Best Discovery+ alternatives for streaming documentaries and reality TV in 2024
Kevin Hall
Nov 4th, 2024
·5min read
Nov 4th, 2024
·5min read
Discovery+ has carved a niche in streaming, thanks to its impressive selection of documentaries and reality shows spanning genres from science and history to cooking and lifestyle. But with streaming options multiplying, some viewers may be looking for alternatives. Whether you’re in search of fresh content, a lower price, or a broader selection, we’ve rounded up the best Discovery+ alternatives for documentaries and reality TV in 2024.
Let’s dive into top picks that cater to documentary enthusiasts and reality TV fans alike.
Content Overview: Hulu is a strong contender in the streaming world, offering a diverse library that includes not only documentaries and reality TV, but also movies, live TV, and original content. The platform features popular documentaries and docuseries like Fyre Fraud, Free Solo, and Wild Crime. Additionally, Hulu offers a variety of reality TV shows including The Bachelor, Survivor, and Love Island.
Key Features:
Why Choose Hulu? For those who want both variety and depth, Hulu’s diverse library includes both licensed and original content, and with the option for live TV, it’s a solid choice for people who want a Discovery+ alternative with additional entertainment options.
Content Overview: CuriosityStream is a streaming service dedicated entirely to documentaries. Created by Discovery Channel founder John Hendricks, it focuses on educational and factual content, offering an extensive library of science, history, technology, and nature documentaries. Notable titles include Ancient Earth, The History of Food, and Stephen Hawking’s Favorite Places.
Key Features:
Why Choose CuriosityStream? CuriosityStream’s low cost and niche focus make it perfect for viewers interested in educational content without the distractions of reality TV and scripted shows. Its highly specialized library is ideal for documentary enthusiasts.
Content Overview: Netflix is known for its original documentaries and docuseries, often acclaimed for their high production value and gripping storytelling. Some top choices include Our Planet, Making a Murderer, Tiger King, and The Social Dilemma. In addition to documentaries, Netflix offers popular reality TV shows like Queer Eye, Selling Sunset, and The Circle.
Key Features:
Why Choose Netflix? For viewers who want a mix of critically acclaimed documentaries and binge-worthy reality TV, Netflix remains one of the top choices. Its focus on high-quality, original content makes it appealing to those looking for well-produced shows.
Content Overview: Disney+ is home to National Geographic’s streaming library, featuring award-winning documentaries and series like Free Solo, The World According to Jeff Goldblum, and Secrets of the Whales. With Disney+, you also get access to a wide range of family-friendly content, Marvel shows, Pixar, and Star Wars series.
Key Features:
Why Choose Disney+? If you’re looking for nature documentaries and informative series, Disney+ with National Geographic offers top-notch content. The Disney+ bundle also provides great value for viewers seeking access to a variety of genres.
Content Overview: Apple TV+ may not have the largest library, but its exclusive documentaries and docuseries are highly acclaimed. Examples include The Elephant Queen, Fireball: Visitors from Darker Worlds, and The Me You Can’t See. Although not as extensive as Discovery+, Apple’s curated selection is notable for its unique storytelling.
Key Features:
Why Choose Apple TV+? For viewers who appreciate high-quality productions and unique stories, Apple TV+ is an excellent option. Though limited in volume, its documentary selection emphasizes quality, making it a great choice for selective viewers.
Content Overview: While not a traditional streaming service, YouTube remains a go-to for free documentary and reality TV content. Many creators upload educational documentaries and reality-style content across various topics. Paid options like YouTube Premium remove ads, and channels like Vice and BBC Earth often publish quality, short-form documentaries.
Key Features:
Why Choose YouTube? For cost-conscious viewers, YouTube offers a nearly endless supply of free documentary content. Channels focused on specific niches like true crime, wildlife, and social issues provide great options without the need for a subscription.
Discovery+ offers a strong lineup of documentaries and reality TV, but there are plenty of alternatives in 2024 for those looking to switch things up. From Hulu’s broad variety to CuriosityStream’s laser focus on documentaries, there’s a service tailored to every kind of viewer. Whether you’re a dedicated documentary lover or a reality TV fan, these platforms offer diverse, compelling content to keep you entertained.
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