With a plethora of options available, choosing the cheapest cloud gaming service can be a daunting task. In this article, we aim to simplify this process by providing a comprehensive comparison of some of the most popular cloud gaming platforms. We will delve into the unique features, game libraries, and pricing models of each service to help you identify the one that offers the best value for your money.
If you already own a selection of PC games…
GeForce NOW
NVIDIA’s GeForce NOW is a cloud gaming service that stands out for its unique approach. Instead of offering a library of games, it allows users to play their existing game library, including titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, and more, on the cloud. The service has a free tier with limited access and two premium tiers.
The Priority subscription costs 9,99 per month (49,99 for 6 months), and it allows quicker access to the games in case of there being a queue. Also, it enables RTX and better performance for compatible games, alongside 6 hours sessions. On the other hand, the Ultimate subscription costs 19,99 per month (99,99 for 6 months), and it grants access to special servers that dispose of RTX 4080 graphic cards. This allows of even better performance and graphics, and also 8 hours sessions.
If you don’t mind waiting and missing on the best performance of graphics, obviously the free tier will be enough to play. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase the games on Steam and other storefront, even though you can enjoy many free to play games.
Boosteroid
Boosteroid allows users to play their games on almost any device, including low-end PCs, laptops, tablets, and even smartphones. The service offers a library of games, including AAA titles. Boosteroid supports a wide range of platforms, like Steam and the Epic Games Store, allowing users to play games they already own.
In terms of pricing, Boosteroid offers three subscription plans: a monthly plan at €9.89, and a yearly plan at €89.89 (€7.49 per month). This makes Boosteroid one of the most affordable cloud gaming services on the market, especially for users who opt for the yearly plan.
If you don’t own games on PC…
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a subscription service offered by Microsoft that combines Online Play, Xbox Game Pass, and Xbox Game Pass for PC into one package. It provides access to a vast library of high-quality games for console, PC, and Android mobile devices. The service is continuously updated with new games, ensuring that subscribers always have a fresh selection of titles to play.
One of the standout features of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is Xbox Cloud Gaming. This feature allows subscribers to play a wide range of Xbox games on different devices, without the need for a console.
As for the pricing, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is available for $14.99 per month. This price includes all the benefits of Xbox Live, access to the extensive Game Pass library on both console and PC, and the ability to use Xbox Cloud Gaming. Considering the breadth of content and features offered, many gamers find this to be a value-packed deal.
Utomik
Utomik is a lesser-known but cost-effective gaming service. It offers unlimited access to over 1000 PC games for a monthly subscription of $6.99. While it may not have the latest AAA titles, it does have a vast library of indie games and older AAA titles, making it a good choice for gamers on a budget. This is only for PC gamers, however.
Regarding the cloud, Utomik Cloud is still in beta, and currently offers around 250 games. Utomik Cloud is playable on Android smartphones and select Smart TVs. It costs $8.99 for a single user, or $12.99 for a family plan for up to 4 users. It is worth mentioning that from time to time, Utomik celebrates special events where they offer a lifetime personal cloud plan for half the price, thus making it $4.49.
Blacknut
Blacknut is a cloud gaming service that offers a subscription-based model for accessing a wide variety of games. It’s designed to provide a seamless gaming experience across multiple devices, including PCs, Macs, Android devices, and Smart TVs. Blacknut’s library includes a diverse range of games.
One of the key features of Blacknut is its emphasis on family-friendly gaming. Many of the games in its library are suitable for all ages, and the service allows for up to five separate profiles per account, making it an excellent choice for families. Additionally, Blacknut supports simultaneous play on multiple devices, so different family members can play different games at the same time.
In terms of pricing, Blacknut offers a subscription plan at $15.99 per month. This plan provides unlimited access to their entire game library, the ability to play on multiple devices, and the option to create up to five separate profiles.
Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna offers a unique channel-based subscription model. The Luna+ channel, which costs $9.99 per month, provides access to a varied library of games. Amazon also offers the Ubisoft+ channel for $17.99 per month, which gives subscribers access to select Ubisoft titles. Subscribers can play on two devices simultaneously and enjoy games at up to 4K resolution and 60 frames per second for select titles.
As of more recently, Amazon Luna has also launched two new channels: Jackbox Games, for $4.99 per month, and the Prime Gaming channel, which is free for Amazon Prime subscribers. The Jackbox Games channel offers over 10 party games from the popular Jackbox series. On the other hand the Prime Gaming channel, offers up to five games that change every month. Also, Prime members can also play Fortnite for free at no additional cost.
So, which one to pick?
When comparing the cost of these cloud gaming services, Utomik emerges as the cheapest option at $8.99 per month. However, the best value for a user depends on their gaming preferences. GeForce NOW is ideal for those who already own a large game library, while Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers excellent value for those who enjoy variety. Blacknut is perfect for families, and Amazon Luna’s customizable model is great for gamers with specific preferences. Therefore, while Utomik is the cheapest, the best service for you will depend on your individual gaming needs and habits.
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Boosteroid don’t have 4k resolution now will be available in the future
True! Thanks for the heads-up, must have gotten it mixed with GFN 🙂