The world of streaming services has become increasingly complex, with numerous platforms offering a wide range of content to cater to diverse viewer preferences. Two popular streaming services that often cause confusion among users are Discovery Go and Discovery Plus. While both services are owned by the same parent company, Discovery, Inc., they have distinct differences in terms of their content offerings, features, and accessibility. In this article, we will delve into the details of each service, exploring their similarities and differences, to help you decide which one is best suited for your entertainment needs.
Introduction to Discovery Go
Discovery Go is a streaming service that was launched in 2015, allowing users to access a wide range of content from various Discovery networks, including Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, and more. The service is designed to provide users with a convenient way to watch their favorite shows on-demand, without the need for a traditional cable subscription. Discovery Go is available as an app on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
Content Offerings on Discovery Go
Discovery Go offers a vast library of content, including popular shows like Gold Rush, Deadliest Catch, and 90 Day Fiancé. The service also provides access to a range of documentaries, reality TV shows, and educational programs. However, it’s essential to note that the content offerings on Discovery Go are limited to the networks owned by Discovery, Inc., and do not include content from other popular networks or studios.
Accessibility and Features
Discovery Go is available on a variety of devices, making it easy to access your favorite shows from anywhere. The service also offers a range of features, including the ability to create a watchlist, set reminders for upcoming episodes, and stream content in high definition. However, Discovery Go requires users to authenticate their account using their cable provider credentials, which can be a limitation for those who do not have a traditional cable subscription.
Introduction to Discovery Plus
Discovery Plus is a relatively new streaming service that was launched in 2021, offering a more comprehensive and diverse range of content compared to Discovery Go. The service is designed to provide users with a one-stop destination for all their entertainment needs, featuring a vast library of content from various networks and studios. Discovery Plus is available as a standalone service, eliminating the need for a traditional cable subscription or authentication with a cable provider.
Content Offerings on Discovery Plus
Discovery Plus boasts an impressive content library, featuring popular shows from various networks, including HGTV, Food Network, TLC, and more. The service also offers a range of exclusive content, including original series and documentaries that can only be found on Discovery Plus. Additionally, the service provides access to a vast collection of content from other popular networks and studios, including A&E, History, and Lifetime.
Accessibility and Features
Discovery Plus is available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices. The service offers a range of features, including the ability to create a watchlist, set reminders for upcoming episodes, and stream content in high definition. Discovery Plus also offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and discover new content.
Key Differences Between Discovery Go and Discovery Plus
While both Discovery Go and Discovery Plus offer a range of content from Discovery networks, there are several key differences between the two services. The most significant difference is the content offerings, with Discovery Plus providing a more comprehensive and diverse range of content compared to Discovery Go. Additionally, Discovery Plus is available as a standalone service, eliminating the need for a traditional cable subscription or authentication with a cable provider.
Content Library
The content library on Discovery Plus is significantly larger than on Discovery Go, featuring a wide range of content from various networks and studios. Discovery Plus also offers exclusive content, including original series and documentaries that can only be found on the service.
Authentication and Accessibility
Discovery Go requires users to authenticate their account using their cable provider credentials, which can be a limitation for those who do not have a traditional cable subscription. In contrast, Discovery Plus is available as a standalone service, eliminating the need for authentication with a cable provider.
Pricing and Plans
Discovery Plus offers a range of pricing plans, including a ad-supported plan and an ad-free plan. The ad-supported plan is available for $4.99 per month, while the ad-free plan is available for $6.99 per month. Discovery Go, on the other hand, is included with a traditional cable subscription, and users can access the service for free as part of their cable package.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both Discovery Go and Discovery Plus offer a range of content from Discovery networks, they are not the same service. Discovery Plus is a more comprehensive and diverse streaming service that offers a wide range of content from various networks and studios, while Discovery Go is a more limited service that requires authentication with a cable provider. If you’re looking for a standalone streaming service with a vast library of content, Discovery Plus may be the better option. However, if you have a traditional cable subscription and are looking for a convenient way to access your favorite Discovery shows on-demand, Discovery Go may be the better choice.
| Service | Content Offerings | Accessibility | Pricing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery Go | Limited to Discovery networks | Requires authentication with cable provider | Included with traditional cable subscription |
| Discovery Plus | Comprehensive and diverse range of content | Available as a standalone service | $4.99 per month (ad-supported), $6.99 per month (ad-free) |
By understanding the differences between Discovery Go and Discovery Plus, you can make an informed decision about which service is best suited for your entertainment needs. Whether you’re a fan of reality TV, documentaries, or educational programs, there’s a Discovery service that’s right for you.
What is Discovery Go and how does it differ from Discovery Plus?
Discovery Go is a TV everywhere service offered by Discovery, Inc., allowing users to access live and on-demand content from various Discovery networks, including Discovery Channel, TLC, and Animal Planet, among others. This service is typically available to subscribers of participating TV providers, who can use their cable or satellite subscription credentials to log in and access the content. Discovery Go provides a range of TV shows, documentaries, and other programming, but its content library and features are limited compared to Discovery Plus.
