If you’re like me, you probably love streaming movies, series, and shows on your phone, TV, or laptop. But the big question is: Showmax vs Netflix—Which one is better in Nigeria? I’ve used both platforms for a long time, and I’ll share my experience to help you decide which one suits you best.
1. Subscription Price: Which One is Cheaper?
The first thing I checked when choosing a streaming service was the cost. Here’s how Showmax and Netflix compare in Nigeria:
| Plan | Showmax Price | Netflix Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Plan | ₦1,600/month | ₦1,200/month |
| Standard Plan | ₦3,500/month | ₦4,000/month |
| Premium Plan | ₦5,400/month (includes Premier League) | ₦5,800/month |
- Showmax is cheaper overall, and they even offer a special Showmax Premier League Mobile plan for football lovers.
- Netflix, however, has a cheaper mobile-only plan at ₦1,200, but their standard and premium plans are more expensive.
2. Content Library: Which One Has Better Movies & Shows?
One of my biggest concerns was the movies and series available on each platform. So here’s what I found out:
Netflix:
- Has a huge international library with Hollywood, Bollywood, and Korean movies.
- Offers Netflix Originals like Stranger Things, Squid Game, and Money Heist.
- Great for foreign content lovers.
Showmax:
- Focuses more on African content, including Nollywood movies and South African series.
- Includes DSTV content, which means you get exclusive access to some African shows.
- Live Sports with Showmax Premier League (Netflix doesn’t offer live sports).
➡ If you love international blockbusters, Netflix is better. But if you prefer Nollywood, African shows, and live sports, Then Showmax wins for you.
3. Streaming Quality & Data Usage
Since I use mobile data a lot, I compared the streaming quality and data consumption of both platforms.
- Netflix offers 4K Ultra HD on their premium plan.
- Showmax has HD streaming but doesn’t always reach 4K quality.
- Showmax consumes less data than Netflix at the same quality settings.
- Netflix allows downloads for offline viewing, and so does Showmax.
➡ If you want the highest quality possible, Netflix is better. If you’re trying to save data, Showmax is the better option.
4. Device Compatibility: Where Can You Watch?
I tested both services on different devices, and here’s how they compare in my case:
- Netflix works on almost everything: Smart TVs, laptops, Android, iPhones, PlayStation, Xbox, and even some decoders.
- Showmax works well on mobile, smart TVs, and DSTV decoders but is not supported on gaming consoles.
- Both platforms allow casting from your phone to a TV using Chromecast or AirPlay.
➡ Netflix wins in device compatibility, but Showmax works fine for most users.
5. User Experience & App Performance
I’ve personally had a smoother experience using Netflix compared to Showmax, this doesn’t mean Showmax is not good or anything like that. It’s just that:
- Netflix’s app is faster and more responsive.
- Showmax sometimes crashes, especially during live streaming.
- Netflix’s recommendation algorithm is smarter, meaning it suggests shows I actually want to watch.
➡ For ease of use and better recommendations, Netflix is the winner for me.
6. Live TV & Sports: Only Showmax Has It
One major reason why I still keep Showmax is because of the Premier League Mobile Plan. I’m a Chelsea fan and I can’t miss my matches 😀, So if you love football, you’ll enjoy this feature because:
- Netflix does not offer live sports.
- Showmax lets you watch live matches on your phone.
➡ If you’re a football fan, Showmax is a must-have for you in this case scenario!
7. Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
After using both services, here’s my final and personal opinion:
✅ Go for Netflix if you:
- Love international movies and series.
- Want the best streaming quality (4K Ultra HD).
- Use multiple devices like gaming consoles.
✅ Go for Showmax if you:
- Want more Nollywood and African content.
- Love watching live football matches.
- Want a cheaper alternative that saves data.
My Personal Choice?
I use both because they serve different purposes. I watch international series on Netflix but use Showmax for football and Nollywood content. If you can only pick one, choose based on what matters most to you: Hollywood & international content (Netflix) or African content & sports (Showmax).
What’s your experience with Showmax and Netflix in Nigeria so far? Drop a comment below! ✌️
