For fans of Black culture, entertainment, and news, BET has long been a primary destination for television programming. With the rise of digital streaming, viewers now have multiple ways to access their favorite shows, specifically through the standard BET App and the premium streaming service known as BET+. While these two platforms may sound similar, they serve very different needs depending on whether you have a cable subscription or prefer a standalone streaming experience. Understanding the distinctions between them is essential for ensuring you sign up for the right service to watch hits like Sistas, The Oval, or Real Husbands of Hollywood.
The BET App, sometimes referred to as BET Now, is a "TV Everywhere" service designed primarily for users who already have a subscription to a cable or satellite provider. This app allows you to watch current seasons of your favorite BET shows and even stream live TV directly on your portable devices or smart TVs. Because this service is an extension of your existing cable package, it is generally free to download, but you must authenticate your subscription to unlock the content. To set this up on a device like a Roku, Amazon Fire TV, or Apple TV, you will typically need to install the app and receive an activation code. You then visit bet.com/activate on a computer or mobile browser to enter that code and log in with your TV provider credentials. This process links your device to your cable account, granting you access to the broadcast schedule and on-demand episodes shortly after they air on traditional television.
In contrast, BET+ is a standalone subscription streaming service that does not require a cable provider. Launched as a joint venture between BET Networks and Tyler Perry Studios, BET+ is designed for cord-cutters who want an extensive library of content without commercials. A monthly or annual subscription fee is required to access the platform. The main draw of BET+ is its exclusive library, which includes over 2,000 hours of content, such as original series, movies, and stage plays from Tyler Perry that are not available on the standard BET cable channel. Additionally, BET+ offers a vast backlog of classic sitcoms and movies, allowing subscribers to binge-watch entire series ad-free. Unlike the standard app where you might use bet.com/activate to link a cable provider, accessing BET+ usually involves signing up directly through the app store of your chosen device or via the BET+ website.
The choice between the two ultimately comes down to your viewing habits and existing subscriptions. If you already pay for a cable package that includes the BET channel, the standard BET App is likely sufficient for catching up on recent episodes and watching live TV. However, if you have cut the cord or are a die-hard fan of Tyler Perry wishing to see exclusive originals like Zatima or All the Queen's Men, the premium BET+ subscription is the better investment. It is also worth noting that while some content overlaps, the exclusive originals on BET+ generally do not appear on the standard BET App until much later, if at all. Therefore, checking the specific availability of the shows you want to watch is the best way to decide which platform suits your entertainment needs.