Comparing 7 Streaming Services: Find Out If You’re Overpaying

Streaming services are a popular way to enjoy movies, TV shows, and music, but the costs can quickly add up. Have you ever found yourself subscribing to a streaming service just to watch one show and forgetting to cancel it once you’re done? It happens, and it can lead to overspending on services you aren’t fully utilizing.

According to Chris Diodato, a financial planner, it’s a good idea to limit your streaming subscriptions to four to keep costs in check. Some services even offer more affordable tiers with ads if you want to save some cash.

Let’s break down the costs of seven popular streaming services:

1. Amazon Prime: $14.99 per month or $139 per year, with additional benefits like free shipping and music streaming.
2. Apple TV+: $9.99 per month, with student discounts available.
3. Disney+: $9.99 per month for a basic plan with ads, or $15.99 per month without ads.
4. HBO Max: Plans range from $9.99 to $19.99 per month, with discounts for students.
5. Netflix: $7.99 to $24.99 per month, depending on the plan.
6. Peacock: $7.99 to $13.99 per month for access to TV shows, movies, and more.
7. Spotify: $11.99 per month for individual premium plan or $5.99 for students.

While streaming services are a convenient way to enjoy entertainment, it’s important to choose the ones that best suit your interests and budget. Diodato recommends limiting your subscriptions to four and cutting the ones you hardly use to save money. Consider opting for lower-priced plans that include ads to keep costs down.

So, before signing up for a new streaming service, think about renting movies instead to save money in the long run. By being mindful of your subscriptions and choosing wisely, you can enjoy your favorite content without breaking the bank.