Streaming is a technology that transmits videos and audio to viewers’ devices through wireless or a wired internet connection. Some common streaming forms are Podcasts, music videos, TV shows, movies, and webcasts.

Streaming service (1)

A streaming service is an online provider of media content (movies, music, etc). It transmits contents to the devices of subscribers such as mobile, TV, and computers. Some high-profile examples of streaming services are Apple Music, Spotify, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix.

Streaming Media

Streaming media is a kind of multimedia that is continuously delivered from the source without any storage in elements of the network. People can face different hurdles with streaming content. For instance, internet with insufficient bandwidth causes slow buffering, lags, or stops. Moreover, users with less compatible software and hardware system cannot stream some content. Live streaming resembles live TV broadcasts. The media content is shown to the public in real-time or time of production. Examples of some live streaming events are video games, boxing matches, sports, and award shows, etc. Lives treaming requires screen capture software, an audio interface, a video camera, and a media publisher. It digitizes the content with the help of an encoder and distributes it via a content delivery network.

Streaming is an alternate way of downloading. In download, a user can have a complete file without even listening or watching it completely. Whereas in streaming, a user can listen to audio music and watch a video without the complete transmission of the file. Besides videos and audio, the label “streaming media” can also be used for live real-time text, ticker tape, and closed captioning.

Streaming devices

Various streaming devices with multiple advanced features are available in the market. Top streaming devices are affordable, give a hand-free option, 4k accessibility, and generous internal storage.

Function of streaming

Different types of media files, such as videos and music, are prearranged and then transmitted to sequential data packets. These data packets are then streamed instantaneously. In contrast to downloading, media files are deleted automatically after watching. For streaming, a user requires a high-speed and reliable internet connection, subscription or access to a streaming app or service, and a streaming device.

Types of streaming services

There are two main types of streaming services:

  • Paid
  • Non-paid

In paid services, a subscriber watches the licensed copy of the video. He can view it at any place in the world via internet connection. The paid streaming service is suitable for those who travel a lot and take some rest by watching a movie.

The non-paid services stream bootleg or pirated copies of movies. This may include draft versions or illegal copies of famous movies. The service is non-paid, but streams content of poor quality.

Several radio stations are now offering streaming media services as well. People can hear live broadcasts via the internet. Radio stations stream high-quality broadcasts and add features to enhance the interactions of listeners.

Through live streaming, both private and public audiences can attend the event. For instance, parents living in another city can attend their children’s graduation ceremonies through live streaming.

Best streaming services

  1. Hulu

Hulu is the best streaming service for the one who wants to remain updated with TV shows without investing too much in HD antennas and cable.  A user can access major networks and cable shows. He can also watch ongoing or all seasons of the program. Moreover, it hosts various original shows, anime series, and offbeat movies.

Specs

  • The initial price is $6/month
  • The number of simultaneous streams is 2
  • Live TV package is $65/month
  • Devices: Chromecast, Apple TV, Android TV, Android, Fire tablets, and more.

Pros

  • Huge collection of TV shows
  • Affordable
  • High-quality programming

Cons

  • Frequent advertisements
  • Inconsistent selections of old seasons
  1. Amazon Prime Video

It is a no-brainer for those who purchase mostly online. In the package of $119/year, one can have free-of-cost 2-day shipping, a kindle book, and limitless access to Amazon Prime Video and Amazon music. It provides a buffet of original and television programming and movies. Its famous hit is “The Boys”. It also offers access to a huge collection from the catalog of HBO such as The Wire and The Sopranos.

Specs

  • Its initial price is $119/year.
  • The number of programs it can stream simultaneously is 3
  • Offers no Live TV package
  • Devices: Roku, Apple TV, Blu-ray players, Smart TVs, PlayStation 4, Xbox, Chromecast, iPad, iPhone, Fire Tablet, and Fire TV.

Pros

  • Extensive content selection
  • Offers various Prime benefits
  • Good quality original shows

Cons

  • Does not support all platforms
  • Some premium contents charge extra
  1. Netflix

The great-granddaddy remains best in the streaming market. It gives unlimited access to original programming, comedy specials, movies, and TV shows for monthly subscription charges. A New on Netflix guide informs the subscriber about incoming programs as well as those shows that are going to be deleted. Netflix is constantly adding licensed TV shows such as Moesha and Community, and Hannibal.

Specs

  • Its initial price is $9/month
  • It can stream up to 4 shows simultaneously
  • Offers no Live TV packages
  • Devices: set-top boxes, Xbox, PS4, smart TVs, Roku, NVidiaShield, Fire TV, Chromecast, Apple TV, Web Browsers, iOS, and Android.

Pros

  • Extensive content selection
  • Optimized interface
  • Excellent recommendation system

Cons

  • In comparison to other services, it is expensive
  • Titles go and come frequently
  1. YouTube

Youtube replaces the cable system. It provides an extensive range of TV shows, news, and sports in one package. It integrates excellent features of DVR and supports multiple platforms. It provides an amazing blend of streaming specs and channels.

Specs

  • Its initial price is $64.99/month
  • It can stream up to 3 shows simultaneously
  • It provides national and international level sports coverage
  • Supports a lot of platforms

Pros

  • An extensive line-up of entertainment, sports, and news channel
  • Easy-to-use and DVR features
  • Intuitive interface
  • Remarkable add-ons

Cons

  • Lacking all bally Sports RSNs and SportsNet
  • Provide basic control options only

 

References

  1. https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/streaming-service
  2. https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-streaming-video-services,review-2625.html