Pricing and Subscription
When it comes to choosing between HBO GO and HBO NOW, one of the key considerations is the pricing and subscription options offered by each platform.
HBO GO is a streaming service that is usually included as part of a cable subscription package that includes HBO. This means that if you already have a cable subscription with HBO, you can simply log in to HBO GO with your cable provider credentials and access a wide range of HBO content at no additional cost.
On the other hand, HBO NOW is a standalone streaming service that does not require a cable subscription. This means that even if you don’t have a cable subscription, you can still enjoy all the HBO content by simply subscribing to HBO NOW.
Both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer similar pricing options. HBO GO is typically included as part of a cable subscription package, so you only need to pay for your cable subscription to access HBO GO. HBO NOW, on the other hand, requires a separate subscription and is priced at a monthly fee. The exact pricing may vary depending on your region, but generally, both services offer a comparable cost for accessing HBO content.
It’s worth noting that HBO GO and HBO NOW may occasionally offer special promotional deals or discounts, so be sure to check for any ongoing offers that may provide a more cost-effective option.
Overall, when it comes to pricing and subscription, HBO GO is a convenient choice for cable subscribers who already have access to HBO as part of their cable package. On the other hand, if you don’t have a cable subscription or prefer a standalone streaming service, HBO NOW offers a great option to access all the HBO content without the need for a cable subscription.
Access and Availability
When comparing HBO GO and HBO NOW, it’s important to consider the accessibility and availability of each platform.
HBO GO is primarily designed for cable subscribers who have HBO as part of their cable package. To access HBO GO, you need to log in with your cable provider credentials. This means that HBO GO is limited to those who already have a cable subscription that includes HBO.
HBO NOW, on the other hand, is available to a wider audience as it does not require a cable subscription. Whether you have cable or not, you can subscribe to HBO NOW and enjoy all the HBO content straight from your preferred device.
Both HBO GO and HBO NOW have made efforts to expand their availability. HBO GO can be accessed on multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. However, it’s important to note that the availability of HBO GO may depend on your cable provider and your geographical location.
HBO NOW, being a standalone streaming service, offers more availability options. It is compatible with popular streaming devices, including Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast. Additionally, HBO NOW is accessible on smartphones, tablets, and web browsers. This means that you can stream HBO NOW content on a wide range of devices without the need for a cable subscription.
In terms of international availability, HBO GO is typically only available in certain regions where HBO has distribution rights. HBO NOW, on the other hand, is available in the United States and select international markets, giving viewers outside of the U.S. the opportunity to access HBO content.
Overall, if you’re a cable subscriber and have access to HBO through your cable package, HBO GO is the more accessible option. However, if you’re looking for a standalone streaming service that can be accessed across a variety of devices, HBO NOW offers more flexibility and availability.
Content Selection
When it comes to the content selection, both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer a vast library of high-quality programming. However, there are a few key differences to be aware of.
Both platforms provide access to the extensive catalog of HBO original series, including critically acclaimed shows such as Game of Thrones, Westworld, and Succession. Additionally, both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer a wide range of movies, documentaries, comedy specials, and late-night talk shows.
One notable difference between the two platforms is that HBO GO may provide access to a larger library of content. This is because HBO GO includes both current and past seasons of HBO shows, allowing you to binge-watch full series from start to finish. On the other hand, HBO NOW may have limitations on accessing older seasons of shows, focusing more on current and recently aired episodes.
Another difference lies in the availability of live programming. HBO GO generally does not offer live streaming of HBO channels, as it primarily focuses on on-demand content. In contrast, HBO NOW may offer live streaming of HBO channels, allowing you to watch your favorite HBO shows and events as they air.
In terms of exclusive content, both HBO GO and HBO NOW provide access to HBO’s original series, movies, and specials. However, HBO NOW may occasionally offer exclusive content that is not available on HBO GO, providing additional exclusive programming options for subscribers.
