Playstation Vue Review: Live Streaming at a Cost ($$$)

PlayStation Vue is Sony’s live TV streaming service. While not as popular as some of the other streaming options currently on the market, PlayStation Vue holds it’s own amongst competitors.

One of the most enticing features of this streaming device is its ability to stream 5 different viewing options at once. So, in theory, you could share your login with several of your friends and family members. While other apps may offer this option, some of them require upgraded packages to achieve this number of program streaming.

One critical myth that is worth debunking right off the bat, is the need for a PlayStation gaming system to use PlayStation Vue. While it’s confusing that they both have the name of the brand in their name, you do not need the system to use the streaming app.

Below we’ll give you our honest opinion of PlayStation Vue’s streaming device. While we do think that the app has a lot of redeeming qualities, we’re not entirely sold that it’s your best choice. Read more to learn why.

Playstation Vue Review

Playstation Vue Cost

Cost is the biggest downside to PlayStation Vue. The starting package for this streaming option is $49.99. A hefty price tag in comparison to some of the other options available. Additionally, there are only three package options with this app, and $49.99 is the cheapest of them all.

With the most basic level package known as the “Access” package, viewers have the ability to watch an unlimited number of programs. One of the channels you can access with this package is the Bravo Network. If you can’t live without The Real Housewives franchise, PlayStation Vue has you covered.

The next upgrade is the “Core” package. This option is $54.99/month and offers an increase in channels. With all of the package upgrades, this is the feature that justifies the increase in cost. The two other packages available are the Elite Package ($64.99/month) and the Ultra Package ($84.99). Depending on your viewing preferences, paying more may be worth it if you want a wide variety of channel options.

Playstation Vue Channels

With the Access Package, you can choose from any of the following channels, including ABC, AMC, Animal Planet, BBC America, Bravo, Cartoon Network, CBS, Cheddar Business, CNBC, CNN, COZI TV, Destination America, Discovery, Discovery Family, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, E!, ESPN, ESPN2, Food Network, FOX, Fox Business, Fox News Channel, FREEFORM, FS1, FS2, FX, FXX, HGTV, HLN, Investigation Discovery, MSNBC, National Geographic, NBC, NBCSN, OWN, oxygen, SCI, Start TV, Syfy, TBS, TLC, TNT, Travel Channel, truTV, USA, and WE. With something for any member of the family, the Access package alone will provide endless hours of viewing pleasure.

However, if you are a die-hard fan of a particular network or show, you can reference PlayStation Vue’s website here. The app’s website provides the full list of channels offered with each package.

The only real downside to Paystation Vue is the lack of Viacom stations, such as MTV, Comedy Central, and Nickelodeon. If you are a big fan of Viacom stations you may want to check out Philo or Hulu Plus.

Note: If you are looking for more family-friendly and lower cost entertainment check out our review of Disney+.

Playstation Vue Packages

PlayStation Vue offers two different add-on options that you can purchase.

The first is the Sports Pack, that you can include with any of their three higher-level packages. The Sports Pack is not available with the basic level Access package. This upgrade is available for an additional $10/month and includes live streaming of NFL Network games as well as NBC Sports. For anyone with a weakness for sports, this add-on is a must-have.

The second is the Cinemax option, offered for an additional $15/month. If you’re a die-hard movie fan, Cinemax is an add-on you’ll want to have. With a huge library of blockbuster hits, Cinemax is sure to keep the viewing connoisseur in you happy.

Analysis

On the upside, PlayStation Vue offers an expansive selection of content. Hulu, Netflix, and Sling TV all have more limited, but large, catalogs of television and movie selections. PlayStation Vue beats any of these options, without fail. The app offers an extraordinary, and extensive viewing catalog, and a friendly user interface.

Another feature worth noting is the unique ability to record programs with the most basic package. The PlayStation Vue allows its viewers to record and store content for up to 28 days. Most streaming apps require you to buy an upgraded package for this type of service. With the basic level Access package the unlimited DVR ability is available and ready for use.

When you’re considering the options with PlayStation Vue, the upgrades, and the add-ons, you may be hovering right near your current cable costs. This may very well be worth it to many people who value variety and options. However, if cutting your costs is your end goal, PlayStation Vue may not be the most efficient way to accomplish this.

The Bottom Line

While the PlayStation Vue is a quality product, with the number of other streaming options on the market, we don’t regard it as the best or most cost-effective. Depending on your streaming needs, bundling a few other options together may provide just as much access to content and save you a bit at the end of the day.

The lack of Viacom stations makes the 49.99 dollars a month service a hard pill to swallow. However, if you prefer sports and DVR and can live without South Park and The Daily Show PSN Vue can be competitive with Hulu + Live TV.

On the other hand, if your priority is having access to the most content with the highest ease of use, then PlayStation Vue may be just the ticket for you. It’s best to evaluate your needs and desires and compare them to your financial restraints. We advise taking all your choices into consideration before committing to the PlayStation Vue, or any other service.

Originally published at https://yourmoneygeek.com on October 22, 2019.