Overall Findings
If you have an HBO subscription, you can use HBO GO to watch HBO shows and movies on your phone, tablet, computer, or another app-enabled device. If you don’t have a subscription, there is no way to get HBO GO. That’s why HBO NOW is ideal for cord-cutters. One problem for cord-cutters is that there are many services, including cable replacements like Sling TV and general streaming services like Netflix, that it’s easy to pay as much, or more, for streaming services than for cable.
Price: Depends on Cost of Cable Package
A bit more expensive than Netflix, HBO NOW costs $14.99 per month. That may save you money when compared to the cost of a premium cable subscription. However, you need to factor in the benefits of cable TV (and the other channels and DVR features available with it) when assessing the overall value of HBO NOW vs. HBO GO.
Access: Anyone, Anywhere vs. Cable Subscribers
HBO GO can also be viewed on any device with the app, but it only exists for paid cable subscribers. It is only available to people who subscribe to HBO through a cable or satellite package. If you have an HBO subscription, HBO GO is free. If you don’t have an HBO subscription, HBO GO isn’t an option.
Content: Same Content, Different Subscription
HBO NOW and HBO GO include the same content. That includes all of HBO’s original shows, from The Sopranos to Game of Thrones. It also includes all the movies that HBO currently has the rights to broadcast and stream. HBO NOW and HBO GO don’t include a live feed of the HBO channel. Most shows become available to stream on the service around the time a show is broadcast on the HBO channel, but there is no option to watch a live stream of the channel.
Final Verdict: Get HBO NOW if You Don’t Have Cable
Since HBO NOW only provides access to HBO content, it falls into a category similar to streaming services like Paramount+. These kinds of single-channel subscriptions can build up your entertainment bills. The appeal comes down to your taste and preference. For many cord-cutters, HBO is worth paying $15 a month. Download For:
