When it comes to streaming platforms, Netflix and Apple TV Plus are two major players that cater to different types of viewers. Netflix is widely recognized as the global leader in streaming with an enormous catalog of movies, TV shows, and documentaries. On the other hand, Apple TV Plus, despite being newer and smaller, has carved out its niche by focusing on original content with a reputation for high-quality shows. So, which of these services is the better option? Is Netflix the best for sheer variety, or does Apple TV Plus offer something more in terms of quality and value?
In this guide, we’ll compare Netflix and Apple TV Plus across several key factors: price and subscription plans, content, features, design, and overall user experience. This will help you decide which service provides the best entertainment value for you, especially when budget and quality are key considerations in your streaming decisions.
Netflix vs. Apple TV Plus: Pricing and Subscription Plans
Netflix Pricing and Plans:
Netflix has long been a frontrunner in the streaming wars, and its pricing reflects its broad reach and extensive library of content. In most regions, Netflix offers three primary subscription tiers:
- Mobile-Only Plan: This is Netflix’s most affordable plan at ₹149/month in India. It’s designed for users who only want to stream on mobile devices. While this plan gives access to Netflix’s catalog, it restricts streaming to mobile devices in 480p resolution.
- Standard With Ads Plan: Priced at $6.99/month (or the equivalent in other regions), this plan removes ads from the viewing experience but still restricts streaming to 1080p HD resolution. It offers two simultaneous streams and allows users to download content to two devices. However, some content is unavailable due to licensing restrictions on this plan.
- Standard Plan: At $15.49/month (or its equivalent), this plan provides ad-free viewing, 1080p HD streaming, and the ability to stream on two devices simultaneously. The Standard Plan allows users to download content to two devices but lacks 4K support.
- Premium Plan: Netflix’s most expensive plan at $22.99/month (or the equivalent), this plan offers 4K Ultra HD streaming, Dolby Atmos, and Spatial Audio support for compatible content. You can stream on up to four devices simultaneously and download content to up to six devices. It also allows the option to share your account with additional people.
Netflix’s pricing varies based on country and plan, but it does not offer one standard price for all users, unlike Apple TV Plus. One key consideration is that Netflix has implemented limitations for account sharing, especially with the “Standard with Ads” and “Standard” plans, restricting users to a single “household.” Extra members outside the household incur an additional charge.
Apple TV Plus Pricing and Plans:
In contrast, Apple TV Plus has a simpler pricing structure. It offers a single subscription plan priced at $9.99/month (or the equivalent), which includes all the benefits of the service, including:
- 4K streaming with HDR and Dolby Vision, which is available to all subscribers.
- Spatial Audio support for compatible content.
- Offline viewing options for many shows and movies.
- Access to Apple’s premium original content without any ads.
Apple TV Plus also offers excellent value when bundled with other Apple services through Apple One. The cheapest Apple One bundle, which includes Apple TV Plus, Apple Music, iCloud storage, and Apple Arcade, is priced at $19.95/month. Higher-tier plans add Apple News Plus and Apple Fitness Plus.
A notable advantage of Apple TV Plus is its family-sharing feature. Subscriptions can be shared with up to six family members via Apple’s Family Sharing system. Additionally, Apple TV Plus supports multiple simultaneous streams on various devices without imposing extra charges for additional members.
Netflix vs. Apple TV Plus: What Can You Watch?
When comparing Netflix and Apple TV Plus, content is a significant factor that can make or break a subscription. Let’s break down what’s on offer in terms of movies, TV shows, and exclusive content.
Netflix: The Giant of Streaming
Netflix has a vast catalog, which is one of its strongest selling points. From original programming to licensed content, the platform has something for every viewer. Some of the most popular shows and movies on Netflix include:
- Bridgerton – A period drama series based on the novels by Julia Quinn, Bridgerton is one of Netflix’s most-watched shows, filled with romance, scandal, and intrigue.
- Stranger Things – A blend of 80s nostalgia, supernatural horror, and a group of lovable kids, Stranger Things has become a global phenomenon.
- Cobra Kai – A martial arts drama that is a sequel to the iconic 80s film The Karate Kid, Cobra Kai combines nostalgia with modern storytelling.
- The Crown – A historical drama about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, The Crown is critically acclaimed for its performances, direction, and lavish production.
- Squid Game – This South Korean survival thriller has taken the world by storm, becoming one of Netflix’s most successful original series.
- Comedy Specials – Netflix is a home for many high-profile comedy specials, including performances from the likes of Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and Ricky Gervais.
Netflix also excels in producing a wide range of documentaries, anime, and films that cover various genres. However, its vast catalog comes at a price — the streaming giant is notorious for canceling shows that don’t perform well, even if they have dedicated fanbases.
