The Covid-19 pandemic crisis catapulted online TV streaming services from ‘Netflix n chill’ to ‘Watch me for thrills.’ Streaming was a real godsend while we were all ordered to stay safe at home.
With platforms like Disney+, Apple TV and Now TV all introduced to the market, it means that Netflix and Amazon Prime face stiff competition in trying to dominate your screens.
In fact, it’s fair to say that there’s probably too much choice these days, especially when you have to pay for that bigger choice.
So, does Netflix still offer the most bang for your buck, and how attractive are some of the newer kids on the block?
We take a look at what’s on offer below.
RTÉ Player
What it costs
This service is free on the island of Ireland, though rights are restricted on some programming within Northern Ireland.
How it works
Stream live TV. Catch up on shows watched recently.
What’s on?
All the best local programmes, live sport and news that RTÉ has to offer. Plus, some old classics. Highlights include: Normal People, The Fall, Love/Hate, Line of Duty, Room to Improve, Gossip Girl, Dawson’s Creek.
What devices can I use it with?
Laptop broswer, newer Apple devices (iOS 9.0 onwards), Apple TV, Android devices, Google Chromecast, Chromecast with Google TV. It’s not currently available as an app in Amazon Firestick.
Any limits?
The app is free to so everyone can watch once downloaded. You might consider the content limited depending on your viewing tastes. Unlike some streaming services, it doesn’t contain algorithm-driven recommendations on what to watch.
Any ads?
Yes.
Virgin Media TV
What it costs
Like RTE Player this service is free in Ireland.
How it works
Stream live TV and catch-up TV. A limited number of TV series (around 60 at when we checked).
What’s on
Apart from what Virgin are showing live, catch-up on anything that’s been on recent weeks on Virgin Media stations. Boxsets include: Ru Paul’s Drag Race, The Bay, re-runs of Baywatch, Darklands and more.
What devices can I use it with?
Laptop browser, Apple devices (laptops, iPhones & iPads), Apple TV, Android devices, Google Chromecast, Chromecast with Google TV. It’s not currently available as an app for the Amazon Firestick.
Any limits?
As per RTE, they don’t have recommendations on what to watch based on your previous viewing history.
Any ads?
Yes.
All 4 app (Channel 4)
What it costs
This app is free and most content can be streamed in Ireland.
How it works
Stream live TV. Catch up on shows aired recently. Watch a large selection of box sets.
What’s on
Apart from live TV you can enjoy highlights such as Catastrophe, The Inbetweeners, Father Ted, Derry Girls, Made in Chelsea, The Undateables, Shameless, Skins and more.
What devices can I use it with?
Laptops, Apple devices, Apple TV, Android devices and Amazon Firestick. It’s not currently available as an app on Chromecast with Google TV.
Any limits?
None, as app is free – and there’s around 370 shows with an IMDB rating of 7 or over to enjoy.
Any ads?
Yes.
Sky Go Extra
What it costs
Free to those who have a Sky Go subscription (can be part of the main TV service).
How it works
Like having Sky TV on your phone or tablet. Watch content live. Catch up and record on your Sky TV box.
What’s on
Depends on what content you’ve paid for.
What devices can I use it with?
Laptops (you need to download a windows app), Apple devices. You can use AirPlay to cast from an iPhone to Apple TV. You can also watch on app on Android devices.
Any limits?
Need to pay for Sky TV to enjoy access.
Doesn’t work with Apple TV.
Any Sky Go hacks?
If someone you know has a Sky Box but doesn’t use Sky Go – you can use it for free on your devices.
Any ads?
Yes.
Now TV
What it costs
Modular: - Usually €14.99 a month for cinema or entertainment packages.
How it works
Sky’s dedicated streaming platform – you can watch live TV, catch up on shows and a big selection of box sets.
What’s on
Now TV has a huge range of content including bit hitters Game of Thrones, The Sopranos, Chernobyl, Downtown Abbey, Billions, Succession, Family Guy, Band of Brothers and more.
Any limits?
Add up to 6 devices and watch on any 2 at the same time.
Any NowTV hacks?
If you go to cancel a subscription, NowTV will usually offer a discounted rate to continue your subscription.
Pigsback and Groupon often have great value deals.
Any ads?
Yes.
Amazon Prime Video
What it costs
It’s free with Amazon Prime membership. As a standalone it costs €5.99 a month.
How it works
Stream TV series and movies. And you can stream on 3 devices simultaneously.
What’s on
Perhaps Netflix’s biggest rival the channel initially struggled to rival them for original shows but is starting to catch-up. Some shows like the Reacher, Man From The High Castle or Transparent have rated well. Other shows include Top Gear, Lost, Fleabag, Downton Abbey, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan, The Americans, The Walking Dead… and more.
Any limits?
No live TV. But lots of TV series and movies
Any Amazon Prime Video hacks?
Lots at the moment:
· Students can get 6 months free.
· Ask a friend who has it if you can be one of their 3 assigned devices.
· If you sign up with Eir TV packages, Amazon Prime is free
Any ads?
No
Disney+
What it costs
€8.99 a month or €89.90 per year. If you can, pay it annually as it’s over the 12 months, it works out nearly €18 cheaper than paying monthly.
How it works
Similar to Netflix you can stream TV series and movies. However, unlike most Netflix shows they release a series on an episode-by-episode basis instead of in one go.
What’s on
All Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and National Geographic back catalogues.
What devices can I use it with?
Laptop browser, Smart TVs, Apple devices (laptops, iPhones & iPads), Apple TV, Android devices, Google Chromecast, Chromecast with Google TV. It’s also available on the Amazon Fire TV.
Any limits?
You can create 7 user profiles under one account and watch on 4 different devices.
Any Disney+ hacks?
As up to 4 devices can stream simultaneously, share the monthly subscription with a few friends/family members.
Any ads?
No.
Netflix
What it costs
· Basic - €8.99 a month
· Standard - €14.99 a month
· Premium - €20.99 a month
How it works
Netflix is the most popular streaming platform, though now has lots of rivals. Stream a wide range of Netflix series and movies, plus lots of critically acclaimed series and movies.
What’s on
There is a wealth of movies, TV series and documentaries including Ozark, The Tinder Swindler, Emily in Paris, The Crown, Stranger Things, Better Call Saul, Orange is the New Black, Narcos and more.
Any limits?
With the basic plan you can watch one device at a time. With the standard you can watch on two. With premium you can stream on four devices simultaneously.
Any Netflix hacks?
You can share premium between you and three other people - just over €5 per month each.
Any ads?
No
If you're still undecided about which is best for you, click here to check out the latest deals and discount codes.