Why should I care about PlayOn Cloud?

As someone who frequently binge-watches shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu, I often encounter the problem of finally finding a favorite series, only to miss it due to business travel, unstable network, or the source being deprecated. Like me, many users wish there was a way to "truly save" this content, rather than just relying on temporary downloads provided by the platforms.

The price plan of PlayOn Cloud is based on cloud storage. You can save your recordings in the cloud to save your local space. Every PlayOn Cloud subscriber will get 30 credits to record streaming videos. When you run out, you have to pay for extra credits. 

  • Price: $4.99/Month (100GB) - $49.99/Month (4TB)
  • Ratings: 4.0/10.0 on VideoHelp | 1.5/5.0 on Trustpilot

playon cloud review: price

What is PlayOn?

When I first encountered PlayOn, I thought of it as a DVR (digital video recorder). It doesn't directly "download" videos, but rather simulates a recording process, recording streaming content into a file and then saving it locally or to the cloud.

This approach has one advantage: it bypasses DRM restrictions on most platforms, allowing users to save videos on major platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. According to PlayOn's official page (updated as of August 2025), PlayOn Cloud currently supports recording for over 20 streaming platforms.

However, community users generally report that PlayOn's recording speed is slow, with some Reddit users reporting that recordings take twice as long to complete.

playon cloud review: reddit comment

Differences between PlayOn Cloud and PlayOn Desktop/Home

However, it seems that the tech team of PlayOn puts more effort into developing the Cloud version, and the subscribers of the Cloud version are much more than the desktop/Home version. Considering that the basic function has been reviewed in the above resource, therefore, in this part, we will dive into the difference between PlayOn Cloud and PlayOn Desktop (Home).

Many people are confused: What is the difference between PlayOn Cloud and PlayOn Desktop (later renamed PlayOn Home)?

  • PlayOn Cloud: Primarily used on iOS and Android phones. After recording, the file is saved to PlayOn's cloud servers and can be downloaded locally.
  • PlayOn Desktop/Home: Runs on Windows PCs and requires local storage and bandwidth. This feature is no longer a development priority.

According to Trustpilot reviews (average rating of 1.6/5.0 as of July 2025), many long-time users have complained about PlayOn's declining support for the desktop version, with more focus shifting to the Cloud version. This has also resulted in issues like "recording failures and software lag" reported by PlayOn Home users in the forums not being effectively addressed.

Features / Aspects PlayOn Cloud 📱 PlayOn Desktop/Home 💻
Supported Devices iOS / Android Windows PC
Storage Method Cloud + Local Local Hard Drive
Subtitle Support ✅ Most platforms ❌ Not supported
Video Quality Default 720P, 1080P requires extra credits 1080P available but unstable
Ad-Skipping ✅ Supported ❌ Not supported
Stability Fewer crashes, cloud-dependent Frequent Playon not working
Development & Updates Actively maintained Barely updated anymore

How Do I Use PlayOn Cloud?

Step 1
Downloaded the PlayOn Cloud app from the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android). After installation, you'll need to register an account and choose a plan (free credits are available for trial).
Step 2
Open the app → Select the platform you want to record from (Netflix, Hulu, Prime, etc.) and log in → Search and find the episode/movie you want to save → Click the "Record" button to start recording. The video will be saved to the cloud first.
Step 3
After recording, go to the My Recordings page, select the video, and download it. The file will be saved to your phone's camera roll (or on your PC, go to Videos > PlayOn Cloud Recordings).
playon cloud review: how to use

Compliance Notes

While using PlayOn Cloud, I've encountered some frustrating situations. For example, even though the recording was successful, the subtitles wouldn't sync with the video, making it particularly difficult to save the entire episode. Some shows have more than one audio track (for example, original audio + dubbing), but PlayOn Cloud only saves one by default, with no way to switch between them.

These problems actually stem from the positioning of PlayOn Cloud itself - it is a "video recorder" rather than a professional "download tool", and its functions cannot solve personalized needs such as clarity, subtitles, and audio tracks.

Regardless of which tool you choose, I recommend the following:
✅ Use only for personal study and collection
✅ Do not share or use for commercial purposes
✅ If you like music from a particular drama, try to collect it through the official OST or album.

Better than PlayOn Cloud: StreamFab

PlayOn Cloud: better alternative streamfab

StreamFab enables you to download videos from OTT directly, bypassing the limits of traditional recorders. With better quality, faster speed, and more comprehensive supported sites, StreamFab levels up your video offline experience. 

How to Use: StreamFab vs PlayOn Cloud

💡 For function comparison, check: Compare: StreamFab vs PlayOn

In another resource, we've compiled a very detailed review of the PlayOn and the better solution. If you are interested, just feel free to read the post above. To save your time and avoid repeat content, here let us have a look at the operation steps and UI design:  

Step 1

Download the software

Install the software on your device and open the interface. Choose the streaming service you want, and log into your account. 

playon cloud review how to use streamfab

Step 2

Customize the file

Having find the video you want, choose to 'download' StreamFab provides more flexible settings on the resolution, audio, episodes, subtitles. etc. 

playon cloud review how to use streamfab

Step 3

Confirm and wait

After customization, you can start the task right now or add it to the queue.

PlayOn do provide a method to save streaming videos, but it doesn't offer qualified output content. When you check your recording, you may find the video and audio out of sync, buffering still exists, low resolution, etc. But if you have a downloader, all will be different.

We still recommend you guys get a free trial of PlayOn Cloud and SrteamFab first before your final decision. Experience by yourself, and you will know the difference. 

FAQs

1. Is PlayOn Cloud Safe?

Yes. PlayOn Cloud prioritizes the safety and security of its users. With advanced technology and robust protocols in place, PlayOn Cloud ensures a safe and protected experience for its users.

2. How to Download PlayOn Recordings to My Computer?

Go to your personal recordings page, where you can find your recordings are stored in the cloud, and then you can directly download those recordings to your computer.  Downloaded recordings will be placed in the following folder: Videos\PlayOn Cloud Recordings on your PC or Mac.

3. How to Cancel PlayOn Subscription?

Open your PlayOn Cloud app and go to Settings > Cloud Plan to cancel or change your subscription plan. If you need any problems, please contact PlayOn Cloud support. 

Conclusion

One of the major advantages offered by PlayOn Cloud is its range of playback options. From streaming recorded videos on any device to downloading them onto your device for offline viewing, PlayOn Cloud provides flexibility that suits every user’s needs. 

PlayOn Cloud is a feasible solution but with lots of undeniable restrictions. If you feel unsatisfied with its functions and quality after your trial, just feel free to choose another alternative.