Philo Review 2024: TV Channels, Plans, Features, Pricing and More
3.75/5
- Unlimited DVR stored for up to 1 year
- Stream on up to three screens simultaneously
- Access to 70+ channels, including movies and TV shows
- 7-day free trial for new users
Philo comes with one of the best choices in entertainment with only a monthly subscription of $28.
If you want to save on your cable expenses but still enjoy popular channels like AMC and HGTV that don’t focus on sports Philo is a great option to consider.
If you’re looking for something focused towards sports than check out our FuboTV review.
With more than 70 channels mainly focusing on content it caters well to viewers’ preferences. Additionally, Philo includes DVR functionality and supports streaming across devices making it a great option for budget-conscious cord-cutters.
While Philo shines in delivering entertainment it might not be the best fit for fans of sports or local channels.
What is Philo?
Philo is a streaming platform that offers access, to over 70 channels for a fee of $28 for live TV viewing pleasure! Unlike services that strive to replicate cable television offerings, it sets itself apart by focusing on entertainment and educational content predominantly while omitting sports and local channels to ensure affordability as one of the most budget-friendly options available in the market today! Featuring channels like AMC, GTV, BET, and Comedy Central; Philo is a choice, for fans of drama reality shows and documentaries alike!
It offers DVR capabilities, for recording and saving shows for a year – great for those who love binge-watching and households with hectic schedules! It supports streaming, on 3 devices at once to cater to the whole family’s viewing needs.
It lacks sports or local channels so it may not suit individuals seeking news updates or live sports broadcasts.
Philo stands out for its approach rooted in academia. Supported by funding, from prominent media companies such as HBO, Discovery, and A+E Networks – positioned as a specialized contender, in the streaming services.
Philo offers a budget option, for TV viewing when combined with ESPN+ or an antenna for channels; you can enjoy top notch entertainment without the need, for a costly cable subscription.
How Much Does Philo Cost Per Month?
Philo provides a plan priced at $28 monthly, offering access to 70 channels from popular networks such as AMC, A&E, HGTV, and Nickelodeon.
Philo Base Plan
Free trial available
- Unlimited DVR stored for up to 1 year
- Stream on up to three screens simultaneously
- Access to 70+ channels, including movies and TV shows
- 7-day free trial for new users
$28/month
This service comes with DVR storage that retains recordings for a year and allows three streams simultaneously, making it ideal for families or shared living situations.
Unlike cable options, there’s no requirement for additional equipment or technician installations as Philo operates smoothly on devices, smartphones, and streaming platforms. With premium add-ons like MGM+ and STARZ available Philo keeps its offerings straightforward and wallet-friendly.
Philo allows you to cancel anytime with no penalties, which makes it a flexible option for users.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Philo
Philo provides you with features such, as storage, for recording shows, the ability to stream on devices simultaneously, and smooth performance with buffering. It also offers access to TV Everywhere apps allowing users to enjoy content on platforms.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Affordable at $28/month | No sports or local channels like ABC, NBC, Fox |
| Unlimited DVR with 12-month storage | Limited compatibility: No support for PlayStation, Xbox, Chromecast, or Android TV |
| Stream on three devices simultaneously | Video quality limited to 720p HD |
| Minimal buffering or playback issues | No Parental Controls |
| Access to 33 TV Everywhere apps | Not compatible with LG Smart TV, onn devices, or AirPlay |
On the other hand, there are downsides. The service doesn’t include channels or local broadcasts which may not appeal to sports fans.
The video quality at 720p resolution might not meet the expectations of users looking for higher clarity.
Compatibility is limited, to devices like consoles and certain smart TVs. Moreover, Philo lacks controls for parents.
What Channels Does Philo Offer?
Philo offers a selection of more than 70 channels featuring popular cable networks such, as A&E, AMC, Discovery, Food Network and MTV.
Best at providing entertainment and lifestyle content without including channels such, as ABC or sports networks like ESPN to maintain pricing, for its customers.
There are also options for premium add-ons such as STARZ priced at $9 and MGM+ at $6, for those seeking additional content.
| Category | Channels Available |
|---|---|
| Top Cable Channels | Paramount Network, A&E, MTV, VH1, WE tv, BET, TLC, Comedy Central, Discovery, Food Network, Hallmark, HGTV, History, Lifetime, Nickelodeon, Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel |
| Local Channels | None |
| Sports Channels | None |
| Premium Channels | MGM+ ($6), Starz ($9) |
| Category | Unavailable Channels |
|---|---|
| Top Cable Channels | FXX, Disney Junior, CNN, USA Network, FX, MSNBC, truTV, Freeform, TBS, Disney Channel, Syfy, E!, Fox News, Bravo, TNT, Cartoon Network |
| Local Channels | ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, Telemundo, The CW, Univision |
| Sports Channels | ESPN, FS1, NBC Sports, Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) |
| Premium Channels | HBO, Cinemax, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME |
What Add-Ons Does Philo Come With?