It’s important to note that the availability of specific content may vary over time due to licensing agreements and programming changes. Certain shows or movies may come and go from the platforms, so it’s always recommended to check the current content lineup to see which platform offers the specific content you are interested in.
Overall, both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer a wide range of high-quality programming, with HBO GO potentially providing access to a larger library of content, including past seasons of shows. However, HBO NOW may offer the advantage of live streaming and occasional exclusive content not available on HBO GO.
Streaming Quality
When it comes to streaming services, the quality of the streaming experience is crucial for a satisfying viewing experience. Both HBO GO and HBO NOW aim to deliver high-quality streaming, but there are some factors to consider regarding the streaming quality.
HBO GO and HBO NOW both offer streaming in high definition (HD) quality, providing crisp and clear visuals for a superior viewing experience. However, the streaming quality may also depend on factors such as your internet connection and the device you are using to stream.
Both platforms require a reliable internet connection to ensure smooth playback. For optimal streaming quality, a high-speed internet connection is recommended. Slower internet connections may result in buffering and lower quality streaming, affecting the overall viewing experience.
The streaming quality may also vary depending on the device you are using. Most modern devices, including smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, and smart TVs, are capable of streaming in HD quality. However, older devices or those with limited processing power may have limitations in terms of the streaming quality they can deliver.
It’s worth noting that both HBO GO and HBO NOW adjust the streaming quality based on your internet connection and device capabilities. They use adaptive streaming technology to optimize the quality to match your specific circumstances, ensuring smooth playback even in varying network conditions.
Additionally, both platforms provide the option to adjust the streaming quality manually. This can be useful if you have limited internet bandwidth or want to conserve data usage. By accessing the settings or preferences in the platform’s interface, you can choose a lower streaming quality to prioritize a stable connection or reduce data consumption.
Overall, both HBO GO and HBO NOW are committed to providing a high-quality streaming experience. The streaming quality primarily depends on your internet connection and the capabilities of the device you are using. By ensuring a reliable internet connection and using modern, capable devices, you can enjoy the content on both platforms in stunning high definition.
Simultaneous Streams
One important factor to consider when choosing between HBO GO and HBO NOW is the number of simultaneous streams allowed on each platform. Simultaneous streams refer to the number of devices on which you can stream content at the same time using a single subscription.
HBO GO typically allows for simultaneous streaming on multiple devices. The exact number of devices allowed to stream simultaneously may depend on your cable provider and their specific terms of service. However, it’s common for HBO GO to allow for at least three simultaneous streams.
HBO NOW, being a standalone streaming service, also offers simultaneous streaming on multiple devices. Like HBO GO, HBO NOW generally allows for multiple simultaneous streams, although the exact number may vary. Typically, you can expect to be able to stream on at least three devices simultaneously with an HBO NOW subscription.
It’s important to note that while HBO GO and HBO NOW both offer simultaneous streaming, the number of available streams may be limited by the platform’s terms of service and technical constraints. Additionally, simultaneous streaming may be affected by your internet connection and the capabilities of the devices you are using.
Another crucial aspect to consider is that HBO GO and HBO NOW may have different policies for sharing account credentials. While sharing account credentials with family or friends may seem convenient for simultaneous streaming, it’s essential to review the terms of service for each platform. Some platforms, including HBO GO and HBO NOW, have policies in place that restrict account sharing and may terminate accounts found in violation of these policies.
Overall, both HBO GO and HBO NOW allow for simultaneous streaming on multiple devices, usually with a minimum of three simultaneous streams. However, it’s important to comply with the platforms’ terms of service and be mindful of any restrictions or limitations on account sharing to ensure a seamless simultaneous streaming experience.
Device Compatibility
When it comes to accessing HBO content, device compatibility is an essential consideration. Both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer compatibility with a wide range of devices, allowing you to stream your favorite shows and movies on your preferred device.
