Both HBO Max (Max) and Netflix Premium are strong contenders in the streaming market. HBO Max (Max) offers more plan flexibility and a vast content library including HBO, Warner Bros., and Discovery content. Netflix Premium justifies its higher price with a large library of original content and ad-free viewing.
| Attribute | HBO Max (Max) | Netflix Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Content library size and variety | Wide array of content from HBO, Warner Bros., and Discovery, including movies, TV shows, documentaries, and reality series for all ages. | Large and diverse library of movies and TV shows, including original content. |
| Original content quality and quantity | Known for high-quality original content. | High-quality original series and films, including critically acclaimed titles like "Stranger Things," "The Crown," and "The Queen's Gambit". |
| Streaming quality (4K, HDR) | The Max Ultimate Ad-Free plan supports 4K Ultra HD resolution and Dolby Atmos sound quality. | Offers streaming in 4K Ultra HD with HDR. |
| Offline viewing availability | Downloading content for offline viewing is available on ad-free plans. | Content can be downloaded for offline viewing. |
| Number of simultaneous streams | Basic With Ads and Standard plans: 2 devices at once. Premium plan: 4 devices at once. | Up to four devices simultaneously. |
| Device compatibility | Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming media players, gaming consoles, mobile phones, tablets, and computers. | Compatible with smart TVs, streaming media players, mobile devices, game consoles, and computers. |
| User interface and experience | User-friendly interface with personalized recommendations. The home screen includes a content carousel with video previews. | Personalized interface with recommendations based on viewing habits. |
| Parental control features | Offers robust parental controls, including Kids Profiles, content ratings filters, and a parental PIN. | PIN protection, maturity level settings, and the ability to block specific titles. |
| Ad-free viewing option | Yes, available with the Standard Ad-Free and Ultimate Ad-Free plans. | Ad-free. |
| Content download limits | Standard Ad-Free plan: Up to 30 downloads. Ultimate Ad-Free plan: Up to 100 downloads. Downloads expire after 30 days if unwatched. Once started, you have 48 hours to finish watching. | Downloads on up to 6 devices. |
| Cancellation policy | You can cancel your Max subscription at any time, and your subscription will not renew. You'll continue to have access until the end of your current billing cycle. | Easily change your plan or cancel online at any time. |
| Price | Basic with Ads: $9.99/month or $99.99/year. Standard Ad-Free: $16.99/month or $169.99/year. Ultimate Ad-Free: $20.99/month or $209.99/year. | $24.99/month |
| Ratings | Not available | Overall: Not available, Performance: Not available |