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Streaming has become a way of life for Canadians. Last year, a poll of over 40,000 Canadian adults found that 90 percent watch videos. Out of the 21 hours of screen time they spend a week on average, 11 of those were spent on a streaming service. And whof wouldn’t find themselves watching something online these days?
With a long list of available streaming services in North America, just about anyone can find a show, film, or event to watch. Entire seasons of series are made readily available, making it easy to binge-watch. These days, even films are released online through these services much earlier after their theatrical runs, unlike in the good old days of DVD or Blu-ray release cycles.
While Netflix continues to be the king of streaming services, a bunch of other streaming platforms have come up over the years to challenge Netflix’s reign and provide Canadians alternative access to all sorts of video content. Services now also aggressively produce their own exclusive content and original titles just to differentiate themselves from their competitors.
The great thing about this is that the average consumer gets more choices, better deals, and more content to enjoy. If you’re a film and TV afficionado, you’d probably be interested in trying out all the streaming services that are available in the Great White North.
What are the Best Streaming Services You Can Access in Canada?
Let’s take a look at the list of the best streaming services in Canada.
Netflix Canada – Best For Bingeworthy Content
Netflix was founded in 1997 as a DVD-by-mail service. Thankfully, it pivoted and was among the first to capitalize on the streaming revolution when it started its video-on-demand (VOD) service in 2007. Netflix was made available to Canadian viewers in September of 2010. This actually kickstarted the company’s international expansion. Today, it has over 200 million subscribers globally and is the top streaming service in terms of active subscribers.
Where is Netflix available? Netflix is available in more than 190 countries including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Even developing countries like Bangladesh and Congo are served by Netflix.
What are the Netflix subscription plans and prices in Canada? Netflix offers several subscription tiers in Canada, which vary in terms of number of supported devices, downloads, and stream quality (HD, Full HD, and Ultra HD). The plans include:
- Basic with ads: $5.99 CAD/month
- Basic: $9.99 CAD/month
- Standard: $16.49 CAD/month
- Premium: $20.99 CAD/month
What supported devices can you use to access Netflix Canada? Netflix supports streaming media players, smart TV sets, game consoles like the Sony PlayStation, smartphones, tablets, PCs, and laptops. It provides the option to download content to the app for offline viewing.
What content and exclusives are available on Netflix Canada? The company started producing its own original content in 2013 with the likes of “House of Cards,” “Orange is the New Black,” and “Stranger Things.” Netflix has even expanded its production to include original Canadian content with shows like “Anne with an E” and “Schitt’s Creek.”
Is a free trial available for Netflix Canada? Netflix does not offer free trials. However, subscribing is easy and you can change your plan or cancel any time.
Is a VPN needed to access Netflix Canada? Since the service does have support for Canada, you can simply subscribe to Netflix to start streaming without needing a VPN. However, if you’re a Canadian staying in China, North Korea, and Russia, tough luck. These are just the few countries which Netflix doesn’t serve. You may have some luck accessing the service through a VPN, but you have to check the legality of VPN use in these countries.
Crave TV – Best Value
Crave TV was launched in 2014 by Bell Media to provide content to cable TV subscribers. In 2018, it started offering a standalone streaming service.
Where is Crave TV available? Crave is only available in Canada.
What are the Crave TV subscription plans and prices in Canada? Crave offers monthly and annual subscription plans:
- Monthly: $19.99 CAD/month + tax
- Annual: $199.90/year + tax
Starz content is an add-on that requires an additional payment of 59.90 CAD/year.
What supported devices can you use to access Crave TV? Crave subscribers can access the services through media players like Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast, smart TV, Android and Appple phones and tablets, and gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation.
What content and exclusives are available on Crave TV? Crave’s content catalog includes exclusives from HBO Originals, HBO Max, Starz, and Super Ecran. So, if you’re interested in watching “Game of Thrones” or “The Last of Us,” Crave will be your streaming service of choice. It also features Crave Originals like “Master Liar” and “Black Ice.”
Is a free trial available for Crave TV in Canada? If you’re a new user, you can get a 7-day Crave trial period if you want to test the service out before committing to a subscription. You can also cancel if you want before the subscription kicks in.
Is a VPN needed to access Crave TV in Canada? No. Crave TV is available in Canada. However, in case you’re outside Canadian borders, you’d need a VPN to access Crave since it’s a Canada-exclusive service,.
