The Best Streaming Services in the US (2025): Comparison for Price, Content & Value

In 2025, the world of online entertainment has officially replaced traditional cable TV. With hundreds of options to choose from, American viewers now face one question: Which streaming service is actually worth your subscription?

From global powerhouses like Netflix and Disney+, to unique and curated platforms such as Apple TV+ and Mubi, each offers a distinct mix of movies, TV shows, and exclusive originals. But with rising subscription costs and new ad tiers, finding the best value streaming plan in the USA isn’t always easy.

We’ve reviewed the top streaming services in the US (2025) — comparing content libraries, pricing, device compatibility, ad-free options, and 4K streaming quality — to help you decide where to spend your hard-earned dollars.

Disney+ — The Ultimate Streaming Hub for Families & Franchises

✅ Pros

• Massive library of blockbuster movies and family-friendly content
• Exclusive access to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and Disney Classics
• Optional bundles with Hulu and ESPN+
• Regular releases of new originals and theatrical hits

❌ Cons

• Frequent price hikes
• Limited appeal for non-franchise fans
• 4K Dolby Atmos only on Premium plan

💡 Overview

Disney+ has evolved into one of the most complete entertainment ecosystems in the US. Beyond its kid-friendly roots, it’s now the home of some of the most successful cinematic universes — from Marvel blockbusters to Star Wars sagas.

In 2025, standout titles include Inside Out 2, Deadpool & Wolverine, The Mandalorian, and Andor. Meanwhile, bundling Disney+ with Hulu brings in adult-oriented hits like The Bear, Only Murders in the Building, and American Horror Story — giving it unbeatable range.

Pricing (2025):

• Ad-supported: $11.99/month
• Ad-free: $18.99/month
• Disney Bundle (Disney+ + Hulu + ESPN+): starts at $12.99/month

If you want family entertainment, superhero franchises, and exclusive originals in 4K, Disney+ remains a must-have.

Netflix — Still the King of Variety & Global Originals

✅ Pros

• Huge selection of international and local content
• Over 7,000 titles with 4K HDR options
• Consistent release of original hits
• Available in 200+ countries

❌ Cons

• Premium tier is the most expensive on this list
• Some iconic shows (like Friends, The Office) have moved to competitors

💡 Overview

Despite rising competition, Netflix remains the most popular streaming service in the world. Its commitment to original content — from Stranger Things and Squid Game to The Crown and Wednesday — keeps it at the top of the binge-watch pyramid.

Pricing (2025):

• Standard with Ads: $7.99/month
• Standard (HD, 2 screens): $17.99/month
• Premium (4K UHD, 4 screens): $24.99/month

Netflix offers something for everyone: from anime to documentaries, thrillers to rom-coms. However, with new ad tiers and content licensing shifts, it’s no longer the cheapest option — but still arguably the most versatile.

Amazon Prime Video — Best All-Rounder for Value & Perks

✅ Pros

• Included with Amazon Prime (shipping, music, reading)
• Expanding library of original shows
• Option to rent or buy recent theater releases
• Supports 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos

❌ Cons

• Ads introduced in 2025 (ad-free upgrade required)
• Interface can feel cluttered

💡 Overview

Amazon Prime Video has turned from a bonus feature into a serious entertainment platform. Its lineup now includes high-quality originals like The Boys, Reacher, The Rings of Power, and Good Omens — alongside Hollywood hits like Barbie and Oppenheimer.

Prime members can also subscribe to add-on channels like MGM+, Paramount+, and Shudder — but keep an eye on extra costs.

Pricing (2025):

• Prime Video only: $8.99/month
• Amazon Prime (Full): $14.99/month
• Ad-free upgrade: +$2.99/month

If you already use Amazon shopping, Prime Video is easily one of the best value streaming subscriptions in the US.

Max (formerly HBO Max) — Best for Prestige TV & Movies

✅ Pros

• Access to HBO’s legendary library
• 4K HDR and Dolby Vision available
• Exclusive Warner Bros. and DC releases

❌ Cons

• More expensive than most
• Some titles rotate out due to licensing

💡 Overview

Max represents quality over quantity. It’s the ultimate platform for award-winning storytelling — from Game of Thrones and Succession to The Last of Us and Euphoria.

The Warner Bros. catalog also brings blockbuster films, including Dune: Part Two and The Batman 2, directly to streaming.

Pricing (2025):

• With Ads: $10.99/month
• Ad-Free: $18.49/month
• Ultimate Ad-Free (4K): $22.99/month

If you want premium TV, cinematic storytelling, and top-tier drama, Max remains unbeatable — though it comes at a premium.

