Online movie and TV show rental services such as Lovefilm and Netflix have changed the way that people rent and watch movies. In addition to
watching movies instantly from your computer, you can also stream movies to your television set using an Internet enabled device, including the PlayStation3 and Xbox 360. Lovefilm created its Lovefilm Player for streaming movies and many new DVD players now allow for the streaming of movies as well.
In addition to convenience, downloading movies instantly allows you to watch multiple movies in one sitting. And while Lovefilm and Netflix are similar, there are some subtle differences in package plans, types of media and pricing.
Lovefilm offers five viewing packages that include both DVD delivery and streaming. Each package varies in the number of DVD’s you will receive at one time and the number of hours you can stream media. This allows you to choose a package that suits your lifestyle. Netflix, on the other hand, offers an unlimited streaming package with the option of adding DVD rentals delivered to your home for an additional fee each month.
While both Lovefilm and Netflix allow you to rent movies and TV shows, Lovefilm also offers video games for rent. You have the option to rent or buy games directly from the Lovefilm website. This is an added benefit of Lovefilm.
Pricing for both services is comparable. Since Lovefilm provides five separate packages that vary in price and Netflix only offer one package with the option to add DVD home delivery for an additional monthly fee, you will pay about the same for service. However, having more package options may appeal to a wider variety of people.
Netflix, founded in 1997, began as a DVD home delivery movie rental service. Over the years, the company has branched out into TV shows and series rentals. Netflix has over 10,000 titles to choose from. The company has partnered with other companies such as Starz Entertainment to provide even more movie titles. Lovefilm, founded in 2002, has over 70,000 movie and TV show titles to choose from.
Even though Lovefilm offers fewer titles than Netflix, it’s the convenience of service that sets it apart. Each of Lovefilm’s packages include DVD home delivery, while Netflix charges extra for this service. Being able to stream movies and receive DVD’s in the mail optimize viewing and give people more choices. Some people prefer watching DVD’s to streaming because they may not have the proper devices for streaming or they don’t want to stream content from an outside source.
Lovefilm and Netflix have millions of subscribers. And while both provide the same types of services, if you want more viewing options, Lovefilm provides this and more. Since Lovefilm services the UK and other parts of Europe, you will be able to watch TV made in Europe – Netflix provides mostly American and Canadian-based TV shows.
For those who want to watch specific TV shows and have more control over rental packages, or those who want to rent video games, Lovefilm may be the better choice over Netflix.