Paramount Plus Canada – Best For Original Series & Live Sports
Paramount Plus is basically the rebranded CBS All Access. It was launched in March 2021. It features content from a range of networks and productions including Paramount Pictures, CBS, MTV, and Comedy Central, all of which are owned by parent company, Paramount Global (formerly, ViacomCBS).
Where is Paramount Plus available? Paramount Plus is available in Canada. The streaming service is currently available in just 28 countries in North and South America, Europe, and Oceania.
What are the Paramount Plus subscription plans and prices in Canada? Paramount Plus is available for $9.99 CAD/month. This gives you access to its entire library. You can also go for a premium bundle that includes SHOWTIME content for $11.99 CAD/month.
What supported devices can you use to access Paramount Plus ? The streaming service can be accessed through media players like Firestick, Roku, smart TVs, and Android and iOS mobile devices.
What content and exclusives are available on Paramount Plus? Paramount Plus’ catalog of exclusive and original content draws from its corporate siblings. Aside from the networks listed above, the service also features content from Nickelodeon and the Smithsonian. Franchises like “Star Trek,” “The Twilight Zone,” and SpongeBob SquarePants” are exclusive to Paramount Plus.
Aside from these, the service also gives access to live sporting events like NFL games, NCAA basketball, and the Masters. With the SHOWTIME bundle you can view exclusives like “Yellowjackets” and “Dexter.”
Is a free trial available for Paramount Plus in Canada? Paramount Plus offers a 7 days free-trial when signing up. You can cancel your account any time.
Is a VPN needed to access Paramount Plus in Canada? No. It’s available in Canada. If you happen to be anywhere outside the 28 countries that Paramount Plus currently serves, you will need a VPN to access Paramount Plus.
Amazon Prime Video Canada – Most Versatile Streaming Service
Amazon Prime Video is Amazon’s video streaming service. It is part of Amazon Prime – Amazon’s subscription service that includes benefits like express shipping, e-book access, and other content like Amazon Music Prime, Prime Gaming, and Twitch. Fun fact: Prime Video pre-dates Netflix, starting out as Amazon Unbox in the US back in 2006.
Where is Amazon Prime Video available? Prime Video is available in Canada. It is available in over 200 countries with the exception of countries like Mainland China, Russia, and North Korea.
What are the Amazon Prime Video subscription plans and prices in Canada?
- Monthly: $9.99 CAD/month
- Annual: $99.00 CAD/year
What supported devices can you use to access Amazon Prime Video? You can stream Prime Video content on a variety of devices. They are natively supported in Amazon devices Fire and Firestick. You can access it through the apps on Android and iOS mobile devices, Samsung, Sony, and LG smart TV devices. You can also use the Xbox and PlayStation.
What content and exclusives are available on Amazon Prime Video? Amazon has several acclaimed originals like “The Marvelous Mrs Maisel,” “The Man in the High Castle,” and “Jack Ryan.” With Amazon’s acquisition of the MGM film catalog, Prime Video’s catalog has been bolstered by franchises like “The Lord of the Rings“, “James Bond” and “Robocop.” You’d probably want to subscribe to view these “new classic” movies.
Is a free trial available for Amazon Prime Video in Canada? New users can get a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime. You need a valid credit card to avail of the free trial. There’s a bit of bad news for Quebec residents, you guys aren’t eligible for a free trial. However, you do get a full month free when signing up to either a monthly or annual membership.
Is a VPN needed to access Amazon Prime in Canada? No. It’s available in Canada.
Disney Plus Canada – Best For Star Wars & MCU Fans
Disney Plus is Disney’s own streaming service. Aside from its own intellectual properties, Disney now owns many large franchises including Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars, and National Geographic. Previously, many of its films and content were available on other services like Netflix. Since its launch in 2019, Disney has reined in all its properties to be part of Disney Plus’ catalog.
Where is Disney Plus available? Disney Plus is currently available in more than 100 countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. It is available in Canada where the service launched simultaneously with the US market.
What are the Disney Plus subscription plans and prices in Canada? Canadian subscribers can avail of the following subscription options:
- Monthly: $11.99 CAD/month
- Annual: $119.99 CAD/month
What supported devices can you use to access Disney Plus ? Disney Plus does support a wide variety of mobile devices including access through the official Android and iOS apps . You can also access it through the web browser on PC and Mac. However, you can’t access it through TV web browsers, and for devices like game consoles and media boxes, availability of the official app can be dependent on the country or region.
