Max is better for users seeking a vast content library and diverse live sports options, while Apple TV+ excels in high-quality original programming and a straightforward, ad-free experience with strong family sharing capabilities. The choice depends on individual preferences for content volume versus content quality and the importance of ad-free viewing and family sharing.
| Attribute | Max | Apple TV+ |
|---|---|---|
| Content library size | Large, with 7,800 titles as of 2021 after the WarnerMedia and Discovery merger. | Smaller library compared to competitors, approximately 259 titles as of June 2024. |
| Original content quality | Packed with premium shows, though some reports suggest Apple TV+ has a stronger hit rate with its originals. | High-quality original content, receiving critical acclaim and awards. Some shows have IMDb ratings above 8.0. Over 50% of original series had more than twice the average series demand in the U.S. in 2023. |
| Streaming quality (resolution, HDR) | Up to 4K UHD, HDR10, and Dolby Vision on select titles with the Premium plan. Requires 25 Mbps or higher internet speed. | 4K streaming, often with Dolby Vision. |
| Offline viewing availability | Downloads available for offline viewing on mobile devices (phones & tablets). The number of downloads depends on the plan. | Allows downloads for offline viewing on Apple devices. Downloaded content remains available as long as your subscription is active and the title remains on the service. |
| Number of simultaneous streams | Depends on the plan. The Premium plan allows up to 4 devices. | Up to six devices simultaneously. |
| Device compatibility | Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Roku, Android and Apple phones/tablets, Mac and Windows computers, PlayStation and Xbox consoles, LG, Samsung, Sony, and VIZIO Smart TVs. | Available on Apple devices, select smart TVs, streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV), and via web browsers. |
| User interface and experience | Enhanced browsing experience with dynamic video previews on the homepage. Users can toggle video and audio previews on or off. Rolling out a new UI with video previews and AI-assisted discovery. | The Apple TV app provides access to Apple TV+ content alongside content from third-party providers. |
| Subscription cost | Basic with Ads: $9.99/month or $99.99/year; Standard: $16.99/month or $169.99/year; Premium: $20.99/month or $209.99/year. | $9.99 per month. An annual subscription is available for $99.99. Included in Apple One bundles, starting at $19.95 per month. Students with an Apple Music subscription can get Apple TV+ at no extra charge. |
| Ad-free option availability | Yes, Standard and Premium plans are ad-free. | Ad-free. |
| Family sharing options | Accounts are intended for people who live together. WarnerMedia-billed subscribers can use the Extra Member Add-On for an additional monthly fee to share their plan with someone who doesn't live with them. | Supports Family Sharing, allowing up to six family members to share a single subscription. |
| Availability of live sports | Available on Standard and Premium plans. Includes events from MLB, NHL, NBA, NCAA Men's March Madness, U.S. Soccer, and cycling. | Offers live sports, including MLB (Friday Night Baseball) and MLS games. MLS Season Pass requires an additional subscription. |
| Special features (e.g., Dolby Atmos support) | Dolby Atmos immersive audio (available on Premium plan where available). Dolby Vision and HDR10 support (available on Premium plan where available). AI-assisted tool to identify and suggest "Drop-In Moments" for previews. | Supports Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio. |