prime Video, which can frustrate binge-watchers looking to marathon old favorites. However, the platform makes up for it with cinematic gems like “Acapulco”, “Pachinko”, and “Drops of God” that remind viewers why quality sometimes beats quantity.

Apple TV+ feels less like an all-you-can-eat buffet and more like a boutique café. You don’t go there for quantity, you go for a curated experience. The catch is that once you finish a show like “The Morning Show” or “Foundation,” you might not find your next fix immediately. For fans of prestige storytelling, Apple TV+ punches far above its size.

Peacock strutted into the streaming world in 2020 as NBCUniversal’s flashy entry. With roughly 41 million subscribers, it’s got a foot in nostalgia and another in modern TV. The platform teases viewers with a free ad-supported tier, while premium plans start at $7.99 per month. From NBC classics to Universal blockbusters, Peacock feels like cable’s cousin trying out cool sneakers.

What makes Peacock tick is its library of familiar comfort shows. Think “The Office” or “Parks and Recreation,” and a pile of reality TV that begs for marathon weekends. Universal’s movies add extra sparkle, and new originals pop up too. That said, some users say the app feels like a second choice, never the main course, more like the side salad you nibble on between Netflix binges.

But here’s where Peacock wrestles back the spotlight: live sports and WWE. Wrestling fans can relive The Rock taking on Stone Cold Steve Austin, a rivalry so iconic it turned matches into pop culture events. Add in Premier League soccer, “Sunday Night Football”, and even Olympic coverage, and suddenly Peacock doesn’t look like a lightweight. It’s flexing muscles where other streamers can’t always compete.

The questionable part, though, is juggling ads and tiers. The free version is crammed with commercials, and the premium plans can be puzzling. Yet Peacock’s mash-up of nostalgia, comedy, movies, and sports keeps the fun rolling.

Crunchyroll, named after sushi, is a streaming service born out of fandom. Founded in 2006 by a group of anime enthusiasts at the University of California, it began as a scrappy site sharing fan-subbed shows. Over time, it went legit, striking deals with Japanese studios and becoming the go-to home for anime worldwide.

Now Crunchyroll boasts 17 million paying subscribers for just around $7.99 a month. Fans can unlock a vast library of anime, manga, and simulcasts. That’s right, episodes that drop the same day as in Japan. That speed is a huge draw and keeps hardcore viewers glued to the platform.

Its catalog spans from classics like “Naruto” to hits like “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “Attack on Titan,” and it even co-produces new series, making it more than just a distributor. What truly sets it apart is the community vibe. You can dive into anime expos, join fan events, or grab official merch, all tying back to the platform and giving you a sense of belonging.

Crunchyroll’s niche focus might not be for everyone, but for anime fans, it’s a treasure trove. The summer 2025 lineup delivered plenty of excitement, with new series like “See You Tomorrow at the Food Court” and a new season of the beloved “One Piece.” These releases ensure there’s fresh content to dive into and plenty to keep viewers coming back.

YouTube TV is Google’s sleek alternative to traditional cable. Launched in 2017, it brings live TV into the streaming era with a simple, app-based interface. For $82.99 a month, you get access to around 100 live channels, including local networks, sports, and news — all without the clunky hardware.

With 9.4 million subscribers, it’s clear people love the flexibility. The real draw? It feels like traditional cable, but on your terms. Sports fans will appreciate the deals with NFL Sunday Ticket and other major events. One of the standout features is the unlimited DVR storage. You can record everything airing at once and watch later — a feature that’s hard to find elsewhere. 

However, customization is limited. The base bundle locks you into channels like ABC, ESPN, CNN, and FOX, and add-ons such as sports or premium networks cost extra. But if you’re looking for a simple, contract-free way to watch live TV, YouTube TV is a solid option.

In the end, YouTube TV works best for people torn between nostalgia and convenience. If you’re not ready to give up live TV, but don’t want contracts or bulky equipment, it strikes a clean middle ground. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, YouTube TV is a great choice for anyone looking to cut the cord without sacrificing their favorite shows.

Sling TV was one of the first real attempts to “unbundle” cable. Launched in 2015 by Dish Network, it pitched itself as a cheaper, more flexible way to stream live channels. Instead of paying for hundreds of networks you’d never watch, Sling lets you choose smaller bundles called Sling Orange and Sling Blue.

Starting at $40 a month, its plans are more affordable than YouTube TV. Orange carries ESPN and Disney-owned networks, while Blue includes FOX and NBC. You can mix and match, then tack on extras like sports or comedy packs, giving you control over your lineup. With over 7 million subscribers, Sling isn’t the biggest player, but it’s held steady in a crowded market.

The trade-off is that juggling packages can get confusing. Some channels overlap, and others sit behind pricey add-ons. But Sling’s à la carte style lets you choose from over 600 channels and pay only for what you want, a refreshing break from bulky bundles.

Sling may not dominate headlines anymore, but it remains a reliable option for people who want live TV without sky-high bills. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t compete with Netflix-style originals. Instead, it keeps things simple: affordable live television on your terms. For cord-cutters who still want channels like ESPN or CNN, Sling is a practical middle ground.

To choose the top 10 streaming services, we tested how each one feels in real life, from the mix of classics and new hits to how easy it is to actually watch what you want. Netflix set the standard with originals, Crunchyroll delights die-hard anime fans, while Disney+ and Prime Video bring something for everyone in the household, making binge nights and family movie marathons feel effortless.

Pricing and perks were part of the evaluation too. It’s not just the monthly fee but all the extras you get along the way. Prime Video brings shipping and music, Disney+ can bundle in Hulu and ESPN+, and YouTube TV tosses in unlimited cloud DVR. These little bonuses help show who really gets the best bang for their buck, whether it’s families, sports fans, or anyone just chasing that perfect streaming lineup.

Bringing it all together, the final picks balance reach, variety, and value. Subscriber count gave us the baseline, but what truly set these platforms apart was how well they deliver in practice. From content depth to everyday usability, these 10 services stand out as the most complete streaming experiences available today.