Which Streaming Service Has the Best Movies and TV Shows?

Introduction: Finding the Best Streaming Platform for Entertainment

In today’s digital-first entertainment world, streaming services have become the main way people watch movies and TV shows. Gone are the days of physical DVDs or waiting for scheduled cable broadcasts—now, a few clicks give you access to thousands of hours of content.

But with so many platforms competing for attention—Netflix, Max (formerly HBO Max), Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Peacock—a common question arises:

Which streaming service has the best movies and TV shows right now?

The answer depends on what you value: blockbuster films, original programming, classic TV series, or family-friendly content. This article provides a side-by-side comparison of the top platforms to help you choose the best streaming service for movies and TV shows in 2025.

What Makes a Streaming Service "Best" for Movies and TV Shows?

Before diving into individual services, it’s important to define what “best” really means in this context. Different viewers prioritize different things.

Key Factors to Consider:

  • Movie Library Size and Variety: Recent releases vs. classic films.

  • TV Show Selection: Original series, network shows, or exclusive partnerships.

  • Original Content Quality: Critically acclaimed exclusives.

  • User Experience: Interface, profiles, recommendations, and ease of use.

  • Price and Value: Subscription cost compared to library size.

  • Content Updates: How often new titles are added.

With these factors in mind, let’s compare the leaders.

The Best Streaming Services for Movies and TV Shows in 2025

1. Netflix

Best for Original Programming and Global Reach

  • Strengths:

    • Massive global library of movies and TV shows.

    • Consistent output of original series (Stranger Things, The Crown, Squid Game).

    • Wide selection across genres, including documentaries and international films.

    • Strong personalization algorithms.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Some licensed titles rotate out quickly.

    • Higher price than some competitors.

✅ Verdict: Netflix remains the most versatile option, especially if you want fresh originals and a wide mix of both movies and TV shows.

2. Max (formerly HBO Max)

Best for Prestige TV and Blockbuster Films

  • Strengths:

    • Home to HBO originals (Succession, House of the Dragon, The Last of Us).

    • Extensive movie catalog from Warner Bros., DC, and Turner Classic Movies.

    • New movie releases often available sooner than competitors.

    • Excellent mix of prestige TV and big-budget films.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Slightly more expensive than some rivals.

    • Regional availability varies outside the U.S.

✅ Verdict: Max is the best streaming service for premium movies and critically acclaimed TV shows.

3. Hulu

Best for Current TV Shows and Next-Day Network Access

  • Strengths:

    • Next-day access to shows from ABC, FOX, and FX.

    • Wide selection of movies plus exclusive partnerships.

    • Strong lineup of original series like The Handmaid’s Tale.

    • Affordable ad-supported plan.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Movie catalog smaller than Netflix or Prime Video.

    • Some titles rotate frequently.

✅ Verdict: Hulu is ideal if you want to keep up with current TV shows while still enjoying a decent movie selection.

4. Disney+

Best for Family-Friendly Movies and Franchises

  • Strengths:

    • Exclusive home of Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and Disney classics.

    • Family-oriented programming with no R-rated content.

    • High-quality originals like The Mandalorian and Loki.

    • Bundling options with Hulu and ESPN+.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Limited adult-oriented or non-franchise content.

    • Smaller overall library compared to Netflix or Prime Video.

✅ Verdict: Disney+ is the best streaming service for families, franchise fans, and anyone who values Disney’s powerhouse catalog.

5. Prime Video (Amazon)

Best for Value and Extras

  • Strengths:

    • Included with Amazon Prime subscription.

    • Large movie library, including new releases available to rent or buy.

    • Strong original series like The Boys, Reacher, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

    • Sports content like Thursday Night Football.

  • Weaknesses:

    • User interface can be cluttered.

    • Rental/purchase integration can confuse some users.

✅ Verdict: Prime Video is great for value-conscious users who want movies, TV shows, and extra benefits (like free shipping) in one package.

6. Apple TV+

Best for Quality Over Quantity

  • Strengths:

    • Critically acclaimed originals like Ted Lasso, Severance, and The Morning Show.

    • High production value on all titles.

    • Affordable pricing compared to some rivals.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Smaller catalog compared to other platforms.

    • Limited third-party licensed content.

✅ Verdict: Apple TV+ is best if you value quality storytelling and prestige series over having a massive library.

7. Peacock

Best for NBC Content and Free Option

  • Strengths:

    • Access to NBCUniversal shows like The Office, Parks and Recreation, and Law & Order.

    • Good mix of classic films and newer releases.

    • Free ad-supported tier available.

    • Sports offerings, including Premier League coverage.

  • Weaknesses:

    • Limited movie catalog compared to Netflix or Max.

    • Some premium titles behind paywalls.

✅ Verdict: Peacock is excellent for fans of NBC classics and those looking for a budget-friendly streaming service.

How to Decide Which Streaming Service Is Best for You

If You Want the Widest Selection:

Netflix or Prime Video.

If You Value Prestige Content:

Max or Apple TV+.

If You Watch Current TV Shows:

Hulu.

If You Have Kids or Love Franchises:

Disney+.

If You Want Free or Budget Options:

Peacock (free tier) or Hulu (ad-supported plan).

Frequently Asked Questions

Which streaming service has the best movies in 2025?

Max offers the best combination of blockbuster films and classics.

Which has the best TV shows?

Netflix still leads in global TV variety, while Max and Apple TV+ excel in prestige originals.

Is it worth subscribing to more than one service?

Yes. Many households combine 2–3 services to cover different needs (e.g., Netflix for originals + Disney+ for family + Hulu for network TV).

Can I cancel and resubscribe easily?

Yes, all major streaming services allow you to cancel anytime—no contracts required.

Conclusion: The Best Streaming Service for Movies and TV Shows

So, which streaming service has the best movies and TV shows?

  • Netflix remains the most versatile with a global mix of originals and licensed content.

  • Max is unbeatable for prestige TV and blockbuster films.

  • Hulu shines for current TV shows and network programming.

  • Disney+ dominates for families and franchise lovers.

  • Prime Video offers the most value as part of an Amazon Prime membership.

  • Apple TV+ focuses on quality originals.

  • Peacock is best for NBC fans and those who want a free option.

📌 Key Takeaway: The best streaming service for movies and TV shows in 2025 depends on your viewing habits. Many people find that a combination of two or three services delivers the perfect balance of movies, series, and budget.

Your streaming should be based on what you actually like to watch. It is very possible and easy to suffer from app creep. It is very important to keep track of what apps you are paying for and if they overlap. Don't be fooled by there name alone. Disney for example owns Hulu, Disney+ and a few others. Sometimes if I have to add a subscription for a show or movie. I send myself a reminder to cancel the subscription so I don't get stuck paying for it for months before I remember I have it. 

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