As we head into 2025, the streaming world is more crowded than ever. An overwhelming number of platforms are competing with each other, and it can be frustrating to figure out which ones are worth paying for. Free streaming services may seem appealing, but they often come with tradeoffs, such as intrusive advertising and limited libraries that miss out on the biggest hits.

If you're looking for quality entertainment, such as movies and TV, now is the time to turn to the best streaming services. The best part is, you don't have to shell out a fortune to access premium content. For just $27 per month (for the basic plan), you can subscribe to three must-have platforms that offer incredible value while covering all your entertainment needs.

Curious about the cost of streaming in 2025 and which platforms are really worth it? This guide can help. Learn about three essential services, why they stand out, and how they can make your streaming experience better.

Netflix proves once again why it's an essential streaming service for 2025 As a daily Netflix user, it's hard to imagine life without it. Especially with next year's lineup looking to be the best yet.

At the top of my must-see list is American Primeval. From the trailer, it looks like it will be a gripping western drama that will add freshness to Netflix's lineup. For fans of that iconic franchise, 2025 brings even more excitement. The fifth and final season of “Stranger Things.” Liam Hemsworth will play Geralt in Season 4 of “The Witcher.” In the next installment of “Knives Out,” “Wake Up Dead Man,” Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, will try to solve a new case.

In addition to original productions, Netflix continues to expand its library with new movies and TV shows every month, making it an absolute staple. Like a trusty shirt in your wardrobe, Netflix is something you'll come back to no matter what (even after an annoying price hike).

Max is fast becoming one of the most essential streaming services for 2025. As we enter the new year, the platform's lineup is packed with the most anticipated releases, ensuring that it will continue to top the list for entertainment.

First and foremost, fans of “White Lotus” will be excited to hear that Season 3 is about to begin. And if you're as obsessed with “The Last of Us” as I am, Max is worth signing up just to see Season 2. For those craving wild superhero fun, “Peacemaker” Season 2 brings back John Cena's unpredictable and chaotic character. Meanwhile, “Hacks” Season 4 offers even sharper humor and a standout performance from Jean Smart.

Max also offers some fresh and highly anticipated storylines in 2025. He is particularly excited about “Welcome to Derry,” a prequel series to “It. In addition, “Game of Thrones” fans can look forward to a new spin-off, “Knights of the Seven Kingdoms. With an exciting lineup of shows and a vast content library, Max is a streaming service not to be missed in 2025.

Disney Plus continues to be another top contender in the streaming world, offering something for everyone with a great combination of content from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic. If you're like me, you'll agree that Disney Plus isn't just for kids. Disney Plus is an entertainment powerhouse filled with nostalgic original programming and exciting new releases, and as we head into 2025, the fun just keeps getting better.

For Marvel fans, Disney Plus will offer several highly anticipated shows. Daredevil Borne Again will reintroduce Matt Murdock in a fresh and exciting way, with Charlie Cox returning to his iconic role. For more superhero drama, “Ironheart” will feature Riri Williams in the spotlight. On the fantasy side, “Percy Jackson and the Gods of Olympus” returns for a highly anticipated second season. The next chapter in Percy's journey will feature more adventures from the iconic book.

Disney Plus has unforgettable stories and premium content. With this impressive lineup of shows and movies, it is clear that Disney Plus will continue to be an essential streaming service in 2025, and definitely worth keeping/getting if you have young children.