Top Streaming Platform of the Year: Tech Advisor’s Choice 2025-26

Choosing a streaming service can be a challenging decision. It’s not just about the new shows available but also about the existing content, streaming quality, features, interface, and price. When recommending a platform, all these factors are carefully considered. To explore our top recommendations, check out our comprehensive streaming platform guide, which includes options like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max.

Our selection for the streaming service of the year takes into account price, features, programming, and more, as well as a detailed assessment of the quality and value of the shows launched during the year.

Best Streaming Service of the Year – Winner: Disney+

Disney+ has shown consistent improvement year after year, despite price increases that were common across most services this year.

In the UK, Disney+ includes shows from the Hulu library as part of its standard offering. American viewers can access both services in a bundle, with options for add-ons like ESPN+ and HBO Max.

Some of Disney+’s notable releases this year include Andor season 2, Alien: Earth, Only Murders in the Building season 5, Daredevil: Born Again, Deli Boys, Paradise, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, and The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. With a vast library of series for all ages, including titles like Malcolm in the Middle, Bluey, and The Simpsons, along with content from the MCU, Star Wars, and Pixar, Disney+ offers a compelling lineup.

Disney+ subscription plans start at £5.99/$11.99 for the Standard tier, with options for ad-free viewing and 4K content at higher price points.

For US viewers interested in Hulu, subscriptions start at $12.99 per month, with occasional discounts offered throughout the year.

Netflix, our first runner-up for the streaming service of the year, continues to be a popular choice for audiences, despite pricing changes. Recent hits like Adolescence, Squid Game season 3, and the final season of Stranger Things have kept viewers engaged.

Netflix subscription plans start at £5.99/$7.99 for the Standard tier, with the Premium tier offering 4K content at a higher cost.

Best Streaming Service of the Year – Second Runner-Up: Apple TV

Apple TV, formerly known as Apple TV+, has made significant strides this year with its original content lineup, earning it a spot as the second runner-up for 2025.

Notable shows on Apple TV include Severance season 2 and Slow Horses season 5, as well as new releases like The Studio and Pluribus. While Apple TV’s subscription price of £9.99/$10.99 per month is slightly higher than some competitors, it offers ad-free viewing and 4K streaming as standard.