Max Basic with ads: price $20.26, differences between Standard and Premium, and how to pay less without ads

Are you torn between Max Basic with ads and an ad-free plan because you want access to the HBO/Warner/Discovery library without breaking the bank on streaming? In this guide, we keep it simple: we compare the plans, explain what you gain (or lose) with each one, and show you how to pay less while staying within a reasonable budget.

1) Max Basic with ads: the price and what you actually get

In France, the Basic plan with ads is typically listed at around €5.99 per month on telecom comparison sites and in specialized media.

According to the official Max FAQ, the Basic plan with ads allows you to:

• streaming on two devices at the same time;
• a resolution of up to Full HD 1080p.

Who this is for

• You mostly watch in the evenings or on weekends.
• You don't mind the ads as long as the price is low.
• You hardly ever download episodes for the plane or train.

2) HBO Max Standard: the best option if you want an ad-free experience without paying the full price

If you're looking for an ad-free Max subscription to enjoy on your TV and mobile device, the Standard plan is often the best option.

In France, the Standard plan is often priced at around €9.99 per month.

According to the official documentation, the Standard plan includes:

• streaming on two devices at the same time;
• Full HD 1080p;
• up to 30 offline downloads (with limitations).

When Standard Is Really Worth It

• You often watch on your tablet or phone and want to download episodes.
• Commercials break the immersion (HBO series, thrillers, movies…).
• There are two of you watching at the same time, but not necessarily more.

3) Premium: especially useful if you want 4 screens and the best quality

For households that use more streaming services, the Premium plan becomes a good option if you meet at least two of the following criteria: 4 people watching at the same time + a need for 4K and premium audio.

In France, Premium is often priced at around €13.99 per month.

The official Max documentation states the following for Premium:

• streaming on 4 devices at the same time;
• 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos, subject to availability;
• up to 100 offline downloads (with limitations).

4) Quick comparison: Basic with ads vs. Standard vs. Premium

OfferAdsSimultaneous DevicesQualityDownloadsBasic with adsYes2Full HD 1080p—StandardNo2Full HD 1080pUp to 30PremiumNo44K UHD + Dolby Atmos (depending on titles/devices)Up to 100

The limitations and features (screens, quality, downloads) are detailed in the official Max help.

5) How to pay less for Max without changing your habits

5.1. Start with the Basic plan with ads, then upgrade when the time is right

If you want to check out the content library (HBO, DC, Warner, Discovery), starting with the Basic plan lets you see how much you actually use it. Then, you should upgrade to Standard only if the ads become a real nuisance or if you want to download content for offline viewing.

5.2. Take advantage of offers from service providers (set-top boxes)

Depending on the time of year, providers may offer free months or bundled deals. For example, Free offers free months followed by billing at the Basic rate.
If you already have a router, comparing provider plans with direct subscriptions can save you money in the first few months.

5.3. Split the cost of a customized package when there are several of you

When two to four people share the same platform, the price difference between Standard and Premium often becomes more manageable if everyone chips in, as long as the arrangement complies with the service’s terms of use. This is exactly the kind of arrangement that Spliiit organize: splitting a subscription among several people in a clear and consistent way, rather than having to handle manual reimbursements.

6) Frequently Asked Questions: Ads, “Ad-Free,” and Choosing the Right Deal

Is Max Basic with ads in HD?

According to the official Max help section, the Basic plan with ads supports resolutions up to Full HD 1080p.

Does HBO Max Standard allow you to download episodes?

Yes, the Standard plan includes up to 30 offline downloads (with limitations).

Which plan should you choose if you want to watch on 3 or 4 screens at the same time?

The official help section states that the Premium plan allows streaming on four devices at the same time, while the Basic and Standard plans are limited to two.

Does Premium guarantee 4K resolution across the entire catalog?

4K UHD and Dolby Atmos are listed as “subject to availability,” which depends on compatible titles and devices. You can also share HBO Max on Spliiit.

Key points to remember

• Max Basic with ads is the most affordable option if you don't mind the ads, featuring Full HD and two screens.
• HBO Max The Standard plan is often the best choice for regular “ad-free” viewing, especially if you want to download content.
• A Max subscription without ads really pays off if you watch a lot, download frequently, or split the cost among several people in an organized way.