4K is here and you have options! All you need is a 4K TV, high speed internet and somewhere to get 4K content from. But what streaming service is the best for 4K content? It depends on what you like to watch and what’s important to you. Whether you’re a movie buff, casual channel flicker or sports fan, one of these streaming services will fit your needs. Here’s a short guide to help you find the best streaming service offering 4K content.
1. Netflix
Best for original content
We all know Netflix is great and most people have had a Netflix subscription at some point. They have a massive library of 4K content ready to stream – including original TV shows, movies, documentaries and even stand up specials.
Pros:
- New original content comes out all the time.
- Access to Netflix originals like Orange Is The New Black, Ozark, Stranger Things and The Witcher. All available to watch in 4K.
- Their recommendations are top tier.
Cons:
- New releases often appear on Netflix much later than they do on any other platform.
- Movies and TV shows come and go month to month with little warning.
- The Premium plan is more expensive than any other platform.
Subscription details: Netflix has three plans to choose from; Standard with ads for $6.99 a month, Standard without ads for $15.49 a month, and Premium also without ads $22.99 a month.
2. DIRECTV STREAM
Best for live channels
DIRECTV STREAM is often misunderstood. Yes, it is expensive but it’s also as close as you’re going to get to traditional cable without it being traditional cable. It’s great for people who want the best of both worlds without having a bunch of subscriptions. DIRECTV STREAM gives your access to live channels and on demand content including sports! 4K content is included and does not cost extra unlike other TV and streaming providers.
Pros:
- Tons of live channels! Including your locals.
- So many sports!
- Unlimited cloud storage.
Cons:
- Plans are a 24 month agreement.
- It’s pricey compared to typical streaming platforms.
- Only one user profile is allowed per account.
Subscription details: DIRECTV has four streaming streaming plans to choose from; ENTERTAINMENT with 90+ channels for $69.99 a month, CHOICE with 125+ channels for $74.99 a month, ULTIMATE with 160+ channels for $104.99 a month, and PREMIER with 185+ channels for $149.99 a month.
3. Disney+
Best for families
Disney+ is amazing for families! There’s a broad range of movies and TV shows for all ages, more so on Disney+ than anywhere else. The best part is a lot of its exclusive content is available in 4K and some of it is even IMAX Enhanced.
Pros:
- Includes content from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel and National Geographic.
- Disney+, Hulu and ESPN bundle available.
- Can restrict TV-MA content completely or hide behind a pin.
Cons:
- Bundles get messy in the Disney+ login. Hulu content shows in the Disney+ app.
- The ad plans have a ton of commercials, especially the Hulu part of the bundle.
- The original shows Disney+ has released so far have been quite hit and miss.
Subscription details: Disney+ has two standalone streaming plans and four bundle plans to choose from; Basic with ads for $79.99 a month and Premium with no ads for $13.99 a month or $139.99 a year. For bundle options Disney has the Duo Basic a Hulu and Disney+ bundle with ads for $9.99 a month, Duo Premium a Hulu and Disney+ bundle with no ads for $19.99 a month, Trio Basic a Hulu, Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle with ads for $14.99 a month and Trio Premium a Hulu, Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle with no ads for $24.99 a month.
4. Amazon Prime Video
Best value
Do you have an Amazon Prime membership? If so, you already have access to Amazon Prime Video without even knowing it! Amazon has a truly massive catalog to choose from and its 4K selection has been growing exponentially.
Pros:
- Already included in their Amazon Prime subscription.
- They’re the exclusive home for NFL’s Thursday Night Football for the foreseeable future.
- Optional rent or buy movies and TV shows.
Cons:
- There isn’t a cheaper option that is Amazon Prime Video only
- The search feature is difficult to use, almost like there’s too many options.
- Every title is not included. Some must be rented or purchased to watch.
Subscription details: Amazon Prime Video is actually a part of their Amazon Prime membership. If you have Amazon Prime, you already have Amazon Prime Video! If not, the Prime membership costs $14.99 a month or $139 for a year.
