Free and subscription entertainment apps have you covered

From your favorite TV series to your most anticipated movie, video on-demand (VOD) has created a space of seemingly endless entertainment possibilities. Unlike years prior, you have a choice in how and when you choose to consume your preferred content. Not to mention, you have even more control on how much you invest in your content needs.

VOD is categorized into three different areas, plus a blended approach. This article explores each area and showcases some of Microsoft Store’s key offerings in each category.

Subscription video on-demand (SVOD)

Through an SVOD-based service and/or app, you must pay a flat rate for monthly services, which are often tiered based on the number of devices or service level. As the race began to heat up, these services often began to offer exclusive and original content. Three of Microsoft Store’s most popular SVOD apps include Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video.

Disney+

It’s no secret that Disney+ is home to some of the world’s most popular content. Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic offer you a ton of content for everyone in your family to watch, explore, and relish in their fandom. From the latest releases to original content to the classics, there’s always something new (i.e., movies, TV series, documentaries) being added each week. Lauded for its ever-expanding catalog, the app allows you to set Parental Controls, watch four screens at once (at no additional cost), and enjoy MAX Enhanced to experience an expanded aspect ratio.

Netflix

Based on your viewing behavior, saddle up for content you’ve intended to watch or discover something new. With Netflix, you’ll be able to tap into its expansive inventory of movies, TV series, and documentaries. Never feel left out from the “water cooler,” er “video conference,” chatter when your teammates talk about the most recent trending shows and movies. From award-winning content to pop culture influencing titles, you will always find quality-based, noteworthy entertainment. Plus, you can appreciate every detail through Netflix’s 4K Ultra HD, then watch on your PC, tablet, or laptop (with or without internet connection).

Prime Video for Windows

You can download videos to watch whether you’re online or not. Experience recommended movies and TV shows anywhere and at any time as you tap into original content (e.g., “The Boys,” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” or “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”). Can’t quite place the actor, song, or trivia of your favorite show? Tap into X-Ray at that precise moment to pull up all the details from IMDB’s information page as you watch. While Prime Video is a standalone service, it’s also included if you already have Amazon’s Prime subscription.

Hulu

Hulu reaches across both subscription and advertising-based video on demand with its tiered offerings (lowest-priced tier has limited ads) and Live TV with over 75 top channels. You can stream full seasons of Hulu Originals, exclusive content, and current seasons of your favorite TV shows. Plus, you’ll have access to hit movies, children’s content, and premium network add-ons (i.e., HBO Max, SHOWTIME, Cinemax, and STARZ). From live sports, breaking news, and the most talked about events, you’ll always be one step ahead of the crowd. Bundle with Disney+ and ESPN, then save.

Advertising-based video on-demand (AVOD)

With AVOD services, you can enjoy an array of content for free; however, you will also get commercials. Some of these plans offer interactive ads to give you a choice of what you will experience. In many cases, you can tap into live viewing of your favorite networks.

Tubi

With 100% unlimited streaming, you’ll have access to thousands of top movies, TV series, and anime for the low-cost of free. And while you’ll experience commercials, Tubi boasts fewer ads than regular TV. Adding free HD content on a weekly basis, the streamer offers award-winning titles, content from the biggest stars, and the latest releases. Plus, never miss a beat with its extensive anime collection and its wide variety of genres featuring Horror, Action, Korean Dramas, Telenovelas, and more.

Pluto TV

With over 250 channels of live TV, you’ll still have access to thousands of movies and TV series on demand—when and how you want them. Never miss a beat as you binge watch the most talked about shows, stay in the loop with live sports, and remain in the know with the latest news. Seriously, just drop in on Pluto TV right now and watch until your heart’s content.

Transactional video on-demand (TVOD)

Traditionally known as “pay-per-view,” TVOD allows you three distinct options. You can outright purchase the ability to view a movie or TV series, which will go on to live in the cloud and/or the device of purchase. You can also rent content under the duration outlined at the point of payment. Lastly, for free content, you can simply download and/or watch.

Microsoft Movies & TV

You want commercial-free TV. You want to watch the latest, biggest movies. And you want it now. Enter Movies & TV. Rent or buy from the Microsoft Store’s huge catalogue of content, then watch at home or on the go (i.e., download to your Windows PC and watch with or without an internet connection). And with the most recent blockbusters, catch them before they are on DVD or subscription services. As an extra bonus, you can catch one of Microsoft Store’s frequent sales, promotions, and bundles (often including Xbox games). Plus, you can gain points to redeem for gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and nonprofit donations.

Video on-demand hybrid

Paramount+

With a “mountain of entertainment” available to viewers, Paramount+ has two plans to suit your specific needs. Its Essential plan has limited ads, while its Premium plan has no ads, with an exception of live TV. Both offer tens of thousands of TV episodes and movies, NFL on CBS live, and top soccer. However, its premium option offers even more live sports, no ads, the ability to download your content to watch later, and more. Bundle with Showtime for even more savings. Don’t have time to go see one of your most anticipated movies at the theater? Catch it on Paramount+ from the comfort of your own home.