What content and exclusives are available on Disney Plus? All of Disney’s movies and shows are available on Disney Plus. The entire Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and Star Wars are also part of its catalog. The service also features various spin-off and derivative series from these franchises like “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” and “The Mandalorian.”
Is a free trial available for Disney Plus in Canada? Disney Plus doesn’t have a trial period or free trial.
Is a VPN needed to access Disney Plus in Canada? No. A VPN is not needed to access Disney Plus in Canada since it serves the territory.
Hulu Canada – Best For All-Round Entertainment
Hulu is a streaming service that’s exclusive to the United States. It was launched in 2008 as a joint venture among several companies including Disney, Comcast, and AT&T. Its catalog features TV shows, films, documentaries, and select original programming. Many of the shows in Hulu’s catalog come from networks like NBC, ABC, Fox, and FX.
Where is Hulu available? Hulu is only available in the US.
Is a VPN needed to access Hulu in Canada? Since the service is not available elsewhere outside of the US, you will need a VPN service to access Hulu in Canada.
What are the Hulu subscription plans and prices? Hulu has several plan options available:
- Hulu (Ad-supported): $7.99 US/month
- Hulu (No Ads): $14/99 US/month
- Hulu (Ad-supported) + Live TV, Disney+ (Ad-supported), and ESPN+ (Ad-supported): $69.99 US/month
- Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV, Disney+ (No Ads), and ESPN+ (Ad-supported): $82.99 US/month
What supported devices can you use to access Hulu? Hulu can be accessed through web browsers, Android, iOS, and Amazon mobile devices, smart TV, media players, and gaming consoles (Xbox and Nintendo Switch).
What content and exclusives are available on Hulu? Many of Hulu’s catalog overlap with the other streaming services, so you can opt to skip trying to access Hulu in Canada. However, there are Hulu originals like “Veronica Mars” (2014 film), “Only Murders in the Building,” “Wu-Tang: An American Saga,” and Ontario-focused “Letterkenny.”
Is a free trial available for Hulu in Canada? No.
HBO Max Canada – Premium Streaming Platform
HBO Max is a premium subscription service by cable network HBO. It is owned by WarnerMedia and it offers access to a wide range of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and original content. It was launched in May 2020.
Where is HBO Max available? HBO Max is only available in the United States and select Latin American and European countries. It is not available in Canada. Its catalog, however, can be accessed through Crave TV.
Is a VPN needed to access HBO Max in Canada? If you insist on accessing the service in Canada, then yes. You will need a VPN to access it. However, since its catalog is available through Crave, you can avoid any complications and just get a subscription to Crave instead.
What are the HBO Max subscription plans and prices? HBO Max offers the following plans:
- With Ads (Monthly): $9.99 US
- With Ads (Annual): $99.99 US
- Ad-Free (Monthly): $15.99 US
- Ad-Free (Annual): $149.99 US
In Canada, accessing HBO programs through Crave costs $19.99 CAD/month + tax.
What supported devices can you use to access HBO Max? HBO Max can be accessed through PCs and Macs through the official website via web browsers, Android devices, iOS, and Amazon mobile devices, media players like Chromecast and Roku, and gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation.
What content and exclusives are available on HBO Max? HBO Max provides access to the entire HBO library of Originals including recent releases like “Barry,” “The White Lotus,” and “Rain Dogs.” HBO’s critically-acclaimed series like “Band of Brothers,” “The Wire,” and “Chernobyl” can also be revisited on the service. HBO Max also makes available films and series like “Creed,” “South Park,” and “Young Sheldon.”
Is a free trial available for HBO Max in Canada? No. In the US, there are also no free trial periods for HBO Max.
Apple TV Canada – For Fans Who Love Apple Originals Series
Apple’s initial foray into video streaming came in the form of the Apple TV – a digital media player. It’s a device Apple fans used to hook up to a TV. It gave access to various apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. Eventually, Apple came out with its own video-on-demand service – Apple TV+ in late 2019.
Where is Apple TV Plus available? Apple TV+ is available in over 100 countries including Canada.
What are the Apple TV Plus subscription plans and prices in Canada? Apple TV+ can be availed through the following plans:
- Stand-alone Subscription: $8.99 CAD/month
- Individual Apple One Subscription: $18.95/month
What supported devices can you use to access Apple TV Plus ? You can readily access Apple TV+ on Apple devices like the Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Apple has long been criticized for keeping its lineup of devices and services as part of a closed ecosystem. Unfortunately, this trend continues and there aren’t official Windows or Android apps. But, you can still access the service through web browser.
