Starz has been one of the best premium cable channels over the years.
However, the network has been advancing into streaming recently, where it offers high-quality movies, television shows, and original content.
You can now stream all videos on Starz at a small cost compared to giants like Netflix and HBO Max. The platform has a library of over 1,500 films and television shows, with new episodes added daily.
But with many more similar services available, is it worth it to sign up for a Starz account?
5 things to know before signing up for Starz
Starz has positioned itself as a premium streaming platform offering high-quality movies. However, the service is in an environment that is loaded with other giants that have offered the same services for many years.
So, before signing up, here are five things you should know about Starz.
1. You can create up to 5 profiles
Profiles are crucial on streaming platforms because they allow you to share your account with family members.
That way, everyone has a personal space to customize their viewing experience. Starz allows you to create up to 5 profiles per account.
One important thing to note is that although you can create 5 profiles, the streaming service only supports simultaneous streaming on up to four devices.
2. Starz supports offline downloads of movies
Generally, Starz is not available in all countries. That means you cannot stream videos if you are in a country that is not supported.
However, the streaming service offers offline downloads of all its videos. You can download unlimited titles to watch later even when you do not have the internet.
However, the option of downloading movies is only available on mobile devices through the Starz app for iOS and Android.
3. Its app gives you early access to the latest episodes
The Starz app is available for both iOS and Android devices. An advantage of using it over other streaming devices is that you get early access to new episodes.
The new episodes drop at midnight on the day of their air dates and several hours before the premiere of the shows on their cable network.
4. It does not offer most of its content in 4K resolution
Although Starz’s streaming quality is high, the platform does not have a lot of content in 4K resolution.
Less 4K content is a drawback that puts Starz on-demand behind its competitors, mainly in an era where people want to enjoy watching videos in 4K.
However, you can still watch videos in HD resolution, depending on your internet speed.
5. It has fewer customization options
Starz has fewer customization options compared to other streaming platforms.
For example, although you can create up to four profiles, you cannot keep the content on one profile separate from the others. Everyone will access it.
Starz doesn’t recommend titles based on the movies or television shows you watched previously, either.
However, the mobile app works seamlessly between devices. That means you can easily switch between a Smart TV and a smartphone when streaming.
What does Starz offer?
Starz offers hit movies and acclaimed television shows like Harlots, The Act, and Pennyworth. You can also stream premium binge-worthy dramas like Mr. Mercedes.
In addition, the platform is the best for unlimited HD streaming and downloads and access to new films and exclusive series added daily.
Does Starz have commercials?
Starz is a premium streaming service that doesn’t air commercials. That means you have to pay a subscription fee to access its content.
However, once you are a subscriber, you will stream any videos without ads because the cost of the subscription will cover the services provided.
Is Starz on Hulu?
If you are a Hulu subscriber, you can add Starz as an add-on for an extra $8.99 per month. That will allow you to access all original shows, and classic films and stream a variety of theatrical releases.
Since Starz is on Hulu, you will not create multiple accounts to stream content from the two streaming platforms. Instead, your Hulu account and Starz add-on are enough to switch between the services.
Starz vs. HBO Max. Which is better?
Starz and HBO Max are platforms offering the same service. However, Starz becomes a better option when comparing both services, especially considering the cost.
In other words, you will pay $9.99 for HBO Max and only $8.99 per month for Starz. However, the $9.99 you pay on HBO Max comes with ads unless you upgrade for a further $14.99 per month. Fortunately, Starz gives you an ad-free experience.
When you sign up for both services for the first time, Starz will give you a 7-day free trial. You can also claim their $5 for 3 months offer. HBO Max does not have any free trials.
Furthermore, Starz is better than HBO Max in terms of movie catalog.
HBO Max has a smaller and less diverse movie catalog compared to Starz. However, HBO Max outshines Starz with original programs.
Is Starz worth it?
Starz is definitely worth your money, especially if you are looking for an affordable streaming platform with quality movies, television shows, and highly-rated originals.
You’ll also enjoy a range of features including up to 5 profiles and the ability to download shows for offline viewing.
While Starz ticks many boxes, it doesn’t have a wide content portfolio. If you are looking for a content-rich streaming platform, you’re better off with Netflix or Hulu. However, with these two you’ll pay more.
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