After reviewing all the top streaming applications and movie subscription services, Top Ten Reviews website chose Netflix as the top offering. They cited the fast streaming performance as well as affordability as the deciding factors. Commercial-free streaming is not new, but it certainly seems to be the wave of the future. Although, Netflix also as a DVD rental option available as well as its internet-based TV and movie offerings. Here are the other brands that round out Top Ten’s Five Best Streamlining services.
| Netflix | 9.4 |
| HBO NOW | 9.1 |
| Hulu | 8.8 |
| Amazon Prime Video | 8.3 |
| YouTube Premium | 7.8 |
Amazon got additional kudos for some of its sophisticated perks, such as an overlay with cast and movie information, available when you hove the mouse over the Amazon browser. Amazon Prime is famous for its bundled perks, like free shipping and access to the unlimited use of the Kindle application.
What is Streaming?
Streaming technology delivers content to desktop and mobile devices via the internet. During the streaming process, data is transmitted as a continuous flow of, typically, video and audio. Recipients begin to consume the data virtually instantaneously as it’s streaming to their device.
Streaming requires fast internet connectivity. The actual speed needed depends on what kind of media is being received. Typically, a minimum of 2 megabits per second (Mbps) is required to stream standard definition without skipping or buffering delays. The latest versions are HD and 4K content that need very high-speed connectivity for perfect viewing or audio experience.
Free Sites with Advertising
Sites such as putlocker and 123movies offer free streamlining but contain advertisement to cover their costs. Indeed, there seem to be endless opportunities for a savvy net surfer to get their movies and games and new startups are coming along all the time. Luckily for the providers, consumers tend to come back to brands they trust and share them via clips and posts on social media.
The disclaimer for this on the 123movies site states, “Ads can be a pain, but they are our only way to maintain the server and keep website live. Your patience is highly appreciated and we hope our service can be worth it.”
So far, users seem to think it’s worthwhile to watch the occasional ad to access quality content for free.
Games and Apps
Streaming has typically delivered audio and video, but that’s changing. In fact, Apple has recently developed technology that streams games and apps for fast access anywhere.