Cryptocurrency Subscriptions: Which Services Are Worth Checking Out?

Cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular—not just as an investment tool, but also as a practical way to pay for everyday services. 

One growing use case is online services, from streaming platforms to VPNs and cloud storage. Digital money for digital products—what could make more sense?

For those living on crypto, paying for subscriptions in Bitcoin is a way to actively support a decentralized economy. In some cases, it also helps preserve privacy, if not full anonymity. 

Why Are Cryptocurrency Subscriptions on the Rise?

Crypto brings a unique set of benefits to the world of recurring payments.

1. It cuts out the high fees often tied to international bank transfers. 
2. Using crypto for subscriptions lowers the risk of credit card fraud.
3. For merchants, it’s far cheaper than maintaining traditional banking payment systems. 
4. Blockchain payments clear fast—something systems like SWIFT can’t match. 
5. It lets users spend their digital assets directly, moving crypto beyond just a speculative tool. 

This trend is especially strong in countries leading the way in crypto adoption, including the United States, Singapore, Switzerland, and El Salvador. 

Subscription-based services that accept crypto now cover a broad range of industries: 

• Entertainment 
• Media
• Technology
• Security 

Many of these services integrate payment gateways like BitPay or Crypto.com to streamline the process for users. 

That means cryptocurrency subscriptions are within reach even for those who aren’t blockchain experts. Then again, how do you become an expert without access to the right paid services? Full circle. Congrats. 

So, which platforms already support crypto payments and what makes them worth your attention?

You might also like: Top 8 Crypto Podcasts

Twitch

Twitch, one of the world’s largest streaming platforms, was early to embrace crypto. It first rolled out support for cryptocurrency payments in 2014 through a partnership with BitPay. 

The feature went offline in 2019 but made a comeback in 2021. That same year, Twitch Streamlabs (now part of Amazon) added the option to tip streamers in crypto. 

Today, the platform supports: 

• Bitcoin 
• Ethereum 
• Bitcoin Cash 
• USDC 
• BUSD 
• PAX
• GUSD

Moreover, a Twitch subscription gives users access to exclusive features like custom emotes, badges, and members-only chats. 

Paying with crypto is quick and user-friendly: 

• Pick your preferred cryptocurrency
• Scan the QR code or copy the wallet address
• Once the transaction is confirmed, your subscription is live 

Twitch has long been a favorite among gamers and esports fans. For blockchain gaming enthusiasts and streamers, it’s becoming an essential part of the crypto lifestyle. 

With millions of users worldwide, the platform’s support for crypto payments adds flexibility and opens the door to a broader audience.

That said, users should keep in mind that most payments involve behind-the-scenes conversion. Providers typically charge a small fee, depending on the cryptocurrency used.

DISH Network: TV Subscriptions Since 2014

DISH Network, a U.S. satellite TV provider, was among the first major media services to embrace crypto. The company started accepting Bitcoin back in 2014 and added Bitcoin Cash in 2018. Subscribers can use crypto to pay for monthly TV packages and pay-per-view movies. 

This early adoption sets DISH Network apart in its industry, especially since very few traditional TV providers support digital currencies.

The company partners with BitPay to process crypto transactions. Users can select cryptocurrency as their payment method directly on the DISH website, where the amount is seamlessly converted into U.S. dollars. 

This setup lets DISH receive payments in fiat instantly, reducing its exposure to crypto price swings. It’s a convenient option for U.S.-based users who want to pay for traditional media with their crypto assets.

The service offers a variety of subscription packages, including sports, hit series, and family-friendly programming, making it a versatile choice for crypto holders with all kinds of tastes. 

However, DISH is currently only available in the U.S., limiting access for international audiences.

ExpressVPN: A Privacy-First Service with Crypto Support

ExpressVPN, a longtime leader in the VPN space, has accepted crypto payments since 2014, making it one of the earliest adopters in the industry. 

According to the official website, the platform supports:

• Bitcoin 
• Ethereum 
• USDC
• BUSD

Payments are processed through BitPay, ensuring secure and straightforward transactions.

ExpressVPN offers subscription plans on a monthly, six-month, or yearly basis. 

Users get access to high-speed servers in over 105 countries. The service helps bypass geo-blocks, protect personal data, and maintain anonymity online. This is an essential trio for anyone living the crypto lifestyle. 

