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In the age of the digital transformation, streaming services have boomed. For the viewer, though, this means that there are so many platforms to choose from that it can feel a little daunting. So, let’s take a look at how to choose the right streaming platforms, and how to get the most out of your subscriptions.
Look For Welcome Offers
Perhaps the key consideration when subscribing to streaming platforms is how many you can reasonably afford. With this in mind, it is crucial to make sure you know the platforms you commit to are the right ones for you. Many streaming platforms have exclusive offers for new customers — a tried and tested technique in the wider entertainment industry. Just take online casinos, for example. New players can find a wide range of casino promotions such as bonus rounds, free spins on slot games, deposit bonuses, free chips for roulette, and weekly rewards. This allows players to try out the games on offer to find those that best suit their style of gameplay, making for an authentic and immersive casino experience.
By this same logic, welcome bonuses for streamers like free trials or the first month free can allow you to explore the ranges of content available, the platform, and the associated apps to ensure a sustained financial commitment is the right decision. In this sense, it reduces the risk of the purchase. Other welcome offers might include discounted subscription for the first year or a discount if you pay upfront. Whilst the monthly discount may not seem significant, this could make signing up to multiple platforms sustainable in the long run.
Size of Content Library
Another consideration is to make sure that you’re getting the most bang for your buck. In other words, how much content can you find on the platform? Does it have everything — or at least most — of what you’re looking for? How often does new content come out? By asking yourself these questions, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on whether this platform is worth the investment, or whether you need to look elsewhere, either by getting multiple subscriptions or looking at a new service entirely.
For example, Netflix has over 17,000 titles in its library globally, including over 1,500 Netflix Originals. However, other brands have now pulled their content that was once exclusively provided to Netflix to create their own streaming services. In this case, you’ll need to weigh up whether it is worth subscribing to one or both streaming services.
Create a Streaming Strategy
Now, this might seem daunting, but with so many providers out there it pays to have a plan. Typically, the best strategy is to have a mix of one or two streaming giants like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, along with smaller and niche streaming platforms. Whilst these platforms might not have large content libraries, they are more likely to have those shows around a specific focus that you love.
If you love British TV like Vera, Agatha Christie, or Gentleman Jack, then BritBox might be something to consider. Or, if you’re interested in RuPaul’s Drag Race and other LGBTQIA+ content, WOW Presents Plus might tickle your fancy. For K-drama enthusiasts, Viki has a range of Asian content. With these smaller streaming services, you can find content that suits your niche interests.
With these considerations in mind, you’ll be able to make the choices that best suit your budget, maximize your subscriptions, and tap into your personal interests.
