Based on user reviews and a survey of the reviews by leading critics, here are the Top 5 Online Streaming Sites in India. Before proceeding further, it needs to be mentioned that the Indian internet and mobile user is being wooed by global giants such as Netflix, Hotstar, and Amazon with incredible offers that not only provide value for money but also are possible with the increase in data limits by Telecom Majors such as Reliance and Airtel. Thus, the Indian market for online streaming is at a stage where growth in an exponential manner is possible and hence, watch this space for the latest trends and happenings in online streaming.
Hotstar: This site is notable for offering free streaming of movies, TV shows, and cricket matches. In addition, it also offers a paid service that is ad-free along with a rich collection of serial soap operas and movies all at a click of the mouse and at the tap of a Smartphone. Both free and premium services are well worth the visit, and by making the movies and shows from the United States available in real time, Indian viewers can be in touch with what’s happening there as well.
Netflix: One of the most watched streaming sites in India, Netflix which is a global brand famous for its pioneering forays into online streaming offers services that are pricey but well worth the money. Compared to the other online streaming sites, one has to pay Rs 500 per month to get started. Apart from that, Netflix is best viewed on a broadband or mobile connection that is the higher end in speeds and data and hence, one must think twice before signing up for the service. Having said that, it leaves the competition way behind in terms of offerings and the sheer international scope of its shows.
Amazon Prime: The launch of Amazon’s streaming service, Prime, was keenly watched and anticipated by the Indian viewers regaled as they were on Amazon’s track record and its status as the behemoth whose towering monolithic presence over the online shopping and entertainment space is well known. Viewers would not be disappointed even at the subscription of around Rs. 500 – Rs. 900 range and which when compared to other sites has exclusives such as the movie, Kabali. Apart from this, Amazon Prime is offering a limited time service priced at Rs 500 which is indeed drool-worthy and good value for money.
Hungama: Perhaps the Desi counter to the global brands, Hungama, offers a decent library of shows and movies and the main attraction is the availability of almost all shows on its TV channel on a real-time basis instead of a lag which means that viewers no longer have to worry about missing their daily dose of entertainment.
SonyLIV: The mix of international and local content that airs on this site is good enough for viewers who prefer the content over branding and for those on slower internet connections. With an uncluttered screen, Sony offers a good deal of the money paid. What more, with its co-branding with Sony Xperia, this site allows cross-selling between the Smartphones and the service a la Reliance Jio.