Paramount+ launched in 2021 as the rebrand of CBS All Access, combining CBS programming with Paramount’s massive film library. The target audience is pretty broad: sports fans who want live CBS games, families who love Nickelodeon and kids’ content, and movie buffs looking for Paramount classics. What makes Paramount+ stand out is its mix of on-demand shows, blockbuster films, and live TV, including local CBS stations in most markets. It’s available in over 45 countries and has been expanding aggressively, making it one of the more globally accessible services outside Netflix and Prime.
Pros
- Exclusive home for Star Trek originals (Strange New Worlds, Picard, Discovery)
- Strong live sports lineup: NFL on CBS, March Madness, UEFA Champions League, Serie A, NW
- Extensive library of CBS shows, Nickelodeon kids’ content, Comedy Central, and MTV
- Paramount Pictures films are often available shortly after theatrical release
- Affordable standalone plans are often bundled free with Walmart+ subscriptions
- Solid add-on integrations (Showtime now merged into Paramount+)
Cons
- The app interface and recommendations feel less polished than those of Netflix or Disney+.
- Smaller slate of buzzy originals compared to Netflix or Max
- Limited global availability compared to Netflix, Prime, or Disney+
- Occasional streaming hiccups are reported during live sports events
- Content library leans heavily on CBS/Viacom properties, with less variety outside that ecosystem
StageSeat's Top 8 Streaming Services of 2025
| Service | Best For | Starting Price | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Netflix | Binge-watchers, pop culture fans | $7.99 (with ads) | Get Netflix |
| Prime Video | Value seekers, Amazon shoppers | $8.99 standalone (or free w/ Prime) | Get Amazon Prime Video |
| Disney+ | Families, franchise fans | $9.99 (with ads) | Get Disney+ |
| Hulu | Network TV lovers, cord-cutters | $9.99 (with ads) | Get Hulu |
| HBO Max | Prestige TV & film fans | $9.99 (with ads) | Get HBO Max |
| Apple TV+ | Quality-focused viewers, Apple users | $9.99 | Apple TV+ |
| Peacock | Sitcom fans, soccer/football lovers | $10.99 (with ads and Peacock original content) | Get Peacock |
| Paramount+ | Families, sports fans, CBS loyalists | $7.99 (with ads) | Get Paramount+ |
Channel Lineup & Content
Paramount+ has one of the most “TV-like” lineups of the on-demand streamers. Subscribers get access to CBS shows the day after they air, plus live CBS streaming in most regions. Its content hubs include Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, MTV, BET, Smithsonian Channel, and Paramount Pictures. Originals like Star Trek: Discovery, 1883, 1923, and Halo have been big draws. On the sports side, Paramount+ streams NFL games on CBS, UEFA Champions League, SEC college football, March Madness, and more. Movies are another highlight, with Paramount Pictures titles often dropping on the platform shortly after theatrical release.
Package Tiers & Pricing
Paramount+ keeps it simple with two main options:
- Essential (with ads): $7.99/month or $59.99/year.
- With Showtime (ad-free): $12.99/month or $119.99/year, which includes Showtime originals and removes most ads.
Everyone gets HD streaming, but 4K Ultra HD and HDR are supported on many titles without extra cost. There aren’t dedicated student or military discounts, though Paramount+ sometimes offers seasonal deals. Free trials (7 days) are standard for new users.
Bundling Opportunities
The most enormous bundle opportunity is Paramount+ with Showtime, which replaced the standalone Showtime app. Walmart+ members also get Paramount+ Essential included for free, which is one of the best ongoing deals. Paramount+ is also available as an add-on through Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV Channels, making billing easier if you already subscribe there.
If you have an American Express Platinum card, you can piggyback on your free Walmart+ membership to get Paramount+.
Historical Pricing & Deal Analysis
Pricing has been steady since launch, with Essential at $5.99 and Showtime included for $11.99. Compared to Netflix or Max, it’s one of the cheapest ad-supported options out there. Black Friday deals are common, often cutting prices by 50% for the first year. The Walmart+ partnership is the best ongoing “free” deal if you already pay for that membership.
Device Compatibility & Features
Paramount+ works across smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, game consoles, and mobile devices. Downloads for offline viewing are available on the Showtime (ad-free) tier. Simultaneous streams are capped at three devices. Live TV is one of its unique features, letting you stream CBS in most markets, something Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV usually charge much more for. Profiles and parental controls are included, though not as customizable as Disney+.
User Experience
The interface is clean and easy to use, with hubs for CBS, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, and Showtime (if included). Sports integration is a big plus, with clear tabs for live games. Streaming quality is reliable, though some users have noted occasional buffering during live events. The search and recommendation features aren’t as sophisticated as Netflix’s, but browsing by brand hubs makes it simple. Customer service is available via chat and phone support.
Additional Costs & Fees
Outside of the Showtime add-on, there aren’t extra costs. No equipment rentals, hidden activation charges, or termination fees. Taxes may apply, but otherwise, pricing is transparent.
Pros & Cons Summary
Paramount+ is perfect for CBS fans, sports lovers, and families with kids who love Nickelodeon. Its strengths are live CBS access, affordable pricing, and strong original shows like Yellowstone spinoffs and Star Trek series. Weaknesses include limited international rollout compared to Netflix, fewer blockbuster originals compared to Disney+ or Max, and a smaller overall catalog. Compared to cable, it’s a budget-friendly way to watch live CBS and sports without paying $70+ for a live TV bundle.
Current Promotions
Walmart+ members get Paramount+ Essential included for free, which is one of the best streaming perks around. Black Friday deals regularly slash subscription costs by 50% for a year. Free 7-day trials are still available for new users. After promos end, expect standard pricing, $7.99/month for Essential or $12.99/month for Showtime.
Final Verdict
Paramount+ is an excellent value if you want CBS shows, live sports, or Nickelodeon content. It may not replace Netflix or Disney+ for overall variety, but as a budget-friendly add-on, especially with Walmart+, it’s one of the best deals in streaming.