HBO GO is compatible with numerous devices, including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and smart TVs. Whether you have an iPhone or Android device, an iPad or Android tablet, an Xbox or PlayStation, or popular streaming devices like Apple TV, Roku, or Google Chromecast, you can likely access HBO GO on your device of choice.
HBO NOW, being a standalone streaming service, also supports a wide range of devices. It is compatible with smartphones, tablets, web browsers, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and smart TVs. Similar to HBO GO, HBO NOW can be accessed on iOS and Android devices, as well as on popular streaming devices like Apple TV, Roku, and Google Chromecast.
It’s important to note that the availability of HBO GO and HBO NOW on specific devices may vary depending on your region and the agreements between HBO and the device manufacturers. Therefore, it’s always advisable to check the list of officially supported devices on the HBO GO and HBO NOW websites to ensure compatibility with your chosen device.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the device specifications and capabilities when it comes to streaming quality and user experience. While both HBO GO and HBO NOW provide HD streaming, older or less powerful devices may have limitations and may not offer the same seamless streaming experience as newer, more capable devices.
Overall, both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer compatibility with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and smart TVs. However, it’s essential to check the official device compatibility list for each platform to ensure that your preferred device is supported and to consider the device’s specifications for optimal streaming quality and user experience.
Offline Viewing
Offline viewing is a feature that allows users to download content and watch it later without an internet connection. It’s a convenient option for those who want to enjoy their favorite shows and movies while on the go or in areas with limited or no internet access. Let’s explore the availability of offline viewing on HBO GO and HBO NOW.
HBO GO does not currently offer an official offline viewing feature. This means that you cannot download HBO GO content for offline viewing. To watch HBO GO content, you will need a stable internet connection to stream the content on your device.
However, HBO NOW does provide offline viewing capabilities. With HBO NOW, you can download select episodes, movies, and specials to your device for offline viewing. This feature allows you to watch your downloaded content even when you don’t have an internet connection. It’s a convenient option for long flights, road trips, or areas with limited internet connectivity.
It’s important to note that not all content on HBO NOW is available for offline viewing. The availability of the download option may depend on the licensing agreements with content providers. You can check the specific episodes, movies, or specials that are available for offline viewing within the HBO NOW app.
When using the offline viewing feature on HBO NOW, it’s essential to consider storage space on your device. Downloading content requires storage capacity, and the size of the downloaded files will vary depending on the quality and duration of the content. Ensure that your device has sufficient storage space to accommodate the downloaded content.
Overall, while HBO GO does not offer an offline viewing feature, HBO NOW provides the convenience of downloading select episodes, movies, and specials for offline viewing. This makes HBO NOW a suitable choice for those who want the flexibility to watch their favorite HBO content without an internet connection.
User Interface and Features
The user interface (UI) and features of a streaming service can greatly impact the overall user experience. Let’s take a look at the user interface and features offered by HBO GO and HBO NOW.
HBO GO provides a user-friendly interface with a clean and intuitive layout. The platform offers easy navigation through categories, making it simple to discover and access your favorite shows and movies. The user interface is typically designed to match the branding and aesthetic of the cable provider that offers HBO GO, ensuring a consistent and familiar experience for cable subscribers.
In terms of features, HBO GO allows users to create personalized watchlists. This feature enables you to save shows and movies to watch later, making it convenient to keep track of content you want to catch up on. Additionally, HBO GO provides recommendations based on your viewing history, helping you discover new content that matches your interests.
HBO NOW also offers a user-friendly interface that is similar to HBO GO. The platform provides easy navigation and categorization of content, allowing users to quickly find what they’re looking for. The UI is designed to deliver a seamless and enjoyable browsing experience.
As for features, HBO NOW includes personalized recommendations based on your viewing history and preferences. This feature helps you discover new shows and movies that you may enjoy. Additionally, HBO NOW offers the ability to create a watchlist, allowing you to save content for later viewing and easily access your favorite shows and movies.
