Launched in 2015, CuriosityStream offers a very different experience than other streaming services. Instead of showcasing fictional series and movies, it focuses entirely on non-fiction content. So how do you access its thousands of documentaries and, more importantly, how much is CuriosityStream? Find out if this educational service offers a coveted free trial and get the lowdown on its packages, channels, and pricing. Want to know more about what the platform has to offer? Head here for our full CuriosityStream review.
How does CuriosityStream work?
A video-on-demand (VOD) service, CuriosityStream allows you to stream content whenever you like from a range of devices. That means there isn’t any live TV to watch. But it does mean you have ultimate convenience. As long as you have a compatible device such as an Apple TV, an Android or iOS phone or tablet, or a streaming device like Chromecast or Roku, you’ll be able to hit play on any documentary title at any time.
What Plans and Pricing Does CuriosityStream Offer?
CuriosityStream offers a Standard and a Smart Bundle plan which are available monthly or annually. Below are details of each plan:
The Standard Plan
Access to the full library of content, including thousands of documentaries and the ability to download and watch. A Standard subscription is only $4.99/mo. or $39.99 annually.
The Smart Bundle Plan
Upgrade your curiosity by subscribing to the Smart Bundle plan and getting everything in the Standard plan plus more. The Smart Bundle allows you to watch on different screens simultaneously, and bundled access to Tastemade, Da Vinci, One Day University, Topic, Nebula, and SOMM TV for only $9.99/mo. or $69.99 annually.
Sign up for the Smart Bundle Plan
What types of content does CuriosityStream include?
Both CuriosityStream packages give you access to the same content library — it’s just the picture resolution that differs. And you’ll be pleased to hear that you won’t have to sit through ads, no matter which plan you sign up for.
Content-wise, the service is limited to non-fiction titles. But that doesn’t mean it’s short on variety. In fact, CuriosityStream has been nicknamed the Netflix of documentaries as it has more than 2,500 to watch. Find informative and inspirational documentaries across topics including history, nature, technology, and science. And, see how the service fares next to Netflix with our comparison. There are exclusive original titles to check out along with award-winning series and movie-length biographies. Plus, you can catch big-name productions from the likes of the BBC — think series like the legendary David Attenborough’s Life on Earth.
Whether you want to explore ancient Egypt with King Tut’s Tomb, head down under with Great Barrier Reef, or get an insight into Stephen Hawking’s Favorite Places, you can with CuriosityStream. Kids are also well-catered for. The service has a specific category for children with educational documentaries that aim to teach inquisitive minds about the natural world around them, the stars up above, and the technology pushing us forward. (Use kids’ mode to block mature content, though there isn’t much on this particular service.)
What add-ons for premium channels and extras does CuriosityStream have?
CuriosityStream doesn’t come with any extras, but it can now be bundled with a number of other streaming services. For example, if you’re an Amazon Prime Video subscriber, you can add CuriosityStream for an additional $2.99/mo. on top of your Prime subscription.
Are there any free trials with CuriosityStream?
New customers used to receive a 7-day trial, but there is no longer a CuriosityStream free trial option. However, that doesn’t mean there’s no way to try the service for free. If you choose to add it onto a Prime Video subscription, you’ll get a week-long free trial. (You can also get a 30-day free trial of Prime Video if you’re new to the service.)
From true crime to civil rights, its documentaries will keep you hooked for hours on end. DIRECTV STREAM is also a good option for those who want to combine more on-demand content with live viewing. You’ll get the Discovery Channel, History Channel, and Science Channel along with news and sports networks and thousands of on-demand shows and movies. Try DIRECTV STREAM for free for 5 days.
Should you cut the cord for CuriosityStream?
A huge non-fiction library and ability to stream anywhere at any time make CuriosityStream a great choice for those who love to learn. If you’re not bothered about picture resolution, pick the standard HD plan. But if you have a 4K-compatible device, you might as well make the most of it with the premium 4K package. To get a richer TV experience, bundle the service with other platforms like Prime Video or Sling TV. Prime Video is ideal for people who can’t get enough of on-demand TV, while Sling TV is more suited to people who need live TV in their lives.