Discovery+

What is Discovery+?

Discovery+ is a streaming service launched by Discovery, Inc. in January 2021, now part of Warner Bros. Discovery following the corporate merger. The platform offers the largest library of unscripted, real-life entertainment content from Discovery’s portfolio of networks including HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Investigation Discovery, Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, OWN, and many more. With over 55,000 episodes from hundreds of shows plus exclusive Discovery+ Originals, the service has established itself as the definitive destination for reality television and documentary content.

What distinguishes Discovery+ from competitors is its exclusive focus on unscripted programming. While Netflix and Amazon Prime Video offer a mix of scripted dramas, films, and reality content, Discovery+ goes all-in on real-life entertainment across categories including home renovation, cooking, true crime, nature documentaries, lifestyle, and relationship programming. This focused approach appeals to dedicated fans of HGTV renovation shows, Food Network cooking competitions, TLC lifestyle programs, and Investigation Discovery true crime series.

Following the Warner Bros. Discovery merger, Discovery+ content has been integrated into Max (formerly HBO Max) in many markets, though Discovery+ continues operating as a standalone service in others. The platform remains popular among cord-cutters who previously relied on cable to access Discovery networks, providing on-demand access to both current seasons and deep back catalogs of beloved series spanning decades of programming.

Key Features

• Massive Content Library: Access to over 55,000 episodes from 2,500+ shows across Discovery’s portfolio of networks and brands.
• Discovery+ Originals: Exclusive original series and specials not available on linear Discovery networks, created specifically for streaming.
• HGTV Content: Complete library of home renovation shows including Fixer Upper, Property Brothers, House Hunters, and more.
• Food Network Shows: All cooking competitions and food programming including Chopped, Diners Drive-Ins and Dives, and Guy’s Grocery Games.
• True Crime Library: Extensive Investigation Discovery catalog featuring true crime documentaries, murder mysteries, and investigative series.
• Nature and Science: Discovery Channel and Animal Planet content including nature documentaries, wildlife series, and science programming.
• TLC Programming: Reality and lifestyle shows including 90 Day Fiance, My 600-lb Life, and Say Yes to the Dress content.
• Download for Offline: Download episodes to watch offline on mobile devices during travel or without internet access.
• Ad-Free Option: Premium tier removes advertisements for uninterrupted viewing of all content.
• Multiple Profiles: Create individual profiles with personalized recommendations and watch history for household members.

What’s New

Discovery+ continues evolving with new content and platform features:

• Max Integration: In select markets, Discovery+ content is now available within Max (HBO Max) as part of combined subscription offerings.
• Original Content Expansion: Continued investment in Discovery+ Originals with new exclusive series across all content categories.
• Live Content: Addition of live programming options for select events and specials in certain markets.
• Enhanced Recommendations: Improved personalization algorithms surfacing relevant content based on viewing preferences.
• Shark Week Exclusive: Enhanced Shark Week coverage with exclusive content and early access for Discovery+ subscribers.
• True Crime Expansion: Growing library of Investigation Discovery originals and exclusive true crime documentaries.
• International Content: Addition of Discovery programming from international markets expanding content variety.
• Performance Improvements: App updates improving streaming quality, navigation, and overall user experience.

System Requirements

Windows

• Operating System: Windows 10 or later
• Browser: Latest Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari
• RAM: 4 GB minimum
• Internet: 3 Mbps for HD streaming
• Web-based streaming only (no dedicated Windows app)

macOS

• Operating System: macOS 10.14 or later
• Browser: Safari, Chrome, Firefox, or Edge
• RAM: 4 GB minimum
• Internet: 3 Mbps for HD streaming

Smart TVs and Streaming Devices

• Amazon Fire TV: Fire TV Stick, Fire TV Cube
• Apple TV: 4th generation or later
• Roku: Most Roku devices
• Samsung Smart TV: 2017 models and newer
• LG Smart TV: webOS 4.0 and newer
• Android TV: Android TV 5.0 or later
• Chromecast: All generations
• PlayStation: PS4, PS5
• Xbox: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S

Mobile

• iOS: iPhone and iPad running iOS 14.0 or later
• Android: Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later
• Storage: 100 MB for app plus download space

How to Install Discovery+

Web Browser Access

1. Visit discoveryplus.com
2. Click “Start Streaming” or “Sign Up”
3. Choose subscription plan (ad-supported or ad-free)
4. Create account and enter payment
5. Start streaming immediately

# Discovery+ streams via web browser
# Visit: https://www.discoveryplus.com

# Supported browsers:
# - Google Chrome (latest)
# - Mozilla Firefox (latest)
# - Microsoft Edge (latest)
# - Safari (macOS)

# No desktop app required
# Sign in and stream directly

Smart TV Installation

1. Navigate to your TV’s app store
2. Search for “Discovery+”
3. Download and install the app
4. Launch and sign in or subscribe
5. Begin streaming content

# Fire TV
# Home > Find > Search > "Discovery+"
# Download and Install

# Roku
# Home > Streaming Channels > Search
# "Discovery+" > Add Channel

# Apple TV
# App Store > Search "Discovery+"
# Get and Install

# Android TV / Google TV
# Google Play Store > "Discovery+"
# Install

Mobile Installation

1. Open App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android)
2. Search for “Discovery+”
3. Tap Install or Get
4. Open and sign in or create account
5. Configure download settings for offline viewing

Gaming Console Installation

# PlayStation
# PlayStation Store > Apps
# Search "Discovery+"
# Download and Install

# Xbox
# Microsoft Store > Apps
# Search "Discovery+"
# Install

# Sign in with existing account
# or subscribe through console

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unmatched Reality Content: Largest library of unscripted entertainment with exclusive access to HGTV, Food Network, TLC, and Discovery content.
• Deep Back Catalog: Access to decades of programming history with complete series runs and classic episodes unavailable elsewhere.
• Affordable Pricing: Lower subscription cost compared to general entertainment streamers, with ad-supported tier for budget viewers.
• Discovery+ Originals: Exclusive content created specifically for the platform featuring popular personalities and fresh programming.
• True Crime Library: Comprehensive Investigation Discovery catalog for true crime enthusiasts with new content added regularly.
• No Contract: Cancel anytime with no long-term commitment required for subscription.
• Family Content: Extensive programming suitable for all ages including nature documentaries and home renovation shows.

