Why iQIYI is the Best Chinese Video Streaming Platform – Reviews & Alternatives 2025
IQIYI has become a new sensation for video streaming, especially in China. This platform has gained popularity because of its rich Chinese content, live-streaming news, unlimited videos, and user-friendly interface. Due to its use in diverse areas, iQIYI TV now has an eclectic variety of content with subtitle features in Chinese and English.
IQIYI is undoubtedly a perfect blend of domestic and commercial content with a diverse audience. Initially, this TV was monochrome, but now it is no less than any other top-notch platform.
It has become the favorite channel in China, providing all-in-one entertainment for kids to adults and the elderly. In this article, we will explore some of the best features of iQIYI that make it stand out as a favorite and most affordable platform for everyone compared to its competitors like BiliBili, Youku, and Duonao.
Table of Contents
What is iQIYI?
- iQIYI is a conventional smart Chinese video streaming platform whose content ranges from cartoons to films. Now, you can not limit yourself to just traditional content, the diverse library content is enough to radicalize your thoughts and knowledge. It is more than just traditional TV limited by cable internet.
- It is estimated that more than 590 million people are registered on this website. Hence, it is China’s favorite video streaming platform. Everyone has something to do with this TV because of the diversity it offers. Kids can watch their favorite cartoons, adults can enjoy their favorite movies, dramas, and health programs. All this is done in a very affordable subscription.
- iQIYI shows Chinese culture and provides the opportunity for foreigners to indulge in the vastness of this unique culture and explore it. It is rapidly gaining popularity across the globe, and people are taking interest more than ever in Chinese culture and content. The English subtitle feature has further enhanced the user experience.
- Interestingly, users can enjoy iQIYI on their laptops, mobile phones, and PCs directly, with no need to register, however, privacy and anonymity are assured.
- iQIYI has also become a platform for watching pirated movies because of the UK’s Distributor neglecting the Chinese release date. UK must collaborate with iQIYI to avoid any copyright issues.
Is iQIYI Safe?
Yes, iQIYI is absolutely safe. iQIYI is equipped with the most authoritative information security certification (PCI-DSS) in the worldwide payment cards industry to encrypt and protect bank card information. It has been streaming Chinese videos for the past 18 years but has recently gained popularity globally because of the diversified content available in its library. Users can navigate through their favorite movies, documentaries, Chinese dramas, education, and health programs. It also offers a mix of international content. iQIYI is known as the “Netflix of China” because of its vast Chinese diaspora.
Key Features Of iQIYI
iQIYI’s is one of the biggest main chinease online streaming site like Netflix of China. Now let’s discuss some of iQIYI’s distinct features to have a more clear-cut idea about its diversity and culture-rich content:
iQIYI – Extensive Content Library:
The extensive content library of iQIYI allows users to have unlimited fun. iQIYI doesn’t limit you to your television only, you can watch it on your computer, laptop, mobile phone, or tablet. Its diverse catalog ranges from historical dramas to contemporary romance, blockbuster films, and a variety of reality shows. Kids have so many cartoons and stimulating movies to watch and have fun with.
iQIYI – User Interface:
iQIYI operates on a very simple and easy user interface and fortunately, it is available both in English and Chinese language. Its bilingual feature makes it user-friendly for both natives and non-natives.
The platform is designed in such a way that it makes it very convenient for people to navigate through it. They can search for their favorite movies, dramas, and documentaries by searching through release dates, etc. Another feature of this TV is its partnership with some leading production companies in China which allows exclusive access to many programs and movies that other channels do not provide.
iQIYI – Streaming Quality:
iQIYI’s streaming quality is jaw-dropping. However, it provides not only 1080 HD high quality, which is enough for many users, but it does provide 4k resolution quality. We have observed that internet connection matters a lot in high-quality streaming. If the connection is slow, high-quality streaming features may not work properly.
iQIYI, undoubtedly has become a necessity for any house. You can connect up to 5 devices on the same subscription plan thus making it convenient for a family.
