Apple TV+ vs Netflix comparison: Which streaming TV service is best?

Apple TV+ vs. Netflix

Apple TV+ is finally here, and it’s loaded with star-studded original content. If you’re looking for something new, it might be right up your alley. But if you’re looking for a never-ending list of shows to binge, Netflix wins on quantity.

Bottom line

So is Apple TV+ worth giving up your Netflix for? It depends on what shows you watch. Nothing on Netflix is available on Apple TV+, and none of Apple’s shows are available on Netflix. If you want the chance to pick and choose, you’ll have to shell out for both.

You’ll find a more detailed analysis below, but for those of you in a hurry, here’s a quick summary:

	Apple TV+	Netflix Basic	Netflix Standard	Netflix Premium
Price per month	$4.99	$8.99	$12.99	$15.99
Free trial	7 days	1 month	1 month	1 month
Simultaneous streams	6	1	2	4
Contract	No	No	No	No
HD	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
4K	Yes	No	No	Yes
Can I watch offline?	Yes	Some shows	Some shows	Some shows
More info	Apple TV+ review	Netflix review	–	–

Price: How does Apple TV+ compare with Netflix?

Apple TV+ wins on cost, with its only subscription coming in at $4.99 a month. Netflix‘s options range from $8.99 to $15.99 a month.Apple TV+ also automatically supports Family Sharing with up to six accounts. Plus it will allow for six simultaneous streams, which is more than you get with even the most expensive Netflix subscription.

Features: Does Apple TV+ or Netflix have better streaming features?

Netflix has set the standard on what users expect from Internet TV streaming services, and Apple TV+ looks to meet those rather than raise the bar.

Content will be on-demand and ad-free, which is on par with what Netflix offers. Unlike Netflix, all of the content will support offline play with Apple TV+. Apple TV+ also boasts 4K HDR quality and claims that “most titles” will also support Dolby Atmos surround sound technology, though you’ll need a 4k capable device and a compatible home speaker system to take advantage of these features.

It’s not hard to figure out which book Apple has taken a page out of here with its interface. The general user interface and dedicated Kids section is clearly inspired by Netflix‘s benchmark design.

Content: Does Apple TV+ or Netflix have better content?

It depends on what you’re looking for: If sheer quantity is what you’re after, Netflix remains king. While it has a massive library, Apple TV+ is only launching with nine shows. But if you’re looking for quality, it’s a much closer call.

All of the shows on Apple TV+ are original content, and it has over 40 additional shows in active production with new deals being struck nearly every day. For example, brilliant director Alfonzo Cuaron (Gravity, Children of Men, Roma) recently signed a three-picture deal with Apple. And Oprah Winfrey has also signed up for at least three separate original productions.

But Netflix also has a constantly growing lineup of original shows, including major hits like Stranger Things and The Crown. And it has spent hundreds of millions growing its library of original content over the last several years.

Another consideration is Netflix has an established user base that has been growing for the past decade and is synonymous with streaming content. If you enjoy talking about the latest streaming obsessions around the water cooler or with friends, you might be out of luck finding a fellow Apple+ users to geek out with for a while.

• See the full list of Apple TV+ shows

Devices: Which service has more compatible device options?

Netflix takes the crown for device compatibility. The streaming giant has worked for years to get the world’s most popular streaming platform onto phones, TVs, video game consoles and almost anything with a screen.

However, for the first time Apple TV+, will be available on a select smart TVs, with Samsung onboard for launch, with Sony and LG set to follow shortly after. The Apple TV app is also coming to Mac for the first time ever, available on iPhones, iPads, Apple TV and the iPod touch.

If you’re not sold on either, compare other streaming services to find the right fit.

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