Paramount Plus is a subscription-based streaming service that offers its users a vast collection of content. The platform is a rebranded version of CBS All Access, and it offers a wide selection of TV series, movies, and exclusive original content from the Viacom CBS family. In addition, subscribers to Paramount Plus have access to popular shows such as Star Trek, The Twilight Zone, and SpongeBob SquarePants, as well as live sports events and news programming.
This post will give you a quick summary of Paramount Plus, including cost, features, and a comparison to other streaming services, to help you determine whether it’s worth adding to your streaming lineup.
What is Paramount Plus?
The ViacomCBS-owned streaming service, Paramount Plus, offers many TV series, movies, and exclusive original material from different networks and studios. It is the successor to CBS All Access and will be renamed Paramount Plus in March 2021. In addition, the site offers consumers a mix of live TV programming, news, sporting events, and on-demand content.
Subscribers to Paramount Plus may watch various iconic shows from several networks, including classics like Cheers, The Twilight Zone, and I Love Lucy, as well as popular series like NCIS, Survivor, and The Good Fight. The site also includes a large selection of films from the collection of Paramount Pictures as well as other studios.
In addition to its existing entertainment library, Paramount Plus offers original programming such as The Good Fight, Star Trek: Discovery, and The Stand. The platform also features live streaming of athletic events such as NFL football, NCAA basketball, and CBS News programs.
The service is available in the United States, Canada, and South America. It may be viewed via its website or a specialized app on various devices such as smart Televisions, mobile devices, and game consoles. In addition, subscribers can select between two payment packages, including ad-supported or ad-free streaming alternatives.
How much do you need to pay for paramount plus?
Paramount Plus has two subscription options. The Essential Plan costs $4.99/month (or $49.99/year) and includes ads during streaming. This plan does not have the local CBS channel but offers NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League. The Premium Plan costs $9.99/month (or $99.99/year) and has limited ads during streaming but not during live TV. This plan includes the local CBS channel, but other Paramount Plus may have brief interruptions.
Later this year, Paramount Plus and Showtime will merge, and the pricing will change. The Essential Plan will increase to $5.99/month, and the Premium Plan will become “Paramount Plus with Showtime” and cost $11.99/month.
Is Paramount Plus better than Netflix?
It’s difficult to compare Paramount Plus and Netflix because each service has unique qualities and various content.
Several networks and studios have content on Paramount Plus, including Paramount Pictures, CBS, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, and others. With live sporting events and news programming, it also provides unique original programs like Star Trek: Discovery, The Good Fight, and The Stand.
On the other hand, the vast library of original content that Netflix has is known for featuring popular shows like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Narcos, as well as motion pictures and documentaries. Also, Netflix provides many foreign programs in various languages and nations.
The decision between Paramount Plus and Netflix ultimately boils down to your particular preferences and the kinds of content you appreciate. For example, Paramount Plus can be better if you enjoy old television programs, films, live sports, and news. On the other hand, Netflix might be a better option if you’re more interested in original binge-watching programs, films, and global content.
A quick comparison with NetFlix and Disney+
When comparing Paramount Plus with Netflix and Disney+, it’s important to consider the differences in their content libraries and features.
Netflix
Netflix is the first streaming service that comes to mind for most people. It has over 200 million subscribers and a vast library of movies and TV shows that continue to expand. Netflix is also available on most major connected TVs and smart devices. Although it is not the most affordable option, with its most popular Standard plan costing $14 per month (with a cheaper $9 option available), it sets the standard for other streaming services. Check out our Netflix review for more information.
Disney Plus
Disney has a wealth of popular characters and franchises, and it showcases all of them on Disney Plus. The streaming service is the exclusive home for Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, National Geographic, and classic Disney films and TV series. At a monthly cost of $8, it’s no wonder that many people have been drawn to this platform. Those who also want access to Hulu and ESPN Plus can subscribe to a bundle for $14 per month. To learn more, check out our Disney Plus review.
Paramount Plus
Paramount Plus is the rebranded version of CBS All Access. This new streaming service offers the same features as its predecessor. It includes content from various ViacomCBS channels and brands such as MTV, BET, Comedy Central, and Paramount Pictures films, along with some original programming like Picard. Like CBS All Access, Paramount Plus lets users stream their local CBS station, including live sports and local news in most markets.
The starting price for the service is $6 per month for an ad-supported subscription, while ad-free streaming is available for $10 per month. However, note that the new $5 base plan does not include access to live CBS local channels. So if you want to watch your local CBS station, upgrade to the ad-free $10 plan. For more information, check out our Paramount Plus review.
The main advantage that Paramount Plus offers is that it offers a seven-day free trial to new customers. However, those who sign up using a gift card are not eligible.
Conclusion
Paramount Plus is a strong contender in the streaming market with its combination of former CBS All Access shows, Comedy Central and MTV content, exciting original programming, a selection of new films, and an affordable price point. It is particularly well-suited for viewers seeking live sports, TV shows, and local news.