What content and exclusives are available on Apple TV Plus? Apple TV actually boasts of a strong lineup of original content and exclusives including “Ted Lasso,” “Shrinking,” and “The Problem with Jon Stewart.”
Is a free trial available for Apple TV Plus in Canada? You can try Apple TV+ in Canada through a variety of ways. You can get access to the service for three months free when purchasing an Apple device. You can also avail of a 7-day free trial. Apply TV+ also offers a free 1-month trial when availing of Apple One which is a bundle of Apple services including iCloud, Music, and Arcade.
Is a VPN needed to access Apple TV Plus in Canada? There’s no need for VPN access since Apple TV+ is available to Canadians.
Pluto TV Canada – Best Free Streaming Service
Pluto TV is among the best free streaming services in Canada. It is available as an ad-supported service that gives its users access to a variety of live TV channels, films, and TV shows. It was launched in Canada in 2020 by ViacomCBS (now Paramount Global). Pluto TV licenses its content from providers, allowing it to feature over 250 channels. It has an active user base of nearly 80 million viewers monthly.
Where is Pluto TV available? Pluto TV serves the United States, Canada, Latin America, and Europe.
What are the Pluto TV subscription plans and prices in Canada? Just about anyone in the supported regions can get get free access to the service. So, plans and prices do not apply. If you want access to premium Paramount content, you can avail of a Paramount Plus subscription.
What supported devices can you use to access Pluto TV? Pluto TV can be accessed through web browsers and its official mobile apps for iOS and Android.
What content and exclusives are available on Pluto TV? Since Pluto TV is free and just licenses its content from providers, it doesn’t have exclusives and originals. However, now that Paramount owns it, it does promote Paramount content.
Is a free trial available for Pluto TV in Canada? It’s not even a trial. Pluto TV is free.
Is a VPN needed to access Pluto TV in Canada? There’s no need for a VPN to access. However, if you’re traveling and want to access it outside of Canada, then yes. You will need a VPN to access Pluto TV from outside the country.
StackTV – Best For Streaming Soap Operas & Home Content
StackTV is a content bundle that is available to through the Amazon Prime streaming platform and cable TV providers like Ignite TV and Fubo TV. It offers content from a various TV channels and networks like the Food Network, HGTV, and the History Channel. It was initially launched in the country in 2019 by Canadian media and entertainment venture, Corus Entertainment.
Where is StackTV available? The StackTV bundle is available only in Canada.
What are the StackTV subscription plans and prices in Canada? The package is available through an Amazon Prime membership. So, you have to pay $12.99 CAD/month on top of the $9.99 CAD/month Amazon Prime subscription.
What supported devices can you use to access StackTV? It works on any device that supports Amazon Prime Video including Amazon Fire and Firestick, Android and iOS apps for mobile devices, Samsung, Sony, and LG smart TV devices, and the Xbox and PlayStation game consoles.
What content and exclusives are available on StackTV? The StackTV bundle gives you access to a 16-network package that includes The History Channel, Adult Swim, Slice, Cartoon Network, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, W Channel, Disney XD, HGTV, Food Network, Global, Showcase, National Geographic, Treehouse, YTV, and Lifetime. StackTV allows you to watch these channels live through the service. So, if you like watching your soap operas, food, and home content, StackTV is a must-have add-on to your Amazon Prime subscription.
Is a free trial available for StackTV in Canada? There’s a 30-day free trial through Amazon Prime Video.
Is a VPN needed to access StackTV in Canada? No. You don’t need a VPN to access Stack TV while inside Canada. Outside Canadian borders, however, the content is geo-restricted. So, if you’re traveling or staying elsewhere, you will need a VPN to access StackTV content.
BritBox Canada – Watch Your Favorite British Shows
BritBox is a subscription-based streaming service that provides access to British TV shows, films, and documentaries. It was launched in Canada in 2018 and is owned by a joint subsidiary of British media outfits BBC and ITV.
Where is BritBox available? BritBox is available in Canada. It is also available in the UK, the US, Australia, South Africa, and Scandinavia. Interestingly, a Canadian or US subscription can be used to access in either region though the content catalog may change depending on where you access the streaming platform.
