Apple TV+ Review
Rating: 8.3/10
 Apple TV+ is the streaming service for people who are tired of scrolling endlessly through thousands of titles and would rather watch a handful of genuinely excellent shows. It solves the "I want something worth my time, not just something to fill it" problem by investing heavily in a small number of high-production-value originals. The bottom line: Apple TV+ offers the best quality-per-title ratio in streaming at the lowest ad-free price ($12.99/month), but its ~200-title library means it works best as a supplement, not a replacement, for a larger service.
Pros
- Highest content quality hit rate in streaming
- Cheapest ad-free premium experience at 12
- Six simultaneous streams with Family Sharing
- No ads ever
- Apple One bundling
Cons
- Smallest library among major streamers at ~200 titles
- No licensed catalog content
- Limited appeal for binge-watchers
- Live sports are limited
Verdict
Apple TV+ is the best streaming service for viewers who would rather watch one exceptional show than scroll through thousands of options. Its ~200-title library is the smallest among major streamers, but the hit rate is unmatched: Ted Lasso, Severance, Slow Horses, The Morning Show, and For All Mankind consistently earn critical acclaim and awards. At $12.99/month with no ads, no price tiers, and 4 K Dolby Atmos included for everyone, it is the best value in premium ad-free streaming — as long as the limited catalog has enough to keep you watching.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many shows and movies does Apple TV+ have?
over 200 original series and films
Does Apple TV+ have ads?
No. Apple TV+ is 100% ad-free across all content and all plans. There is no ad-supported tier.
Can I get Apple TV+ for free?
Apple offers a 7-day free trial for new subscribers and three months free with the purchase of a new Apple device (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV). Some mobile carriers and Apple One bundles also include extended trials. After the trial, the standard $12.99/month rate applies.
What devices support Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ is available on Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K), Samsung and LG smart TVs (2018+), Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, Android TV, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series, and web browsers at tv.apple.com. The broad platform support is a significant improvement from the Apple-exclusive early days.
How does Apple TV+ compare to Netflix?
Apple TV+ costs $12.99/month with no ads and includes 4K Dolby Atmos for all subscribers — a stark contrast to Netflix's Premium tier for the same technical quality. However, Apple TV+ has roughly 200 titles versus Netflix's extensive catalog. Apple TV+ wins on price, ad-free experience, and content quality hit rate; Netflix wins on volume, variety, and algorithm-driven discovery. The services can be complementary.
What kind of content is available on Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ primarily features exclusive, original programming, including critically acclaimed dramas, comedies, documentaries, and films, with new titles added regularly. The library also includes a growing selection of live sports and broader appeal content.
Is Apple TV+ worth the subscription cost?
For viewers who prioritize high-quality, ad-free original content and appreciate a curated library, Apple TV+ offers significant value for its monthly subscription fee.
Does Apple TV+ offer sports content?
Yes, Apple TV+ offers a growing selection of sports content, including Major League Soccer (MLS) Season Pass, Friday Night Baseball, and Formula 1. While not as extensive as dedicated sports packages, it provides access to major live sporting events.