The end of DStv? 10 best alternatives to choose from

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As streaming platforms continue to gain popularity worldwide, South African audiences are increasingly turning away from DStv Premium subscriptions in favour of more affordable, versatile streaming options.

According to the Gauteng news website, DStv, once a household staple, is now struggling to retain subscribers, especially as the availability of uncapped fiber and high-capped LTE services allows for a seamless streaming experience.

ALSO READ | MultiChoice faces R1.84 billion loss as DStv subscribers decline

Below, the reasons behind this shift – and the 10 best alternatives to DStv for South African viewers.

Why are South Africans ditching DStv?

As reported by The South African website, one of the primary drivers of DStv’s decline is the high cost of its Premium package.

The monthly expense is steep, and with a growing number of alternative entertainment sources offering similar content for much less, subscribers are increasingly opting out.

With uncapped internet, South Africans can access an array of streaming platforms for a fraction of the price of DStv Premium, although live sports enthusiasts may find their options limited outside of DStv.

Even so, some are willing to wait for post-game uploads on platforms like YouTube rather than paying the full DStv cost.

Top 10 DStv alternatives to DStv for streaming in South Africa

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, Netflix also boasts an impressive selection of critically acclaimed originals, including series, documentaries, and stand-up specials. For families, Netflix offers a variety of kid-friendly options, making it a versatile choice across age groups.
Showmax (R99 per month)
As a South African-based streaming platform, Showmax holds a unique edge by offering a blend of international hits and local content, including the largest selection of Afrikaans series and films. Showmax has also secured partnerships to air HBO content, expanding its appeal among audiences who enjoy premium series from the U.S.
Amazon Prime Video (R54.63 for the first 6 months, then R109.21/month)
Amazon Prime Video has a growing catalog of original series and popular movies. Subscribers can enjoy shows like “The Boys” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” which are exclusive to the platform. While it is slightly pricier than some other options, its variety and high-quality content make it a worthy contender.
Disney+ (R119 per month)
For families and fans of the Disney brand, Disney+ is a one-stop shop for classics, Marvel movies, Star Wars series, and National Geographic documentaries. Although relatively new to South Africa, Disney+ has quickly gained traction, offering a library that’s perfect for all ages.
Apple TV+ (R84.99 per month)
Apple TV+ may have a smaller catalog than other services, but it focuses on high-quality, exclusive content. Series like “Ted Lasso” and “The Morning Show” have received critical acclaim, appealing to audiences looking for quality over quantity. Apple TV+ also offers some free access to Apple users, making it an easy addition for those already in the Apple ecosystem.
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 include some exclusive series and movies.
BritBox (R99.99 per month)
BritBox is a great choice for those who love British television. With a vast library of classic British series and recent BBC and ITV hits, it caters to fans of British drama, comedy, and documentaries. BritBox offers exclusive access to new releases, making it appealing to those who crave non-U.S. programming.
HBO Max – R139 per month. For lovers of premium, high-budget content, HBO Max provides a great mix of blockbuster movies, HBO Originals, and popular TV shows. This streaming service includes access to Game of Thrones, Succession, Euphoria, and more. Though it comes at a slightly higher price, its exclusive content makes it a great option for those willing to invest in premium TV.
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, this service is a great choice for budget-conscious consumers who don’t mind ads in exchange for free content
Plex (Free with premium options)
While Plex doesn’t provide content itself, it lets users organize their own media libraries and stream them from any device. Plex also offers live TV channels and some ad-supported movies and series. Plex’s premium version, Plex Pass, adds extra features like DVR capabilities, but even the free version is useful for managing and viewing content.

A new era for South African viewers

With a multitude of affordable and diverse streaming services available, South Africans are finding it easier to leave traditional satellite TV behind.

Although live sports remain a sticking point for many, options like Cell C Black and YouTube provide ways to view sports content without the high costs associated with DStv Premium.

Furthermore, as streaming platform technology advances and broadband access becomes more affordable, this trend is likely to continue.

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

The shift away from DStv premium is part of a larger trend as more South Africans find streaming services to be cost-effective, accessible, and loaded with content suited to modern, flexible viewing habits.

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