Is Apple TV Worth the Cost or Should You Save Your Money?
Streaming subscriptions can take a bite out of your budget, especially when you consider the annual cost. For example, after a recent rate hike, Apple TV costs $14.99 per month, which is $179.88 per year, so it makes sense to consider whether it’s worth the cost.
For some households, the answer may be yes. Apple has built a lineup of original shows and movies while adding live MLB Friday night games, MLS matches and Formula One races to the mix. However, if you’re looking for a more extensive library with something for everyone, you’ll likely get more use from another service.
Here’s what to consider before subscribing to Apple TV.
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How Much Does Apple TV Cost?
Apple TV costs $14.99 per month after a seven-day free trial for new subscribers. A subscription can also be shared with up to five other family members, and Apple Originals are ad-free. Also, if you recently bought an eligible Apple device, you may qualify for three free months if you redeem the offer within 90 days.
At $14.99 per month, Apple TV also costs less than some competitors’ ad-free plans. For example, Netflix's Standard plan without ads costs $19.99 per month, while HBO Max Standard costs $18.49 per month. With ads, Netflix is $8.99 per month, while HBO Max is $10.99 per month.
However, Apple TV doesn't offer a lower-priced, ad-supported plan. So, if keeping the monthly cost as low as possible matters more to you than avoiding commercials, there are other services that cost less.
Apple TV Offers Original Shows and Movies
Apple TV takes a different approach from streaming services that fill their catalogs with thousands of licensed movies and older TV series. Instead, it focuses heavily on Apple Originals, including shows such as "Ted Lasso," "Severance," "Silo," "Slow Horses" and "The Morning Show." Its catalog includes hundreds of exclusive shows and movies, with new releases added weekly.
Sports Could Make Apple TV More Worth the Price
Sports have become a much bigger part of the Apple TV package.
A subscription now includes Formula 1 racing in the U.S., Major League Soccer matches and Friday Night Baseball at no additional charge. MLS coverage includes every club and match with no blackouts, while Formula 1 coverage includes Grand Prix races, qualifying, practice and Sprint sessions.
However, if you mainly watch the NFL, NBA or college sports, it's probably not worth it.
Family Sharing Can Bring Down the Cost per Person
Apple allows you to share your subscription with up to 5 additional family members.
With six people regularly watching the service, the monthly subscription works out to about $3 per person, which is a great value.
When You Might Want To Subscribe
Apple TV may be a good fit if:
You enjoy watching Apple Original shows and movies.
You're a fan of Formula 1, MLS or Friday Night Baseball.
You know that several family members will use the subscription.
You like watching without ads.
When It Might Not Be a Good Idea
You're only interested in one or two shows.
You like watching a variety of older movies or TV shows.
You want the cheapest ad-supported streaming plan available.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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