The media streaming service is an online on-demand service which allows you to access movies and TV shows and other media content online. These streaming services are less expensive than cable and satellite TV and to enjoy the content that interest you, all you need is an HD TV and a streaming media player. You can also access content from such services on devices apart from the TV like computers, tablets, and smartphones. Some services limit access to certain devices or are tailored to a particular brand of devices that are compatible (iTunes works only with Apple devices). Many media streaming services offer some content for free and charge a fee for advanced features and premium content.

You can pay monthly, quarterly or annually according to the package you opt for. Some services offer pay-per-episode or per season in the case of TV shows. Many services also offer multi-user or multi-device connections in one single subscription. In recent times, some services also have started live streaming various sporting events and music concerts. Content is the king and the kind of movies and TV shows they offer the customer gives them an edge over their competition.

Based on the features, services, choice of content and user-friendly interfaces, some of the top streaming media services of 2019 are:

• Netflix: Strongest in terms of content, Netflix spends billions every year to keep its content updated and includes the latest movies and shows. Over and above, the streaming is of one of the highest qualities as compared to other services. It offers 4 streams for up to 4 different devices at the same time and gives the option of both 4k media streaming and downloading options. It offers monthly subscriptions starting from $8.99 per month for a single device.
• Hulu: Backed by studios, Hulu is able to host content soon after it is aired on TV. It also has a wide collection of classic movies, shows, and anime series. However, their HD and 4k collections are limited. It also doesn’t support downloading content. Hulu offers a live TV option with 60 channels. They are termed cord cutters, giving users an option to shift from expensive cable options to cheaper media streaming services. Their single device monthly plan costs $5.99 and the Live TV + Hulu cost $44.99. Ad-free versions at a higher cost are also available.
• Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime too, is focused on getting the best content. It also hosts content from other networks. It supports 4k, HDR streaming, and downloading options. The services work on a web service, on a streaming media device like the Amazon fire stick, phones, tablets, gaming consoles and also with set-top boxes, and Smart TVs. You can subscribe to its monthly or annual subscription plans. Amazon Prime video cost $12.99 per month and $119 annually.
• YouTube TV: YouTube TV hosts about 70 channels including some of the top TV networks including ABC, AMC, CBS, CNN, ESPN, FX, and NBC. With one subscription, 6 accounts can access content; however, only 3 streams can be watched simultaneously. YouTube claims to have viewers in almost all households in the country and costs about $40 per month.