Every time Netflix announces a price hike, subscribers groan at the thought of a few extra dollars. But when you weigh what Netflix delivers—now and in the future—it's clear: stop complaining. At its core, Netflix remains an incredible value.
Back in 2011, CEO Reed Hastings apologized for a surprise price increase that tanked shares by 19%. Fast forward to 2015, and another hike sparked outrage, as noted in our Tech News Digest covering Super Bowl ads, YouTube changes, and more. Users accused Netflix of greed, exploiting its dominant position. Yet, for the price of half a Starbucks latte annually, you get unlimited access to top-tier classics and originals. What could justify the uproar?
The average U.S. household spends $2,500 yearly on entertainment, $1,700 on clothes, and $580 on personal care. A $1 movie ticket or lotion bump barely registers. But Netflix's $12–$24 annual increase ($0.03–$0.06 daily) for premium streaming? That's the real disconnect. Here's why it's a no-brainer.
Subscribers crave a growing library, and scaling it costs more. That funding comes from us—but it's worth it.
Even at $120/year (2016 pricing), Netflix outshines rivals. Our in-depth comparison of Netflix vs. Hulu vs. Amazon Prime confirms it offers the best all-you-can-watch buffet. Amazon Prime Video at $99/year edges out on library size with extras like 10 amazing Prime benefits, but don't switch yet—more on that below. Both are steals, even if prices rise.
Netflix undercuts Hulu's $12/month ad-free tier and HBO's $15/month for gems like Game of Thrones, The Sopranos, and The Wire. iTunes or Google Play rentals? Far pricier per title.
Netflix's Q1 2016 shareholder letter revealed 42.5 billion streaming hours in 2015 (up from 29 billion in 2014)—93 minutes daily per user.
Usage is rising, dropping cost per hour. Binge a Netflix original for under $0.30/hour vs. $4+ for a theater movie.
Netflix excels at binge-worthy series, earning 34 Emmy nods in 2015. Stream full seasons on release day, any device.
Hits like House of Cards ($4.6M/episode), Orange Is the New Black ($3.8M), and Marco Polo ($10M) per IMDb aren't cheap. Check our guide to 13 new Netflix originals in 2016, plus even the top 10 bad movies for guilty fun.
As Friends co-creator Marta Kauffman told Indiewire, Netflix sets the bar. Amazon's The Man in the High Castle was solid, but Netflix dominates originals. For one service, it's the authority.
Extra revenue unlocks creativity. Netflix's data pinpoints niches ignored by networks due to low ratings.
Making a Murderer pioneered interactive storytelling, birthing new genres. With algorithms and cash, Netflix leads experimentation. Hollywood talent flocks here for funding and targeted distribution. For $2 more monthly, support this revolution—I'm in.
By cost, quality, creativity, and per-hour value, Netflix justifies hikes. Tight budget? Try 4 habits to save money. I won't miss it.
Sticking with Netflix post-hike? What should they fund next? Share in comments.
