The best free streaming services in Canada

Streaming has become an integral part of life for Canadians, with a vast majority of adults engaging in video consumption. A recent poll of over 40,000 Canadian adults revealed that 90 percent watch videos, dedicating approximately 21 hours of their weekly screen time to various forms of media. Out of this, 11 hours are typically spent on streaming services. It's no surprise, as online content has become an essential part of entertainment.

Canada, like many other countries, boasts a plethora of streaming services, offering a diverse selection of shows, films, and events. Entire seasons of TV series are readily accessible, allowing for binge-watching, and films are now released on these platforms shortly after their theatrical premieres, departing from the traditional DVD and Blu-ray release cycles.

While Netflix remains the dominant streaming service, several competitors have emerged over the years, striving to challenge Netflix's supremacy by creating exclusive content and original titles to differentiate themselves.

The benefit of this proliferation is that consumers have more choices, better deals, and a wider range of content to enjoy. If you're a film and TV enthusiast, you may find it appealing to explore the variety of streaming services available in Canada.

Here is a list of some of the best streaming services in Canada:

1. Netflix Canada – Best For Bingeworthy Content

• Netflix, originally founded in 1997 as a DVD-by-mail service, transitioned to a streaming service in 2007.
• It arrived in Canada in September 2010, marking its international expansion.
• Netflix boasts over 200 million global subscribers, making it the top streaming service by active users.
• Subs**tion plans in Canada range from $5.99 CAD/month for the basic plan with ads to $20.99 CAD/month for the premium plan.
• Supported devices include streaming media players, smart TVs, game consoles, smartphones, tablets, PCs, and laptops.
• Netflix offers a variety of original content, including international productions and Canadian shows.

2. Crave TV – Best Value

• Crave TV, initially launched in 2014 for cable TV subscribers, later introduced a standalone streaming service.
• Available exclusively in Canada, Crave offers monthly and annual subs**tion plans.
• Prices range from $19.99 CAD/month for the monthly plan to $199.90 CAD/year for the annual plan.
• Additional content, such as Starz, is available as an add-on for $59.90 CAD/year.
• Crave features exclusive content from HBO Originals, HBO Max, Starz, Super Ecran, and Crave Originals.

3. Paramount Plus Canada – Best For Original Series & Live Sports

• Paramount Plus, the rebranded CBS All Access, launched in March 2021, offering content from Paramount Pictures, CBS, MTV, Comedy Central, and more.
• Available in Canada and 28 other countries, Paramount Plus offers subs**tion plans at $9.99 CAD/month, with a premium bundle including SHOWTIME content available for $11.99 CAD/month.
• The service can be accessed on various devices, including Firestick, Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
• Paramount Plus offers exclusive content from networks like Nickelodeon, Smithsonian, and franchises such as "Star Trek" and "The Twilight Zone."
• It also provides access to live sporting events and SHOWTIME exclusives.

Each of these streaming services has its unique offerings and pricing plans, allowing Canadians to select the one that best suits their entertainment preferences. While VPNs are not typically required to access these services within Canada, they may be necessary if you're located outside the country and wish to access Canadian-exclusive content.