Paramount Plus is a comprehensive streaming service owned by Paramount Global that offers a massive library of on-demand content and live programming. Formerly known as CBS All Access, the service rebranded and expanded its offerings to include a wide range of movies, original series, and live sports. Whether you are looking for children’s programming, classic cinema, or live NFL games, Paramount Plus aims to be a one-stop destination for home entertainment.
What is Paramount Plus?
Paramount Plus is a subscription-based video-on-demand service that brings together content from several major media brands. It serves as the digital home for the Paramount Pictures film library and various television networks under the Paramount umbrella. This includes popular channels like CBS, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, and BET.
The service is designed to compete with other major streaming platforms by offering a mix of exclusive original content and a deep catalog of familiar favorites. It is available in several countries, though the specific content library can vary based on your geographic location due to licensing agreements.
Understanding Subscription Plans and Pricing
Paramount Plus currently offers two primary subscription tiers to accommodate different budgets and viewing preferences. Choosing the right plan depends on whether you mind watching advertisements and if you want access to premium content from SHOWTIME.
Paramount+ Essential
The Essential plan is the most affordable option. It includes limited commercial interruptions while you watch on-demand shows and movies. While it provides access to the full library of content, it does not include your local live CBS station, though NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League are available via separate live feeds.
Paramount+ with SHOWTIME
This premium tier is a bundle that includes everything in the Essential plan plus several significant upgrades. Subscribers to this plan get a completely ad-free experience (except for live TV and select shows). It also includes your local live CBS station and the full library of SHOWTIME original series, movies, and sports.
Additionally, the SHOWTIME tier allows users to download shows and movies to their mobile devices for offline viewing. This is a crucial feature for travelers or those with inconsistent internet connections.
The Content Library: What to Watch
The primary draw of Paramount Plus is its diverse range of content. The service organizes its library by “brands,” making it easy to find specific types of entertainment. Here are the main categories you will find on the platform:
- CBS: Access to current seasons of popular procedurals, reality shows like Survivor and Big Brother, and a massive archive of classic television.
- Nickelodeon: A massive collection of kids’ content, including SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, and reboots of classic ’90s cartoons.
- MTV & VH1: Reality TV staples, music documentaries, and youth-oriented dramas.
- Comedy Central: Stand-up specials and iconic series like South Park and The Daily Show.
- Smithsonian Channel: High-quality documentaries focusing on history, science, and nature.
- Paramount Pictures: A rotating selection of blockbuster films, from the Mission: Impossible franchise to Top Gun: Maverick.
Original Programming
Paramount Plus has invested heavily in original series that you cannot find anywhere else. One of the biggest draws is the expanding “Taylor Sheridan Universe,” which includes Yellowstone prequels like 1883 and 1923, as well as Tulsa King and Mayor of Kingstown.
Science fiction fans are also well-served by the platform. It is the exclusive home of the modern Star Trek franchise, featuring series like Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Picard, and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
Live Sports and News
Unlike some streaming services that focus solely on pre-recorded content, Paramount Plus offers a significant amount of live programming. This makes it a popular choice for “cord-cutters” who want to move away from traditional cable television.
Sports Coverage
Sports fans can access a variety of live events depending on their subscription level. The platform is a major hub for soccer fans, offering coverage of the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and Serie A. For American football fans, the service streams NFL games that are broadcast on CBS in your local market.
News Programming
The service provides 24/7 live news through CBS News (formerly CBSN). This allows users to stay informed with national and international breaking news. Many local markets also offer access to local news broadcasts, particularly for those on the SHOWTIME tier.
Supported Devices and Technical Requirements
Paramount Plus is compatible with almost every modern internet-connected device. This flexibility allows you to start a show on your phone during a commute and finish it on your living room television.
Common Compatible Devices
- Smart TVs: Samsung, LG, Vizio, and TVs running Android TV or Google TV.
- Streaming Players: Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast.
- Gaming Consoles: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
- Mobile Devices: iOS (iPhone and iPad) and Android smartphones and tablets.
- Web Browsers: Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge on PC and Mac.
To enjoy a smooth streaming experience, a minimum internet speed of 4 Mbps is recommended for high-definition (HD) video. If you are streaming in 4K UHD, which is available for select titles on the SHOWTIME tier, you will need a connection of at least 25 Mbps.
Key Features for Users
The platform includes several user-friendly features designed to personalize the viewing experience. These tools help families manage content and ensure everyone can find something to watch.
Multiple Profiles
You can create up to six individual profiles for a single account. Each profile maintains its own “Keep Watching” list and personalized recommendations. This is especially helpful for households where users have very different tastes in movies and shows.
Parental Controls
Paramount Plus offers robust parental control settings. Parents can set PIN-protected age restrictions for specific profiles. This ensures that children can only access content appropriate for their age group while using their designated profile.
How to Sign Up for Paramount Plus
Getting started with the service is a straightforward process. You can sign up directly through the website or through various app stores.
- Visit the official Paramount Plus website or download the app on your device.
- Click the “Try It Free” or “Sign Up” button.
- Choose your preferred subscription plan (Essential or with SHOWTIME).
- Create an account by entering your email address and choosing a password.
- Enter your payment information. Most services offer a free trial period for new subscribers.
- Confirm your details and start streaming.
How to Cancel Your Subscription
Paramount Plus does not require long-term contracts, meaning you can cancel at any time. However, the method of cancellation depends on how you originally signed up.
If you signed up through the website, you can cancel by navigating to your account settings in a web browser. If you signed up through a third party, such as the Apple App Store, Amazon, or Roku, you must manage your subscription through those specific platforms’ billing settings.
Conclusion
Paramount Plus offers a versatile and affordable way to access a vast library of entertainment, from blockbuster movies to live sports and news. By understanding the differences between the Essential and SHOWTIME tiers, you can choose the plan that best fits your household’s needs and budget. The service’s focus on major brands like Nickelodeon and Star Trek makes it a strong contender in the crowded streaming market.
If you found this guide helpful, you may want to explore our other articles on technology and entertainment. Check out our guides on optimizing your home Wi-Fi for streaming or how to manage multiple streaming subscriptions effectively to save money.