11 of the Best Streaming Services to Consider Besides Netflix
We only have one life to live, and while that's definitely more than enough at time, some days we prefer to escape and put ourselves in another person's shoes -- like a comedian struggling to get his big break, a detective with a dark and burning secret, or that woman who's living in a dystopian future trying her hardest to make it out alive.
Of course, we're talking about TV shows and must-watch movies here, which have the ability to immediately transport us to a different time and place with a click of the button. We're simply avid binge-watchers and we can't (and don't want to) help it -- but Netflix is trying to limit our passion, or, and the very least, empty out our bank accounts.
The streaming service has upped its prices to $8.99 per month (for the least expensive option), which isn't a ton, but ain't cheap, either. And while some might be willing to pay a few extra bucks to see Stranger Things, and the newest murder show everyone's talking about, a few may want to trade that subscription for something new.
Luckily, there are a lot of great alternatives out there, and get this: some of them are even "free.99" -- meaning it doesn't cost a single penny to watch a decent movie, although it may require sitting through a few ads).
We rounded up some streaming services to subscribe to other than Netflix, or even in addition to (it can't hurt). Plus, who even knew that we were missing out on a handful of original series and movies all this time, too?
It's truly a win-win for everyone!
Hulu
What It Costs: Plans start at $7.99 per month
Probably one of the best Netflix alternatives is Hulu, which has great original content, a variety of movies to choose from, and an option to watch live TV.
Amazon Prime
What It Costs: A Prime membership is $119 per year
The Prime membership is worth it for the free shipping alone, but gaining access to the original series and movie options is also a must. There's a ton -- a ton! -- of movies included, and they're good about making new releases available for purchase.
Vudu
What It Costs: Pay per purchase for as little as $0.99
There are also free movies subscribers can watch -- if they're willing to sit through ads.
YouTube Premium
What It Costs: YouTube Premium, which has original content, is $11.99 per month. It's now possible to rent movies for free or a small fee as well
It's true! YouTube has been hopping on the whole movie thing, and while vloggers (and Demi Lovato) have released documentaries on there, there's regular movies available, as well.
YouTube TV
What It Costs: $40/month
For those who want to cut their cable cords, YouTube offers a television streaming service. For $40 a month, users can access YouTube TV that includes a cloud DVR with no storage limits, six accounts per household, and an arsenal of channels to watch -- with the option of a few additional channels for a price.
Popcorn Flix
What It Costs: Free
Click and play -- no sign up required. It couldn't be any easier!
What to Watch on Popcorn Flix
Weirdly, there are originals for this service, like The Lifeguard, which stars Kristen Bell. There are also other options as well -- like the movies Zodiac and Akeelah and the Bee.
Showtime
What It Costs: $10.99 per month
From original series to movies, this premium channel is also available for those who don't feel like signing up for cable.
Tubi
What It Costs: Free
We love that word, free -- and the options aren't too shabby either. Plus, everything is neatly organized into categories, including one that says "Not on Netflix."