Both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer a seamless viewing experience, allowing users to resume watching from where they left off across different devices. This continuity feature ensures that you can seamlessly transition from one device to another without losing your progress in a show or movie.
It’s important to note that user interfaces, features, and available options may vary slightly depending on the specific device or platform you are using to access HBO GO or HBO NOW. The functionality and layout may differ slightly between smartphones, tablets, streaming devices, or web browsers.
Overall, both HBO GO and HBO NOW provide user-friendly interfaces that offer easy navigation and convenient features like personalized recommendations and watchlists. The platforms prioritize a seamless viewing experience, allowing users to pick up where they left off and easily access their favorite shows and movies.
Advertisements
Advertisements are a common aspect of many streaming services, as they help support the cost of providing content to users. However, it’s important to consider the presence and frequency of advertisements when comparing HBO GO and HBO NOW.
HBO GO, as a streaming service that is typically included as part of a cable subscription, generally does not display traditional advertisements during the streaming experience. Cable subscribers who access HBO GO through their cable provider can enjoy their favorite HBO shows and movies without interruptions from third-party ads.
On the other hand, HBO NOW, being a standalone streaming service, may occasionally display promotional or marketing ads within the platform. These ads are typically for upcoming HBO shows, movies, or other related content. However, the frequency and duration of these ads may vary, and they are generally less intrusive compared to the advertisements found on free streaming platforms.
It’s important to note that the primary focus of both HBO GO and HBO NOW is delivering premium content to subscribers, rather than generating revenue through advertising. This means that the overall viewing experience is not heavily interrupted by ads, allowing viewers to enjoy their selected content with minimal disruptions.
Furthermore, both platforms strive to maintain a high-quality viewing experience by ensuring that commercials do not impact the integrity and flow of the episodes and movies. Any ads that are present are usually seamlessly integrated into the user interface, so they do not disrupt the storytelling or viewing experience.
It’s worth noting that while advertisements may be present on HBO NOW, the absence of ads on HBO GO can be seen as an advantage for cable subscribers who already pay for their HBO content through their cable provider. This allows cable subscribers to watch their favorite shows and movies without the annoyance of traditional commercials.
Overall, while HBO NOW may occasionally feature promotional ads within the platform, both HBO GO and HBO NOW prioritize the delivery of high-quality, ad-free content to subscribers. Whether you choose HBO GO or HBO NOW, you can expect a viewing experience free from excessive interruptions by third-party advertisements.
HBO Originals and Exclusives
One of the main draws of HBO GO and HBO NOW is the extensive catalog of HBO original series, movies, and exclusives. Let’s explore the range of content offerings and the exclusives available on both platforms.
Both HBO GO and HBO NOW provide access to a wide array of HBO original series. These highly acclaimed shows have gained popularity for their compelling storytelling, exceptional production values, and talented actors. From award-winning dramas like The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, and Westworld to critically acclaimed comedies like Veep, Silicon Valley, and Curb Your Enthusiasm, HBO offers a diverse range of original series across various genres.
In addition to original series, HBO also produces a selection of exclusive movies and specials. These include documentaries, comedy specials, and exclusive event programming. HBO GO and HBO NOW both offer the opportunity to watch exclusive interviews, live music performances, stand-up comedy specials, sports documentaries, and more.
HBO GO, being a service provided through cable subscriptions, typically offers a broader range of exclusive content. This is because cable subscribers who have access to HBO GO can enjoy a larger library of past seasons and content, including exclusive premieres and early access to new episodes.
However, HBO NOW also offers a considerable selection of HBO originals and exclusives. Subscribers can stream new episodes of current shows at the same time as they air on cable, ensuring that they don’t miss out on the latest episodes. Additionally, HBO NOW provides access to a range of exclusive movies and content, allowing subscribers to enjoy a wide variety of exclusive programming options.
