HBO GO

• Over 125 exclusive series
• No commercials or ads
• Available on many devices

Unlimited Access

HBO has set it up so both HBO GO and HBO NOW subscribers can enjoy the exact same content. This includes all movies and television programs found in their content library. HBO GO subscribers have unlimited access to any and all HBO shows. There are no limitations on episodes or seasons. Unlimited access is also extended to hit movies, sports, documentaries, and comedy specials. Not only is access unlimited, it is also instant. Subscribers do not have to wait until the next episode or season is out before they can enjoy their favorite HBO programs. HBO has over 125 exclusive shows available to their subscribers. Additionally, subscribers also have access to over 650 movies in their content library. With all of the content to choose from, subscribers can also rest assured that they will not have to sit through long commercial breaks since the service provides an ad-free experience.

Device Availability

HBO GO is available on the following devices:

• Apple iPad, iPhone, and Apple TV
• Android phones, tablets, and Android TV
• Amazon FireTablets, Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick
• Computers via web browser
• Chromecast
• PlayStation 3 and Playstation 4
• Roku
• Samsung Smart TV
• Xbox 360 and Xbox One

With so many compatible devices, it is nice that there is no restriction on the number of devices a customer can sign into. Subscribers will need to "activate" each device the first time they use HBO GO, but after that, the device is all set up. The interfaces for both HBO GO and HBO NOW are almost identical. Simultaneous streaming is also available with both HBO GO and HBO Now. That means that members of your household can sign into several devices and watch different content at the same time without getting locked out.

• Advertised as free
• Must have a cable or satellite subscription
• Authentication through provider

Advertised as Free

While HBO GO is advertised as "free," that is a little bit deceiving. HBO GO is not a typical streaming service, so it can be branded as free, but there are still associated costs. HBO GO users have to already have a cable or satellite service. These services often times cost a great deal each month. Additionally, subscribers have to also be paying a monthly subscription fee for HBO alone. That subscription fee typically ranges from $10-$20 each month. There are deals where HBO is free to new TV customers, but those trials usually expire after 30-90 days. So while downloading and signing into HBO GO is "free," subscribers are already paying for the service in other ways making HBO GO a conveniently added "perk."

Must have a Cable or Satellite Subscription

Unlike most streaming services, HBO GO limits who can access the service. Consumers who want the HBO subscription will have to utilize HBO NOW. HBO GO is specifically designed for those who have an HBO subscription with their cable or satellite television provider.

Authentication Through Provider

Authentication on each new device can be somewhat of a time-consuming process. HBO GO subscribers will have to authenticate their services through their cable or satellite provider. HBO NOW edges out HBO GO in the following areas:

• No authentication required
• No cable/satellite services necessary
• No limitations to subscriber-base

Streaming Restrictions

While there is no cap on the number of devices subscribers can sign into, there are restrictions associated with simultaneous streaming. If multiple devices are simultaneously streaming the same movie/episode, they will likely not run into a problem. However, if the devices are watching different content, restrictions can apply.

View Top Rated Companies