If you like streaming video, you will love Netflix. If you are interested in streaming live television programming, then Philo is a better option. Both offer free trial periods and no contract requirements. What Netflix lacks in terms of live streaming TV programming, it more than makes up for it by providing several original program options. Both are extremely affordable for what they offer. Netflix's extensive library of videos and series' offer hours of binge-watching if that's what you're into. If you want the best of live, cable TV programming, then Philo will more than likely have a channel that fits your interests. Similarities Philo and Netflix offer a wide range of programming. Neither service requires a contract and allows you to stop and start your service at any time without penalties or extra fees. Both allow you to continually stream programs across multiple devices. (Philo allows for three and Netflix allows for up to five with their most expensive plan.) Neither service offers local channels or live news and sports programming. Both services offer high-resolution video quality and can be viewed over a variety of handheld devices, laptops, or desktop computers. Differences The differences between Philo and Netflix center primarily around the fact that Philo offers current programming and the ability to stream channels live over a secure internet connection. With Netflix, you can download videos or watch them over a secure internet connection, but you can't stream programs live or download them using a DVR feature. Philo offers unlimited DVR storage to its subscribers. Netflix offers two package options, while Philo only offers the one that includes the 58 channels. With Philo, you do have the option to add a dozen extra channels. Netflix is compatible with smart TVs, Xbox, and Playstation. Philo is not. Another difference has to do with the free trials offered by each service. Netflix's free trial is for 30 days. Philo's is only for 7 days. Costs & Monthly Plans When it comes to monthly plans for live streaming TV programming, Philo has one of the best package prices in the industry. You receive 58 channels for only $20 per month. If you want to add an additional 12 channels, it will cost you an additional $4 per month. There are no upfront or connection fees. With Netflix, you have two choices. The basic plan starts at $8.99 a month. The most expensive plan will cost you $15.99 a month and allows you to stream continuous video on five devices. There are no contracts and you can start or stop your service as desired without having to pay a penalty. Original Series Philo does not offer any original programming at this time. Netflix offers a variety of original series, movies, and documentaries to choose from. A few of their series' choices include Stranger Things, Orange Is the New Black, American Vandal, Russian Doll, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Godless, Mindhunter, Master of None, and GLOW. Original movies include The Do-Over, Oh, Ramona!, and Cam, just to name a few. Live TV Philo's strong point is the live channels it offers to its subscribers. A few of the 58 channels they offer include, A&E, AMC, BET, FYI, CMT, VH1, the ID channel, Discovery Channel, OWN, IFC, and WE. Netflix does not offer live television channels for streaming. Summary: Philo vs Netflix Philo is a good choice if you want to watch live television programming. Although there are no local, news, or sports stations offered, you still have a wide variety of channels to choose from. It's also a good service if you plan on watching while you're traveling since Philo works on most handheld devices. Netflix is a better choice if you are interested in having a large selection of movies, series, and documentaries in an on-demand format. Netflix also has the advantage if you prefer to watch your programs are on your smart TV or if you are using an Xbox or Playstation to connect to the internet.
