2026 Edition: The Best Subscription Services Found in Movie Rankings | Complete Comparison Guide of 10 Services

Movie streaming subscription options are now abundant. From mainstream services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, U-NEXT, to specialized platforms, it’s important to know the ranking of subscriptions that match your viewing style. This article thoroughly examines popular movie streaming rankings and the capabilities of each service. You’re sure to find the perfect top-ranked subscription for you.

3 Key Points to Avoid Mistakes When Choosing a Movie Unlimited Streaming Subscription

Before utilizing movie streaming rankings, there are selection criteria you should keep in mind.

Cost-effectiveness and content variety balance

It’s important not only that the monthly fee is low but also that the lineup across multiple genres such as Japanese films, Western films, and Korean movies is substantial. Especially top-ranked subscriptions tend to have a good balance between price and streaming quantity.

Viewing environment and functionality

Features like download capability, speed controls, and switching subtitles and dubbing should be considered for a comfortable viewing experience. The number of simultaneous devices and profile functions are also important, especially when sharing with family.

Content richness by genre

The availability of new releases and genre-specific lineups such as Japanese, Western, and Korean films vary by service. Prioritizing the genres you most want to watch greatly influences your satisfaction.

【Ranked No.1】Amazon Prime Video | Outstanding Cost-Performance Subscription

Rating Score: 4.46 points

This is the top-ranked subscription among Amazon’s movie streaming services, known for its excellent cost performance. Despite a monthly fee of only 600 yen—the industry’s lowest— it offers a rich lineup across genres.

Of the 10 new movies tested, 3 are unlimited streaming, and 4 are available for rental, surpassing other top-ranked services. It also features exclusive distribution of notable titles like “If I Meet You Again on the Hill Where Flowers Bloom.”

Out of 20 tested Western films, 11 are unlimited, 8 Japanese films are unlimited, and all 10 Korean films are covered, demonstrating its ability to cater to diverse tastes.

Basic viewing functions are well-equipped: download support, picture-in-picture, and seconds skip are available. However, it does not support speed controls. Note that due to a policy change in 2025, watching ad-free now requires an additional 390 yen per month.

For account sharing, up to 6 profiles can be created within one account, supporting up to 3 simultaneous streams. This makes it family-friendly. In addition to movies, original dramas and anime are also plentiful, and shopping benefits on Amazon add to its overall appeal as a comprehensive top-ranked service.

Pros

• More new release titles than other top-ranked services
• Excellent balance of low cost and diverse genres
• Profile management and multiple device support suitable for families

Cons

• No speed control feature
• Ad-free viewing requires an optional extra fee

【Ranked No.2】Netflix | Subscription for Discerning Movie Fans

Rating Score: 4.14 points

Ranked second for users who prioritize a high-quality viewing experience. The standard plan with ads costs 890 yen per month, which is below average, but offers robust playback features.

Of the 10 new movies tested, 2 are unlimited, which is limited, but 6 Western films, 9 Japanese films, and 4 Korean films are available for unlimited viewing. Notable titles like “Rurouni Kenshin” and “The First Slam Dunk” are also exclusively streamed, showing a good genre balance.

It includes core features like download, seconds skip, and speed control. Picture-in-picture is available on the ad-free plan. However, the number of simultaneous streams is limited to 2 devices, which is relatively low among ranked services.

Original content is a major strength, with globally recognized titles like “The Swindlers” and “Squid Game.” The service also offers a variety of entertainment beyond movies, earning high marks as a top-ranked subscription.

Pros

• Rich features for comfortable viewing
• Extensive global original content
• Cheaper ad-supported plan compared to industry average

Cons

• Limited number of simultaneous device streams

【Ranked No.3】U-NEXT | Focused on Content Variety

Rating Score: 4.13 points

This service prioritizes a vast lineup over lower cost. With a monthly fee of 2,189 yen, it’s on the higher end but offers extensive content.

Out of 20 Western films tested, 11 are unlimited; 13 Japanese films are available; and all 10 Korean films are unlimited, including classics like “Stand By Me” and “Memories of Murder.” It boasts the highest genre coverage among ranked services.

Functionally, it supports downloads, picture-in-picture, and seconds skip. Up to 4 profiles can be created per account, with 4 simultaneous streams, making it suitable for sharing.

A unique feature is the monthly 1,200 points awarded, which can be exchanged for theater tickets at TOHO Cinemas or AEON Cinema, effectively reducing overall costs. Its combination of extensive lineup and top-tier features makes it ideal for movie enthusiasts.

Pros

• Rich lineup across Japanese, Western, and Korean films
• Movie viewing features plus theater ticket exchange
• Multiple profiles and device support

Cons

• Higher monthly fee exceeding 2,000 yen

【Ranked No.4】Hulu | Top Choice for Korean Movie Fans

Rating Score: 4.08 points

Targeted at users who want to enjoy Korean movies fully. At 1,026 yen per month, it offers 8 out of 10 Korean films tested as unlimited, the highest among ranked services.

Western films: 9 out of 20 are unlimited; Japanese films: 3 out of 20; new releases: only 1 out of 10 is unlimited. Despite limited new releases, its strength lies in Korean content.

Profiles can be created up to 6, with support for 4 simultaneous streams. Basic features like download, picture-in-picture, and seconds skip are included. It’s well-suited for family sharing. Operated by Nippon Television, it also offers a rich variety of variety shows and dramas, earning it a solid ranking position.

Pros

• Extensive Korean film lineup
• Good profile and device support

Cons

• Limited number of available Japanese films

【Ranked No.5–10】 Diverse Subscription Options

Beyond the top 5, various other services offer unique features:

• Lemino (NTT Docomo): 990 yen/month, supports all basic features including speed control, prioritizing viewing comfort.
• FOD Premium (Fuji TV): 1,320 yen/month, rich in dramas and variety shows, ideal for multiple users seeking cost savings.
• DMM TV: 550 yen/month, industry’s cheapest, with abundant Japanese films and anime.
• TELASA (TV Asahi): Focused on dramas.
• Video Market: Points-based system for discounted new releases.
• Disney+: Exclusive streaming of Disney, Star Wars, Marvel titles.

Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Movie Streaming Subscription

Start by clarifying your priorities:

Prioritize new releases

Amazon Prime Video ranks first, with the highest number of streaming titles and high satisfaction.

Mainly watch Korean movies

Hulu or U-NEXT are recommended, with Hulu excelling in Korean content.

Share with family

U-NEXT’s 4 simultaneous streams or Amazon Prime Video’s 6 profiles are advantageous. Dividing the monthly fee among users makes it more economical.

Budget-conscious

DMM TV at 550 yen/month is the cheapest, offering Japanese films and anime without extra options.

Many services offer free trial periods, allowing you to test their usability before committing. Take advantage of these trials to compare multiple subscriptions and choose the best fit for your movie viewing needs without regrets.