AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Streaming services: Netflix vs. Paramount+

Quick Verdict

Netflix is a strong choice for users seeking a vast library with high-quality original content, while Paramount+ offers a more budget-friendly option with content from diverse networks. The best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeNetflixParamount+
Content library sizeLarge, with a wide variety of movies and TV shows.Over 40,000 episodes and movies from CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount Pictures, and the Smithsonian Channel.
Original content qualityHigh, Netflix invests heavily in original content.Offers original series and movies, though high-profile content may be less abundant than on platforms like Netflix and Apple TV+.
4K streaming availabilityAvailable on the Premium plan.Select shows and movies are available in 4K UHD, HDR10, or Dolby Vision on select devices with the Premium plan.
Offline download optionAvailable on supported devices.Available on mobile devices (iOS and Android) with the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan. Users can download up to 25 titles, which expire after 30 days, and once started, videos expire after 48 hours.
Number of simultaneous streamsStandard with Ads: 2 devices; Standard: 2 devices; Premium: 4 devices.Most plans allow streaming on up to three devices simultaneously. The Premium plan allows streaming on four devices at once.
Ad-supported plan availabilityYes, Netflix offers a 'Standard with Ads' plan.Offers an ad-supported plan called 'Essential'.
Parental control featuresOffers various parental control features.Includes creating profiles with age restrictions and setting a PIN to restrict access to certain content.
User interface and navigationGenerally considered well-designed.Generally user-friendly, with personalized content recommendations.
Device compatibilityCompatible with a wide range of devices.Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming players, mobile devices, game consoles, and computers.
Price of subscription plansStandard with Ads: $7.99/month; Standard: $17.99/month; Premium: $24.99/month.Essential: $7.99/month or $59.99/year; Paramount+ with SHOWTIME: $12.99/month or $119.99/year.
Free trial availabilityNetflix does not offer free trials.Typically offers a 7-day free trial to new subscribers.
Customer support qualityMixed reviews. Some sources indicate responsive and helpful customer service, while others report issues with customer support.Offers customer support through a help center, social media, phone, and live chat. Live chat and phone support are typically available during business hours.

Overall Comparison

Netflix: Starting price $7.99/month, Paramount+: Starting price $7.99/month or $59.99/year. Netflix: No free trial, Paramount+: 7-day free trial typically offered.

Pros and Cons

Netflix

Pros:
  • Large content library with diverse content
  • High-quality original content
  • 4K streaming available (Premium plan)
  • Offline download option
  • User-friendly interface
  • Wide device compatibility
  • Parental control features
Cons:
  • Customer support quality is mixed
  • Ads on the 'Standard with Ads' plan can be intrusive (4-5 minutes per hour)
  • Some content is not available on the ad-supported plan
  • Some users dissatisfied with recent UI updates
  • Underrepresentation of some groups (Latinx, Middle Eastern/North African, and Native/Indigenous communities) in content

Paramount+

Pros:
  • Wide variety of content from different networks.
  • Offers 4K streaming on select devices with a Premium plan.
  • User-friendly interface with personalized content recommendations.
  • Supports a wide array of devices.
  • One of the more affordable streaming services, especially with ad-supported plans.
Cons:
  • High-profile original content may be less abundant than on some other platforms.
  • Offline downloads only available on the SHOWTIME plan.
  • Ads in the Essential plan.

User Experiences and Feedback