# MagellanTV Documentaries — user reviews > 193 indexed App Store user reviews of MagellanTV Documentaries by MagellanTV LLC, rated 4.60/5 from 3,851 ratings. - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/magellantv-documentaries/id1449628141/reviews - App overview in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/magellantv-documentaries/id1449628141.md - Rating breakdown: 5★ 3,073 · 4★ 439 · 3★ 169 · 2★ 66 · 1★ 104 ## What do users think of MagellanTV Documentaries? Overall sentiment: neutral **Pros** - 👍 Great content and selection - 💡 Diverse range of documentaries - 🚀 Excellent customer service - 🤩 Impressive content quality **Cons** - 🐛 Buggy app with frequent crashes - 🔍 Difficult to navigate and search - 🔌 Inconsistent streaming performance - 🤯 Frustrating login and account issues - 🤔 Lack of basic features (e.g. continue watching, auto-play) **Commonly reported bugs** - App crashes frequently - Videos freeze or have audio-only playback - Login issues and inability to access account - Inconsistent performance across devices - Download failures and unreliable offline viewing **Most requested features** - Add skip forward/backward buttons - Implement picture-in-picture mode - Improve offline viewing and downloads - Provide better content organization and search - Add user profile and watch history features ## Newest reviews (11 of 193) ### 2/5 — Flakey *2026-05-16, version 2.8.10* I have a year subscription as i got a good deal. The documentaries are very good, especially as there are no adds. The main issue though is, the app is really flakey and I regularly have to delete and reinstall it to be able to view any documentary. I will persist for now, but unless the app improves, I won’t renew my subscription ### 3/5 — good content, poor app *2026-03-12, version 2.8.6* the app bugs out a lot & will play multiple audio tracks at once if you accidentally double click a video. it also logs you out in between viewing on the app sometimes. The app is difficult to navigate sometimes & the appleTV app is awful & the text is so small you can barely read it. the content on the app is good and interesting though. ### 4/5 — Lots of New Content and Great Support *2026-02-16, version 2.8.5* I started at 2 stars, the 4, and then 5. Now I’m back to 4. The programming is great, but the app is unreliable, and frustrating. It got hung up again, so I couldn’t scroll through programs. I finally was able to start one, only to have it stop, and tell me I needed to create an account. Last night I deleted the app (I’ve done this before) and reinstalled, signed back in, and was able to watch a great documentary. ### 2/5 — Downloads don’t work when offline *2025-12-29, version 2.8.3* Downloaded content is for people who are planning to be out of signal. When I’m offline, why do you ask me to login (it’s obviously not gonna work) and not show me my downloaded content? It seems to defeat the purpose ### 2/5 — Love the content. Hate the app. *2025-11-13, version 2.8.0* Please, please fix this app for AppleTV. It’s one of my favorites, but I have to delete and reinstall the app at least once a week. It just gets stuck loading constantly. ### 2/5 — Good content, terrible app *2025-10-26, version 2.7.4* There is a lot of good content available for those who enjoy documentaries. However, navigating the app is not a good experience. The best way to do it is outside of the app, such as in a web browser, then add the content to your list so you can see it in the app. There is a playlist option which does a good job of curating the content, but sometimes content is in unexpected places and I’m not sure if I’m seeing everything. The genres category is where the problems begin, because the thumbnails are for some reason sized smaller than the actual thumbnail image, and there are no titles. The images are cropped and often where the title would be, so all you can see is a picture but with no idea what the content is. In all cases, if you tap on one of these thumbnails, you’re presented with a tiny box with ridiculously tiny text for the description. The only way to close the box is to tap on the tiny little X button. Tapping somewhere outside of the box does not close it, a behavior that has become common. Overall, the app leaves a lot to be desired and I can only give it any stars for the content. ### 3/5 — Ok app *2025-10-01, version 2.7.3* I like the crime and history shows, I do not like the fact that you can’t manually delete what you’ve downloaded without other videos being randomly deleted. Also your spot is not saved if you click off the video you have been watching. ### 4/5 — Lots of New Content and Great Support *2025-05-24* I’m updating my review from 2 to 4 Stars. I was having trouble getting the app to work all of the sudden. I ended up deleting the MagellanTV app, and downloaded the newest version. Then I discovered that my AppleTV hadn’t installed its latest version. Now, everything is working. I also want to say that I contacted MagellanTV, and within a short time I got help. I didn’t get to 5 Stars because I still can’t get the MagellanTV app to work on the TV I watch when using the treadmill. It’s not a deal breaker because I can watch other things. It’s an older AppleTV, and it’s supposedly updated. It also has the newest version of MagellanTV. I’ll try again, but I’m still happy! **Developer response:** Hi Anne, Thank you for your feedback. Please contact us at connect@magellantv.com. We