Apple TV+ — Small Library, Big Quality

✅ Pros

• Every title is ad-free, 4K, and Dolby Vision included
• One of the highest-rated catalogs (by average IMDb score)
• Free trials and bundle offers via Apple One

❌ Cons

• Smaller library compared to major competitors
• Few licensed non-Apple titles

💡 Overview

Apple TV+ focuses on quality over quantity, offering cinematic masterpieces and emotionally powerful series like Ted Lasso, Severance, Silo, Slow Horses, and The Morning Show.

Every show is professionally produced in 4K HDR, often rivaling theatrical quality. Though the selection is smaller, almost every release is critically acclaimed.

Pricing (2025):

• $12.99/month
• Free trial for new Apple users

If you love cinematography, storytelling, and polished productions, Apple TV+ delivers premium entertainment for a fair price.

Hulu — Best for Network TV & Next-Day Streaming

✅ Pros

• Massive on-demand library
• Next-day access to ABC and Fox shows
• Affordable bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+

❌ Cons

• US-only
• No-ads plan nearly doubles in price

💡 Overview

For viewers who love network TV and current-season episodes, Hulu remains unmatched. Its lineup spans every genre — from The Handmaid’s Tale and The Bear to Ramy and Futurama.

Pricing (2025):

• With Ads: $11.99/month
• Ad-Free: $18.99/month
• Disney Bundle: from $12.99/month

Hulu is perfect for cord-cutters who want the latest TV shows without cable, plus plenty of exclusives and originals.

Peacock — Best for NBC Fans & Sports Lovers

✅ Pros

• Home of NBCUniversal hits
• Live sports: NFL, Premier League, Olympics
• Huge sitcom collection (The Office, Parks and Recreation, Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

❌ Cons

• Fewer originals than Netflix or Max
• Free tier discontinued

💡 Overview

Peacock offers a perfect mix of classic TV, live events, and sports coverage. It’s ideal for fans of network favorites and live entertainment.

Pricing (2025):

• Ad-supported: $10.99/month
• Ad-free: $16.99/month

For those who love sports + classic comedy, Peacock is a smart mid-range option.

Mubi — The Best Streaming Service for Cinephiles

✅ Pros

• Curated indie & world cinema
• Expertly handpicked selections
• Great for film students, critics, and enthusiasts

❌ Cons

• Smaller audience
• Pricier for casual users

💡 Overview

If you value artistic storytelling, film history, and international cinema, Mubi is your streaming sanctuary. Each day, a new film is added — often festival favorites or classics you won’t find anywhere else.

Pricing (2025):

• $14.99/month
• Discounts for annual or student plans

Final Verdict: Which Streaming Service Should You Choose in 2025?

What to Consider When Choosing a Streaming Service

Content variety and personal taste.
A massive library doesn’t always equal the best experience — what really matters is whether the platform offers the type of shows and movies you enjoy. It’s worth browsing through each service’s catalog before ruling any of them out, as you might stumble upon something that perfectly matches your viewing preferences. If mainstream options don’t fit your niche interests, you can always explore some of the smaller, alternative streaming platforms.

Price and flexibility.
One of the great things about streaming is how easy it is to switch between services. If a platform isn’t meeting your expectations, you can cancel and move on without losing much money. Many of these services also offer free trials, so you can test them before committing. You can also check out tips on how to cut streaming costs and get the most value from your subscriptions.

Device support and simultaneous streaming.
If you plan to share your account with family or friends, make sure the service allows multiple streams at once on different devices. Some platforms have pricing tiers based on how many devices can be used at the same time, so it’s worth checking the details before signing up. Also note that certain providers, like Netflix, have started restricting password sharing — with Disney+ soon following suit.

Availability and accessibility.
Not every service is available everywhere. Some platforms are exclusive to specific regions like the US or the UK. While VPNs can help you access international content, they can also complicate your streaming setup and affect performance.

Perks and bundled deals.
A few streaming services come with extra benefits that might make them more appealing. For instance, Amazon Prime Video includes all of Prime’s shopping and delivery perks, Disney+ in the US can be bundled with other channels at a discounted rate, and Apple TV+ is free for a limited time with the purchase of a new Apple device.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best streaming service in the USA (2025) depends on what you value most — content variety, ad-free experience, 4K quality, or budget.
If you want an all-rounder with value and perks, go for Amazon Prime Video.
If you’re after cinematic storytelling, Max and Apple TV+ are top-tier.
And if you crave blockbusters, franchises, and nostalgia, Disney+ still reigns supreme.

No matter your choice, one thing’s certain: in 2025, there’s never been a better — or more competitive — time to be a streamer.