The streaming wars in the era of subscription-based media continue as Netflix and Amazon Prime. There are many aspects to consider when comparing the services, but based on what everything known, it's possible to properly pick a winner.
Disney+ debuted in mid-November 2019, shortly after Apple TV+, and since that time, Peacock and Quibi launched. HBO Max is the latest to the group of streaming giants and humble newcomers. While each service looks to make a splash with their own exclusives and selling points, they must all try to survive the various issues arising from the coronavirus pandemic.
With HBO Max launching in late May 2020, many potential subscribers are curious to see how it stands up to Disney+. As of early May, Disney+ has 54.5 million subscribers, an impressive feat. HBO Max might have struggles in acquiring those types of numbers, but considering the evidence, they could be the better streaming option.
HBO Max vs Disney+ Cost & Value
One of the biggest factors when deciding on a streaming service is the cost. If subscribers shell out hard-earned money, they want to make sure they're getting the most value. Disney+, which is still in its first year of existence, has been attractive due to its relatively low price tag. Disney+ is currently $6.99/month with an option of $69.99 for a year-long subscription, breaking down to $5.83/month. Disney also offers a bundle for Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for $12.99/month. The plans allow access for up to four streamers at once with content in HD and 4K when available.
Meanwhile, HBO Max doesn't currently 4K HDR. In comparison, Netflix offers plans ranging from $8.99 to $15.99/month whereas Apple TV+ comes in at just $4.99/month.
Though HBO Max's monthly price seems a bit high, the service offers access at no additional charge to existing HBO customers. Those who pay for HBO's package will get HBO Max through certain cable-providers. Subscribers to HBO Now will also get migrated to HBO Max at no extra costs. For those who might need more time to decide if the price is worth it, HBO is currently offering a 7-day free trial.
HBO Max vs Disney+ Original Content
When it comes to original content, both HBO Max and Disney+ are a bit underwhelming. Since Disney+ launched in November 2019, it holds a slight advantage. Their original content was headlined by Stargirl.
HBO Max is in the same boat when it comes to original programming or as the service calls "Max Originals." At the time of launch, HBO Max only offered one scripted series, Justice League Snyder Cut.
As for future content, Disney+ has the upper-hand due to the forthcoming releases of Disney+ isn't living up to their promise considering their creative delays and cancellations of titles.
Aside from developing a Justice League Dark. By the end of the first year, HBO Max plans to have 31 original titles, moving to 50 by the end of 2021. If this is the case, they could easily overtake Disney+ in of original content.
HBO Max vs Disney+ Back Catalog
Both services introduced vast back catalogs, but The Simpsons is a selling point, but the rest stems from Disney classics, Disney Channel programming, and other nostalgic content.
HBO Max launched with over 10,000 hours of content with titles from Warner Bros. Pictures, New Line Cinema, DC Entertainment, TBS, TNT, TruTV, CNN, Cartoon Network, The CW, Turner Classic Movies, Crunchyroll, Rooster Teeth, and Adult Swim. In addition, the streaming service is centered around HBO so all of the networks previously released and future content is available to subscribers. Of the most popular titles readily available are Friends, Lord of the Rings trilogy, DC films, Godzilla titles, and horror classics. In addition, HBO features a better list of classics like Casablanca, Gone with the Wind, The Adventures of Robin Hood, and Ben-Hur.
HBO Max vs Disney+ Interface & Experience
Like every streaming service that came before it, HBO Max will certainly encounter some growing pains. Disney+ had their fair share of issues when they launched including issues, episodes listed out of order, and aspect ratio problems. They have since fixed those hiccups and added the "continue watching" button after abundant requests from s. Although their interface is clean and easy to navigate, it still lacks a few features, one of which that HBO Max already has.
HBO Max took a page out of Netflix's playbook by including The interface is simple to use and HBO Max makes an effort to single out content to promote. So in this case, HBO Max wins the interface and experience category.
Is HBO Max or Disney+ Better?
When taking into all the elements listed above, HBO Max carries much more potential than Disney+, but the only caveat is the price. The newest streamer has a wider range of content, whether it's planned original programming or the existing library. Disney+ might have the big-budget titles and juggernaut studios on board, but its content is still very limited. HBO Max offers titles across a wide array of genres while catering to all demographics. It also has a leg up on the interface despite being in existence for a much shorter time.
It's no doubt that Disney+ attracts subscribers due to the lower cost but if s are truly looking for value when it comes to content, HBO Max is still the better option. As long as WarnerMedia keeps building its library, they can justify the costs. It seems that the company is continuing to build relationships with cable-providers to give existing HBO subscribers a chance at upgrading to HBO Max at no extra cost. There is also the chance they will investigate lower-cost options down the road to keep up with the current streaming wars.