CBS All Access Review – Worth it, or Not?

In the evolving world of streaming services, CBS All Access has garnered quite the attention. Offering a mix of classic shows, live TV, and new original content, it promises a fresh experience for TV aficionados. But does it truly stand out among the giants? Let’s take a critical look.

Content Selection: Classic Meets Contemporary

CBS All Access prides itself on a vast library of classic shows that have stood the test of time. From “Cheers” to “Star Trek”, there’s something nostalgic for everyone.

However, it’s not just about the classics. CBS has taken a bold step into producing original content. Series like “Star Trek: Discovery” and “The Good Fight” have garnered both critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Add-On Package	Price per Month	Channels Included	Perfect For
Sports Plus with NFL RedZone	$10.99	– NFL RedZone – NBA TV – NHL Network – MLB Network – Stadium – Tennis Channel – ESPN-U – PAC-12 Network – VSiN – ACCN ESPN – Game+ – Fight Network – TVG2 – Stadium 1 – Stadium 2 – Stadium 3 – SEC Network – ESPN News – PAC-12 Arizona – PAC-12 Bay Area – PAC-12 Los Angeles – PAC-12 Mountain – PAC-12 Oregon – PAC-12 Washington – Fuel TV	Sports enthusiasts who want comprehensive sports coverage and live events.
Fubo Extra	$7.99	– Cooking Channel – Game Show Network – BBC World News – NBA TV – NHL Network – MLB TV – Sony – People TV – Zona Futbol – INSP – Revolt – CNBC – Tennis Channel – Fuse – Teen Nick – Nick Toons – Nick Music – BET Jams – Nat Geo Wild	Viewers seeking a mix of entertainment and sports content.
International Sports Plus	$6.99	– Fubo Latina Network – Fox Deportes – Zona Futbol – ESPN HD Deportes – GolTV English – GolTV Spanish – TyC Sports – Fox Soccer Plus – Tigo Sports – NXT LVL Sports – Real Madrid TV	International sports fans looking for live coverage of sporting events from around the world.
Adventure Plus	$4.99	– Outdoor Channel – Sportsman Channel – World Fishing Network – Outside TV – MAV TV – Insight TV	Extreme sports enthusiasts interested in adventure and outdoor programming.
Sports Lite	$9.99	– NBA TV – MLB Network – NHL Network – Tennis Channel – SEC Network – ACC Network – ESPN-U – ESPN News	Users who want a smaller bundle of sports channels at a slightly lower cost.
Latino Plus	$19.99	– Fox Deportes – Zona Futbol – ESPN HD Deportes – GolTV Spanish – TyC Sports – Sony Cine Television – Nat Geo Mundo – Más Chic – Nuestra Tele – Telefe – Discovery Familia – Discovery en Español – Tr3s – Baby TV Español – Passiones – The Weather Channel en Espanol – Estrella News – Wapa America – CATV – Television Dominicana – Hogar – Cine Latino	Viewers looking for a diverse selection of Spanish-language sports, movies, and entertainment channels.
Portuguese Plus	$14.99	– Benfica TV – Gol TV Spanish – RTP International – RTP 3 – RTP Acores	Portuguese-speaking viewers interested in soccer and Portuguese-language programming.
TV5MONDE	$9.99	– TV5MONDE	French language enthusiasts seeking live sports coverage, films, and news with English subtitles.
RAI Italia	$8.99	– RAI Italia	Italian soccer fans looking for coverage of Serie A and Coppa Italia, along with Italian shows, news, and movies.

I recommend checking out their originals if you’re on the fence. It might just tip the balance in their favor.

Live TV: A Unique Selling Point

One of the standout features of CBS All Access is the inclusion of live TV. Not many streaming services offer this, and for those who miss the spontaneity of live broadcasts, this is a godsend.

You can watch news, sports events, and other live broadcasts just as you would with traditional cable. It bridges the gap between conventional TV watching and streaming.

User Interface: Smooth or Stumbling?

Navigating the world of streaming should be seamless. CBS All Access offers an intuitive interface, especially for mobile users. However, some users have pointed out occasional glitches, especially during high-traffic live broadcasts.

Pricing: Bang for Your Buck?

When it comes to pricing, CBS All Access sits comfortably in the middle range. It’s not as cheap as some of the more basic streaming services, but also not as pricey as the premium ones. They offer a free trial period, which is always a plus.

However, considering the content library’s size, some might argue that there are better deals out there. It all comes down to what you’re looking for in a streaming service.

Fubo Upgrade

Fubo’s upgradable model is a notable differentiator in the increasingly crowded streaming service arena. While many platforms offer fixed packages, Fubo allows users to tailor their experience, ensuring they pay for the features they truly value. Their Cloud DVR options stand out, especially with the massive 1,000-hour storage available at $16.99/month.

In comparison, services like YouTube TV offer unlimited storage, but with a 9-month retention limit, whereas Fubo’s storage doesn’t have such time constraints. The Family Share option at $5.99/month is competitive, matching the simultaneous streaming capabilities of Hulu’s base Live TV package.

The true gem, however, is the Unlimited Screens upgrade. For households with multiple viewers or those hosting viewing parties, the ability to stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously is unparalleled.

