Streaming deals come and go, but this year’s HBO Max Cyber Monday offer isn’t just a bargain—it’s a statement about the streaming wars and what’s next for consumers. For a limited time, new and returning subscribers can snag a year of HBO Max with ads for just $2.99/month ($35.88 for the year), compared to the usual $10.99/month price tag. That’s a jaw-dropping $96 in annual savings.
But there’s more to this deal than a low price. Let’s dig into what most coverage misses, why this is such a big deal for the industry, and how it fits into the broader streaming landscape.
Why This Matters
- HBO Max is doubling down on ad-supported streaming. Historically, HBO’s best promo was $2.99/month for only six months—now, that window is a full year. This shows growing confidence in ad-based revenue models, which are quickly becoming the industry norm as platforms chase profitability.
- It’s a counter-move against relentless price hikes. Netflix, Disney+, and others have all raised prices in 2024 and 2025. HBO Max’s discount bucks the trend and throws a lifeline to price-sensitive subscribers who might be contemplating which services to cut.
- Access to must-watch originals for less than $40 a year. Upcoming hits like “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” (debuting January 18), “The Pitt,” and buzzy series like “The Chair Company” are all included—even if you have to sit through a few ads.
What Most People Miss
- This isn’t just about saving money—it’s a test case for the future of streaming. If enough people flock to this ad-supported tier, it signals to the industry that consumers are willing to trade a little attention for deeper discounts. Expect other platforms to follow.
- Returning subscribers are eligible. Many deals exclude returning users, but this one is open to lapsed subscribers. HBO Max is actively courting its lost audience—smart, given the churn rates in the streaming sector.
- It’s a direct response to subscriber fatigue. With cable-like costs creeping back into streaming bundles, this move is HBO Max’s play to remain essential in a crowded market.
Key Takeaways
- Price: $2.99/month for a year, $96 off the regular price
- Eligible Users: Both new and returning subscribers
- Content Library: Includes major series like “The Pitt,” “The Chair Company,” “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,” and more
- Deal Ends: December 1, 2025
- Ad-Supported Tier: Yes, but this is the new streaming norm—and you’re saving big
Industry Context & Comparisons
- Streaming service price hikes are everywhere: Netflix’s standard plan is now over $15/month, Disney+ has reached $13.99/month, and even Hulu’s ad-supported tier is $7.99/month. HBO Max’s $2.99/month is the lowest entry point for premium streaming in 2025.
- Ad-supported tiers are booming: According to Antenna data, ad-supported streaming tiers grew 25% in 2024, as viewers trade a few minutes of ads for major savings.
- Churn rates are high: Nearly 40% of U.S. streaming subscribers cancel at least one service annually—so platforms are fighting hard to keep their content (and pricing) sticky.
Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Massive savings—over $95 off
- Access to HBO Max’s full library, including new releases
- Both new and returning users qualify
- Cons:
- Ad-supported only (no ad-free option at this price)
- Deal window closes quickly—ends December 1
Action Steps
- Decide if you can live with ads—for a $96 annual savings, it’s a trade-off worth making for many.
- Sign up before the deal ends December 1, 2025.
- Binge premium HBO originals and upcoming releases for less than $3/month.
“It’s a breath of fresh air amid relentless announcements about streaming services raising their prices this year.”
The Bottom Line
This is more than a fleeting Cyber Monday deal—it’s a glimpse at where streaming is headed. As platforms experiment with pricing and ad models, smart subscribers can take advantage of the shakeup. If you love premium TV but hate premium prices, this is your rare chance to lock in a year of HBO Max for less than the cost of a single month elsewhere. Just don’t wait—deals like this aren’t sticking around.