The new year is almost upon us, and with that, let us explore the most popular TV streaming services and forecast the ones that will continue to be the best during an even more competitive 2024.
Netflix
Netflix continues to be the king of streaming services, and that will not change in the new year. Sure, the service is ticking people off with its one-season cancellations, but the sheer scope of original movies and television is as good as anyone. Its original backlog but also an extensive licensed library all but ensure that you and the family have something to watch and enjoy whatever your mood.
HBO Max
HBO Max is an excellent supplement to Netflix and working hard to close the gap as the top option. Its original television shows are among the most popular. It also has a collection of movies that is unparalleled among streaming services, and it gives you access to WB films that are still in theaters.
Disney Plus
Disney Plus is arguably a must-have for families with kids, and it is a winner with adults too if you love the particular Disney properties, such as Marvel and Star Wars. What really puts Disney Plus into the top echelon, however, is the bundle it offers. For a rather reasonable fee, it not only includes Disney but Hulu and ESPN+, and it gives you access—often for an extra fee—for movies currently in theaters.
Hulu
Hulu is still among the cheapest streaming options if you are willing to watch some ads, and it is an ideal option for the viewer who loves the TV shows on broadcast television. You do have to wait a day to watch them on Hulu, but you have access to practically everything except what airs on CBS.
Sling TV
Sling TV is the top option for the household that wants a direct cable TV replacement. FuboTV is an honorable mention and a strong alternative, but we choose Sling TV because the channel lineup is better suited to the average household in our opinion, and the basic package is reasonable at around $35.
Prime Video
Prime Video may fall a bit short in direct comparison to the likes of Netflix and HBO Max. But the original content is excellent and diverse, and the extended library makes it a great complement to Netflix. Better yet, many households get it included as part of their annual Prime membership along with many other benefits.
Crackle
Crackle is by far the best free streaming service around, and it often has content that you cannot watch anywhere else. The streaming service is ad-supported. Some viewers complain of obtrusive ads, but in our experience, the ads are not too bad and certainly do not ruin a watching experience.
Paramount Plus
Paramount Plus and Peacock are network-specific streaming channels. We like Peacock, but much of its content is available through other providers. Paramount Plus is listed here for two primary reasons: Star Trek and live CBS broadcasts. If either of those are important to you, this service is a winner.
Honorable Mention
Apple TV is our honorable mention. The entire library is original and excellent for the most part. The extent of the library relegates it to a service that you should sub to from time to time. That probably will not change in 2022, but if the path continues, Apple TV will muscle its way into a top spot eventually.