It’s worth noting that HBO occasionally releases exclusive content on a specific platform. This means that certain shows or movies may only be available on either HBO GO or HBO NOW for a limited time before being released to the other platform.
Overall, both HBO GO and HBO NOW offer an impressive lineup of HBO original series, movies, and exclusives. While HBO GO may provide a larger library of past seasons and exclusive content for cable subscribers, HBO NOW ensures that non-cable subscribers can still access the latest episodes of current shows and a range of exclusive programming options.
Differences for Cable Subscribers
For cable subscribers, there are some significant differences between HBO GO and HBO NOW that are important to consider.
HBO GO is primarily designed for cable subscribers who already have access to HBO as part of their cable package. It is typically provided as a complimentary streaming service that allows cable subscribers to stream HBO content on multiple devices. As a cable subscriber, you can simply log in to HBO GO using your cable provider credentials and enjoy a wide range of HBO shows, movies, and exclusives at no additional cost.
One advantage of HBO GO for cable subscribers is the broader availability of content. HBO GO generally provides access to a larger library of past seasons of HBO shows. This means that cable subscribers can enjoy binge-watching full series from start to finish, while also having access to current and recently released episodes.
On the other hand, HBO NOW is a standalone streaming service that does not require a cable subscription. This means that even if you don’t have a cable subscription with HBO included, you can still subscribe to HBO NOW and access all the HBO content independently.
For cable subscribers who already have HBO as part of their package, HBO NOW may not offer any significant advantages. Since HBO GO is available at no additional cost, it makes more sense for cable subscribers to utilize HBO GO to access HBO content on multiple devices.
However, there may be specific circumstances where cable subscribers choose to subscribe to HBO NOW. For example, if you’re a cable subscriber but want the flexibility to access HBO content on additional devices that may not support HBO GO, subscribing to HBO NOW can provide that accessibility. Additionally, if your cable provider does not offer HBO GO as part of your package, HBO NOW may be the only option available to stream HBO content.
It’s important to note that the availability of HBO GO and HBO NOW may vary depending on your cable provider and your geographical location. Some cable providers may not offer HBO GO, while others may have specific agreements with HBO to provide HBO NOW to their subscribers. It’s recommended to check with your cable provider to determine the specific options available to you.
Customer Support and Technical Issues
When it comes to streaming services, customer support and technical assistance play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Let’s explore the customer support options and how technical issues are addressed by HBO GO and HBO NOW.
Both HBO GO and HBO NOW provide customer support channels to assist users with any inquiries or issues they may encounter. This includes FAQs, online help centers, and user forums that cover a wide range of topics related to the platforms. These resources can be helpful for troubleshooting common technical problems and finding answers to frequently asked questions.
In addition to the online resources, HBO GO and HBO NOW also offer customer support through email or online contact forms. Users can reach out to the support team directly to seek assistance with account-related issues, billing inquiries, or technical difficulties that are not addressed through the online resources.
When it comes to technical issues, both HBO GO and HBO NOW strive to provide a seamless streaming experience. However, occasional technical glitches or disruptions may occur due to factors beyond the platform’s control, such as internet service provider issues or device-specific problems.
In such cases, it’s advisable to follow the recommended troubleshooting steps provided by HBO. This may include checking your internet connection, clearing cache and cookies, or updating your device’s software. However, if the issue persists, reaching out to customer support for further assistance can help to resolve the problem.
It’s important to note that the response time and efficiency of customer support may vary depending on the volume of inquiries and technical issues at any given time. Users are encouraged to provide detailed information about the problem they are experiencing when contacting customer support to expedite the resolution process.
Overall, HBO GO and HBO NOW provide a range of customer support resources and channels to address inquiries and technical issues. Whether it’s accessing online help centers, reaching out through email or online contact forms, or participating in user forums, users have multiple options to seek assistance and resolve any problems they encounter while using the platforms.
