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There's water everywhere, but nothing to drink. That’s what it often feels like in the current video streaming ecosystem. Dozens of subscription services offer near-infinite content, but analysis paralysis prevents us from making a quick decision. I only have so much free time per day, and I already know I love Seinfeld.
The various video streaming services have carved out distinct identities, so you generally know what to expect upon signing up. Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max serve everyone. Peacock has an excellent free tier. Crunchyroll dominates anime, while Disney+ has the latest Marvel and Star Wars shows. Still, those services gain (and lose) content all the time. You can read what’s coming and going on Netflix every month, but who wants to keep up with licensing deals to stay on top of their entertainment? Can somebody just tell us what to watch?
Enter video streaming guides. These useful middleman apps take the guesswork out of video streaming. They scour libraries across the streaming video landscape, and let you know what subscription you’ll need to watch whatever show or movie you’re seeking. These guides let you search for specific shows or browse by category, too. Creating an account opens the door to powerful features, such as personalized watchlists and the ability to link your existing streaming subscriptions so you only see content you can watch.
Not only are these tools convenient, but the information they provide helps you make sure that you’re only subscribing to the services that satisfy your entertainment needs. Efficient video streaming guides serve a vital role in helping you manage paid subscriptions and stick to a video streaming budget.
These video streaming guides, available on the web and as free mobile apps, are for on-demand services that let you watch whatever you want, whenever you want. For live TV streaming services, you’ll need something a different. We recommend The Streamable’s Matchmaker tool. It lets you browse through specific channels, like regional sports channels. It also helps you find the cheapest plan in the notoriously pricey live TV subscription category.
Ready to find something new or familiar to watch? Check out top picks for video streaming guides.
JustWatch
JustWatch compiles a number of useful streaming search tools in one convenient location. With it, you can create a unified watchlist across different services, or use the app to directly launch your desired service. Your account gives you personalized recommendations, so you don’t need to rely on any other algorithms to find your next favorite show. JustWatch also now helps you figure out how to stream sports like football, soccer, and eventually even esports. JustWatch is the only service we've tested with a premium version. For $2.49 per month, JustWatch Pro removes ads and enhances the filtering options.
Queue turns the process of deciding your next streaming obsession into an entertaining game in its own right. First, you browse the top trending titles on leading services, such as Netflix and Prime Video, and even what’s currently playing in movie theaters. Then, you create your queue and see what your friends are watching. Most intriguing, as you interact with the community, you’ll unlock achievement badges, Snapchat lenses, and other nifty social perks to keep you hooked.
Reelgood
Reelgood lets you track any shows you’re interested in viewing, which comes in handy as content drifts between different services. In a nice touch, you can receive alerts when tracked movies pop up on new services. Integrated IMDb scores let you know what to expect when it comes to quality. Even better, Reelgood lets multiple users compare their preferences, so they can discover something that everyone can enjoy.
TV Guide
Back in the day, you turned to TV Guide when you needed to know what to watch and where, way before streaming services made their debuts. Now, the free TV Guide app and site continue the legacy by letting you track your favorite shows on streaming services or live TV. You can also watch trailers to see what’s coming up next.
TV Time
TV Time has features you expect from a streaming video guide. You can search for episodes, get notified about new additions, and create watchlists based on personal recommendations. But TV Time also has cool community features that let you share your opinions with millions of other viewers via emojis and chat comments.
Watchworthy
Watchworthy takes an especially analytical approach to its entertainment recommendations. It pairs you with shows and movies that not only fit your overall taste, but also suit your particular mood. The app states that it only needs a minute to accurately predict your next favorite show. Alternatively, you can go with the crowd by browsing trending shows and comparing watchlists with friends.
Keep Watching
For more on streaming video, check out 5 Reasons You Should Ditch Netflix and Keep Cable. In addition, you should read how Streaming Video Services Usher In a Golden Age of Trash TV.
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