are digging into reports exactly like this, and would love to get some details from you. ### 2/5 — Good shows, but bad app *2025-05-21* I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m having a horrible time getting the app to work on AppleTV. It worked initially, but then it completely stopped working. I’d open it, and all I got was a gray screen. So, I deleted it, and downloaded the latest version. Very slow to download, but okay. However, it was then extremely slow to load. In fact, it took so long, I finally gave up. I was able to click on one show to open it, but then it didn’t play. I really hope Magellan is able to fix this because they do have some good shows. ### 4/5 — Limited selection, excellent topics, inconsistent technology *2025-05-03, version 2.4.0* I really want to love this service…. We need more science and technology learning video options. There are a small number technical issues in the platform and video delivery, but overall i like it so far and will probably continue my subscription. ### 3/5 — Please fix the date/time showing within the player *2025-01-13, version 2.2.7* Just started using this app again after some time. Don’t recall this previously but on iPad OS (v17) the date/time and other icons still show within full screen of the video player. Please fix, it’s very distracting. ## Most critical reviews (10 lowest-rated) ### 1/5 — Junk *2026-07-09, version 2.9.0* Will not play entire episode. Doesn’t matter what show it is. It freezes and doesn’t start playing again! ### 1/5 — False advertising *2026-05-20, version 2.8.10* In-app advertises $4.99 subscriptions (have a screenshot), but the cheapest offered price on subscription is $5.99 ### 1/5 — Terrible app *2026-02-11, version 2.8.5* Content is somehow cool. App is terrible. Most titles can’t be played. Keeps logging me out. ### 1/5 — Bad *2025-10-20, version 2.7.4* Nothing ever loads on the title screens and options are a little boring in my opinion ### 1/5 — Doesn’t work anymore *2025-06-15, version 2.6.0* Used to love this app, it had tons of great content to watch spanning great topics. But the app stopped working, I can’t view any content on any device, just white squares and loading wheels. ### 1/5 — App no longer works on iPhone *2025-06-08, version 2.5.0* Can’t find anything with search, won’t display anything. ### 1/5 — Horrible *2025-05-10, version 2.4.0* The app won’t even load. I’ve deleted and reinstalled but nothing works. Do not waste the money. ### 1/5 — Please fix this broken app. *2025-05-03, version 2.4.0* Unusable app….. this app is unusable on all of my Apple mobile devices. Upon launching the help all you see is a blank white screen. Please update this app. It’s totally ridiculous for me to be Paying for an app that is unusable. ### 1/5 — Not even worth the free trial! *2025-03-26, version 2.2.11* I downloaded this documentary streaming app and began with a free trial but I will be cancelling the free trial even with 6 more days left as it was disappointing from the second I opened the app. I don’t know what the issue was but every title I select winds up showing me something so boring and far different from the title. Then 1 specific title I really wanted to watch wouldn’t even show me anything. I even tried choosing the info on that selection and it showed me a blank screen where nothing loaded. I closed the app completely to reboot it and try again but that particular selection , nothing! Anything else I choose opens up immediately (not that it played what I selected). Sure , the 1 documentary I;wanted to see more than any other happens to not work. Yeah it’s no wonder I’ve never heard of this streaming app. Not off to a good start I must say! I’m going to cancel & delete now.✌🏽 ### 1/5 — Login not working *2025-02-16, version 2.2.9* I downloaded the app and made my account then when I tried to connect it to my tv it said my password was invalid. I reset my password and it now wasn’t letting me log in to the app on my phone saying invalid password. Tried to reset again and it wouldn’t let me. ## Most praised reviews (10 highest-rated) ### 5/5 — Love!! *2026-05-09, version 2.8.9* Everything you want to know about the world we lived in then, the world we live in now, and the world to come. Just so much better than all of the other viewing apps. Affordable too!! ### 5/5 — Please add *2025-12-02, version 2.8.2* User profiles. So that if you have more than one person in your household they can have their own profile watchlist etc. ### 5/5 — Top 3 History TV Apps *2025-09-01, version 2.7.1* Top 3 History TV Apps ### 5/5 — Need to log out then in *2025-07-11, version 2.6.0* App tries to auto login causing blank screen ### 5/5 — Broken App *2025-06-27, version 2.6.0* The app displays a blank white screen and fails to load when I enter it. Please fix this issue. ### 5/5 — Lots of New Content and Great Support *2025-05-29* I started at 2 stars, the 4, and now 5. I was having problems with the app, and I have to say that I’m very impressed with Customer Service. I was able to get 2 TVs working fairly quickly, but I still couldn’t get the one I watch when using the treadmill to work(YES, we have 3 TVs!! 