Apple TV Plus: Quality Over Quantity
Apple TV Plus may not have the sheer volume of content that Netflix offers, but its original programming is among the most well-crafted and critically acclaimed in the industry. Some of the standout shows and movies on Apple TV Plus include:
- Ted Lasso – A heartwarming comedy about an American football coach in the UK, Ted Lasso has garnered widespread praise for its positivity, humor, and deep character development.
- Severance – A mind-bending sci-fi thriller, Severance explores the concept of work-life balance in a unique and dystopian way, earning rave reviews for its storytelling and performances.
- Shrinking – A dramedy about a grieving therapist (played by Jason Segel) trying to navigate his personal and professional life, Shrinking is both heartfelt and humorous.
- Silo – A post-apocalyptic series based on Hugh Howey’s book trilogy, Silo is a slow-burn mystery with a tense atmosphere and gripping narrative.
- Bad Monkey – A quirky, dark comedy about a former detective turned private investigator, this show stars Vince Vaughn and is another example of Apple’s talent for creating unique narratives.
While the catalog on Apple TV Plus is smaller, the quality of programming is undeniable. The platform’s commitment to producing original content that resonates with audiences and critics alike has made it a go-to for fans of well-crafted stories.
Live Sports on Apple TV Plus
An area where Apple TV Plus stands out is in live sports. The platform offers exclusive access to events such as Friday Night Baseball and the MLS Season Pass for Major League Soccer. While Netflix does not offer live sports content, Apple TV Plus has used its platform to increase its appeal to sports fans, adding another layer to its offering.
Netflix vs. Apple TV Plus: Features and Usability
Netflix Features:
- Multiple Subscription Tiers: Netflix offers a variety of subscription plans, each with different features, which lets users choose a plan based on their preferences for streaming quality, simultaneous streams, and cost.
- Extensive Catalog: With its massive library, Netflix provides content that appeals to every demographic, with movies, shows, documentaries, and kids’ programming.
- Multiple Profiles: Netflix allows users to create different profiles within a single account, which helps personalize recommendations and settings for each family member.
- Great Recommendation Algorithm: Netflix’s algorithm excels at suggesting content based on user behavior, helping viewers discover new shows and movies tailored to their tastes.
Apple TV Plus Features:
- All-Inclusive 4K Streaming: Unlike Netflix, where you have to pay for access to 4K and HDR content, Apple TV Plus includes these features in its single plan at no extra cost.
- Family Sharing: Apple TV Plus allows family members to share one subscription, with up to six people able to access the service under the Family Sharing feature. This can be particularly useful for households with multiple viewers.
- Ad-Free Viewing: Apple TV Plus is entirely ad-free, which enhances the overall user experience compared to Netflix’s plans that feature ads for lower-tier subscriptions.
- Download and Offline Viewing: Apple TV Plus offers offline viewing for its content, with no restrictions on the number of devices you can download to (aside from device storage limitations).
- Apple Integration: Apple TV Plus integrates well with other Apple devices, like the Apple TV 4K, iPhones, iPads, and Macs, offering a seamless user experience across all platforms.
Netflix vs. Apple TV Plus: User Interface and Design
Both Netflix and Apple TV Plus have highly polished user interfaces that make it easy to find and watch content. However, they differ in their design philosophies.
Netflix offers a more traditional design, with a homepage that includes a carousel of featured content, followed by rows of suggestions based on your viewing habits. While functional, Netflix’s interface can sometimes feel cluttered, especially with so many genres and categories to browse.
Apple TV Plus takes a more minimalist approach. Its interface is clean and streamlined, with a focus on showcasing original content and easy navigation. The design aligns with Apple’s overall aesthetic, offering a simple, intuitive experience that is ideal for those who appreciate a more straightforward approach to streaming.
Final Verdict: Which Is the Better Streaming Service?
When deciding between Netflix and Apple TV Plus, the choice largely depends on what you’re looking for in a streaming service.
- Netflix is the better option if you prioritize variety and extensive content. With its vast catalog, global hits like Stranger Things and Bridgerton, and the sheer quantity of shows, movies, and documentaries, Netflix offers something for everyone. However, if you value high-quality original content and a more streamlined viewing experience, Netflix’s large volume can sometimes feel overwhelming.
- Apple TV Plus, on the other hand, stands out for its premium, high-quality original content. While it doesn’t offer the breadth of Netflix, the quality of shows like Ted Lasso, Severance, and Shrinking cannot be ignored. If you’re looking for expertly crafted, engaging series with a focus on narrative and character development, Apple TV Plus may be the better choice. Moreover, it offers great value with its all-inclusive pricing and integration with the wider Apple ecosystem.
Ultimately, both platforms offer compelling reasons to subscribe, and your decision will depend on your content preferences, budget, and the type of viewing experience you’re seeking. If you’re not sure, a free trial of Apple TV Plus is a great way to test the waters before making a final decision.