For the ultimate streaming experience on Paramount+, the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan is generally considered the superior choice, especially if it fits within your budget, primarily due to its ad-free viewing and significantly expanded content library.
Choosing the "better" Paramount Plus plan largely depends on your individual viewing preferences, desired content, and budget. Paramount+ offers two main tiers: Paramount+ Essential and Paramount+ with SHOWTIME.
Paramount+ Plans at a Glance
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which plan is right for you:
| Feature/Plan | Paramount+ Essential | Paramount+ with SHOWTIME |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing (Monthly) | Lower cost | Higher cost |
| Advertisements | Includes limited commercials (ads) in most on-demand content, except for live channels. | Mostly ad-free on-demand streaming (some live TV and select shows may still have ads). |
| Content Library | Paramount+ originals, hit movies, NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League, top series. | Everything from Essential, PLUS the entire SHOWTIME library (original series, movies, documentaries, sports). |
| Live Local CBS Stream | Not included | Included (access to your local CBS station's live feed). |
| Offline Downloads | Yes | Yes |
| News | 24/7 live news with CBSN | 24/7 live news with CBSN |
| Key Benefit | Cost-effective access to core Paramount+ content. | Premium, ad-free experience with a massive content expansion. |
Why Paramount+ with SHOWTIME Stands Out
When evaluating which plan is "better," the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME package offers distinct advantages that enhance the viewing experience significantly:
- Ad-Free Streaming: A major draw of the premium plan is the near elimination of commercials during on-demand viewing. This provides a smoother, more immersive watching experience without interruptions. For many, the value of uninterrupted streaming alone justifies the higher cost.
- Expanded Content Library: Beyond the core Paramount+ shows, movies, and live sports, the SHOWTIME integration unlocks an entirely new world of premium entertainment. This includes critically acclaimed SHOWTIME original series like Yellowjackets, Billions, Dexter, and The Chi, alongside a vast collection of movies and documentaries. This additional library adds substantial value and variety to your viewing options.
- Live Local CBS: The ability to stream your local CBS station live is a practical benefit, especially for watching live sports, local news, and prime-time programming as it airs, without needing a separate antenna or cable subscription.
Who Should Choose Which Plan?
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Choose Paramount+ with SHOWTIME if:
- You prefer an ad-free viewing experience.
- You are interested in premium, award-winning content from SHOWTIME.
- You want live access to your local CBS station.
- Your budget allows for the higher subscription fee.
- You want the most comprehensive content offering available on Paramount+.
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Choose Paramount+ Essential if:
- You are primarily interested in Paramount+ original programming, movies, and live sports without the SHOWTIME content.
- You are on a tighter budget and don't mind watching commercials.
- You already have other means to watch live CBS or don't require it.
Ultimately, while the Paramount+ Essential plan provides a solid foundational streaming service, the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan offers a more complete, premium, and uninterrupted entertainment package, making it the better choice for those seeking an elevated streaming experience.
