Streaming Video Subscriptions
Netflix vs. Amazon Prime vs. Hulu Plus
Now that Amazon has entered the streaming video market, movie buffs and TV aficionados alike have more choices than ever to get their fix. There are two main ways to pay for streaming video: pay-as-you-go or via a subscription model. Subscriptions are most economical – if the service you choose has the breadth of content you want. Amazon, Netflix, or Hulu Plus: which is the best choice?
Netflix
Netflix is the established leader in streaming video, thanks to a head start from its extremely popular DVD rental service. With 750 TV shows and over 8,000 movies in its library, Netflix’s streaming service doesn’t have nearly the selection that its 23 million subscribers currently enjoy on DVD. However, Netflix’s streaming movie selection should grow now that it’s agreed to delay renting DVDs for 28 days after initial release in exchange for streaming rights. Netflix also has industry partnerships that allow you to stream your selections almost anywhere: Apple TV and other set-top boxes, iPod touch, iPad , iPhone, Wii, Xbox 360, Wii and of course, your computer. Streaming-only subscriptions will set you back $7.99/month, but if you want access to Netflix’s vast catalog of DVDs, you can upgrade to a DVD-rental plan for $2/month additional.
Best for
Netflix has such a large subscriber base for a reason. It’s got something for everyone, is widely available on a variety of platforms, and rounds out its streaming offerings with an extensive DVD catalog and a highly customized suggestion system. Netflix does the best job of catering to a wide audience. If you’re going to pick on streaming video service, Netflix is the way to go.
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Amazon Prime
Amazon has the smallest library in its Prime Instant Video collection (not to be confused with its much bigger pay-as-you-go Instant Streaming service). In fact, Jeff Bezos is insistent that its service, with almost 2,500 titles, is not meant to compete with Netflix but instead is a bonus for Amazon’s Prime customers, who pay $79/year for 2 day shipping. This breaks out to $6.58/mo. Amazon’s catalog does not have the depth nor breadth of Netflix or Hulu Plus. It does have some exclusive shows (Mr. Rogers, Dr. Who) but much if its catalog is at least a year old, a bit obscure, or available elsewhere. If you do find something you’re interested in, you’re in luck unless you’re an Apple devotee; Amazon Prime Video streams on computers, Blu-ray players, and Roku but iPhones, iPads, and Wii are not supported. Amazon’s videos will play on Android browsers, although there’s no dedicated app.
Best for
If you already have a Prime membership, streaming video is a great perk. But saving $1 a month vs Netflix or Hulu for such a limited selection is not a good value, unless you’re a Mr. Rogers addict or Doctor Who devotee who can’t get your fix elsewhere. Don’t count Amazon out, though; after all, they started out selling books and became an e-commerce behemoth. Who knows what Jeff Bezos has up his sleeve?
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Hulu Plus
Hulu Plus is just what its name says: the basic Hulu service, with popular TV shows available 24 hours after airing, with the addition of entire seasons of popular shows, movies, and additional viewing options for $7.99/month. Hulu’s advantage is depth, not breadth: it only offers 450 shows, but it boasts 16,000 episodes, far outpacing its rivals. Hulu’s main differentiator is its almost-instant access to current shows from ABC and NBC as well as its offerings for reality TV junkies. While free Hulu usually has the five most recent episodes available at any given time, Hulu Plus has the entire current season of shows such as Glee and Modern Family. Note that even with Hulu Plus, you’ll still see ads embedded. Overall, TV is definitely Hulu’s strength; its 775 movies are marginal. Like Netflix, Hulu’s catalog is available via Blu-ray players, compatible TVs, and on iPhones and iPads.
Best for
If you’ve ditched cable or want to catch up on a current season without waiting for reruns, Hulu Plus could be your best choice. However, you’ll likely have to supplement with a run to Redbox or an additional subscription if movies are important to you. Hulu offers a month free trial for students, and a week for others, so check it out and see if it offers enough value for you.
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