What are the BritBox subscription plans and prices in Canada? BritBox offers monthly and annual subscriptions with the following rates but may be subject to taxes depending on where you are in Canada:
- Monthly: $9.99 CAD/month
- Annual: $99.99 CAD/month
Canadian users with an Amazon Prime Video accounts can also purchase BritBox as an add-on channel.
What supported devices can you use to access BritBox? You can use web browsers and streaming devices to watch on BritBox. It supports Android TV, Apple TV, Fetch, Fire TV, and Roku. For smart TV, it only supports Samsung, LG, and Hisense devices. For mobile, BritBox apps are available for Android and iOS devices. You can also download content through the app for offline viewing.
What content and exclusives are available on BritBox? BritBox offers popular BBC and ITV shows and titles like “Doctor Who,” “Downton Abbey,” and “Broadchurch.” Original programs like “The Beast Must Die” and “The Mallorca Files” are also available for access.
Is a free trial available for BritBox in Canada? A 7-day free trial is available for those interested in trying out BritBox.
Is a VPN needed to access BritBox in Canada? Since it is available to subscribers in Canada, you don’t have to use a VPN to access BritBox. However, if you’d like to sample content catalog like the one for US subscribers, you can use a VPN service to change your location.
Fubo TV Canada – Best For Soccer Fans
Fubo TV is a streaming platform that provides access to live TV channels, and on-demand TV shows and movies. It was launched initially as a sports streaming platform back in 2015 but has since expanded to offer news, entertainment, and lifestyle content.
Where is Fubo TV available? Fubo is available in Canada, the US and US territories, and Spain.
What are the Fubo TV subscription plans and prices in Canada? Fubo TV offers the following plans and prices:
- Essentials Monthly: $24.99 CAD/month
- Essentials Quarterly: $19.99 CAD/month
- Essentials Annual: $16.67 CAD/month
- Premium Monthly: $39.99 CAD/month
- Premium Quarterly: $34.99 CAD/month
- Premium Annual: $31.67 CAD/month
The Essentials tier provides access to 52 channels while the Premium tier allows you to watch 76 channels including entertainment and lifestyle channels like HGTV and Disney.
What supported devices can you use to access Fubo TV? Fubo TV is available as an app on iOS and Android mobile devices and on media streaming devices like Amazon FireTV, Roku, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast.
What content and exclusives are available on Fubo TV? Fubo TV’s Premium plans seem to be quite expensive but you have to consider the content you’re getting in return. Its catalog includes popular channels include CBC, beIN Sports, HGTV, CuriosityStream (available on-demand), and even the entire StackTV bundle. If you’re a football (soccer) fan, then Fubo TV is a must since it gives you access to watch the top European leagues including the Premier League, Serie A, and Ligue 1.
Is a free trial available for Fubo TV in Canada? No. Unfortunately, Fubo TV doesn’t offer any free trials for Canadian viewers.
Is a VPN needed to access Fubo TV in Canada? No need to. Fubo TV is available in Canada.
Peacock TV Canada – A Complete Package
Peacock TV is a subscription-based streaming platform owned by NBCUniversal. It features TV shows, movies, live sports, and news. It was launch in 2020 in the United States. Its catalog includes content from networks and production companies like NBC, Syfy, USA Network, and Universal Pictures.
Where is Peacock TV available? Peacock TV is not available in Canada. It’s only available in the United States, the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.
What are the Peacock TV subscription plans and prices? In the US, Peacock TV plans are as follows:
- Premium (Monthly): $4.99 US
- Premium (Annual): $49.99 US
- Premium Plus (Monthly): $9.99 US
- Premium Plus (Annual): $9.99 US
The Premium Plus plan doesn’t have ads and provides a feature to download videos for offline viewing functionality.
What supported devices can you use to access Peacock TV? Peacock TV supports web browsers, mobile devices (Android and iOS), media players (Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast) and smart TV operating systems (LG, Hisense, and Samsung) and gaming consoles (PlayStation 4 and 5 and Xbox One and newer).
What content and exclusives are available on Peacock TV? Peacock TV features plenty of the popular US TV shows over the past decades. NBC has been widely praised for its sitcoms like “30 Rock,” “The Office,” and Parks and Recreation.” Though interestingly, you won’t find “Friends” and “Seinfeld” on Peacock TV even if they originally aired on NBC due to licensing issues. Like other streaming platforms, Peacock TV now also features originals like “Mrs. Davis,” “Poker Face,” and “Bel-Air.“
Is a free trial available for Peacock TV? Peacock TV Premium offers a 7-day free trial.
