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Streaming/Paramount+

Peacock, Paramount+, and Max All Raised Prices This Year — Which Is Still Worth It?

The streaming giants have nudged up their monthly rates, but do the new costs justify the content lineup? We break down the hikes and weigh the value.

By Marlowe Kent · Updated August 16, 2026 at 1:29 PM

Peacock, Paramount+, and Max All Raised Prices This Year — Which Is Still Worth It?
Peacock, Paramount+, and Max All Raised Prices This Year — Which Is Still Worth It?

Price Hikes Overview

This year has seen a wave of price increases across the streaming landscape. Peacock, Paramount+, and Max—each a staple for different viewer segments—have all raised their rates. While the adjustments are modest, the cumulative effect on a household with multiple subscriptions can be noticeable. Below we unpack each platform’s new pricing structure and assess whether the added cost still delivers worthwhile entertainment.

Peacock’s New Pricing

Peacock, NBCUniversal’s flagship streaming service, has shifted its tiered model. After a seven‑day free trial, the Basic plan now costs $16.99 per month, up from $13.99 previously. The Standard tier, which includes ad‑free viewing and a broader library, sits at $18.99. The Premium plan—offering exclusive originals and sports—has been bumped to $20.99.

The jump may seem steep, but Peacock’s lineup includes live NBC broadcasts, a growing roster of originals like The Good Fight and The Office specials, and the entire Super Mario Bros. Super Show!—content that can be hard to find elsewhere. If you’re a fan of those titles, the new price may be justifiable.

Paramount+ Increase

Paramount+ increased both its Essential and Premium plans by $1 on January 15, 2026—its first hike since 2024. The Essential plan is now $7.99/month (down from $6.99) and the Premium plan is $10.99/month (down from $9.99). The company is promoting its annual bundle, which saves about 10% compared to monthly payments. A key driver behind the hike is the addition of the Star Trek original series and the The Expendables film collection.

For viewers who already subscribe to the annual plan, the cost remains competitive compared to the new monthly rates, but those on a month‑to‑month basis feel the pinch.

Max’s Mysterious Increase

Max, Warner Bros. Discovery’s flagship, announced a price increase in early February, but the company did not disclose the new figures. Industry analysts speculate the bump may be in line with the $1 increase on Paramount+. The lack of transparency has left many users uncertain about how Max’s value proposition stacks up against competitors.

If the increase mirrors Paramount+, Max would land around $10.99/month for its Basic tier and $12.99/month for its Premium tier, though this remains unconfirmed.

Is It Still Worth It?

When evaluating streaming subscriptions, the key considerations are price, library breadth, and exclusive content. Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Peacock: $16.99/month for Basic; strong live sports lineup; offers live NBC shows.
  • Paramount+: $7.99/month Essential; decent library of recent movies and CBS content.
  • Max: (Uncertain) but likely around $10.99/month; includes HBO, Warner Bros., and new releases.

If you prioritize live sports and news, Peacock’s higher price may be worth it. For cinema enthusiasts, Paramount+’s affordable Essential tier still offers recent releases and a growing slate of original films. Max, while higher in price, bundles HBO, Warner Bros., and a rich archive—potentially making it a one‑stop shop.

Blockquote

“The streaming wars are not just about quantity but quality—paying for a library that offers both fresh originals and timeless classics can justify the price hike.”

Ultimately, the decision hinges on your viewing habits. If you’re a binge‑watcher who values fresh content, the increased rates may pay off. If you’re a casual viewer, the existing free tiers on platforms like Pluto TV or the free Peacock ad‑supported version could suffice.

Bottom Line

Peacock’s, Paramount+’s, and Max’s price hikes reflect a broader trend toward monetizing premium content. While the new rates are modest, they do impact the overall streaming budget. Evaluate your consumption patterns and the exclusivity of each platform’s content before deciding whether the new costs are justified for your household.