AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Streaming services: Peacock vs. Apple TV+

Quick Verdict

Apple TV+ is a good choice for users who prioritize high-quality, ad-free original content and 4K HDR streaming. Peacock is better suited for those who want a wider variety of content, including live sports and classic TV shows, and are willing to tolerate ads or pay extra for an ad-free experience.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributePeacockApple TV+
Original Content QualityGrowing steadily, includes series like *Apples Never Fall*, *Ted*, *The Traitors*, *Love Island USA*, *Vanderpump Rules*, *Poker Face*, *Dr. Death*, *The McBee Dynasty*, and *Deal or No Deal Island*. Original films include *Megamind*, *Dr. Death*, *Joe vs. Carole*, and *Angelyne*, as well as documentaries.High-quality, original content, award-winning series and films, bold storytelling, A-list talent.
Content VarietyMix of original productions, licensed content, live events, and sports. Includes blockbuster movies, classic films, scripted originals, unscripted & reality TV, live sports & events, kids & family content, news & late-night programming. Streams current Bravo shows a day after they air. Extensive library with access to NBC and Bravo classics. Sports coverage includes the Olympics, NFL, Premier League, WWE, college football and basketball, golf, cycling, boxing, and more. Beginning in the 2025-2026 season, Peacock will be the new home for a package of exclusive NBA games. Access to Spanish-language broadcasts on Telemundo.Original movies and TV shows, some live sports (MLB and MLS). Limited back catalog compared to competitors. Does not focus on news.
Subscription PricePremium ($8/month), Premium Plus ($14/month). Annual plans available. Premium plan includes ads, while Premium Plus is ad-free.$9.99 per month, $99.99 annually.
Ad-Free Option AvailabilityPremium Plus plan ($14/month) provides an ad-free experience for on-demand content. Commercials still shown during live sports broadcasts.Completely ad-free.
Offline Download AvailabilityAvailable only with Premium Plus subscription. Limited to mobile and tablet devices. Up to 25 individual pieces of content across all devices. Content expires after 30 days, and disappears 48 hours after starting to watch.Content can be downloaded for offline viewing on iOS devices. No limit on offline downloads with active subscription.
Streaming QualityOffers 4K streaming on both premium plans. 4K content availability is limited and can only be streamed on specific platforms. Minimum internet speed of 8 Mbps recommended for 4K streaming.4K, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos.
Number of Supported DevicesWeb browsers, Android and Apple devices, PlayStation and Xbox consoles, select smart TVs (Samsung, Vizio, LG, Hisense), Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, Chromecast, select cable box sets, and Meta VR. No limit to how many devices can be logged into a single account.Apple devices, PCs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung, Panasonic, LG, Vizio smart TVs, and via the web. Stream on up to six devices simultaneously.
User Interface and NavigationRelatively easy to navigate with a useful algorithm. Redesigned interface with side-mounted navigation. Some find the Channels section difficult to navigate.Clear and easily navigable interface on Apple TV app. Web interface less polished, content discovery can be challenging.
Family Sharing OptionsUp to 3 simultaneous streams per account. Up to 6 individual profiles. Parental controls available.Share subscription with up to five family members via Apple's Family Sharing.
Live Sports CoverageOlympics, NFL, Premier League, WWE, track and field, golf, cycling, motorsports. Beginning in the 2025-2026 season, Peacock will be the new home for a package of exclusive NBA games. Regional sports networks are available as add-on subscriptions in certain markets.MLB (Friday Night Baseball) and MLS games. Complete MLS coverage requires MLS Season Pass subscription.
Availability of 4K ContentLimited selection of 4K content to Premium and Premium Plus subscribers. Identified by 4K UHD badge. Not all devices are compatible.All original content in 4K HDR.
Free Trial AvailabilityGenerally does not offer a free trial. Some promotions and partnerships may offer a limited free trial (e.g., with Samsung devices, Instacart+, or Xfinity). Xfinity members with Gigabit or higher speed service may get Peacock Premium at no extra cost.7-day free trial. Extended free trials (up to 3 months) often available with new Apple device purchases.

Overall Comparison

Peacock: Premium from $8/month, Premium Plus from $14/month, up to 3 simultaneous streams. Apple TV+: $9.99/month, $99.99/year, up to 6 simultaneous streams.

Pros and Cons

Peacock

Pros:
  • Growing original content quality
  • Extensive library with access to NBC and Bravo classics
  • Wide array of live sports events
  • Competitive pricing
  • Ad-free option available with Premium Plus
  • Offline downloads available with Premium Plus
  • 4K streaming available
  • Up to 3 simultaneous streams
  • Parental controls available
Cons:
  • Original lineup not as fascinating or diverse as competitors for some reviewers
  • Content selection limited for some users compared to other streaming services
  • Ads in Premium plan
  • Commercials still shown during live sports broadcasts with Premium Plus
  • Limited 4K content availability
  • Inconsistent streaming quality reported by some users
  • Some users find the interface unintuitive
  • No free trial generally available

Apple TV+

Pros:
  • High-quality, original content
  • Ad-free viewing experience
  • 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos
  • Offline downloads available
  • Family Sharing options
  • Affordable price
Cons:
  • Limited content library compared to competitors
  • Web interface less polished
  • Content discovery can be challenging

User Experiences and Feedback