Offline Downloads Compared 2026: Which Services & Limits

Last updated: · By WatchlyGuide Team

All the big services — Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and Apple TV+ — let you download films and series for offline viewing on mobile devices, but device counts, title limits and expiry windows differ. Downloads are the most reliable way to watch on a flight or journey. This data guide compares offline downloads by service, with a table, and covers expiry and travel. It relates to EU portability for streaming abroad.

Streaming services compared on offline download support and limits
Offline downloads in Europe — all big services support them, with different limits.

Downloads by Service

Details vary by plan and change over time; typical 2026 picture.

Service Downloads Devices Notes
Netflix Yes (incl. laptops) Scales with plan “Downloads for you” auto-picks titles
Disney+ Yes Up to ~10 devices Generous — great for families
Prime Video Yes Mobile devices Device and title caps apply
Apple TV+ Yes Apple + supported apps Simple, works across devices

All support phones and tablets; Netflix and Prime also allow some laptops. Not every title can be downloaded — licensing decides.

Expiry and Limits

Downloads are temporary, not ownership:

  • Expiry: typically 48 hours once you start watching, or up to 30 days if unwatched — varies by title.
  • Renewal: reconnect to the internet periodically to renew downloads before a trip.
  • Title limits: each service caps how many downloads per device; Premium/family plans allow more.
  • Availability: some titles can’t be downloaded at all due to licensing.
A diagram showing how to prepare downloads for travel
For travel — download on Wi-Fi before you leave and check expiry windows.

Best for Travel

For flights and journeys, download on Wi-Fi before you leave so you don’t rely on foreign Wi-Fi or portability:

  • Families: Disney+ — high device count and easy kids downloads.
  • Solo travellers: Netflix — “Downloads for you” and laptop support.
  • Prime/Apple users: both work well; check title expiry before departure.
  • Streaming abroad instead? EU portability keeps your home catalogue while travelling in the EU — but downloads are more reliable on the move.

The Bottom Line

Every major service supports offline downloads on mobile — Disney+ stands out for families with its high device count, Netflix for its laptop support and auto-download feature. Downloads are temporary, so mind the expiry windows and download on Wi-Fi before you travel. For streaming abroad instead, see our EU portability guide; compare device limits in our multi-device limits guide; see prices in our European streaming prices guide; and look up any term in the streaming glossary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which streaming services let you download for offline viewing?

Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and Apple TV+ all support downloading films and series for offline viewing on phones and tablets, and Netflix and Prime also allow it on some laptops. Downloads are ideal for flights and journeys with no internet. The number of devices and titles you can download on varies by service and, on Netflix, by plan tier.

How many titles can I download at once?

Limits vary. Netflix allows a set number of downloads per device that scales with the plan (Premium the most), Disney+ permits a generous number across up to ten devices, and Prime Video and Apple TV+ have their own device and title caps. Most people never hit the limits for a trip, but heavy downloaders should check each service's specifics.

Do downloaded shows expire?

Yes. Downloads are for temporary offline viewing, not permanent ownership: they expire after a period set by licensing (often 48 hours once you start watching, or up to 30 days if unwatched), and some titles have tighter limits or can't be downloaded at all. Reconnect to the internet periodically to renew downloads before a long trip.

Can I watch downloads abroad?

Generally yes — downloaded content plays offline wherever you are, which is why it's great for travel. For streaming abroad, EU portability keeps your home catalogue available temporarily while travelling in the EU. Downloading before you leave avoids relying on foreign Wi-Fi or portability rules entirely, making it the most reliable option for journeys.

Which service is best for downloads when travelling?

Netflix and Disney+ are both excellent for travel downloads, with generous device allowances and easy 'download for you' features. Disney+ is particularly good for families with its high device count. Prime Video and Apple TV+ work well too. For a flight, download on Wi-Fi before you leave and check expiry windows so titles remain playable.