Peacock

Pros

• Tens of thousands of hours of content
• The exclusive streaming home of WWE and the Olympics
• Smooth and clean user interface

Cons

• Less content than other streaming services
• Requires a subscription to see some content

The Peacock app allows you to access a huge library of video content owned by NBC Universal. And while they're entering a crowded market of video streaming services, their dense catalog of treasured franchises, live events, and new content is enough to make a convincing argument for why you should add Peacock to your list of existing streaming video subscriptions. And while you can access Peacock directly from your browser or your TV, the Peacock app offers a streamlined means to browse NBC Universal's catalog and manage your own account settings. Though it doesn't exactly reinvent the wheel, the clean and simple design of the app gets out of the way and lets the content capture the spotlight.

Rows of content split what's available into separate categories — and the algorithms baked into Peacock's interface help create a curated selection of choices that reflect your actual needs. The more you watch, the better Peacock will get at predicting your needs. And there's a refreshing amount of content here. That includes celebrated shows like The Office and 30 Rock as well as a collection of crime dramas anchored by the entire Law & Order franchise. Peacock is also the main home of content for World Wrestling Entertainment, and they offer plenty from their late night talk shows and Saturday Night Live.

Peacock has done a smart job of offering both short-form and long-form content — as when they provide both highlight sketches and full episodes of Saturday Night Live. But they're home to plenty of original content as well. The archives at NBC Universal are well-stocked, but you'll discover that Peacock is home to plenty of fresh content as well. Small segments like highlights of Olympics athletes provide deeper context to content you're already enjoying, and NBC has even begun producing new series and movies so there's a constant stream of new content on the platform. And if you're just looking to enjoy the shows that you normally watch, new NBC TV series come to Peacock the day after they air.

The basic functions provided by Peacock are completely free to use, although you can expect to see ads during your content. But if you want access to more than what you'll find on NBC's network roster, you'll need a paid subscription. This provides you with the full catalog of content and makes sure that you can stay up-to-date with the latest and greatest offerings from NBC Universal's various brands. By the standards of some other streaming services, NBC's content may play it safe. But it provides a niche streaming service that has a part to play in the larger ecosystem. The mobile app is your gateway to accessing that content wherever you happen to be.

Pros

• Tens of thousands of hours of content
• The exclusive streaming home of WWE and the Olympics
• Smooth and clean user interface

Cons

• Less content than other streaming services
• Requires a subscription to see some content