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Best streaming services for movies in 2024
The days of DVDs and Blu-ray discs are fading fast. If you’re like most movie lovers, you may find that your DVDs are collecting dust as you stream more of the best new and classic films with a quick click of a button.
Like music streaming services before them, movie streaming services offer convenience that’s tough to match. You don’t have to wait for your movie to show up on cable, and you don’t need to drive to Blockbuster to nab a new title before your neighbors beat you to it. You can browse thousands of titles, choose your next movie night and start watching without leaving your couch — unless you want to microwave some popcorn.
Netflix isn’t the only player in this arena anymore, either. Now, you can find substantial on-demand film libraries from dozens of streaming services. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and your top choice will probably depend on what kind of movie watcher you are. To help you decide, we’ve done the research and picked the five best movie streaming services available today.
How we chose the best streaming services for movies
It can be a little overwhelming when you’re looking for the best movie streaming service. There are many options to rent movies or stream on demand, and the costs vary considerably. Some services focus only on films or even specific film genres, while others offer a broader range of content and services.
For our list, we researched some of the most popular movie streaming services and homed in on ones that offer the most bang for your buck. With each of these options, you’ll get top-notch films alongside excellent shows and other programming from an array of networks and film companies. If you want to add more to your movie library, don’t sleep on more focused streamers like Peacock, Paramount Plus, Shudder or Starz.
Top streaming services for movies
- Best for variety: Hulu
- Best for the cinematic multiverse: Disney Plus
- Best for movies and live TV: Philo
- Best for movie buffs: Max
- Best for new originals: Netflix
Best for variety: Hulu
- Huge on-demand library of originals and mainstream favorites
- Option to expand your movie library with premium add-ons like Max and Starz
- Students can get it for $1.99 a month
About Hulu
If you want a variety of films with an excellent library of shows — and you only want to pay for one streaming subscription, Hulu is our top pick for the best streaming service for movies. For $7.99 a month, you’ll get access to Hulu’s extensive library of ad-supported films, including quirky originals like “Palm Springs,” classics like “Mrs. Doubtfire” and newer hits like “Stars at Noon.” The platform boasts an impressive array of documentaries, and you can boost your library even more with add-ons like Showtime, Max and Starz. Take advantage of the student deal for $1.99 a month or upgrade to ad-free streaming for $17.99 a month.
Why is it the best?
It’s tough to find a library that can compete with Hulu’s in terms of breadth and depth. If you don’t know what to watch, just start browsing and you’ll find that new release you’ve been waiting for or an old classic you’ve been missing. There’s something for every mood here, and you can’t go wrong.
Best for a cinematic multiverse: Disney Plus
- Access to Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar and Disney libraries
- Tons of family-friendly moves and shows
- Bundle with Hulu and ESPN Plus for even more great movies
About Disney Plus
Nobody can argue that Disney has a corner on the market for epic cinematic universes. The entire Marvel and Star Wars libraries alone are enough for some families and fans. Throw in decades of classic Disney and Pixar movies, loads of spin-off shows and the National Geographic library of award-winning nature programming, and it’s no surprise this is one of the best movie streaming services out there. Plans start at $7.99 a month (with ads) or $13.99 a month (without ads), and you can add Hulu and ESPN Plus for $3 to $10 more a month, depending on whether you want to watch with or without ads.
Why is it the best?
You certainly won’t get every movie genre or production house on Disney Plus. But the movies it does have are some of the last century's biggest blockbusters and cultural staples. For families — and kids-at-heart — it’s almost a must-have.
Best for movies and live tv: Philo
- Live TV and a large film library
- Low monthly cost for a live TV option
- Add-ons for film lovers
About Philo
If you’d rather combine your movie streaming with live TV without breaking the bank, Philo is your best bet. For only $25 per month, you’ll get access to more than 70 live channels, including film-focused powerhouses like AMC, Lifetime and Paramount Network. You’ll find a mix of live and on-demand options, and Philo offers unlimited DVR space for you to record and rewatch what you’ve missed — up to a year later. Add-ons like MGM+, Starz and Movies & More will round out your film library for countless hours of entertainment.
Why is it the best?
Philo offers a budget-friendly option for film buffs who want a good mix of live TV without sports. You won’t quite get the full cable experience, but you can find a lot of classic films here, including “The Truman Show,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” “Jerry Maguire” and “The Hunger Games.”
Best for movies buffs: Max
- Vast library of high-quality originals and films from major networks and production companies
- Three simultaneous streams
- Stream some titles in 4K and Dolby Atmos
About Max
Formerly known as HBO Max, this streaming platform recently streamlined its name to broaden its appeal among families. And it has an extensive lineup to back up that goal. Find a wide range of critically acclaimed films here, from the Harry Potter collection and the DC universe to beloved HBO documentaries, films and series. Plans range from $9.99 per month to $19.99 per month, and you’ll get most titles in full high definition.
Why is it the best?
HBO has long been lauded by film buffs for its commitment to creating content that’s a step above the rest. With a Max subscription, you’ll get top-rated originals like the “Father of the Bride” remake and “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” alongside a host of great movies and shows from other production companies. If quality is your top priority, you can’t go wrong with Max.
Best for new originals: Netflix
- Loads of award-winning originals films and shows
- New low-cost, ad-supported option
- All plans stream in full HD or higher
About Netflix
Netflix led us into the world of on-demand streaming over 15 years ago, and despite a few bumps in the road, the original streamer still stands strong today. Over the past few years, it has eschewed its former role as an eclectic collection of movies and shows to become one of the leading producers of original content. And there’s plenty for movie lovers to choose from. Netflix is home to a bevy of award-winning films like “Marriage Story,” “Beasts of No Nation,” “The Irishman” and “All Quiet on the Western Front.” Prices rose steadily in recent years, but the streamer’s new foray into ad-supported programming has again made it accessible to the masses.
Why is it the best?
Netflix simply has some of the best original programming of any streaming service. The company regularly competes with premium names like Max for awards at the Emmys and the Oscars, and you can’t find its original content anywhere else. If you want to catch some of the top award-winning films and shows available today, you should add Netflix to your list of subscriptions.
Final thoughts
Finding the best movie streaming service can be challenging, and no single platform will have every movie you want. Each one appeals to a different kind of movie lover — it comes down to deciding which one you are. Either way, if you’re ready to leave your DVDs behind, you’ve got options. Decide on your monthly budget, then choose your ideal subscription, a few selections, or a combination of add-ons to keep you entertained any night of the week.
FAQ
What’s the best streaming service for movies?
There are several great options for movie streaming services, and the best one for you depends on what kind of movies you want. Hulu is our top choice for variety, but you’ll also find excellent options on services like Max, Netflix, Philo and Disney Plus.
Is Netflix for Hulu better for movies?
Again, the answer depends on your preferences. If you want original films, both offer some great options, but Netflix stands a step above Hulu in this area. For a more diverse array of films from different networks and production companies, Hulu is the clear winner.
How can I watch new movies at home?
Nowadays, there are countless ways to watch new movies at home. Many streaming subscriptions include hundreds of movies in their libraries, and films often show up soon after leaving theaters. You can also rent or buy movies to stream from services like Amazon, Apple TV and YouTube. DVD die-hards can still find Redbox kiosks at grocery stores and drug stores, and you may even have a rental shop still going near you.