Add-ons, like MGM+ for six dollars a month and STARZ for nine dollars a month as well as movies & more, for three dollars a month.
These additional features provide access, to channels such, as MGM+ Hits and Star Encore, HDNet movies that improve your entertainment options.
| Add-On | Price | Included Channels |
|---|---|---|
| MGM+ | $6 | MGM+, MGM+ Hits, MGM+ Marquee |
| STARZ | $9 | Starz, Starz Encore, Starz Kids & Family |
| Movies & More | $3 | HDNet Movies, Reelz, FMC, Sony Movie Channel |
What Devices Are Compatible with Philo?
| Device Category | Supported Devices | Not Supported |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming Devices | Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, Android TV | Chromecast (iOS), PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, LG Smart TV, other devices |
| Mobile Devices | iPhone/iPad (iOS 13+), Android Phone/Tablet (5.0+) | iPad (no native app) |
| Smart TVs | Samsung Smart TV (2017+), Sony Smart TV, VIZIO Smart TV | LG Smart TV, onn devices |
| Computers | Mac, Windows (via major browsers) | N/A |
Philo is compatible with devices such, as Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV and Android TV.
It also works on Samsung Smart TVs released in 2017 or later providing options for home entertainment on these popular streaming platforms.
For mobile, Philo supports iOS and Android devices. While there’s no native Android app, users can stream through Chrome on Android 7.0+. Philo’s mobile support is solid but somewhat limited for Android users.
When it comes to computers Philo is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems using web browsers. However it is not supported on gaming consoles like PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo or on LG Smart TV and onn devices.
What Features Does Philo Come With?
Philo provides features designed for viewers who value convenience and flexibility. The service offers:
- DVR Functionality: With Philos DVR users can record programs and store them for a year.
- Streaming Flexibility: Users can stream content on three devices, allowing families to enjoy different shows simultaneously.
- Personalized Profiles: Each Philo account can support up to 10 profiles enabling viewers to customize their watchlists and preferences.
- Video Quality Philo: streams at a resolution of 720p which is adequate for viewers although it falls short of the higher resolutions offered by services, such as 1080p or 4K.
Is Philo Easy to Use?
Philo’s interface is user friendly making it easy to navigate through Home, Live, and Saved content.
The channel guide, though horizontal and unavailable on mobile, makes it easy to browse shows on larger screens.
The search feature is quick and user friendly displaying results for shows, episodes and actors as you type. Philo’s playback starts live shows from the beginning allowing users to skip ahead or record episodes using the “Save” option.
On mobiles, users can browse and watch simultaneously, although checking upcoming content may be a bit awkward.
Despite these limitations, Philo offers a stream at 30 FPS and a consistent design across all devices ensuring a user experience for newcomers. Advanced viewers seeking a traditional channel guide on mobile may encounter some limitations.
Philo does not support AirPlay, Android TV or Chromecast which could be a drawback for some users. Nevertheless, it remains a service for its target audience.
Trial Period
Philo provides a 7-day trial so you can explore its features and channels without any payment.
This trial deal is great for trying out the platform’s functions before deciding to subscribe.
Final Thoughts
If you want to enjoy shows and lifestyle content without shelling out for sports or local channels, Philo is a fantastic option.
If you need local channels, you can easily pair Philo with an antenna or another service to get the best of both worlds.
Philo offers a budget option at $28, per month for streaming services amidst increasing rates elsewhere.
With its user interface and ability to record content, across different devices, this service is ideal, for those seeking high-quality entertainment without unnecessary bells and whistles.
People Also Ask
Can I watch Philo for free?
Yes, you can give Philo a shot with a trial lasting 7 days.
How much does Philo cost?
The monthly fee for Philo is $28.
Does Philo show live sports?
No, Philo doesn’t have sports channels. However, you can try an alternative such as FuboTV or Hulu which both have a wide range of sports coverage.
Can I use DVR with Philo?
Certainly! Philo offers you the convenience of storing your recordings indefinitely with unlimited DVR storage for as long as a year!
What premium channels does Philo offer?
Philo doesn’t have many premium channels, but you can add MGM+ for $6 and Starz for $9.
Are local channels offered by Philo?
Unfortunately, Philo doesn’t include local channels like ABC or CBS. However, you can try alternative services such as FuboTV as they provide coverage.
Does Philo offer streaming in 4K?
No, Philo doesn’t stream in 4K. The service streams in 720p.
