The most popular streaming platforms in the US might not be what you think

Netflix isn't America's most-watched streaming platform on TV, and two free services are giving bigger names some competition.

By Husain Parvez Oct. 26, 2026 7:30 pm EST Rainer Puster/Getty Images Add Engadget on Google: Google Discover

The streaming platform Americans spend the most time watching on TV doesn't require a subscription. In July 2026, YouTube had the largest share of US television viewing at 14.2 percent, which is almost double Netflix's 7.8 percent. The other surprises came farther down the rankings: The Roku Channel outpaced Peacock, while Tubi beat Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming services, including HBO Max.