'Can you download on HBO Now?': How HBO's standalone app compares to its competition and to HBO's other services

• There's currently no way to download on the HBO Now app for offline viewing.
• HBO Now is the only major subscription service that doesn't let users download movies or shows, as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney Plus all offer downloads.
• However, while HBO Now doesn't offer downloads, HBO's companion apps HBO GO and HBO Max do.

WarnerMedia's new streaming service HBO Max has officially launched, but many are still signed up for its stripped-down precursor, HBO Now.

Created as a stand-alone streaming alternative for HBO lovers without a cable package, the service offers subscribers access to all past and present episodes of every HBO original series.

You also get access to HBO's complete library of movies, documentaries, sports, and exclusive comedy specials, all for $14.99 per month.

While the app has a variety of features, one of the most requested is the ability to download shows and movies to watch when you don't have internet access.

But does HBO Now let you download movies and TV shows? Here's what you should know.

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You can't download on HBO Now

HBO Now is the only leading streaming service without a download option. Fans of "Game of Thrones," "Westworld," and more will have to connect to the internet to view their favorite shows.

In comparison, rival streaming services all offer download options, though they often have limits. Netflix allows for a maximum of 100 downloaded titles per registered device, while Amazon Prime Video only keeps downloaded titles for 30 days. Hulu also removes saved titles after 30 days and caps total downloads at 25 items across five devices.

Disney Plus is currently the only service with unlimited download storage.

If downloads are that important to you, however, other HBO streaming services do offer it.

HBO Go and HBO Max both offer downloads

It's important to note that HBO Go and HBO Max both provide download options for subscribers.

The difference between HBO Now and HBO GO isn't the content — it's how you pay for it. You can only gain access to HBO GO through your cable or satellite TV provider.

With HBO Max, you can purchase a subscription for $14.99 per month and start downloading titles immediately.

Both HBO GO and HBO Max delete downloads 48 hours after you begin watching them. In addition, HBO Go only lets you keep 15 downloads at a time, while Max lets you keep 30.

Related coverage from Tech Reference:

• 'What is HBO Max?': Here's what you need to know about HBO's streaming service answer to Netflix and Hulu

• How many people can watch HBO Now at once on a single streaming account

• How to cancel your HBO Now subscription in 6 simple steps

• 'Can you get HBO without cable?': How to watch HBO shows and movies without a TV provider

• 'Can you download HBO Go shows?': How to watch shows and movies offline on the HBO Go app