😂). Everything seems to be working great now. Along with that, I took a short hiatus, and upon my return, I’m seeing even more content. Lots of really good documentaries and NO ADS!!! **Developer response:** Hi Anne, Thank you for updating your review. We value members who work with us when we are working to improve the apps. You are a champion! ### 5/5 — One of my best app on my iPhone for intertane and knowledge *2025-05-29, version 2.4.0* MagellanTV Review: A Treasure Trove for Documentary Enthusiasts MagellanTV is a standout streaming service that caters to curious minds and lifelong learners, offering an impressive library of over 3,000 high-quality documentaries spanning history, science, true crime, nature, space, and more. Launched in 2019 by Alliant Content LLC, it’s a haven for those seeking substance over sensationalism, delivering ad-free content that educates and inspires. Here’s why MagellanTV earns an excellent rating: Content Quality and Variety: 5/5MagellanTV’s catalog is a curated masterpiece, focusing on “documentaries worth watching.” From gripping true crime series like Undercover Asia to visually stunning 4K space documentaries such as Planet Hunting with the James Webb Space Telescope, the platform covers a wide range of genres. New content is added weekly, ensuring fresh discoveries for subscribers. While some users note that true crime offerings may lack depth in certain regions, the service excels in balancing subjects compared to science-heavy competitors like Discovery+ or CuriosityStream. Titles like The Strange Life of Dr. Frankenstein and WWII in the Pacific combine compelling storytelling with educational value, making it ideal for history buffs, science enthusiasts, and teachers alike. Streaming Experience: 4.5/5The platform delivers crisp audio and visuals, with many newer documentaries available in 4K UHD, offering breathtaking cinematography—think sweeping aerial shots of landscapes or vibrant space imagery. Testing on a Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi connection showed seamless streaming, with no buffering issues when watching titles like Toumai: The Oldest Living Ancestor. MagellanTV supports up to five simultaneous streams, making it great for households, and is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Fire TV, Chromecast, Apple TV, Android, iOS, and smart TVs from LG, Samsung, and Vizio. However, some users have reported occasional app glitches, such as issues with casting or resuming playback, though recent updates have improved stability. User Experience and Features: 4/5Navigating MagellanTV is generally intuitive, though some users find the interface could better track watched content or offer a “play all” option for series. The absence of parental controls and multiple user profiles is a minor drawback compared to services like Disney+ or Netflix, but the content’s G-rated nature minimizes the need for these. The platform’s ad-free experience and VPN compatibility enhance its appeal for privacy-conscious viewers. Customer support, led by representatives like Nancy and Meagan, is responsive and proactive, often resolving issues like payment disputes or app bugs swiftly, as seen in glowing Trustpilot reviews. Value for Money: 5/5At $5.99/month or $4.99/month with the annual plan ($59.88/year), MagellanTV is a steal compared to mainstream services like Netflix ($13.99/month) or Hulu ($11.99/month ad-free). The 7-day free trial for monthly plans and 14-day trial for annual plans let you explore the library risk-free. For documentary lovers, the lifetime subscription option via StackSocial is a game-changer, offering unbeatable value. Compared to CuriosityStream’s $2.99/month HD plan, MagellanTV’s 4K offerings and broader subject range justify the slight price difference. Customer Sentiment: 4.5/5User reviews highlight MagellanTV’s appeal for documentary fans, with many praising its “breathtaking cinematography” and “extensive genres” (Amazon Appstore). Some subscribers, like those on Trustpilot, have replaced Netflix and Hulu with MagellanTV, citing its educational focus and lack of commercials. However, a few users criticize repetitive content or short episodes in certain genres like true crime, which can feel formulaic. The service’s commitment to addressing feedback, such as fixing app glitches, earns it high marks for customer care. Verdict: 4.5/5MagellanTV is a must-have for documentary enthusiasts, offering a rich, ad-free library that educates and entertains at an affordable price. Its stunning 4K visuals, diverse topics, and responsive support make it a top choice for learners of all ages. While minor app improvements and additional features like parental controls could elevate the experience, MagellanTV’s value and quality are hard to beat. Whether you’re diving into ancient history or exploring the cosmos, this service is a gateway to knowledge that’s well worth the subscription. Start with the free trial and see why it’s a favorite among lifelong learners ### 5/5 — Shows are too old *2025-03-11, version 2.2.11* Shows are too old and they don’t show the dates of any of them. I don’t want to keep updated on technology from the 2000s ### 5/5 — Love the content and the customer service is top notch. *2025-02-21, version 2.2.10* I previously had an issue where the app would randomly stop playing videos on my phone. After I submitted a previous review, their customer service reached out within a few hours to help troubleshoot. The support I received was excellent and resolved the issue. Can’t say enough good things about MagellanTV. ### 5/5 — Great *2023-10-20, version 2.1.2* I love the shows --- *Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-22.*