The world of streaming services has become increasingly complex, with numerous platforms and options available to consumers. Two popular services that have often been confused with one another are HBO Now and HBO Go. While both services offer access to HBO’s vast library of content, they are not exactly the same thing. In this article, we will delve into the differences between HBO Now and HBO Go, exploring their features, pricing, and availability.
What is HBO Go?
HBO Go is a streaming service that was launched in 2010, allowing HBO subscribers to access the network’s content online. The service was designed to provide users with a way to watch their favorite HBO shows and movies on demand, without the need for a traditional cable subscription. However, there was a catch – HBO Go was only available to users who already had an HBO subscription through a participating cable provider.
Key Features of HBO Go
Some of the key features of HBO Go include:
- Access to a vast library of HBO content, including popular shows like Game of Thrones and Westworld
- Ability to stream content on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs
- Option to create up to five individual profiles, allowing multiple users to access the service
- Support for closed captions and subtitles
What is HBO Now?
HBO Now, on the other hand, is a standalone streaming service that was launched in 2015. Unlike HBO Go, HBO Now does not require a traditional cable subscription. Instead, users can sign up for the service directly through the HBO website or through a variety of streaming devices.
Key Features of HBO Now
Some of the key features of HBO Now include:
- Access to the same vast library of HBO content as HBO Go
- Ability to stream content on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs
- Option to create up to five individual profiles, allowing multiple users to access the service
- Support for closed captions and subtitles
- Ability to sign up for the service without a traditional cable subscription
Key Differences Between HBO Now and HBO Go
So, what are the key differences between HBO Now and HBO Go? Here are a few:
- Availability: HBO Go is only available to users who already have an HBO subscription through a participating cable provider. HBO Now, on the other hand, is available to anyone who wants to sign up for the service.
- Pricing: HBO Go is included with an HBO subscription, which typically costs around $15-20 per month. HBO Now, on the other hand, costs $14.99 per month.
- Content: Both services offer access to the same library of HBO content. However, HBO Now may offer some additional features, such as the ability to watch new episodes of HBO shows as they air.
Which Service is Right for You?
So, which service is right for you? If you already have an HBO subscription through a participating cable provider, HBO Go may be the better option. However, if you don’t have a traditional cable subscription, HBO Now is the way to go.
The Future of HBO Streaming
In 2020, HBO launched a new streaming service called HBO Max. This service combines the content of HBO with a vast library of additional TV shows and movies. HBO Max is available for $14.99 per month, and it offers a number of features that are not available on HBO Now or HBO Go.
What Does This Mean for HBO Now and HBO Go?
The launch of HBO Max has raised questions about the future of HBO Now and HBO Go. While both services are still available, it’s likely that they will eventually be phased out in favor of HBO Max.
What to Expect
Here are a few things you can expect in the coming months:
- Increased focus on HBO Max: HBO is likely to focus more of its attention on HBO Max, which offers a more comprehensive library of content.
- Eventual phase-out of HBO Now and HBO Go: While both services are still available, it’s likely that they will eventually be phased out in favor of HBO Max.
- Improved features and functionality: HBO Max is likely to continue to evolve and improve, with new features and functionality being added on a regular basis.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while HBO Now and HBO Go are similar services, they are not exactly the same thing. HBO Go is a streaming service that is available to users who already have an HBO subscription through a participating cable provider. HBO Now, on the other hand, is a standalone streaming service that can be signed up for directly through the HBO website or through a variety of streaming devices. With the launch of HBO Max, it’s likely that both services will eventually be phased out in favor of the new platform.
| Service | Availability | Pricing | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| HBO Go | Available to users with an HBO subscription through a participating cable provider | Included with HBO subscription ($15-20 per month) | Access to HBO library of content |
| HBO Now | Available to anyone who wants to sign up for the service | $14.99 per month | Access to HBO library of content, plus additional features |
| HBO Max | Available to anyone who wants to sign up for the service | $14.99 per month | Access to HBO library of content, plus additional TV shows and movies |
By understanding the differences between HBO Now and HBO Go, you can make an informed decision about which service is right for you. Whether you choose HBO Now, HBO Go, or HBO Max, you’ll have access to a vast library of high-quality content that is sure to entertain and engage.
What is the difference between HBO Now and HBO Go?
HBO Now and HBO Go are two popular streaming services offered by HBO. While they share some similarities, they are not the same thing. HBO Go is a streaming service that allows users to access HBO content online, but it requires a subscription to the HBO channel through a cable or satellite provider. On the other hand, HBO Now is a standalone streaming service that does not require a cable or satellite subscription.
HBO Now was designed for cord-cutters who want to access HBO content without having to subscribe to a traditional cable or satellite package. It offers the same content as HBO Go, including popular TV shows and movies, but it is available as a separate subscription. This means that users can sign up for HBO Now directly through the HBO website or through a streaming device such as a Roku or Apple TV.
Can I use HBO Go without a cable subscription?
No, HBO Go requires a subscription to the HBO channel through a cable or satellite provider. In order to use HBO Go, you must have an active HBO subscription through a participating provider. This means that you cannot sign up for HBO Go directly through the HBO website or through a streaming device without a cable or satellite subscription.
If you do not have a cable or satellite subscription, you may want to consider signing up for HBO Now instead. HBO Now is a standalone streaming service that does not require a cable or satellite subscription. It offers the same content as HBO Go, including popular TV shows and movies, and can be accessed through the HBO website or through a streaming device.
Is HBO Now available on all devices?
HBO Now is available on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices such as Roku and Apple TV. However, it is not available on all devices. For example, HBO Now is not currently available on certain gaming consoles or older devices that do not support the HBO Now app.
If you are unsure whether HBO Now is available on your device, you can check the HBO website for a list of supported devices. You can also download the HBO Now app from the app store on your device to see if it is compatible. If you are unable to access HBO Now on your device, you may want to consider using a different device or streaming option.
Can I watch live TV on HBO Now?
No, HBO Now does not offer live TV. It is a streaming service that allows users to access a library of on-demand content, including TV shows and movies. While HBO Now does offer some new content, such as episodes of popular TV shows, it does not offer live TV.
If you want to watch live TV, you may want to consider signing up for a cable or satellite subscription that includes HBO. This will allow you to access live HBO content, including sports and news programs. Alternatively, you can consider using a streaming service that offers live TV, such as Sling TV or YouTube TV.
How much does HBO Now cost?
The cost of HBO Now varies depending on the country and the device you are using. In the United States, HBO Now typically costs $14.99 per month. However, prices may be higher or lower in other countries.
It’s worth noting that HBO Now often offers free trials or promotions, which can allow you to try the service before committing to a paid subscription. You can check the HBO website for current pricing and promotions. Additionally, some streaming devices or services may offer HBO Now as an add-on channel, which can affect the overall cost.
Can I cancel my HBO Now subscription at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your HBO Now subscription at any time. To cancel, simply go to the HBO website and sign in to your account. From there, you can click on the “Account” or “Settings” option and select “Cancel Subscription.” You will be asked to confirm that you want to cancel your subscription.
It’s worth noting that canceling your HBO Now subscription will not affect any other streaming services or subscriptions you may have. You will still be able to access other streaming services, such as Netflix or Amazon Prime, even if you cancel your HBO Now subscription. Additionally, you can always sign up for HBO Now again in the future if you change your mind.