Is a VPN needed to access Peacock TV in Canada? Yes. Peacock TV is a US-only streaming service. If you want to use it, you will have to use a VPN service to work around the geo-restrictions. Or, you can find which Canadian streaming service carries a particular show or series you’d want to watch and subscribe there.
Hayu Canada – Best For Folks Who Love Reality TV Shows
If you are a huge fan of reality TV shows, then you might want to get a Hayu subscription. Hayu is a streaming platform that features reality TV shows from the United States and the United Kingdom. It was launched in 2016 and is owned by NBCUniversal.
Where is Hayu available? Hayu is available in Canada. It’s meant to be used by viewers outside the United States. It largely serves Europe but is also available for some Asia-Pacific territories.
What are the Hayu subscription plans and prices in Canada? Hayu offers the following rolling plans for Canadian subscribers:
- Monthly: $6.99 CAD/month (+ applicable taxes)
- 6 Months: $33.99 CAD (+ applicable taxes)
- 12 Months: $61.99 CAD (+ applicable taxes)
What supported devices can you use to access Hayu? Hayu can be accessed through mobile phones and tablets (iOS and Android), media players (Chromecast, Roku), and smart TV (Samsung and LG).
What content and exclusives are available on Hayu ? Hayu features 100 percent reality TV. While they’re not exclusive to Hayu, this is where you can easily access franchises like”The Real Housewives,” “Below Deck,” “Top Chef” and “The Kardashians.”
Is a free trial available for Hayu in Canada? A 7-day free trial is available which auto-renews to a 12-month rolling subscription. So, be careful and cancel if you don’t want to be billed with an annual subscription.
Is a VPN needed to access Hayu in Canada? No. There’s no need for a VPN since it’s available for Canadian users.
Acorn TV Canada – Beyond Your Regular Streaming Service
Acorn TV features TV series, movies, and documentaries from the UK, Ireland, Canada, and Australia. It was launched in 2011 and is owned by AMC networks.
Where is Acorn TV available? Acorn TV is available in Canada though some licensing issues may limit some of the shows available to Canadian users. The streaming service is also available in the US, the UK, and Australia.
What are the Acorn TV subscription plans and prices in Canada? Canadians will have to pay $8.99 CAD/month plus applicable taxes to avail of Acorn TV.
What supported devices can you use to access Acorn TV ? You can use media players (Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, and Chromecast), smart TV (Samsung) and mobile devices (Android and iOS). You can also use a PC or Mac to access Acorn TV through a web browser.
What content and exclusives are available on Acorn TV ? Acorn TV should be able to give you your dose of British mysteries, dramas, and comedies. You can stream hit series like “Midsomer Murders,” “Foyle’s War, and “Line of Duty” through the service. There are also some exclusives like “Queens of Mystery” and “My Life is Murder.” BritBox does have a wider catalog of UK content compared to what Acorn TV offers. So, you might want to ask if that extra dollar in subscription costs will be worth it. Some shows on Acorn TV can also be seen on other streaming platforms like Netflix.
Is a free trial available for Acorn TV in Canada? Yes. You can get a free 7-day trial when you sign up as a new customer. After the trial period, you will be billed a monthly subscription, but you can cancel before you trial is up.
Is a VPN needed to access Acorn TV in Canada? No. Acorn TV is available for Canadian users.
Shudder Canada – Best For Streamers Who Love Horror, Thrill & Mystery
If you’re a fan of horror movies and series, then you should consider subscribing to Shudder Canada. It’s a streaming service that focuses on thrillers and suspense content. It was launched in 2016 and is owned by AMC Networks.
Where is Shudder available? Shudder is available in Canada. It is also available in the US, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. There are, however, plans to expand the services more globally.
What are the Shudder subscription plans and prices in Canada? Shudder subscriptions are available in monthly and yearly plans:
- Monthly: $5.99 US/month (adjusted to CAD based on payment method)
- Annual: $56.99 US/year (adjusted to CAD based on payment method)
You can also get Shudder through Amazon Prime Video.
What supported devices can you use to access Shudder? Shudder supports mobile devices (iOS and Android), media players (Amazon Fire, Apple TV, and Roku), and Xbox One and Series X/S. If you are accessing Shudder through Prime Video, you should be able to use any device that is supported by the Amazon service.
