HBO Max

HBO Max is a subscription video on demand streaming platform launched by Warner Bros. Discovery. The service brings together all of HBO — including award-winning HQ Originals— with a huge library of blockbusters, cult-classics TV series, documentaries true crime reality adults & kids anime (Adult Swim/ Cartoon Network) from iconic brands DC Universe Harry Potter Warner Bros. Discovery A24 Looney Tunes and more!

With access to thousands of titles, subscribers can watch shows and films across smartphones, tablets, web browsers and smart TVs or gaming consoles—anytime from anywhere. Some plans includes offline downloads, 4K UHD with HDR/Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos surround sound.

1. HBO Originals and Max Exclusives Award Winners: Watch critically acclaimed HBO series like The Last of Us, Succession, House of the Dragon and The White Lotus plus new Max Originals with will be available day-and-date.

2. Massive Content Library: Catch up with your favorite iconic TV shows (Friends, The Big Bang Theory, Rick and Morty; plus Gossip Girl). the Harry Potter film series, global mega blockbuster films and DC superhero content along with Groundbreaking Discovery unscripted shows.

3. Multiple Personalized Profiles (Up to 5): Add unique profiles per household member with custom avatars, specific recommendations and Continue Watching / My List.

4. Monitor KIDS Profiles with Parental Control: Dedicated kids profiles with age-appropriate content filters, the ability to customize maturity ratings for individual TV shows/movies, a pin can be set up on kids' profiles so that an adult must enter it before they switch back to unrestricted.

5. Offline Downloads (Select Plans): Download movies or episodes to watch offline—it is easy while travelling (download limits differ depending on the subscription tier).

The content library is probably the only part of why most people actually sign up. The best shows on TV HBO originals — The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, Succession, Euphoria and more from lockdown to now. You get all the full Warner Bros too. Max ($15.99 a month), which includes the Warner Bros.'s extensive back catalog (DC movies, Harry Potter, Studio Ghibli's The Batman + live sports and news plus Max Originals like Peacemaker & Hacks. One app, one subscription — everything in one place.

The interface is clear and easy-to-understand. The "For You" homepage is actually pretty good at suggesting things based on your viewing history. The offline viewing works really well — perfect for flights or commutes. Supported devices will provide picture quality up to 4K HDR with Dolby Atmos.

The biggest complaint: The app can be sluggish to load, particularly on older phones. A premium service has greater buffering than you'd expect. Search is terrible — it leaves out titles you know to be in the library. The HBO Max rebrand to "Max" also continues, and some places have features that use the old name.

Pricing is also a pain point. The ad-free tier is much more expensive than rivals such as Netflix or Disney+, while the ad-supported tier shows commercials in between (not just before) their shows.

HBO Max offers unmatched quality if you can get premium TV. If you simply want an inexpensive and competent streamer, look elsewhere. For the right person, it is value for money.