Customized Suggestions:
As technology is getting advanced, it is not surprising to have customized suggestions based on your interests. The more you show interest in one genre, the more related recommendations you will see. It has become so much more convenient for users as they discover new suggestions that suit their tastes.
iQIYI – Subscription Plans:
iQIYI is free but not entirely free when you go for ad-free or 4k, so it has an affordable platform that provides a monthly subscription starting at just $6.99. You and your family can have unlimited ad-free content in this minimal amount.
iQIYI – Download Offline:
The most requisite feature of iQIYI is its capability to download content and watch it later offline. This is especially true for people who have connection issues. So, worry no more, iQIYI will become your companion when there is no internet facility. No compromise on entertainment anymore.
iQIYI – Device Compatibility:
iQIYI is accessible to any device that has an internet connection. You can connect iOS and Android devices on one subscription. A total of 5 devices are allowed to connect at a time on it. It is a very convenient and affordable option for families.
iQIYI – Original Content:
iQIYI has gained so much popularity in very little time. It has now its own production house where they have collaborated with many international film industries and is making its own films and dramas. The Chinese culture-rich content has increased Chinese viewership. Moreover, Taiwan and Hong Kong have also become their primary viewers. People are loving their content and moving towards this platform.
Pros and Cons of iQIYI
Pros | Cons |
It has extensive library content which makes it convenient for people to use it. | There are some concerns related to its legality and privacy. |
It is compatible with 5 devices whether Android or iOS at a time. | Only Chinese and English language content is available on the site. |
Users can download movies, documentaries, or dramas and can watch offline later. | This platform has so much pirated content available. |
It has a very simple and easy user interface thus making it convenient for anyone to use it. | Average English subtiltles. |
It is promoting their own production exclusive to them only. |
Impact of iQIYI on the UK Film Industry
iQIYI has impacted the UK film industry immensely. This Chinese video streaming platform has attracted so many users because of its relaxed intellectual support. Although this platform supports only Chinese and English languages still users are convinced to take advantage of some unrestricted content.
iQIYI has become a host of international content, so it may not be affected by legal concerns. It has affected the UK film industry because of the content available on the platform before the UK Film industry releases. This happened due to the clash in releasing dates of these movies.
The UK film industry has lost a huge viewership because of iQIYI. Users can now watch new releases on this platform and Chinese viewers especially have now shifted to iQIYI. This has become a “Netflix of China”. Pirated movies, dramas, and documentaries are readily available on the website.
If UK film distributors want to dominate Chinese cinema, they must have to postpone their release dates and collaborate with them. Otherwise, there are chances of further loss of viewership.
How to Watch iQIYI Outside China?
iQIYI’s streaming services are exclusive to China. You can not watch the content outside China but no worries, it can be accessed globally by using VPN, proxy services, mirror sites, extensions, and mobile apps. Here is the detailed method of watching iQIYI outside China:
Use VPN:
Once you connect to the VPN, it will hide your IP address and make it appear as if you are browsing from China. Now, connect to iQIYI and watch your favorite movies, dramas, and whatnot.
Proxy Servers:
Proxy servers are another option to browse the Chinese website. However, it has certain limitations as it does not allow access if the website has geographical restrictions. Its working is also just like VPN but later is a much more secure option.
Mirror Sites:
Mirror sites are usually the alternatives to the original website that bypass the location limitations. But these sites are definitely not a secure option.
Browser Extensions:
There are some browser extensions available on the internet that allow the bypassing of location limitations. These extensions are also less secure than the VPN options.
Mobile Apps:
If you are using the iQIYI mobile app, there are chances of bypassing geographical limitations. If you install a VPN on your phone, you are able to enjoy the movie streaming.
But make sure that using a VPN is also not a legal option, you may breach the terms and conditions of local laws, so make sure to abide by them.
Expert Review on iQIYI
iQIYI has launched its top-notch streaming services with an immense library of content including Chinese to Hollywood or indie movies. “The Verge”, has given an expert review on iQIYI by calling it “the Netflix of China” and “stunning”.
Viewers are able to watch the latest series of Game of Thrones, Avengers, The Black Panther, and other latest hits. Thus, for people seeking a convenient platform for the best cinematic experience, iQIYI is a great option for them.
Is iQIYI Worth It?
