Choosing the best streaming platform might be difficult because there are so many options accessible today. Which streaming service is better for South African viewers? Are they all the same or are there some significant differences you should consider? In order to assist you in selecting the ideal streaming service for you, let’s look at all the options available.
Online TV shows and movies available on demand have become a very popular form of entertainment. A lot more affordable than satellite or cable TV, these platforms are a great alternative. In order to help you decide which streaming service is best for you and your family, we’ve compared the various platforms’ prices, content and benefits.
Your internet service provider plays a big role in your online streaming experience. WonderNet offers several fibre internet packages that are designed to handle the large bandwidth and download speeds needed for online streaming. Some of these packages are even tailored for binge-watching your favourite shows online.
Streaming Platform Option 1: Netflix
Netflix is one of the most widely used streaming services right now, with about 225 million customers globally. Netflix features a wide selection of on-demand TV shows and films from world-famous studios including HBO and Disney.
The platform also produces a large number of its own shows and movies. There are several Oscar-winning films and well-known classics on Netflix. Depending on the number of users connected to the account, viewers can watch on their laptops, smartphones, tablets, or smart TVs for anywhere between R49 and R199 per month.
Streaming Platform Option 2: Prime Video
205 million people worldwide subscribe to Amazon’s Prime Video, but the content library isn’t as extensive as Netflix’s. Amazon doesn’t have a lot of South African material available and instead places a greater emphasis on American productions.
Despite this, there are still a lot of movies and TV shows that are exclusive to Amazon. Viewers can connect from any smart device for R79 per month.
Streaming Platform Option 3: Disney+
In May 2022, Disney+ launched in South Africa. Despite being a bit pricey at R199 per month, this streaming service offers top-notch shows and movies that the whole family can enjoy. New Disney content as well as classic Disney shows and movies are available.
Marvel, Pixar, National Geographic and the Star Wars franchise gradually withdrew their content from other streaming platforms, and now, Disney+ is the only place to watch these amazing films and shows.
Streaming Platform Option 4: Showmax
For sports fans, Showmax is an excellent choice. Compared to other streaming services, this platform doesn’t contain as many international movies and shows, but it’s ideal for watching live sports and South African content.
Showmax is one of the most affordable streaming services, with basic packages starting at just R39. However, if you want to watch live sports, you’ll need to sign up for Showmax Pro, which costs R255 per month.
Social Streaming Platforms
Social media streaming is a different type of streaming in which you can watch live videos or any other content that has been uploaded. Several social streaming platforms exist. Here are the most popular ones and what to expect from each.
Social Streaming Option 1: YouTube
One of the most popular video streaming platforms of all time, YouTube, has over two billion users and about 800 million videos. It is the second most visited website in the world, right behind Google. There is a vast amount of content on YouTube on just about any topic you can think of.
You can get all of this content on YouTube for free, but you will have to put up with nonstop advertising. If you frequently use YouTube, YouTube Premium is definitely worthwhile. Pay R71.99 per month for a single user and R109.99 per month for a family plan of six members to access YouTube without ads.
Social Streaming Option 2: LinkedIn
Although the professional networking site LinkedIn isn’t well known for its streaming capabilities, it does provide free live streams and videos from professionals, brands and influencers. However, not everyone has the option to stream live videos.
To do so, you must receive site approval, which helps maintain a particular standard of quality. You can take part in webinars and watch tutorials and seminars. Live streams are free and ideal for developing academic and professional pursuits.
Social Streaming Option 3: Twitch
Twitch is a very well-known social streaming platform for those between the ages of 16 and 34. The majority of users of this platform are gamers. In the third quarter of 2021, close to 6 billion hours of content were viewed.
In addition to e-sports and casual gaming, Twitch also features music, sports (including yoga sessions), and other live streams (e.g. animal webcams). It is accessible on computers and smart phones and is free to use.
Social Streaming Option 4: TikTok Live
Gen Z’s (under 25s) are the main users of this social streaming platform. Content from accounts with more than 1000 followers is featured on TikTok Live. The topics of these free live streaming typically include unusual or funny themes, Q&A sessions, fashion and health, or social media challenges.
Do streaming services consume a lot of internet bandwidth?
You will require a good internet connection whether you plan to stream social media content or watch movies and shows. When streaming videos, a lot of bandwidth is required, especially if you want a high-quality picture. For HD streaming, you’ll need an internet connection with a speed of 10 to 20MB. A 20MB connection is the bare minimum you should have if there is more than one person in your household.
Fibre internet provides the best video streaming experience. Your connection is more stable and has faster speeds with fibre. This is ideal for watching online shows and movies or streaming live content.
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