Cons

• No Scripted Content: Exclusively unscripted programming means no dramas, comedies, or fictional films like general streamers offer.
• Ads on Basic Tier: Lower-priced plan includes commercial interruptions during content playback.
• Max Overlap: In markets where content is on Max, separate Discovery+ subscription may provide redundant access.
• Limited 4K Content: Most content streams in HD with limited 4K options compared to premium streaming services.
• Niche Appeal: Focus on reality and unscripted content may not appeal to viewers seeking broader entertainment options.

Discovery+ vs Alternatives

Who Should Use Discovery+?

Discovery+ is ideal for:

• HGTV Enthusiasts: Fans of home renovation, house hunting, and property shows get complete access to HGTV’s entire library.
• Food Network Viewers: Cooking competition and food entertainment lovers access thousands of Food Network episodes.
• True Crime Fans: Investigation Discovery enthusiasts enjoy the most comprehensive true crime library available on any streaming service.
• Reality TV Lovers: Dedicated reality television viewers find more content here than any other single streaming platform.
• Cord-Cutters: Former cable subscribers who primarily watched Discovery networks can replace that content at lower cost.
• Budget Streamers: Cost-conscious viewers get substantial content library at lower price than premium streaming services.

Discovery+ may not be ideal for:

• Drama/Film Viewers: Those seeking scripted television, movies, or fictional content need different streaming services.
• Max Subscribers: In markets where Discovery+ content is included in Max, separate subscription is redundant.
• Ad-Sensitive Viewers: Budget tier includes commercials; ad-averse users must pay for premium tier.
• 4K Seekers: Those wanting 4K content for home theater setups may find the library insufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Discovery+ cost?

Discovery+ offers two subscription tiers: The ad-supported plan costs $4.99 per month and includes all content with limited commercial interruptions. The ad-free plan costs $8.99 per month and removes all advertisements for uninterrupted viewing. Both plans provide full access to the content library, offline downloads, and streaming on multiple devices. Annual plans are available at discounted rates. Some cable and mobile providers offer Discovery+ as part of bundles at reduced or no additional cost.

Is Discovery+ included with Max?

Yes, in the United States and several other markets, Discovery+ content is now available within Max (formerly HBO Max) as part of the combined Warner Bros. Discovery streaming offering. If you subscribe to Max, you have access to Discovery network content including HGTV, Food Network, TLC, and Discovery Channel programming. However, Discovery+ continues to operate as a standalone service in some international markets and for users who specifically want only Discovery content at a lower price point.

Can I watch Discovery+ live channels?

Discovery+ is primarily an on-demand streaming service rather than a live TV service. The platform focuses on providing access to episodes after they air on linear networks. Some live content may be available for special events like Shark Week or select premieres. For live Discovery network viewing, you would need a traditional cable subscription or a live TV streaming service like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, or Sling TV that includes Discovery networks in their channel lineups.

What exclusive content is on Discovery+?

Discovery+ features exclusive original content not available on linear Discovery networks. This includes special extended editions of popular shows, exclusive series featuring network personalities, original documentaries, and spin-offs of hit programs. Examples include 90 Day Fiance spinoffs exclusive to Discovery+, Food Network celebrity specials, HGTV renovation projects, and Investigation Discovery true crime exclusives. The platform regularly announces new Discovery+ Originals as exclusive content for subscribers.

How many devices can stream Discovery+ simultaneously?

Discovery+ allows streaming on up to four devices simultaneously with a single subscription. This applies to both the ad-supported and ad-free plans. You can create multiple profiles within one account to personalize recommendations for different household members. There is no limit on the number of devices you can register to your account, but only four can actively stream at the same time. Downloaded content for offline viewing doesn’t count against the simultaneous stream limit.

Final Verdict

Discovery+ delivers exceptional value for fans of reality television, home renovation shows, cooking competitions, true crime documentaries, and unscripted entertainment. No other streaming service offers comparable depth in these categories, with over 55,000 episodes spanning decades of programming from HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Investigation Discovery, and Discovery Channel. For dedicated viewers of these networks, Discovery+ provides more relevant content than general entertainment platforms at a lower price point.

The service’s focused approach is both its greatest strength and limitation. Those who love reality TV and documentary content will find endless entertainment, while viewers seeking scripted dramas, comedies, or films must look elsewhere. The affordable pricing makes Discovery+ an easy add-on subscription rather than a primary streaming service for most households. The ad-supported tier at $4.99 monthly provides substantial value for budget-conscious cord-cutters.

Discovery+ is highly recommended for HGTV devotees, Food Network enthusiasts, true crime fans, and anyone who regularly watched Discovery networks on cable. The platform succeeds by doing one thing exceptionally well: delivering the most comprehensive library of unscripted entertainment available anywhere. For viewers in markets where content has merged into Max, evaluating whether standalone Discovery+ makes sense depends on whether you need the broader entertainment Max provides or specifically want only Discovery content at lower cost.