The Best Documentary Streaming Services 2023

The world of streaming has revolutionized the way we consume content. The plethora of choices in streaming platforms can make it challenging to decide which one to choose from for documentary enthusiasts.

In this article, we will be summarizing the best documentary streaming services for 2023. From thought-provoking to informative documentaries, we have got you covered!

1. Netflix

Netflix remains at the forefront of documentary streaming, offering a wide range of documentaries that cover social, political, and environmental topics. Some of their notable documentaries include "The Social Dilemma," "Tiger King," and "The Great Hack."

Netflix also has a feature that allows you to watch documentaries with friends via Netflix Party. This service is available for free with a subscription, and it is an excellent way to experience documentaries with a group of friends.

Check out Netflix's true crime documentary Girl in the Picture on Factual America

2. Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video offers an impressive selection of documentaries, including award-winning titles like "Icarus," "13th," and "The Salesman."

This streaming service stands out because of its rental option for documentaries that are not included in the Amazon Prime Video subscription. Rentals range from $1.99 to $5.99 and are available for 48 hours. This option is great for viewers who only want to watch a particular documentary or for those who want to watch it without a subscription.

Check out Amazon Prime Video's Salesman on Factual America

3. Disney+

Disney+ may be known for its family-friendly content, but it also offers a selection of documentaries focused on nature and wildlife. With titles like "Dolphin Reef," "Elephant," and "Penguins," Disney+ offers a refreshing take on the documentary genre.

The service also offers a group watch feature that allows users to stream content with up to six friends or family members, making it a great option for families.

Disney+ may seem like an unlikely contender for documentaries, but it has a vast array of them. The Disney National Geographic Channel is where you will find most of them.

Some noteworthy titles include “Free Solo,” “The Right Stuff,” and “Wild Russia.” The user interface is seamless, and all content is in HD.

Check out this list of the best documentaries on Disney Plus.

4. Hulu

Hulu is another excellent streaming platform for documentary lovers. It has a sizeable selection of documentaries on various subjects like music, politics, and true crime. Hulu also has a feature called “Hulu Picks,” which helps you discover new documentaries movies based on your preferences.

Hulu's broad selection of documentaries cover everything from true crime to political documentaries. With titles like "Hillary," "Jawline," and "Fyre Fraud," Hulu offers a compelling selection of documentaries.

Hulu also offers live TV streaming, allowing users to watch documentaries on live television channels. This feature is excellent for watching documentaries as they premiere, as well as catching up on documentaries that have already aired.

Check out the National Geographic documentary The First Wave streaming on Hulu

5. Apple TV+

Apple TV+ may be relatively new in the streaming game, but it has already garnered acclaim for its documentaries.

It has produced engaging and thought-provoking documentaries like “The Elephant Queen,” “The Banker,” and “Beastie Boys Story.” The user interface is minimalistic, but it does have a “Watch Next” section which suggests documentaries based on your viewing history.

Apple TV+ offers unique exclusive documentary content, including the well-received "Boys State," "The Elephant Queen," and "Beastie Boys Story." This streaming service offers a fresh take on documentary content, focusing on unique stories and perspectives.

Apple TV+ offers a seven-day free trial, making it easy for users to test the waters and decide whether or not to opt in to the service.

Learn about the award-winning documentary Echoes of the Invisible (2020) streaming on Apple TV+

6. CuriosityStream

CuriosityStream is the perfect platform for those who have a curious mind and want to learn something new from documentaries that delve into subjects such as science, technology, and history. With an impressive library of documentaries, CuriosityStream has something to offer for everyone.

Documentary series such as Stephen Hawking's Favorite Places and David Attenborough's Natural Curiosities are interesting, informative and always fascinating.

Check out CuriosityStream here.

7. DocPlay

DocPlay is a service that specializes in documentaries from around the world, which means you can explore diverse perspectives and experiences.

Whether you are interested in films that explore society's complexities, those that advocate for the environment, or those that chronicle personal battles, DocPlay provides you with access to these and more. The platform offers documentaries from different countries and different languages, making it a great option for those who like to discover new cultures.

Check out DocPlay here.

8. Mubi

Mubi is unique compared to other streaming services because it focuses on curating a selection of visual art, classic, and documentary films. Their documentary selection includes indie films, international features, and relevant titles about social justice and politics, ensuring that their audience gets a wide range of themes to explore.

With Mubi, you are not just watching documentaries, but you are also learning about renowned directors and up-and-coming talent.

Check out Mubi here.

9. Criterion Channel

Criterion Channel aims to provide an immersive experience for lovers of documentaries and movies. Among the notable features of this streaming service are their newly remastered classic films and bonus material extras that transport you into the making of the movie you just watched.

In addition to classic movies, their documentary roster is vast, with selections varying from political and historical to biographical and music-themed productions.

Check out Criterion Channel here.

10. Kanopy

Kanopy has a broad and varied catalog consisting of classic and contemporary movies and documentaries, making it an excellent choice for those interested in discovering new and unique titles.

With a partnering network of libraries and educational institutions, you can access free documentaries with library and university cards. Kanopy allows you to enjoy classic films and documentaries without breaking the bank. Their collections usually include lesser-known titles, like rare social documentaries and independent productions.

Check out Kanopy here.

11. History Vault

History Vault is a streaming service owned by A&E Networks that offers access to thousands of documentaries and historical content.

From classic documentaries about World War II to modern documentaries about politics and pop culture, History Vault has it all. The service offers a 7-day free trial, and a monthly subscription costs $4.99.

Check out History Vault here.

12. MagellanTV

MagellanTV is a streaming service specifically designed for documentaries. The service offers a wide variety of documentaries about science, history, nature, and more.

MagellanTV also offers 4K streaming, which is perfect for those who want to experience documentaries in the best quality possible. The service offers a 7-day free trial, and a subscription costs $6.99 a month.

Check out MagellanTV here.

13. PBS Documentaries

PBS Documentaries is a streaming service that offers access to a wide variety of PBS documentaries.

The documentaries cover a wide range of topics, from history and science to culture and nature. The service also offers exclusive content that is only available on PBS Documentaries. The service offers a 7-day free trial, and a subscription costs $4.99 a month.

Check out PBS Documentaries here.

14. GuideDoc

GuideDoc is a streaming service that offers access to a curated selection of international documentaries. The documentaries come from all over the world and cover a wide range of topics, from politics and history to art and culture.

GuideDoc also offers a feature that allows users to create their own personalized documentary playlist. The service offers a 14-day free trial, and a subscription costs $7.99 a month.

Check out GuideDoc here.

15. Nebula

Nebula is a streaming service primarily focused on providing access to the work of independent creators. The service offers a curated selection of documentaries by independent filmmakers, covering a wide range of topics.

Nebula's focus on independent filmmakers makes it stand out from other streaming services. The service offers a 14-day free trial, and a subscription costs $5.99 a month.

Check out Nebula here.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of options for documentary streaming platforms in 2023. From Netflix to Apple TV+, these services offer a diverse selection of documentaries that cater to every interest. Whether you’re a nature lover, a true-crime fanatic, or interested in politics, you will find something on these platforms.

These streaming platforms also offer a range of prices, meaning that you can find something that suits your budget. So, sit back, relax, and explore the world of documentaries with these fantastic streaming services!