Another year has passed, and another excuse has arrived for big streaming platforms to continue to raise their prices. This time it’s Netflix making the leap in the US, Canada, Argentina and Portugal. While this is not the UK yet, it’s clearly on the horizon at some point in 2025.
Thanks to the draw of shows like Squid Game, the entertainment juggernaut raises the cost of their lowest-level paid plan by up to 16%. Other plans also see inflation, as the company continues to do its best to convince you that the golden age where Netflix reigned supreme is firmly behind us.
Usually in these cases, when one streaming giant increases prices the others follow, so experts predict of further increases this year.
That’s not a great development to hear, and if you’re anything like us, you’re more than a little tired of seeing this pattern play out time and again. How did we get here, and what options do fans of online digital entertainment have that manage to avoid Netflix’s trajectory?
Current Streaming Costs in the UK
- Netflix: From £4.99 a month (with ads) up to £17.99 premium service
- Amazon Prime: £8.99, but includes other benefits like free delivery and early access to deals.
- Apple TV: £8.99 a month
- Disney+: £4.99 a month with ads, £7.99 a month without ads or £79.90 a year
- NowTV: £9.99 a month
Why do Costs Keep Increasing?
The short answer is that Netflix has run a cost-benefit analysis, and determined that it worked out in their favour. They might see a drop of a couple of percent of users, but as long as the 16% hike more than makes up for this loss, they see it as a positive business decision. Remember, they’re in it to maximise profit, not deliver the best service at the best price.
The price increase also ties into the relevance and reliance that we’ve had on Netflix for so long. At this point, the monthly cost has been normalised, so we accept it. Since their continual price increases are gradual, we overlook them. The pot begins to boil, and the frog doesn’t notice the change.
What Streaming Alternatives Are Available?
Thankfully, there are several alternatives to Netflix that may offer better value for money. The options range from paid subscription services to completely free, ad-supported streaming platforms. Here are some alternatives worth considering:
Free Streaming Services
If you’re not keen on paying for streaming services, there are entirely free, ad-supported options available. Platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, Amazon Freevee and The Roku Channel offer thousands of films and TV shows for free, albeit with advertisements. These services are a great option if you’re looking for variety without the hefty subscription cost.
In the UK, you also have free catch-up services from terrestrial TV channels like BBC iPlayer (Note: A TV licence is required to watch live or on-demand BBC content), ITVX, All4, and My5.
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime Video offer a comprehensive library of movies, TV shows, and original content. This platforms offer free trials, allowing you to explore their offerings before committing. If you’re already an Amazon shopper, the additional perks like free delivery and exclusive deals make Amazon Prime even more cost-effective.
Other Paid Alternatives
If you’re looking to avoid Netflix but still want premium content, consider services like Disney+, which offers a vast library of family-friendly content, as well as Marvel and Star Wars franchises.
Apple TV+ has also started gaining popularity due to its strong roster of original programming like Ted Lasso, Slow Horses, Hijack, Silo and Severance. Paramount Plus also have the Yellowstone franchise and Joe Pickett.
For each of these, you can sign up short term, binge watch your favourite shows, then cancel for a while. Top tip, make sure all episodes are released before you get sucked in waiting for the next drop!
Gaming: A Low-Cost Alternative
Streaming isn’t the only way to stay entertained online. Gaming has become a highly popular alternative for those seeking entertainment that’s often free or low-cost. Games such as Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2 are completely free to play, with players only needing to pay for optional cosmetic items. This provides an entirely different entertainment experience, often with fewer ongoing costs.
If you’re looking for free, single-player experiences, the Epic Games Store regularly offers free games, allowing you to add new titles to your collection at no charge. This can provide long hours of entertainment, with no monthly subscription required.
Of course, you don’t need to feel locked into video streaming and gaming either. Some more sociable options, like online bingo gaming, offer flexible payment options so you can modify your price to a level that best suits you. With different tables with different entries and slot games where you can set your own wager level, these systems put the control in your hands and can be great fun with friends.
How to Choose the Best Option for You
With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few things to consider when choosing an alternative to Netflix:
- Content Library: Does the service have the types of shows and movies you enjoy? If you’re a fan of a particular genre, check the catalogue before committing.
- Price: Streaming platforms vary in price, with some offering free, ad-supported content and others charging monthly fees. Be sure to evaluate whether the cost fits within your budget, especially if you’re juggling multiple subscriptions.
- Free Trials: Many platforms offer free trials, which gives you the chance to explore the service before committing. Test the waters and decide if their content is worth the subscription fee.
- User Experience: Ease of use and the quality of the streaming experience also matter. Services like Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ have user-friendly interfaces and are accessible on a variety of devices.
With Netflix raising prices and its content offering becoming less appealing to some, the good news is that there are numerous alternatives available to suit different budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a premium service like Amazon Prime or Hulu, free streaming options like Tubi, or even a shift to gaming, there’s something for everyone.
Before committing to another subscription, it’s worth exploring these alternatives. With careful consideration of your entertainment preferences, content variety, and budget, you can find a streaming option that works for you without breaking the bank.
