The best streaming services for TV series content in 2025 vary depending on whether you prioritize original programming, library depth, budget-friendliness, or genre specialization. Netflix remains the leader for overall volume and quality of original series, with 837 "excellent" quality shows (IMDb 8+), while Apple TV+ delivers the highest average quality per title (7.0 IMDb) despite its smaller catalog ^[7]. Disney+ excels for family-friendly franchises like Marvel and Star Wars, though its new content releases are slower ^[2]. For live TV integration, Hulu + Live TV offers the best hybrid experience, bundling Disney+ and ESPN+ for $83/month ^[3]. Budget-conscious viewers should consider Prime Video, which provides the most "excellent" quality shows per dollar (50 per $1) and the largest library (25,349 titles) ^[7].

Key takeaways:

• Netflix leads in original series volume and quality, with 837 top-rated shows (IMDb 8+) and a vast catalog ^[7]
• Apple TV+ offers the highest average IMDb score (7.0) but has the smallest library among major platforms ^[7]
• Prime Video provides the best value for money, with 50 excellent-quality shows per $1 spent and the largest overall library ^[7]
• Hulu is ideal for network TV fans, offering quick access to new episodes and strong live TV integration ^[2]

Streaming Services for TV Series: Quality, Value, and Specialization

Original Content Leaders: Netflix and Apple TV+

Netflix maintains its dominance in original TV series, boasting 837 shows rated 8+ on IMDb - more than any competitor. The platform's investment in diverse genres is evident in its 2025 lineup, which includes critically acclaimed series like Better Call Saul and Squid Game ^[10]. Netflix's algorithm-driven recommendations and global production capabilities ensure a steady stream of new content, though subscription costs have risen to $8-$23/month depending on the plan ^[2]. The service's user interface remains the gold standard for discoverability, with personalized rows and percentage match scores helping viewers find relevant content quickly.

Apple TV+, while newer to the market, has established itself as the quality leader with an average IMDb score of 7.0 across its entire catalog - the highest of any streaming service. This premium positioning comes with tradeoffs: the platform offers only about 100 original series compared to Netflix's thousands ^[7]. Standout titles like Dope Thief demonstrate Apple's focus on high-budget productions with A-list talent ^[10]. The service's $9.99/month price point and ad-free experience make it particularly appealing for viewers who prioritize quality over quantity. Both Netflix and Apple TV+ excel in different ways:

• Netflix offers 837 excellent-quality shows (IMDb 8+) - the most of any service ^[7]
• Apple TV+ maintains the highest average IMDb score (7.0) across its catalog ^[7]
• Netflix provides genre diversity across 170+ countries with localized content ^[2]
• Apple TV+ focuses on prestige productions with smaller but more consistent quality ^[1]
• Both platforms offer 4K HDR streaming, though Netflix requires premium plans ^[2]

Best Value and Live TV Integration

Prime Video emerges as the clear value leader in 2025, offering 50 excellent-quality TV shows per dollar spent - far exceeding competitors. The service's massive library of 25,349 titles includes both original productions like The Boys and licensed content from various studios ^[7]. Prime Video's inclusion with Amazon Prime membership (which also provides shipping benefits) makes it particularly cost-effective at $14.99/month or $139/year. The platform added 218 new quality titles in 2025, more than any other service ^[7].

For viewers seeking live TV integration, Hulu + Live TV presents the most comprehensive solution. The $83/month bundle includes Disney+, ESPN+, and access to 70+ live channels alongside Hulu's on-demand library ^[3]. This combination proves especially valuable for sports fans and families, as it covers major networks while maintaining Hulu's strength in current-season network shows. The service's interface seamlessly blends live and on-demand content, with features like unlimited DVR storage (with upgrades) and the ability to watch on three screens simultaneously. Key advantages include:

• Prime Video offers 50 excellent-quality shows per $1 - the best value metric ^[7]
• Hulu + Live TV bundles Disney+, ESPN+, and 70+ live channels for $83/month ^[3]
• Prime Video's library grew by 218 quality titles in 2025 - the largest addition ^[7]
• Hulu provides next-day access to most network TV shows ^[2]
• Both services offer ad-supported tiers to reduce costs further ^[2]