Here’s WHY you should ditch DStv: 10 best alternatives

South African audiences are increasingly paying attention away away from a DStv Premium subscription in favor of more affordable and versatile streaming options.

Additionally, streaming platforms continue to gain popularity around the world.

ALSO READ | MultiChoice suffers R1.84bn loss as DStv subscriber numbers fall

According to the Gauteng news website, DStv, which was once a household staple, is now struggling to retain subscribers, especially as the availability of uncapped fiber and highly capped LTE services ensures uninterrupted streaming.

RELATED | Another 1.8 million subscribers have switched from DStv

Below are the reasons for this shift – and 10 The best DStv alternatives for South African viewers.

Why are South Africans ditching DStv?

According to a South African website, one of the main reasons for DStv’s demise is the high cost of the Premium package.

Monthly costs are high, and with the rise of alternative entertainment sources offering similar content for much less money, subscribers are increasingly abandoning it.

With unlimited internet, South Africans can access a variety of streaming platforms for a fraction of the price of DStv Premium, although sports fans may find their options outside of DStv limited.

Despite this, some are willing to wait for the game to be uploaded after the game to platforms such as YouTube rather than paying the full price of DStv.

10 Best DSTV Alternatives for Streaming in South Africa

1. Netflix (R99–R169 per month)
   Netflix remains the global leader in streaming, providing access to thousands of movies and TV shows. With content available in HD and UHD formats, Netflix also boasts an impressive selection of critically acclaimed original films, including series, documentaries and special appearances. For families, Netflix offers a variety of kid-friendly options, making it a versatile choice for all age groups.
2. Showmax (R99 per month)
   As a South African streaming platform, Showmax has the unique advantage of offering a mix of international hits and local content, including the largest selection of Afrikaans-language series and films. Showmax has also partnered to stream HBO content, broadening its appeal among audiences who enjoy premium series from the US.
3. Amazon Prime Video (R54.63 for the first 6 months, then R109.21 per month)
   Amazon Prime Video has a growing catalog of original series and popular films. Subscribers can watch shows like The Boys and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which are exclusive to the platform. While it’s a little more expensive than some other options, its variety and high-quality content make it a worthy contender.
4. Disney+ (R119 per month)
   For families and fans of the Disney brand, Disney+ is your one-stop shop for classics, Marvel films, Star Wars series and National Geographic documentaries. Although Disney+ is relatively new to South Africa, it has quickly gained popularity, offering a library that is ideal for all ages.
5. Apple TV+ (R84.99 per month)
   Apple TV+ has a smaller catalog than other services, but it is focused on high-quality, exclusive content. Series such as “Ted Lasso” and “The Morning Show” have received critical acclaim, attracting audiences who value quality over quantity. Apple TV+ also offers free access to Apple users, making it an easy addition for those already in the Apple ecosystem.
6. YouTube Premium (R71.99 per month)
   While YouTube isn’t typically known for premium movies and TV shows, YouTube Premium offers ad-free access and the ability to download videos for offline viewing. Subscribers can also watch YouTube Originals, which includes some exclusive series and movies.
7. BritBox (R99.99 per month)
   BritBox is a great choice for those who love British television. With an extensive library of classic British series and the latest BBC and ITV hits, it will appeal to fans of British drama, comedy and documentaries. BritBox offers exclusive access to new releases, making it attractive to those hungry for programming outside the US.
8. HBO Max — 139 rubles per month. For lovers of premium, high-budget content, HBO Max offers a great mix of blockbuster films, HBO originalsand popular TV shows. This streaming service includes access to Game of Thrones, Continuity, Euphoriaand much more. Although its price is a little higher, its exclusive content makes it a great option for those who are ready to invest in premium TV.
9. Samsung TV Plus – Samsung TV Plus is a free, ad-supported streaming service that provides access to a variety of live TV channels, movies and TV shows. Available on Samsung smart TVs and mobile devices, the service is a great choice for consumers on a budget who don’t mind advertising in exchange for free content.
10. Plex (free with premium options)
    While Plex doesn’t provide content itself, it allows users to organize their own media libraries and stream from any device. Plex also offers live TV channels and some ad-supported movies and TV series. The premium version of Plex, Plex Pass, adds additional features such as DVR capabilities, but even the free version is useful for managing and viewing content.

A new era for South African viewers

With many affordable and varied streaming services available, South Africans are finding it easier to switch from traditional satellite TV.

While live sports remains a sticking point for many, options such as Cell C Black and YouTube provide ways to watch sports content without the high costs associated with DStv Premium.

Moreover, as streaming platform technologies evolve and broadband becomes more accessible, this trend is likely to continue.

All of these streaming platforms have their own unique offerings, from Amazon Prime Originals exclusivity to local content on Showmax, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

The move away from premium DStv is part of a wider trend as more South Africans find streaming services cost-effective, accessible and rich in content to suit modern and flexible viewing habits.

The future of entertainment lies in streaming platforms, and South Africans are well on their way to fully embracing this digital evolution.

Are you still a DSTV subscriber?

Let us know by clicking on the comments tab below this article, sending an email to [email protected] or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.

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