Additionally, the flexibility to add Family Share for an extra mobile screen provides an extra layer of customization. Overall, Fubo’s upgradable options present a compelling proposition, setting them apart from more rigid competitors in the market.

Competition: The Elephant in the Room

Let’s address the streaming giant in the room. With competitors like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, CBS All Access has its work cut out. While its unique selling points make it stand out, whether it can carve a permanent space for itself in the crowded streaming market remains to be seen.

In-Depth Pros and Cons of CBS All Access

Pros of CBS All Access

Diverse Content Spectrum

CBS All Access boasts a mix of genres, from crime dramas like “CSI” to reality TV hits like “Big Brother” and “Survivor”. This diverse range caters to a broad audience, ensuring there’s something for every age group and preference.

Exclusivity with Originals

While many services scramble to secure content rights, CBS All Access offers exclusive access to their in-house originals. If you’re a fan of a particular CBS show, you’ll likely find it on this platform without having to hop between different services.

No Ads Option

Yes, the basic CBS All Access subscription comes with commercials, but for those who dislike interruptions, there’s an ad-free version available. It’s a tiered approach that lets the viewer choose based on their preference and budget.

Download and Watch Offline

This feature allows users to download their favorite shows and watch them without an internet connection. It’s especially handy for travel or places with spotty internet.

Cons of CBS All Access

Limited Movie Selection

Compared to competitors, the movie offerings on CBS All Access are relatively limited. If you’re a movie buff hoping to get a comprehensive film experience, this might not be the platform for you.

Geographical Restrictions

One major downside is that CBS All Access is primarily available in the U.S. While they have plans for international expansion, they’re still not as globally accessible as some of their competitors.

Occasional Streaming Issues

Users have occasionally reported buffering and streaming issues, especially during popular live events. While these hiccups aren’t frequent, they can dampen the overall viewing experience when they do occur.

Lack of 4K Content

While many competing streaming platforms are pushing the boundaries with 4K and HDR content, CBS All Access lags in this department. If top-notch picture quality is a priority, this might be a sticking point.

I recommend potential subscribers weigh these pros and cons based on their viewing habits. If CBS originals and a broad series spectrum appeal to you, it might be a good fit. On the other hand, movie enthusiasts and those seeking cutting-edge picture quality might want to look elsewhere.

Exploring Alternatives to CBS All Access

In today’s streaming-dominated media landscape, consumers are spoiled for choice. While CBS All Access holds its ground with a unique proposition, there are several alternatives out there. 

Netflix

Probably the first name that comes to mind when you think of streaming, Netflix is a powerhouse with a massive, ever-evolving library.

• Strengths: Diverse content, including movies, series, documentaries, and an impressive roster of originals. It’s available in almost every country, making it a go-to for global content seekers.
• Weaknesses: The price point is on the higher side, especially for the premium tiers. Also, content can vary significantly based on your geographical location.

Disney+

Launched with much fanfare, Disney+ is the dream platform for fans of Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and more.

• Strengths: Exclusive access to a vast Disney library, from classics to new releases. They also offer bundled subscriptions with Hulu and ESPN in certain regions.
• Weaknesses: A more family-focused content library might not appeal to those seeking more mature or diverse genres.

Amazon Prime Video

Coming from the retail giant Amazon, Prime Video offers a mix of movies, series, and a growing number of originals.

• Strengths: Often bundled with Amazon Prime membership which includes other benefits like free shipping. Their originals, like “The Boys” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” have garnered acclaim.
• Weaknesses: The user interface isn’t as intuitive as some competitors. Also, while the library is extensive, it might not be as curated.

Hulu

Hulu is a great option for those who love staying updated with TV shows and enjoy a mix of both TV content and movies.

• Strengths: Episodes from current TV shows usually appear on Hulu the day after airing. They also have a Live TV option and a growing list of acclaimed originals.
• Weaknesses: Geographical availability is limited, primarily to the U.S. The base subscription also includes ads, with an ad-free version costing more.

Peacock

NBCUniversal’s foray into the streaming world, Peacock offers a mix of current season, classic TV, and movies.

• Strengths: It has a free tier with ads, allowing users to sample a good portion of their library without any cost.
• Weaknesses: The full content library is available only on the premium tiers. Some users also find the content categorization a bit confusing.

Note: With any streaming service, your mileage may vary based on personal preferences. Many of these platforms offer trial periods, so you can dip your toes in before committing. Remember, the best streaming service for you is the one that aligns most closely with your content preferences and budget.

Conclusion

CBS All Access has positioned itself uniquely in the streaming landscape by blending classic content, exciting originals, and the allure of live TV. It’s a strong contender for those craving CBS shows or seeking a balance between scheduled broadcasts and on-demand viewing.

However, as with any platform, it comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. In an ever-expanding sea of streaming choices, it’s vital to align your choice with your preferences, and CBS All Access could just be the niche offering some have been searching for.

FAQ

What makes CBS All Access stand out from other streaming platforms?

CBS All Access combines on-demand content, exclusive originals, and live TV broadcasting, making it a unique blend in the streaming market.

Is CBS All Access available outside the U.S.?

As of now, CBS All Access is primarily U.S.-centric, though they have expressed intentions for international expansion in the future.

Can I watch CBS All Access on multiple devices?

Yes, CBS All Access supports streaming on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs. However, always ensure compatibility with your specific device model.