Max is one of the best streaming services you can subscribe to. Learn everything you need to know about it now.
Lara Vukelich,
Tyler SchoeberDisclaimer: When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
We're just going to say it: Max is one of the best streaming services you can subscribe to in 2024. Point. Blank. Period. Learn why below.
What Is Max?
Max, previously known as HBO Max until May 2023, is Warner Bros. Discovery's premier streaming service that combines the best of HBO with an array of additional content from various Warner Bros. Discovery properties. Launched in late 2020, Max offers an enticing blend of premium HBO series, blockbuster movies, and a growing library of original content that's giving other streaming services a run for their money. Max replaced the HBO Go app, bringing an expanded and dynamic content catalog to its subscribers.
These days, Max is a must-have for streaming enthusiasts.
With one of the most stellar on-demand libraries, Max offers three subscription plans to suit different viewing preferences and budgets. And, before you ask, Max does not offer a free trial. That being said, it is still a very affordable streaming platform. Here are the updated pricing details as of this year:
- With Ads: $9.99/month or $99.99/year (16% savings). This plan allows streaming on two devices simultaneously and offers Full HD 1080p quality.
- Ad-Free: $16.99/month or $169.99/year (16% savings). It also allows streaming on two devices at once, Full HD 1080p quality, and 30 downloads for offline viewing.
- Ultimate Ad-Free: $20.99/month or $209.99/year (16% savings). This plan offers streaming on four devices simultaneously, 4K UHD streaming, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, HDR 10 on select titles, and 100 downloads for offline viewing.
Max Compared to Other Services
Max stands out as a premium streaming service in comparison to the rest for a number of reasons, but its pricing reflects its extensive and high-quality content library. Here's how it stacks up against other popular streaming services:
Hulu + Live TV: Now priced at $76.99/month, Hulu + Live TV offers live TV channels in addition to its on-demand library. While it's more expensive, it includes a wide variety of live programming.
Fubo: Starting at $79.99/month, Fubo focuses on live sports and TV channels, offering a different appeal compared to Max's on-demand content.
Paramount+: There are two tiers here, $5.99/month or $11.99/month if you want to add SHOWTIME. This is a great option for watchers who are not looking for live content.
Peaco*ck: Peaco*ck starts at just $5.99/month (with ads) and is great for lovers of live sports and general entertainment. Right now, you can also get a whole year of Peaco*ck for just $19.99
Netflix: It's price has changed a lot in the past, but most recently, Netflix costs $6.99/month with ads.
Compared to these services, Max's exclusive HBO content, new blockbuster movies available shortly after theatrical release, live news and sports, and an extensive on-demand library make it a compelling option for many viewers. Let's face it, you're never going to be able to access Game Of Thrones on Netflix.
How Much Does Max Cost?
Max offers three distinct plans to cater to different needs:
With Ads: $9.99/month or $99.99/year. This plan is supported by ads and provides Full HD 1080p streaming on two devices at once.
Ad-Free: $16.99/month or $169.99/year. This plan removes ads, offers Full HD 1080p streaming on two devices, and includes 30 downloads for offline viewing.
Ultimate Ad-Free: $20.99/month or $209.99/year. It supports 4K UHD streaming, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision, HDR 10 on select titles, streaming on four devices simultaneously, and includes 100 downloads for offline viewing.
Max also frequently hosts promotional preview weekends, allowing potential subscribers to sample its content. If you already have an HBO subscription through your cable provider, you can access Max at no additional cost by logging in with your cable credentials.
What to Watch on Max
Max's extensive library features over 35,000 hours of iconic movies and shows, which in short, is a busload. The service includes content from DC, Cartoon Network, Sesame Workshop, Crunchyroll, Studio Ghibli, Turner Classic Movies, and more.
Max's content library includes both regular HBO originals and exclusive shows produced specifically for the streaming service. Some of the standout original series include The Last Of Us, Succession, The Gilded Age, Euphoria, and more. Classic HBO series like Game of Thrones, Veep, and The Wire are also available on demand.
Max frequently offers new movie releases just 45 days after their theatrical debut, including hits like Dune: Part Two,The Iron Claw,Wonka, and more.
One surprising thing about HBO Max is its lack of add-on content. The service won't nickel-and-dime you for additional access or optional features, and once you've signed up for the ad-free tier, you'll be able to experience everything HBO Max has to offer.
Click here to find the best shows on Max right now.
Sports on Max
Max currently offers live sports in Dolby Vision with Dolby Atmos surround sound with its B/R Sports Add-On. Catch live games from a wide variety of sports franchises, including MLB, NBA, NHL, US Soccer, and more. The best part? Max is currently offering this add-on totally free of charge.
Simultaneous Streams
Max allows up to three users to stream content simultaneously on up to five user profiles, making this a killer option for the whole family. However, the number of devices and downloads varies by subscription plan, with the Ultimate Ad-Free plan supporting up to four devices and 100 downloads.
HBO Max Supported Devices
Max is available on most streaming devices, including Amazon Fire and Roku, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. It's also available on Chromecast, Chromebook, Apple TV, gaming consoles such as PlayStation 5 and Xbox One, and more.
Is HBO Max Worth It?
Max offers a premium streaming experience with a vast array of content that justifies its cost. Whether you're interested in exclusive movies, kid-friendly shows, or original series, Max has something for everyone. The service's frequent promotional weekends and rich content library make it a worthwhile investment for most viewers.
This is a premium streaming service that will provide thousands of hours of entertainment for a relatively reasonable price. Overall, we think it's worth the ad-free $16.99/mo. subscription fee, especially if you don't already have HBO through your cable provider.
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