How Much Does CBS All Access Cost a Month?

As a well-known streaming service, CBS All Access has been popular for its extensive library of content, especially for Star Trek enthusiasts. In this article, we will discuss the monthly cost of CBS All Access, including both its ad-supported and ad-free plans, as well as compare it with its new brand, Paramount Plus, and explore the advantages of each subscription type.

Overview of CBS All Access Pricing

Starting in the fall of 2023, CBS All Access will be rebranded as Paramount Plus, a move aimed at simplifying the brand and streamlining content offerings. Currently, the service offers two distinct plans for different user preferences:

Ad-Supported Plan: This plan costs $5.99 per month, which is significantly more affordable than the previous ad-free version. Users can enjoy a host of programming with a few ads played at the beginning and during the show. Ad-Free Plan: For those who want a cleaner viewing experience, the ad-free plan costs $9.99 per month. This plan offers ad-free viewing of the entire CBS library and original content.

Free Trial and Cancelation Policies

New users can take advantage of a one-week free trial to sample the service without any risk. Furthermore, there is no long-term contract, allowing subscribers to cancel at any time. This flexibility makes it an appealing option for casual viewers and committed fans alike.

Comparing CBS All Access and Paramount Plus

The rebranding from CBS All Access to Paramount Plus is expected to offer a broader range of content and improved streaming services. While the pricing remains similar, Paramount Plus is projected to include a wider array of Paramount Pictures films and TV shows in addition to the CBS content. Here's a comparison of the two:

Pricing: Both CBS All Access and Paramount Plus have the same basic tier of $5.99 with ads and $9.99 without ads. Content: Paramount Plus will offer a larger library, including content from Paramount Pictures, which could make it a more comprehensive streaming option. Advertising: Both plans offer similar ad experiences, with the ad-free plan being more visually pleasant.

Free Streaming Services and CBS All Access

While paying for CBS All Access may seem like a premium service, there are several free streaming services that offer similar content. For example, Pluto TV includes many of the same shows from CBS that may interest viewers who are on a budget or prefer to sample before committing. These options can be a cost-effective alternative for those who are exploring different streaming platforms.

User Reviews and Personal Experiences

Based on user feedback, the ad-supported plan (at $5.99 per month) is considered sufficient for most users. Critics note that there are only a few ads at the beginning and during the show, making it a reasonably ad-free experience. However, the cost jumps to $9.99 for the ad-free plan, which can be justified for dedicated Star Trek fans and those who strongly prefer a cleaner viewing experience.

Those who have tried the service agree that the benefits of the ad-free plan, although worth the extra $4, may not be worth it if you are okay with a few ads. The ad-free version is particularly appealing to fans of series like Star Trek: Discovery, Picard, Below Decks, and the Twilight Zone reboot by Jordan Peele.

Conclusion

Whether you choose CBS All Access or Paramount Plus, both offer a good value with competitive pricing. The ad-free plan may be worth the extra cost for dedicated fans, but for most users, the ad-supported plan is more than sufficient. Consider trying the free trial to see which plan suits your needs best.