While it may often seem like every network has its own streaming service, this is something to be said for getting a service that houses content from multiple sources. Not only is doing so much more convenient for viewers, but it's also significantly cheaper. One app that is taking this approach is the Discovery+ app, which features both a number of highly-rated favorites as well as some new streaming-exclusive content for fans.

Features

Discovery+ is a streaming app that takes the content from several popular education/home improvement-based networks and puts them all on one streaming source. Combining TLC, Discovery, Animal Planet, ID, HGTV, and Food Network under one banner, the app also features a number of shows from popular program creators on each network. With a similar set-up to apps like Hulu, the app is a bit barebones at the moment but it already has an incredible amount of content that's available at both ad-supported and ad-free subscription tiers.

Benefits

If you've ever been a fan of networks like Discovery, HGTV, or TLC, you're going to quickly find that this app is a good replacement for your cable subscription. It's simply amazing to see how much has made its way onto this app, with not only a great selection of shows that you already love but also plenty of spin-offs from those same shows. Discovery+ is an ambitious app with a very specific target audience, of course, but it's also one that gives that audience absolutely everything that they could want.

Pros and Cons

One of the biggest factors in favor of this streaming service is the price. At $4.99 per month for the cheapest tier, this is one of the best choices that you can make for your money. If you are a fan of the general world of home improvement shows, you'll not only get more than you might be able to handle but you'll also get the shows with fewer commercials than you might even see on traditional television. This is honestly one of those fantastic deals that makes streaming make a lot of financial sense.

While the price is right, you are still paying for a relatively narrow niche of programming. If you aren't into home improvement, nature, or cooking, you're probably not going to find a lot to like here. The other big issue is that the app still feels like it needs a lot of polish - making subscription changes can't be done from within the app, for example, and the service doesn't always play well with every streaming device. These are problems that feel like they will get resolved sooner rather than later, but they are also the kind of thing that makes it a bit tough to be an early adopter.

Conclusion

It's very hard to look at Discovery+ as anything but a must-download if you are already a fan of the shows on any of the networks that fall under this streaming umbrella. With a low barrier to entry and plenty of exciting new content to keep fans excited, this is one of those apps that makes a very good argument for cutting the cable cord. Though it certainly doesn't have the kind of content that every user is going to flock to, this app is nevertheless one that deserves at least a quick look from anyone who enjoys any of the edutainment programs featured on some of television's most popular networks.