What content and exclusives are available on Shudder? Shudder hosts classic horror films like “Halloween,” “Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” and “The Exorcist.” It also features exclusive content and original programs like “Creepshow” (a continuation of the 1982 anthology film directed by George Romero and written by Stephen King) and “Cursed Films” (a documentary series focusing on the unfortunate circumstances that transpired in the making of some iconic horror films).
Is a free trial available for Shudder in Canada? Yes. There’s a 7-day trial period where you can enjoy Shudder’s entire library ad-free and unlimited.
Is a VPN needed to access Shudder in Canada? No. It’s available for Canadian subscribers.
ESPN+ Canada – Most Popular Sports Streaming Platform
ESPN+ is one of the sports streaming services that gives you access to a variety of live sporting events and on-demand programs. It was launched in 2018 by sports network ESPN which is owned by Disney. Its catalog includes hockey, boxing, college sports, mixed martial arts, football (soccer) and various sports-oriented studio shows. It also features sports documentaries.
Where is ESPN+ available? ESPN+ is not available in Canada. It is only available in the United States through local providers.
What are the ESPN+ subscription plans and prices? In the US, subscribers can get ESPN+ through the following plans:
- Monthly: $9.99 US
- Annual: $99.99 US
Bundles with other Disney content are also available. For example, Hulu offers a Disney+ and ESPN+ bundles.
What supported devices can you use to access ESPN+ ? You can use your mobile phone or tablet and install the iOS or Android ESPN+ app to watch the available content on the platform. You can also use Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, Chromecast, and Roku devices. Gaming consoles like the PlayStation 4/5 and Xbox One and Series X/S also have ESPN+ apps that you can use.
What content and exclusives are available on ESPN+? ESPN+ features live games from major sports leagues like the NHL, NFL, and MLB. It covers some of the football (soccer) leagues not shown on Fubo TV like the La Liga, Bundesliga, and the MLS. You’ll also be able to watch special live events like boxing matches and the UFC. ESPN also has a catalog of studio programs, series, films, and documentaries such as “Detail” featuring the late Kobe Bryant and “30 for 30.”
Is a free trial available for ESPN+? No. ESPN+ doesn’t offer a free trial.
Is a VPN needed to access ESPN+ in Canada? Yes. Since ESPN+ is a US-only streaming service, you will need a premium VPN to bypass geo-blocking.
Tubi Canada – Free with an Extensive Content Library
Tubi Canada is a free streaming service that features films and TV shows. Its catalog includes over 40,000 films and TV series from provides like Disney, MGM, Paramount, and Lionsgate. It is owned by Fox. It was first made available in Canada in 2015 through Blue Ant Media.
Where is Tubi available? Tubi is available in Canada. It also available in the US, select Latin American countries, Australia, and New Zealand. It used to be available in Europe but the service stopped support in light of the GDPR. It has yet to resume availability in the EU.
What are the Tubi subscription plans and prices? Watching content on Tubi is free. However, they are ad-supported.
What supported devices can you use to access Tubi? Tubi is available on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Chromecast, PlayStation, and Xbox. It can also be accessed over web browsers. Since it’s a free service, there are some limitations. Content streams at lower resolutions like 540p and 720p. Most paid services offer at least Full HD or 1080p resolution as minimum quality.
What content and exclusives are available on Tubi? Tubi’s catalog is extensive though if you’re looking for blockbusters, you’re better off looking elsewhere. If you like trawling through lesser-known shows and B-movies, Tubi does offer a lot of those. Still, you can chance upon some gems and classic films if they’re made available. It also features anime and adult comedy titles. It does feature some original programming like “Kitchen Commando” and “The Freak Brothers.”
Is a free trial available for Tubi in Canada? Tubi is free so there’s no need for a free trial or subscription.
Is a VPN needed to access Tubi in Canada? No. Tubi can be freely accessed in Canada.
SonyLIV Canada – Best For Watching Raw & Authentic Indian Content
SonyLIV is a subscription-based streaming service. It is owned by Sony and was launched in 2013 as a pioneering over-the-internet (OTT) video streaming service. SonyLIV features a content catalog of movies and shows produced by Sony, Indian shows, select Hollywood blockbusters, and sports like football, cricket, and WWE.
Where is SonyLIV available? SonyLIV is available in Canada. It is also mainly available in South Asia, Asia-Pacific, and Europe.
