9 Streaming Gems to Try in 2026 — From Live TV to Niche Alternatives

Looking for streaming options that don’t all look the same? In 2026, streaming isn’t about having the largest library; the smart play is to mix big-name originals with niche services that deliver something you won’t find anywhere else. With prices rising and content spread across multiple platforms, cord cutters can save big by curating their subscriptions instead of paying for everything.

Whether you’re into niche content, prestige originals, or looking for a live TV alternative, these 9 streaming services are worth a spot in your rotation this year.

Arrow Player

• Starting Price: $6.99 per month | 69.99 per year
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: Curated library for cinephile horror and cult cinema fans.

Arrow Player is a must if you love well-curated genre films, including restored classics, cult horrors, deep cuts, obscure genres, and hard-to-find film restorations. Built around Arrow Video’s home-video reputation, the steamer’s smart curation, special features, and high-quality transfers are what film lovers appreciate.

Japanese cult classics, British horror, American grindhouse, and Italian giallo are just some of the international flavors under Arrow’s wide‑palate catalog. If you want a small monthly subscription that delivers a steady pipeline of oddball, lovingly restored cinema along with a world tour of weird and wonderful filmmaking, Arrow is the pick.

Philo

Philo offers one of the best values for cord cutters who enjoy lots of entertainment, lifestyle, and cable favorites without sports and news. Philo’s Core package packs 70+ live channels, unlimited DVR storage, multi-profile support, and bundles HBO Max Basic with Ads plan, discovery+, and the AMC+ library for under $35 per month.

TLC, Hallmark Channel, Nickelodeon, MTV, Discovery Channel, Paramount Network, AMC, HGTV, BET, and Comedy Central are popular networks in Philo’s big daytime and primetime channel lineup. Additionally, Philo’s Free Channels adds another 100 ad-supported live channels and thousands of on-demand titles, which can be recorded with DVR, for no additional charge. Cord cutters looking for that linear feel without an expensive bill can get the first month of Philo Core for $25 (new subscribers only).

Daily Burn

• Starting Price: $14.95 per month (First month for $0.99)
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: Fitness streamer with a large workout library that actually helps you move.

Not a traditional streamer as far as shows and movies go, but if you stepped into 2026 with the intention to get stronger, healthier, and more energized, give Daily Burn a try. The fitness streamer offers a library of thousands of guided workouts, including styles like HIIT, yoga, strength, dance, and more, without a gym membership. The on-demand fitness platform offers programs for beginners through advanced users, classes you can schedule, and a large library of studio-style sessions. Plus, with Daily Burn 365, you can achieve your fitness goals by participating in live classes.

Whether you’re easing back into fitness or ready to push yourself, Daily Burn meets you where you are with programs that fit your schedule, your space, and your pace. Daily Burn’s structure, variety, and trainer-led programs make it a better value than one-off apps or random YouTube playlists. Visit their YouTube page to get a feel, or start your free trial to begin a realistic, sustainable way to build momentum and crush your goals this year.

Dropout

Dropout is an ideal addition to any streaming lineup that needs humor, fun, and risk-taking comedy. Run by the folks behind CollegeHumor, the streamer features cult hits like Dimension 20, Game Changer, and other unscripted gems. The small, ad-free service is built for fans and has a unique community vibe when compared to more mainstream services.

Since its 2018 launch, Dropout has made a name for itself as the premier home of independent, ad-free, uncensored comedy. Its deep library of sketch shows, podcasts, and interactive game-show–style content fills a niche you won’t find on Netflix or Prime. Before subscribing, you can preview many full episodes of Dropout’s signature series on their YouTube page.

Apple TV

• Starting Price: $12.99 per month
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: Quality originals with top tech polish.

If your streaming lineup needs high-quality content that stands out with prestige and high production values, adding Apple TV is a must. The ad-free streamer skips unnecessary, endless filler in favor of flagship shows and a steadily expanding film slate.

For those who want award‑winning dramas, inventive comedies, big‑budget sci‑fi, and some of the best family programming anywhere, Apple TV’s curated library makes finding something to watch simple. In addition to original content, sports fans can enjoy live MLS games and Formula One racing. The former Apple TV+ is also home to Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the whole Peanuts gang. For even more favorites and sports, you can bundle Apple TV with Peacock for as low as $14.99 per month.

BFI Player Classics

• Starting Price: $5.99 per month
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: A hand-picked selection of classic British cinema.

British Film Institute’s BFI Player Classics has a curated collection of everything from landmark post-war films to cult British favorites. With hundreds of titles, its a a treasure chest for anyone who loves cinema with history, texture, and personality. Film students, critics, or anyone who wants a streaming service that treats movies like art rather than content should give this niche service a shot.

PBS Masterpiece

• Price: $5.99 per month
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: Large selection of premium British dramas.

Another streamer worth trying for those who enjoy rich storytelling, British dramas, mysteries, and historical series is PBS Masterpiece. All Creatures Great and Small, Sherlock, Downton Abbey, and Victoria are a few notable titles the streamer is known for. Many local PBS stations offer extended streaming access through PBS Passport (a member benefit), which is an easy way to access Masterpiece’s archive and new seasons.

As a budget-friendly service, Masterpiece stands out with award-winning long-running hits, costume dramas, and mysteries, with production values that feel cinematic. If you love British period pieces, mysteries, or high-quality adaptations, Masterpiece is a terrific, low-risk add.

Paramount+

• Starting Price: $7.99 per month with the Essential plan.
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: Paramount’s big catalog and live sports/options for mainstream viewers.

Paramount+ blends a large TV/movie catalog, Showtime tiers, and live sports/content for less than $8 per month. With over 40,000+ titles, the platform has modern network hits, top franchise picks, and premium favorites. Major sports include UFC, NFL, PGA Tour, WNBA, UEFA Champions League/Europa League, college athletics, including March Madness, and much more.

With a back catalog of content from brands like CBS, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, BET, and VH1, Paramount+ is a versatile pick of mixed library content and live curated channels. The Premium tier gives you access to the full Showtime library, and your local CBS affiliate while ditching the ad interruptions.

MHz Choice + Topic

• Starting Price: $7.99 per month
• Free Trial: 7 Days.
• Why Watch: An international mysteries and arthouse combo goldmine.

MHz Choice + Topic is for those who want something different than the formulaic network procedures or recycled American crime tropes. Curated indie and cult fare meet European mysteries and turmoil, including Nordic noir, French police procedurals, British detective series, German thrillers, and Italian crime tales.

With MHz Choice, you can enjoy hundreds of subtitled European favorites, while Topic adds even more dark, slow-burning thrillers from around the world. This combo service is ideal if you’re hunting for refreshing alternatives that feel grounded, atmospheric, and culturally rich.