FAQ

Channel Support

What is the Criterion Channel?

The Criterion Channel is an independent streaming service that features an eclectic mix of classic and contemporary films from Hollywood and around the world, many not available anywhere else. In addition to hosting a rotating selection from the Criterion Collection and Janus Films’ celebrated library of more than 1,500 films, it also features titles from a wide array of studio and independent licensors and original programming exclusive to the service. Along with the constantly refreshed thematic programming, subscribers to the Criterion Channel can also enjoy more than 500 shorts and 5,000 supplementary features, including trailers, introductions, behind-the-scenes documentaries, interviews, video essays, commentary tracks, and rare archival footage.

How much is a subscription to the Criterion Channel?

A monthly subscription to the Criterion Channel costs $10.99 USD a month and an annual subscription costs $99.99 USD a year. This includes a free 7-day trial for you to try out the service with no obligation. After your free trial ends, your credit card will be charged at either the monthly or annual rate you selected when you registered for an account. You may cancel or pause your subscription at any time. To set up an account, please sign up at CriterionChannel.com.

Even without an active subscription, you can browse the 3,000+ films and exclusive content currently streaming on Criterion Channel by visiting CriterionChannel.com or downloading the Criterion Channel App on your preferred streaming device.

If I have an account at Criterion.com, can I watch the Criterion Channel?

As of September 24, 2026, Criterion.com and CriterionChannel.com accounts are linked and have a Single Sign-On (SSO), as long as your email address for both sites is the same.

Please note that billing between these sites is not shared.

A Criterion.com account is free and can be used to purchase discs and other merchandise from the Criterion.com webstore.

CriterionChannel.com is our streaming platform and requires a subscription for access.

If I live outside of the United States and Canada, can I stream movies from the Criterion Channel?

The Criterion Channel is available only in the U.S. and Canada. We’d love to launch the Criterion Channel worldwide, but there are complexities involved that we’re not ready to take on just yet. One step at a time!

I set up a Criterion Channel account and subscription and have some questions. Where can I find answers?

Answers to some common questions regarding Criterion Channel may be found here: https://criterionchannel.zendesk.com

What devices can I use to watch the Criterion Channel?

To watch the Criterion Channel, you can use a computer web browser to stream from criterionchannel.com, or use the Criterion Channel App. Minimum device system requirements are as follows:

  • Roku: v15.1.4 b100
  • Apple: iOS: 17.4, tvOS: 17.4
  • Android/Amazon devices: Mobile: 8.0, TV: Android 7.0
  • Samsung (Tizen): 6.0 — 2021 TVs and newer
  • Xbox (UWP / Windows.Universal): 10.0.17763.0 — Windows 10 1809

We’re always happy to provide detailed Criterion Channel setup instructions for the devices listed above! For more information or if you’re having trouble, visit https://criterionchannel.zendesk.com or contact channelhelp@criterion.com.

Please note that emails are answered Monday to Friday during business hours ET. Please include your name and e-mail address with your questions or comments.

Are all Criterion Collection releases available to stream on the Channel?

While many of the films in the Criterion Collection are available to stream on our Channel, not all of them are. You can see which films are streaming on the Channel on the individual film pages at criterion.com.

I am a teacher or a librarian. Whom do I contact to learn more about streaming options for schools?

Please email us at channelhelp@criterion.com with information about your school, class size, and any specific details you’d like us to know.