HBO Max Was Buffering So Bad I Couldn't Watch. I Got a Partial Refund.

I subscribed to HBO Max specifically to watch The Last of Us. The service was unwatchable on my TV app. It buffered every 30 seconds. I tried everything: resetting my router, reinstalling the app, updating firmware. Nothing worked.

I contacted HBO Max support. They asked me to run a speed test. My internet was fine: 200 Mbps. They said there were no known issues. I asked for a refund. They said no, because I had already watched some content.

I escalated and explained that I had paid $14.99 to watch a show I could not watch. The technical issue was on their end, not mine. A supervisor eventually approved a one-month credit: $14.99.

The problem was never resolved. I cancelled after the first month. But I did get my money back for the time the service was not working.

Streaming services often blame your internet for their server issues. If you can prove your internet is fine, you have a stronger case. Run speed tests and take screenshots before contacting support.