AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Streaming platforms: Apple TV+ vs. Max

Quick Verdict

Apple TV+ is a strong choice for users who value high-quality, original content and an ad-free experience at a lower price point, especially those already within the Apple ecosystem. Max, however, is better suited for those seeking a broader range of content and are willing to pay more for ad-free viewing and higher streaming quality, with content from HBO, Warner Bros., and Discovery.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeApple TV+Max
Original Content QualityHigh-quality original content, consistently ranked highlyPremium shows, including "The Penguin," "The Last of Us," "House of the Dragon," "The Sopranos," "The White Lotus," and "Curb Your Enthusiasm". Offers content from Warner Bros. Discovery.
Content Variety (Movies, TV Shows, Documentaries)Focuses primarily on original content, smaller library compared to competitors, offers TV shows, movies, and documentariesMix of original content and library material across film, music, entertainment, television, and sports. Includes content from HBO, Warner Bros., the DC Universe, Cartoon Network, and Discovery networks.
Subscription Cost$9.99 per month in the US, $99.99 per year (15% savings)Basic with Ads: $9.99/month or $99.99/year; Ad-Free: $16.99/month or $169.99/year; Ultimate Ad-Free: $20.99/month or $209.99/year.
Ad-Free Option AvailabilityCompletely ad-freeAd-free streaming tiers available with "Ad-Free" or "Ultimate Ad-Free" plans.
Offline Download AvailabilityAllows users to download content for offline viewing on Apple devices, downloads expire after 30 daysAd-Free plan: Up to 30 hours of content; Ultimate Ad-Free plan: Up to 100 titles or hours of content.
Streaming Quality (4K, HDR)Streams everything in up to 4K HDR with Dolby Atmos, high streaming quality, some shows reach peak bitrates of 41MbpsStandard plans stream in 1080p; Ultimate Ad-Free plan: 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and HDR10.
Device CompatibilityApple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K), some smart TVs (Samsung, LG, VIZIO, Sony), Roku, Fire TV, Google TV, PlayStation, Xbox, webCompatible with iPhones, iPads, Android phones and tablets, Amazon Fire tablets, Apple TV, Android TV devices, Amazon Fire TV devices, Roku devices, PlayStation 4 and 5, Samsung TVs, VIZIO Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, Xbox One, and Google Chromecast. Stream on phones, tablets, computers, TVs, streaming players, set-top boxes, and game consoles.
User Interface and ExperienceBuilt into the Apple TV app, uses machine learning and AI to recommend contentEnhanced browsing experience with dynamic video previews on the homepage. AI-assisted tool suggests "Drop-In Moments". Users can toggle video and audio previews on or off.
Number of Simultaneous Streams6 simultaneous streams per subscriptionAd-Enabled and Ad-Free plans: 2 devices; Ultimate Ad-Free plan: Up to 4 devices.
Family Sharing OptionsSupports Family Sharing, allowing you to share your subscription with up to five other family membersNo specific "family sharing" options, but multiple streams allow sharing within a household. An 'extra member' Max subscription option is available for $7.99 a month.
Exclusive Content and BundlingFocuses on exclusive, original content, included in Apple One bundles, offered as part of some mobile plansOffers exclusive content, including Max Originals. Available in a bundle with Disney+ and Hulu.
Free Trial AvailabilityTypically offers a 7-day free trial, free trials of 3 months often available with the purchase of a new Apple deviceDoesn't typically offer a free trial. A 7-day free trial may be available through Amazon Prime Video. May be available for free through an annual DoorDash subscription.

Overall Comparison

Apple TV+ offers ad-free 4K HDR streaming for $9.99/month with 6 simultaneous streams, while Max offers ad-supported streaming for the same price, but ad-free 4K HDR streaming requires the $20.99/month Ultimate Ad-Free plan with up to 4 simultaneous streams.

Pros and Cons

Apple TV+

Pros:
  • High-quality original content
  • Ad-free viewing experience
  • Offline download availability
  • 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Atmos
  • Family Sharing options
  • Included in Apple One bundles
Cons:
  • Smaller library compared to competitors
  • Focus primarily on original content

Max

Pros:
  • Premium original content
  • Wide variety of content from HBO, Warner Bros., DC, Cartoon Network, and Discovery
  • Ad-free options available
  • Offline downloads available on higher-tier plans
  • 4K, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, and HDR10 support on Ultimate Ad-Free plan
  • Compatible with a wide range of devices
  • Exclusive content and bundling options
Cons:
  • No free trial typically available
  • Ad-free plans cost extra
  • 4K and HDR streaming only available on the most expensive plan
  • Limited family sharing options

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