HBO Max versus Netflix: Which Streaming Service Is Superior?

By Stefanie Sadocha

It is safe to say that Netflix has been a dominating streaming service since 2007. However, with new competitors like HBO Max adding popular titles to their catalog, many subscribers are questioning which streaming service will give them more for their dollar. 

​Netflix is known for providing easy access to a variety of movies and television shows for a low monthly price. However, the downfall of their impressive streaming catalog began in January 2020, when “Friends” was removed. Although the favorite sitcom was gone, many loyal subscribers found that Netflix offered many other titles that could make up for it. 

The loss continued when “Parks and Recreation” was removed in October 2020. Shortly after “Gossip Girl,” “The Office,” Charlie St. Cloud, Back to the Future and many other admirable titles left in December 2020. Despite these losses, Netflix subscribers still have access to a lengthy list of titles including “The Queen's Gambit,” “Bridgerton,” and “Stranger Things,” just to name a few. The price remains $8.99 a month. 

HBO Max, a streaming service debuting in May 2020, has an equally impressive streaming catalog. HBO Max charges $14.99 a month, a steeper price compared to Netflix. However, customers should also take into consideration the number of screens provided with their subscription. The standard $8.99 Netflix plan only allows one user to watch under the same account at a time. However, you can add more screens for an additional cost. On the other hand, HBO Max allows three users to stream at once for their standard plan. Many customers are unwilling to pay for both services, leaving them to choose which catalog they prefer. 

The HBO Max television offerings are vast and impressive. When it first launched, “Friends” attracted fans to the streaming service after its move from Netflix. To ring in the new year, “Gossip Girl” was added to the catalog of HBO Max, saying goodbye to Netflix. While popular titles continue to be added to the streaming service, many are asking themselves, is HBO Max the best deal?

​Overall, both streaming giants have a spectacular collection of both films and television shows for their viewers to enjoy, including original works that can only be enjoyed on their specific platforms. Pinning HBO Max against Netflix seems to be a pretty equal fight as of now, but will one streaming service eventually come out on top? Only time will tell.
    

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