Paramount+ Review
Rating: 7.8/10
 Paramount+ is the streaming service for CBS viewers, NFL fans, and anyone who wants Showtime without paying for a separate subscription. It solves the "I want live CBS, NFL games, and a solid on-demand library without spending 15+"problembetterthananycompetitor.Thebottomline:Paramount+Premiumat 3.99/month is one of the best values in streaming for the right audience, combining live sports, a 7,700-title catalog, and the full Showtime library at a price below Netflix's ad-supported tier.
Pros
- Premium plan at $13
- Live NFL on CBS
- Competitive Essential pricing at 8
- 17% savings with annual billing
- Strong franchise depth
Cons
- App user experience lags behind competitors
- Limited 4 K content availability
- Content library can feel stale
- Ads on live TV even with Premium
Verdict
Paramount+ is the best budget-friendly streamer for CBS loyalists and NFL fans, with the Premium plan at $13.99/month delivering exceptional value by including the full Showtime library, live CBS, 4 K streaming, and offline downloads. The Essential plan at $8.99/month is the cheapest ad-supported entry among major streamers. Skip it if you do not watch CBS or Showtime content — the library is solid but lacks the breadth of Netflix or Prime Video.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Paramount+ include Showtime?
The Premium plan ($13.99/month or $139.99/year) includes the full Showtime library — shows like Dexter, Billions, Yellowjackets, The Chi, and Shameless, plus Showtime original films. The Essential plan ($8.99/month) does not include Showtime. This integration makes Paramount+ Premium one of the best values in streaming.
What sports are on Paramount+?
Paramount+ streams NFL on CBS (live local and national games), the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Serie A, NWSL, PGA Tour golf, and college sports. The sports lineup is strongest for soccer and NFL fans. Local CBS station availability depends on your market.
Can I watch Paramount+ in 4K?
Yes, but only on the Premium plan and only for select titles. 4K availability is more limited than on Netflix, Disney+, or Max. Live sports on CBS may stream in 4K depending on the broadcast and your device.
Is there a Paramount+ free trial?
Yes. Paramount+ offers a 7-day free trial for new subscribers. This gives you a full week to test the service, including live sports and the on-demand library, before being charged.
How does Paramount+ compare to Peacock?
Paramount+ Premium ($13.99/month) is $3 more than Peacock Premium ($10.99/month) but includes Showtime, 4K streaming, and offline downloads — features that Peacock reserves for its $16.99 Premium Plus tier. Paramount+ wins on premium-tier value and content depth (Showtime); Peacock wins on sports variety (NBA, Premier League, WWE) and entry-level pricing with Peacock Select at $7.99.