In contrast, Discovery Plus is a standalone streaming service that offers a more comprehensive library of content, including exclusive originals, documentaries, and TV shows from various Discovery networks, as well as content from other providers like A&E, History, and Lifetime. Discovery Plus is available as a separate subscription, and users do not need a TV provider subscription to access its content. While both services offer Discovery content, Discovery Plus provides a more extensive and diverse range of programming, making it a more attractive option for users who want access to a broader range of content without the need for a traditional TV subscription.
Do I need a TV subscription to use Discovery Go?
To use Discovery Go, you typically need a subscription to a participating TV provider, such as a cable or satellite company. This is because Discovery Go is a TV everywhere service, which means it is designed to provide access to Discovery content for users who already subscribe to a TV package that includes Discovery networks. By using your TV provider credentials to log in to Discovery Go, you can access live and on-demand content from Discovery networks, as well as other features and programming.
However, it’s worth noting that some TV providers may offer Discovery Go as part of a streaming package or a la carte subscription, which could allow users to access Discovery content without a traditional TV subscription. Additionally, some users may be able to access limited content on Discovery Go without a TV subscription, such as clips or sneak peeks. Nevertheless, to access the full range of content and features on Discovery Go, a TV provider subscription is typically required. In contrast, Discovery Plus does not require a TV subscription, making it a more accessible option for users who want to stream Discovery content without a traditional TV package.
Can I watch live TV on Discovery Plus?
Discovery Plus is primarily a video-on-demand service, offering a large library of on-demand content, including TV shows, documentaries, and exclusive originals. While it does provide some live content, such as live events or specials, it does not offer the same level of live TV programming as Discovery Go or traditional TV providers. Users who want to watch live TV, including news, sports, or other programming, may need to subscribe to a separate live TV streaming service or a traditional TV provider.
However, Discovery Plus does offer some features that allow users to stay up-to-date with their favorite shows, such as new episode alerts and personalized watchlists. Additionally, some Discovery Plus content may be available to stream shortly after it airs on live TV, allowing users to catch up on their favorite shows without needing a traditional TV subscription. Nevertheless, users who prioritize live TV programming may want to consider a separate live TV streaming service or a traditional TV provider in addition to their Discovery Plus subscription.
How much does Discovery Plus cost, and what plans are available?
Discovery Plus offers two main plans: an ad-supported plan and an ad-free plan. The ad-supported plan costs $4.99 per month, while the ad-free plan costs $6.99 per month. Both plans provide access to the same content library, including exclusive originals, documentaries, and TV shows from various Discovery networks. The main difference between the two plans is the presence of ads, with the ad-supported plan displaying commercials during programming and the ad-free plan providing an ad-free viewing experience.
In addition to the monthly plans, Discovery Plus also offers an annual subscription option, which can provide a discount for users who commit to a year of service. The annual ad-supported plan costs $49.99 per year, while the annual ad-free plan costs $69.99 per year. Discovery Plus also occasionally offers promotions, discounts, or free trials, which can provide users with a discounted or free introduction to the service. Overall, Discovery Plus is priced competitively with other streaming services, making it an attractive option for users who want access to a wide range of Discovery content without breaking the bank.
Is Discovery Go available on all devices, and what are the system requirements?
Discovery Go is available on a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming media players. The service can be accessed through the Discovery Go website or through mobile apps for iOS and Android devices. Additionally, Discovery Go is available on various streaming devices, such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. To use Discovery Go, users typically need a compatible device, a stable internet connection, and a TV provider subscription.
In terms of system requirements, Discovery Go recommends a minimum internet speed of 5 Mbps for HD streaming and 25 Mbps for 4K streaming. The service also requires a compatible browser or device, with supported browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari. For mobile devices, Discovery Go requires iOS 11 or later or Android 5.0 or later. For streaming devices, the service requires a minimum software version, which may vary depending on the device. Overall, Discovery Go is widely available on various devices, making it easy for users to access their favorite Discovery content on the go.
Can I download content from Discovery Plus for offline viewing?
Yes, Discovery Plus allows users to download content for offline viewing, making it easy to watch favorite shows or documentaries on the go. To download content, users need to have a compatible device, such as a smartphone or tablet, and a stable internet connection. Once downloaded, content can be accessed offline, without the need for an internet connection. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to watch content during commutes, travel, or in areas with limited internet connectivity.
To download content on Discovery Plus, users can simply select the download option on the content details page or from the playback menu. The service allows users to download content in various quality settings, including HD and SD, and users can manage their downloads through the Discovery Plus app. It’s worth noting that downloaded content is only available for a limited time, typically 30 days, and users must connect to the internet periodically to renew their downloads. Additionally, not all content on Discovery Plus is available for download, so users should check the content details page to see if downloading is an option.