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Paramount+ combines CBS’s live TV, a deep licensed library, and (as of 2026) UFC’s entire event calendar. Here’s what each plan costs and what you get.

What Is Paramount+?

Paramount+ is Paramount’s streaming service, built around the CBS network’s live and on-demand content, the Paramount film catalog, and franchises like Star Trek, SpongeBob, and NCIS. In 2026 it also became the exclusive home of UFC after Paramount signed a multi-billion-dollar rights deal, folding every UFC event – including what used to be pay-per-view fights – directly into the subscription.

Visit Paramount+ Official Site ↗

Paramount+ Plans & Pricing

Paramount+ runs two core tiers, each with an optional Showtime add-on:

Essential
$4.99/mo
or $49.99/yr – ad-supported, no live local CBS
Premium
$9.99/mo
or $99.99/yr – mostly ad-free, includes live local CBS
Essential with Showtime
$11.99/mo
or $119.99/yr
Premium with Showtime
$11.99/mo
or $119.99/yr

Paramount+: Channels & Content

Paramount+’s lineup includes the CBS network’s live shows and news, the Star Trek franchise, MTV/Comedy Central/Nickelodeon libraries, NFL on CBS, UEFA Champions League soccer, and – new for 2026 – every UFC numbered and Fight Night event, no separate pay-per-view purchase required.

Paramount+ Features & Bonuses

✓Premium tier includes live local CBS and is mostly ad-free
✓Showtime add-on brings in prestige dramas for a small additional cost
✓UFC events are now included with a subscription – no PPV fees
✓4K/HDR is limited to select titles rather than the full catalog
✓Promotional pricing (as low as $0.99–$2.99/mo for a limited period) is common – check for current deals before paying full price

Where Is Paramount+ Available?

Paramount+ is available in the U.S. plus dozens of other countries (often branded “Paramount+ with Showtime” internationally, including the UK and Ireland), with country-specific catalogs, pricing, and channel lineups rather than one global version.

How to Watch Paramount+ Outside the United States

Because Paramount+’s catalog, live channels, and even UFC availability vary by country, a title or live event available at home may not show up while you’re traveling. A VPN lets you reconnect to your home country’s version of the service.

  • Sign up for IPVanish (link includes our exclusive discount)
  • Download and install the IPVanish app on your phone, streaming device, or router
  • Open the app and connect to a VPN server in the United States
  • Open or sign up for Paramount+ and start streaming as if you were in the United States

Is Paramount+ Worth It?

The addition of UFC alone makes Premium a strong value for combat sports fans who used to pay per event. Even without that, the live CBS access and Star Trek/NCIS library make Premium the better pick over Essential for most households – the $5/mo difference is easily worth it for ad-free live TV.

More Streaming Options

Looking for something free instead? Check out our full list of free streaming sites, or browse our other paid streaming service reviews.

Does Paramount+ have UFC?

Yes. As of 2026, Paramount+ is the exclusive home of UFC, including every numbered event and Fight Night, included in your subscription with no separate pay-per-view purchase.

What’s the difference between Paramount+ Essential and Premium?

Premium adds live local CBS programming and removes most ads; Essential is a cheaper, ad-supported, on-demand-focused plan without live local CBS.