How to Download Shows for Offline Viewing on Every Streaming Service

Downloading shows and movies for offline viewing is one of the most useful features streaming services offer — essential for flights, commutes, road trips, or anywhere with unreliable internet. However, each platform handles downloads differently, with varying limits, restrictions, and requirements. Here is a complete guide to downloading content on every major streaming service.

Netflix

Netflix allows downloads on mobile devices and tablets (iOS and Android) as well as Windows PCs. The number of devices that can hold downloads depends on your plan — Standard allows two devices, Premium allows six. Most Netflix originals are available for download, though some licensed content has restrictions. Downloads expire after 48 hours once you start watching and after 7 days if you have not started. The Smart Downloads feature automatically downloads the next episode of a series and deletes watched episodes, keeping your download queue fresh without manual management.

To download on Netflix, look for the download icon (a downward arrow) next to any title. You can adjust download quality in settings — Standard saves storage space, High provides better picture quality.

Amazon Prime Video

Prime Video offers some of the most generous download options in streaming. Downloads are available on mobile devices and tablets, with up to 25 titles stored at once. Prime originals like The Boys, Reacher, and Fallout are all downloadable. The download quality can be set to Best, Better, or Good to manage storage. Downloads remain available for 30 days after downloading and expire 48 hours after you begin watching.

Amazon’s download interface is clean — tap the download button next to any episode or film, and it begins immediately. You can download entire seasons at once, which is particularly useful for binge-watching during travel.

Disney Plus

Disney Plus Premium subscribers can download content on up to 10 devices, making it the most generous platform for families who need offline content across multiple tablets. The Basic (ad-supported) tier does not include downloads. The entire Disney Plus library — Marvel films, Star Wars series, Pixar movies, animated classics — is available for download, making it the best platform for keeping children entertained during long trips.

Downloads on Disney Plus do not expire as quickly as some competitors, though the app periodically requires an internet connection to verify your subscription.

Apple TV Plus

Apple TV Plus allows downloads on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV devices. All original content is available for download at the highest quality the show supports, including 4K HDR where available. There is no stated limit on the number of downloads, making Apple TV Plus the most flexible platform for offline content. Downloaded content remains available as long as your subscription is active.

Max (HBO)

Max allows downloads on the Ad-Free and Ultimate Ad-Free tiers — the ad-supported tier does not include this feature. The Ad-Free tier allows 30 downloads at once, while the Ultimate tier allows 100. Downloads expire 30 days after downloading or 48 hours after playback begins. HBO originals, Warner Bros. films, and most of the catalog are available for download.

Hulu

Hulu’s No Ads tier allows downloads on mobile devices, with a limit of 25 downloads at a time. The ad-supported tier does not include downloads. Available content varies — most Hulu originals are downloadable, but some licensed network content is restricted. Downloads expire 30 days after downloading or 48 hours after playback begins.

Peacock and Paramount Plus

Peacock Premium Plus allows downloads on mobile devices, with content expiring 30 days after download. Paramount Plus includes downloads on its ad-free tier, with a generous selection of originals and library content available.

Tips for Offline Viewing

Download content over Wi-Fi before leaving home to avoid mobile data charges. Use lower quality settings for longer trips where storage is limited — a standard quality download uses roughly a third of the storage that high quality requires. Download entire seasons rather than individual episodes to avoid running out of content. Check expiration dates before travel — start your downloads the day before departure to maximize the viewing window.

For platform pricing that includes download features, see Best Streaming Services Compared and the Netflix Plans and Pricing Guide.