Table of contents
Quick Overview of PlayOn and StreamFab
PlayOn and StreamFab are both tools that help you save certain streaming videos for offline viewing in common formats such as MP4 or MKV, as long as you already have lawful access to the content. The fundamental difference between them lies in their working methods: PlayOn is a recorder that records and saves content being played on streaming websites, whereas StreamFab All-in-One saves a local copy of the videos delivered to your device during your valid subscription period for personal backup and offline viewing. You should only save content you have the legal right to watch and store, and always follow each streaming service’s terms of use and applicable copyright laws.
So, PlayOn vs. StreamFab, which one comes out on top with better features, and which tool is worth having? I have tested both of them extensively and provided a detailed comparison to help you invest your money in a better experience.
PlayOn vs. StreamFab: Basic Performance
To let you know what exclusive functions they have specifically, here is a form with detailed info. Since StreamFab is a desktop software, we picked PlayOn Home as the comparison.
| StreamFab | PlayOn Home | |
|---|---|---|
|
Device Support |
Win, Mac, Mobile |
Win |
|
Output Quality |
Up to 8k |
1080p Only |
|
Time to Save Video |
Fast (Direct Download) |
Slow (Real-time recording) |
|
Extensive Effects |
HDR10, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos |
❌ |
|
Output Format |
MP4/MKV |
MP4 |
|
Ad Revomal |
✅ |
✅ |
|
Auto Tasks |
✅ |
✅ |
|
Multi Tasks |
✅ |
✅ |
1. Output Quality
PlayOn supports recording videos at a maximum resolution of 1080p. However, StreamFab provides higher quality up to 8k UHD resolution instead, and that is a huge gap. Furthermore, due to the different core techniques, PlayOn often struggles to deliver the same quality as a direct download. For example, I encountered issues like videos stuttering when I tried to watch the content recorded by PlayOn, and that can't be called a satisfying offline viewing experience.
>> PlayOn output file sample:
In contrast, higher-quality videos downloaded through StreamFab were smooth and seamless. Plus, StreamFab uses what I’d call some top-tier tech magic, chucking in extras like HDR10 and Dolby Atmos. If you ask me, StreamFab easily wins for quality.
2. Ad-Free Viewing
PlayOn and StreamFab both provide ad-free video files, so you can enjoy your recorded or downloaded videos without any annoyance. PlayOn will automatically skip the ads, and StreamFab will directly cut-off all the commercials.
3. Scheduled Content
This convenient feature appears on both PlayOn and StreamFab, which allows you to schedule and save the newly released episodes of the shows or series you're interested in, setting you free from waiting in person and manually recording or downloading.
4. Download Speed
PlayOn is being left behind by StreamFab in this area. As a recorder, it has a considerably slower video recording process speed compared to StreamFab as a downloader. Why is this the case? Typically, recording a video requires you to play it in full. This means that the recordings will take the same time as the videos played, and you have to wait until both of them are completed.
In contrast, StreamFab allows you to download at speeds typically maintained around 5 MB/s, reaching up to 7 MB/s at peak. This means you can acquire a complete 2-hour video in just 10~20 minutes.
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Additionally, I found that PlayOn often has high CPU usage during the recording process, especially when capturing 1080p videos. This can lead to recording delays and, in some cases, may cause your device to freeze, go black, or shut down altogether, resulting in slow recording speeds or failed attempts. You also can’t effectively use your device for other tasks while recording.
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On the other hand, when using StreamFab to download videos on the same device, I can leave it in the background and do what I want without worrying about interrupting the downloads.
PlayOn vs. StreamFab: Subscription Plan
Before you enter the maze made at different prices and discounts, we offer a clear view through a comprehensive sheet between PlayOn and StreamFab for you.
| PlayOn Home | PlayOn Cloud | Cloud Credit Packs | StreamFab | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Pricing Model |
One-time / Subscription |
Subscription Based |
Pay-per-use |
One-time / Subscription |
|
Cost |
$4.99/month $39.99/lifetime |
$4.99/month (100GB) |
$7.50 (50 credits) $35.00 (250 credits) |
$299.99/lifetime |
|
License Amount |
1 |
Multi-device |
Multi-device |
5 |
To be honest, it feels like solving a math test when you first meet PlayOn's purchase plans. You might be confused at first about purchasing instead of using them because of complex accounting costs. It offers two distinct versions, each requiring separate payments and providing different services.
It seems like PlayOn offers more flexible payment options, but from a long-term perspective, investing in PlayOn can still be an unignorable expense, especially for users who need to record a large volume of content.
Do You Know?
- PlayOn Cloud prices vary based on the amount of online storage.
- PlayOn Cloud subscription expiration causes no access to download recorded videos stored online.
- You have to buy the Cloud Credit Packs as an extra charge to refill the quota of records if it runs out.
In contrast, the StreamFab Video Downloader lifetime pack is undoubtedly more cost-effective in the long run. With a one-time payment, you can keep using StreamFab to save videos from supported services for personal, lawful offline viewing, within the rights granted by each platform and the relevant copyright owners. As long as you have sufficient storage, StreamFab helps you organize the videos you’ve legally saved into a personal offline collection that matches your preferences, rather than building a library for redistribution, sharing, or any infringing use.
Besides, StreamFab also prepared valuable DIY purchase bundles, the StreamFab MyCombo, for those who want to maximize the value of every penny.
A comprehensive offline viewing helper for your favorite content that can only be used on accessible titles.
*Only use StreamFab for stuff you’re actually allowed to download. Always double-check the streaming service’s rules and your local laws around copyright. Nobody enjoys a letter from a lawyer in their mailbox.
PlayOn vs. StreamFab: User Satisfaction
User ratings on Trustpilot also reflect certain issues.
PlayOn's rating on Trustpilot is obviously lower, with 1-star reviews reaching 90%. Many users have reported issues such as poor recording quality, frequent lag and stuttering when recording in 1080p, misleading lifetime plans, and poor customer support: yes, there are zero official responses to these negative comments.
In comparison, StreamFab has a significantly higher rating distribution, with 73% of users giving it 5 stars and 16% awarding it 4 stars—far surpassing PlayOn. Many reviews have praised StreamFab for its download quality and customer support services. There is even a StreamFab forum for users to report bugs and share tips, ensuring your investment is well-protected, not just being ignored soon after the purchase.
PlayOn vs. StreamFab: Which One Wins?
After trying both PlayOn and Streamfab, I honestly think Streamfab just does a better job as a stream video downloader. It's quicker, more reliable, and the videos look crisper too. And the leading level comes from the core working method, rather than just technique gaps.
Conclusion
This review covers different aspects of comparisons between PlayOn and StreamFab in terms of functionality, user satisfaction, and subscription plans. PlayOn does offer flexible subscription options, but StreamFab stands out in terms of superior download performance and competitive prices. It would be great if this comparison review with valuable insights could help you make the best decision between them.
This software is intended solely to help you create personal backups of streaming content that you have lawfully obtained access to. Do not use StreamFab for any commercial purpose or to share, upload, or distribute downloaded files in ways that violate copyright or the terms of the streaming services you use.