for the spectator
STEAMING SERVICES EXPLAINED
Netflix, Stan, Amazon Prime Video, Foxtel Now, Disney Plus, Google Play Movies & TV and AppleTV+ to name a few are all competing for our eyeballs and credit cards. But with so many options, how do you pick the best service to suit your viewing needs and your budget?
Video streaming services in Australia
Subscription streaming services require an internet-connected device such as a computer, tablet, smartphone or smart TV to watch shows. They charge a monthly fee that can increase based on the streaming resolution (SD, HD and 4K), and the number of devices that can simultaneously access the account.
This list covers the major players in the subscription streaming services available in Australia. Each has its own pros, cons and (most importantly) exclusive programs and films.
1. AMAZON PRIME VIDEO
Pros: Included with Amazon Prime subscription is access to other Amazon services including Amazon Music and a Prime shopping account, which adds exclusive discounts and free shipping. Plenty of popular TV and Hollywood films and a 30 day free trial
Cons: A lot of content requires an extra purchase. Their content library is smaller than Netflix and Stan
Notable Exclusives: The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Boys, Lord of the Rings prequel series (coming soon)
Purchase Options:
- $12.99/month
2. APPLE TV
Pros: A lot of original content from high profile creators like Oprah Winfrey, and Jennifer Aniston
Cons: Predominantly Apple original content so you won’t find old favourites here. Also a small library of content at this stage
Notable Exclusive shows: The Morning Show, See, Dickinson
Purchase Options:
- $7.99/month (after a free 7 day trial)
- FREE year with the purchase of an Apple product
3. NETFLIX
Pros: Netflix is one of the most popular services around with thousands of hours of TV, film, documentaries, stand-up comedy, live music etc. available. This includes lots of original film and television content.
Cons: Netflix is losing some of its most popular content to other streaming services in the near future, including Friends, The Office, and Parks and Recreation. No free trial and there are 3 basic subscription tiers
Notable Exclusives: Stranger Things, Black Mirror, Seinfeld
Purchase Options:
- Basic ($8.99/month) – One screen at a time, Standard Definition
- Standard ($12.99/month) – Two screens at a time, High Definition
- Premium (15.99/month) – Four screens at a time, HD and 4K Ultra HD
4. STAN
Pros:
Australian owned, similar to Netflix and slightly less expensive and it tends to have more Australian content and a robust collection of classic and popular programs including Friends, Breaking Bad and Family Guy. Includes a 30 day free trial
Cons: Stan's library isn't quite as extensive as Netflix and also has 3 basic subscription tiers
Notable Exclusives: The Loudest Voice (staring our own Russell Crowe) Billions, Our Cartoon President, City on a Hill
Purchase Options:
- Basic ($10/month) – One screen at a time, Standard Definition
- Standard ($14/month) –three screens at a time, High Definition
- Premium (17/month) – Four screens at a time, HD and 4K Ultra HD
Pricing subject to change. Current as at 28/5/20