Features, content, and limitations differ from one streaming service to the next, so take some time to consider what you care about.

Content: Work out what TV series, movies, documentaries, and other kinds of content are most important to you. If you have favorite shows or franchises, check which services carry them. All streaming services have some exclusive content, but there’s also a lot of overlap, and the lineup of shows and movies can change. You can browse or search at ReelGood or JustWatch to find a complete content guide for all the top streaming services.

Quality: Streaming services support various levels of video quality and audio standards and sometimes charge more for better-quality streams. If you have a 4K TV and surround sound system in your home, you will want the content to take full advantage. But if your TV maxes out at HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels), there's no point in paying for 4K. Bear in mind that higher-quality streams require higher internet speeds. For example, while a 5-Mbps (megabits per second) connection is enough for an HD stream, Netflix recommends at least 25 Mbps for 4K content.

Features: Think about the features you need and compatibility with your most-used devices. If you are sharing your streaming service with other people, you'll want to create separate profiles. Families may want parental controls to block unsuitable content for younger kids. Most streaming services limit the number of simultaneous streams you can have and some charge more to increase this limit. If you plan to watch offline, look into the download policy.

Budget: Free trials are very common, so take advantage of them. Most streaming services offer a discount on the monthly subscription fee if you pay for a year upfront. Some mix in the option to rent or buy content alongside what you get with your subscription, although that may not be ideal if you prefer to fix a monthly budget. Don’t be afraid to get a service for a single month to watch a show you like and then cancel the subscription. If you don’t intend to watch tons of content, it may make sense to rotate your services and just catch the shows you simply can't miss.