Yes, iQIYI has become an all-rounder entertainment platform, it provides unlimited entertainment whether you have the availability of internet or not. You can download the latest releases and watch them later in offline mode.
This platform has a rich Chinese catalog so people who are looking for some Chinese entertainment can have a lot of options available. The English and Chinese subtitles available on the videos help viewers in better understanding of the content. Thus iQIYI has become the go-to entertainment option in China.
iQIYI Vs Alternatives - A Competitor Analysis
Here is iQIYI’s competitor analysis, discover and explore them:
DNVOD:
DNVOD has a vast content library that offers old to latest blockbusters. Not only Chinese but international content is available on this website. You can search for your favorite drama or movies by the celebrity option there.
However, a subscription is required for the premium content. Also, the non-Chinese subtitles options are less which makes it a bit annoying for some people.
Tencent Video:
Tencent Video website is also a video streaming platform exclusive to China. TV dramas, movies, a variety of shows, and cartoons are available here. It also has a huge variety of content available for the viewers. Unfortunately, there is very limited content available for the users who are browsing it for free. A premium subscription is required to access all the content.
Youku:
Youku TV is another Chinese video streaming platform that is best known for the dramas and variety shows it offers. Chinese culture is predominant in the content. However, it does not allow any free access. Users have to subscribe first before navigating through it. It also does not allow censored content due to government rules and regulations.
BiliBili
BiliBili is a bit similar option to iQIYI. It has a vast category of anime and TV shows available on its platform. From old to latest, you can search for unlimited favorite anime movies and Chinese TV dramas. It has both free and premium modes that allow viewers to have good entertainment. But its specific content is only for a few people.
Netflix
Netflix has gained so much popularity globally because of its vast variety of content. From blockbusters to indie films everything is available on it. However, this platform is definitely not a great option for Chinese users as they have very limited Chinese content available on the website.
FAQs: iQIYI Review
Is iQIYI safe?
Yes, iQIYI is safe. iQIYI is equipped with the most authoritative information security certification (PCI-DSS) in the worldwide payment cards industry to encrypt and protect bank card information
Is iQIYI free?
Yes, iQIYI has both basic and premium modes. Basic mode has a lot of ads that pop up again and again while its premium version has ad free feature with 1080p, 4K & Dolby Audio.
Can I access iQIYI on multiple devices?
Yes, anyone who has subscribed to iQIYI can have access to 5 devices at a time operating on the same IP address. This is the best option for families. Everyone can enjoy entertainment on their Android or iOS.
How can I watch iQIYI as a new user?
To watch iQIYI as a new user, go to their website, register yourself, and explore its extensive library content. From old to the latest every drama, movie, or variety show is available here.
Can I watch iQIYI as an outsider?
Yes, you can watch iQIYI as an outsider by connecting a VPN to your device. You can also use other methods like proxy servers, browser extensions, and mobile VPN to navigate through the website.
Is there a subscription fee for iQIYI?
Yes, it has both basic and premium modes. Basic mode has a lot of ads that pop up again and again while its premium version has ads free and viewers can enjoy the latest and exclusive content.
Does iQIYI have any commercials?
Yes, iQIYI’s basic mode shows commercials while its premium version is ads-free. You can enjoy a lot of content by subscribing to its affordable premium plan.
How is the video quality on iQIYI?
Yes, iQIYI does have 4K video quality streaming but its 1080 HD video streaming is enough to give you a diversified and vivid video quality experience.
Final Thoughts on iQIYI
iQIYI has gained so much popularity in a very short time. It has become a go-to entertainment platform in China with its own exclusive content. Its bilingual feature has contributed so much to its international diaspora. People now are familiar with it and the platform has become a forum for communication and critique.
Its Chinese rich cultural content has influenced people. Globally, people love their content and appreciate it. From kids to adults, everyone has something interesting to them in their catalog. The high-quality HD video streaming allows you a theatre-like experience while sitting at home.
This platform is also very convenient for the family as you can connect up to 5 devices with the same IP address. You can also check their alternatives if you are having any issues while registering yourself on this platform or due to some other reasons. However, make sure to watch only licensed and copyright-free content to save yourself from any legal concerns.
