Netflix vs Showmax in Kenya: Comparing Content, Pricing, Data Usage And Availability

Have you ever been on the phone with a friend discussing the latest series only to realize one of you is on Netflix and the other on Showmax? Welcome to Kenya's modern TV era, where traditional broadcasting is a relic, and on-demand streaming platforms reign supreme. Since 2015, Kenya's television model transitioned from the traditional broadcasting approach to an emphasis on digital subscription-based TV and streaming platforms, with Showmax and Netflix taking center stage.

But here comes the million-dollar question - which of the two giants is better suited for Kenyans? This in-depth analysis will explore the rise, content, data usage, cost, and comparison of Showmax and Netflix in the Kenyan market.

Showmax and Netflix: A Historical Overview

Netflix, established in 1997 by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph, is an American powerhouse that has dominated the global streaming scene. Fast forward to 2016, and Netflix marks its footprint in Kenya on 5 January, paving the way for Showmax, which launched later that year on 5 October. Interestingly, both made their grand entry on a Wednesday! As of 2021, Netflix's influence was evident, with over 2 million subscribers in Africa, dwarfing Showmax, which was nearing its first million.

But what makes these platforms so magnetic?

Content is King: Which Platform Wears the Crown?

There's no denying that content is the primary magnet for subscribers. With Showmax, viewers are treated to a buffet of original content mainly from Africa, with hits like "Outlaws," "Single Kiasi," "Crime and Justice," and the sensational "Real Housewives of Nairobi." On the flip side, Netflix parades both African content and internationally acclaimed series like "Ragnarok," "Money Heist," and "Breaking Bad." The wide variety on both platforms caters to diverse tastes, ensuring every viewer feels included.

However, it's not just about original content. Showmax boasts an impressive collection of third-party films, especially from giants like HBO and Universal Pictures, bringing to its audience masterpieces like "Oppenheimer," "The Handmaid's Tale," and "The Sopranos."

Pricing

Let's get down to brass tacks: How much will it cost you? If budgeting is your primary concern, you might find Netflix more pocket-friendly with its Mobile plan starting at Ksh200. Comparatively, Showmax's pricing kicks off at Ksh300. With various plans tailored to different needs and budgets, both platforms ensure subscribers have options that match their financial limits.

Here's a snapshot of their pricing:

• Showmax Mobile - Ksh300 vs Netflix Mobile - Ksh200
• Showmax - Ksh760 vs. Netflix Basic - Ksh300
• Showmax Pro Mobile - Ksh1,050 vs Netflix Standard - Ksh700
• Showmax Pro - Ksh2,100 vs Netflix Premium - Ksh1,100

Interestingly, while Showmax doesn't offer free viewing in Kenya, Netflix introduced the Netflix Free Plan exclusively for Kenyan Android users, allowing access to a fraction of its content.

Data Usage: Balancing Quality with Costs

With content and pricing out of the way, let's dive into another crucial aspect: data usage. With Wi-Fi becoming a staple in many households, streaming has always been challenging. Both Showmax and Netflix offer High Definition streaming across multiple devices. While Netflix uses approximately 1GB of data per hour for standard videos, Showmax grants users more control over their data consumption with four adjustable quality settings.

For those watching their bandwidth or budgeting for data, such settings are a godsend, ensuring streaming doesn't result in unexpected costs.

Availability: Showmax vs Netflix

The availability of a streaming service can be a deciding factor, especially in regions with varied internet connectivity. Let's explore where Showmax and Netflix are accessible.

Showmax: Showmax is available in about 36 countries across sub-Saharan Africa. It primarily caters to the African continent, strongly focusing on local content.

Netflix: Netflix is a global powerhouse, available in more than 190 countries worldwide, including almost all African countries. Netflix has a significant presence in Kenya, where it continues to invest in creating content specifically for African audiences.

How does the video quality compare between Showmax and Netflix?

Video quality is an essential factor to consider when choosing a streaming service. After all, you want to enjoy your favorite shows and movies in the best possible quality. But with so many streaming services available, knowing which offers the best video quality can be challenging.

Showmax Video Quality

Showmax offers HD video quality for all of its content. This means you can watch your favorite shows and movies in 1920x1080 resolution. Showmax also offers support for HDR, which can provide a broader range of colors and brighter whites for a more immersive viewing experience. However, Showmax does not offer 4K video quality. This means that if you have a 4K TV, you won't be able to watch Showmax content in its native resolution.

Netflix Video Quality

Netflix offers a variety of video quality options, depending on your subscription plan. You can watch Netflix content in SD resolution (480p) if you have the Basic plan. You can watch Netflix content in HD resolution (1920x1080) if you have the Standard plan. And if you have the Premium plan, you can watch Netflix content in 4K resolution (3840x2160). Netflix also offers support for HDR and Dolby Atmos. HDR can provide a broader range of colors and brighter whites for a more immersive viewing experience. Dolby Atmos is an immersive audio technology that can create a surround sound experience without additional speakers.

Which streaming service has better video quality?

Overall, Netflix offers better video quality than Showmax. This is because Netflix offers 4K video quality and support for Dolby Atmos. If you have a 4K TV and a home theater system with surround sound speakers, then Netflix is the better choice. However, if you don't have a 4K TV or a home theater system, Showmax is still a great option. Showmax offers HD video quality and support for HDR, which is still a significant improvement over SD video quality.

Can you download content for offline viewing on Showmax and Netflix?

You can download content for offline viewing on Showmax and Netflix. This is a great way to save data and watch your favorite shows and movies even when you don't have an internet connection. It's also a good option if you're traveling or planning to be somewhere with limited or no internet access.

How to Download Content on Showmax

To download content on Showmax, you'll need to use the Showmax app on your smartphone or tablet. Downloads are not available on laptops, computers, or other streaming devices.

1. Open the Showmax app and sign in to your account.
2. Find the TV show episode or movie you want to download and tap on it.
3. Tap the Download button.
4. Select the video quality you want to download.
5. Tap Download.

Your download will start immediately. You can see your download progress in the Downloads tab of the Showmax app.

How to Download Content on Netflix

To download content on Netflix, you can use the Netflix app on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

1. Open the Netflix app and sign in to your account.
2. Find the TV show episode or movie you want to download and tap on it.
3. Tap the Download button.
4. Select the video quality you want to download.
5. Tap Download.

Your download will start immediately. You can see your download progress in the Downloads tab of the Netflix app.

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Final Thoughts

Both Showmax and Netflix have positioned themselves as essential services for Kenyan viewers, offering local and international content. Your choice concerns personal preferences concerning content, budget, and data usage. Regardless of your pick, one thing is sure: the digital age of entertainment in Kenya is here to stay. And as the platforms continue to evolve, so will the entertainment landscape, promising more choices, content, and flexibility for viewers.