What are the SonyLIV subscription plans and prices? SonyLIV subscriptions plans are as follows:
- Mobile Only: ₹599/year or $9.70 CAD
- LIV Premium Monthly: ₹299 or $4.90 CAD
- LIV Premium Six Months: ₹699 or $11.40 CAD
- LIV Premium Annual: ₹999 or $16.30 CAD
Premium users can also download videos to watch them offline.
What supported devices can you use to access SonyLIV? SonyLIV can be accessed through iOS and Android smartphone and tablets, Android TV and Sony smart TV.
What content and exclusives are available on SonyLIV? SonyLIV’s catalog is mainly composed of content oriented towards the Indian market. It does have a selection of originals like “Scam 1992,” “Your Honor,” and “Undekhi.”
Is a VPN needed to access SonyLIV in Canada? No. SonyLIV can be accessed directly through web browsers or its respective Android or iOS app.
Voot Canada – Best For Indian Audiences
Voot is an Indian streaming service run by Viacom 18, a joint venture between Paramount Global and Network18. The platform features TV shows, movies, and streams of live sports.
Where is Voot available? Voot is not available in Canada. It is only available in India.
Is a VPN needed to access Voot in Canada? Yes. Access to Voot is restricted. Using it outside India requires viewers to use a VPN service.
What are the Voot subscription plans and prices? Voot offers the following yearly subscriptions:
- Mobile Only: ₹299/year or $4.90 CAD
- Gold: ₹499 or $8.15 CAD
- Platinum: ₹699 or $11.40 CAD
What supported devices can you use to access Voot? Voot can be installed on streaming devices via Google Play, the Apple Store and Amazon Fire TV.
What content and exclusives are available on Voot? Much like SonyLIV, Voot’s catalog includes content for Indian audiences. Popular shows like “Bigg Boss,” “Khatron Ke Khiladi,” and “Naagin,” and original programming like “Asur,” “The Raikar Case,” and “Illegal” are available through the platform. However, it also features content from the Paramount group.
Is a free trial available for Voot? Voot does offer free trials to new users and can be variable depending on related promotions and offers.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions when it comes to the best streaming services in Canada:
What is best streaming service in Canada?
Figuring out which streaming service is the best in Canada is a tricky. It’s better to actually think about it in terms of “What is the best streaming service for you?”
There are several factors you can consider to find out which streaming platform will fit your interests and circumstances.
- Content catalog – Does the streaming platform’s catalog include the content that you like?
- Supported devices – Are your devices supported? On how many devices can you access the service?
- Downloading and offline viewing – This feature allows you to store videos on your device for later viewing. This way, you can save your mobile data and still enjoy watching videos even when on the go or when you don’t have access to a Wi-Fi connection.
- Cost – How much will a subscription cost you? Can you share your account with others? Are bundles available? You can save with bundling instead of subscribing piece meal.
By knowing which service meets your needs and wants, you can then pick the best service for you.
Would you need a VPN to access some streaming platforms?
Some of these services are not directly available in Canada yet. For example, if you want to access Hulu, ESPN+, SonyLIV, and Voot, which are streaming services not available in Canada, you will need to access them through a VPN to go around geo-blocking and restrictions. In addition, content catalogs may vary from one territory to another. By using a VPN, you can mask your location and access catalogs for another country and enjoy new and unique content.
How can I watch live TV without cable in Canada?
Cable has slowly become a thing of the past especially with the emergence of streaming and digital TV. The best streaming services in Canada offer live TV like news and sporting events.
Are there best free streaming services in Canada?
Not all streaming services require you to pay for subscriptions. This list included, ad-supported streaming services that you can access for free. Pluto and Tubi (alongside the usual services like YouTube, Dailymotion, and Vimeo) are perhaps the best free streaming services you can use to watch videos in Canada today.
All the Content That You Can Watch
As you may have noticed, the streaming landscape has changed globally. Even in Canada, you’re not restricted in what streaming services or platforms you have access to. Whether you’re a fan of TV series, films, sports, or documentaries, it’s easy to find a platform that caters to your interests.
Netflix may be the most popular service globally but Crave, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus, and others are giving it a run for its money. Each service has its unique features and content. Choosing the best one for you may depend on your individual preferences, budget, and viewing habits.
The good news, given all this competition, is that prices, content, and availability are becoming more accessible and widespread. Ultimately, with so many choices available, finding the perfect streaming service that suits your needs is now easier than ever before.