For a deeper dive, check out our feature: ‭VPN for Cryptocurrency: A Match Made in Digital Heaven?

The service also includes a suite of bonus features:

• Password manager
• Ad blocker
• Dedicated IP address
• Parental controls

ExpressVPN is widely recognized for its speed and reliability, making it a go-to choice for users who take digital security seriously. 

Furthermore, its support for crypto payments reinforces its core commitment to privacy, aligning closely with the ethos of the crypto community. 

Time Magazine: Traditional Media and Crypto

One of the world’s most iconic and long-standing publications, Time Magazine, began accepting Bitcoin for subscriptions in 2021 through a partnership with Crypto.com. 

According to its official website, the move is part of a broader push to integrate crypto into the brand’s business model. This initiative also includes launching NFTs and hosting blockchain-focused events.

A Time Magazine subscription unlocks both print and digital editions. 

Subscribers get exclusive content, including:

• Deep-dive analysis
• Interviews with industry leaders
• Investigative reports
• Curated news roundups

Crypto payments are processed through Crypto.com and support a wide range of digital assets. The process is simple: choose a subscription plan, send funds to the listed address, and gain access once the transaction is confirmed.

For crypto enthusiasts, Time Magazine has become a symbol of how legacy media is adapting to the new economy. A publication known for decades of global coverage now accepts crypto and regularly publishes stories on blockchain and digital assets. In its own way, the iconic magazine has joined the modern crypto lifestyle. 

Fun fact: Time’s leadership has publicly stated that the publication is an ideological Ethereum HODLer, holding ETH in the magazine’s wallet.

Microsoft: Gaming Subscriptions Go Crypto

Microsoft has been accepting Bitcoin since 2014, positioning itself early as one of the first major tech giants to embrace crypto. 

According to BitPay, users can pay for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions and other digital content (like apps and games) using:

• BTC 
• BCH 
• ETH 
• USDC

Xbox Game Pass gives users access to hundreds of games, available for download on both Xbox consoles and PC. Users can pay for the subscription through Microsoft’s built-in payment system integrated with BitPay. 

For crypto enthusiasts, Microsoft offers a chance to put digital assets to work for entertainment, an especially appealing option for those who are passionate about gaming. 

• Note: The company periodically reviews its cryptocurrency payment policy. It’s always a good idea to check Microsoft’s official website to confirm whether the option is currently active.

Related: Michael Saylor Urges Microsoft to Embrace Bitcoin

Mega.nz: Cloud Storage, Paid in Bitcoin

Mega.nz, a popular cloud storage service, has been accepting Bitcoin since 2014. 

According to its official website, the platform offers secure, end-to-end encrypted storage with a range of subscription plans starting at 400 GB. 

Users can pay in BTC through Mega’s built-in crypto payment system.

The platform has built a strong following among users who value privacy and data security. Notably, the developers behind Mega.nz have referred to Edward Snowden as their “spiritual leader.”

Mega.nz uses end-to-end encryption, with crypto payments adding an extra layer of anonymity. However, the platform only supports Bitcoin—something that might limit options for altcoin fans, but likely earns extra points with Bitcoin maximalists.

What to Consider When Choosing a Cryptocurrency Subscription Service

When picking a service that accepts crypto, there are a few key points to keep in mind:

1. Check supported cryptocurrencies

For example, ExpressVPN accepts a wide range of coins, while Mega.nz is limited to Bitcoin only. Also, keep an eye on the payment gateways. While intermediaries like BitPay can make the process smoother, they often come with added fees. 

2. Mind the Crypto Volatility

Crypto prices can swing fast, affecting the actual cost of a subscription at the time of payment.

3. Check Regional Availability

DISH Network operates only in the U.S., while services like ExpressVPN and Mega.nz are available globally. 

4. Weigh the Platform’s Reputation

Legacy names like Microsoft and Time Magazine bring years of history and credibility, making them a safer bet for crypto users.

Cryptocurrency subscriptions are becoming a natural part of daily life. For crypto enthusiasts, they’re more than just a payment method; they represent a way to live in sync with their values and principles. It’s about stepping away from traditional finance and supporting a decentralized economy, where digital assets function as seamlessly as fiat.

As Web3 and DeFi continue to gain ground, even more services are expected to open their doors to crypto payments.

For a deeper look at the ideology behind this shift, read our feature: Crypto-Anarchism: From Manifesto to Lifestyle