There are two subscriptions you will need for your media server to work, you will need a Usenet and Indexer provider.
Top USENET Providers (“Hosters”)
These are services offering NNTP/USENET access (the “transport/backbone” part). What to evaluate: retention (how long posts are kept), completion rate (how reliably binary data is intact), speed/connections, and extras (VPN, web-search, etc).
Here are some of the top ones in 2025:
| Provider | What stands out |
|---|---|
| Newshosting | Frequently ranked “best overall” in 2025: very high retention (>6 000 days), large newsgroup count, integrated search & client. |
| UsenetServer | Strong value: high retention, unlimited data in some tiers, VPN bundle option, US + Europe servers. |
| Easynews | Good for beginners: web-browser interface, so you don’t necessarily need a separate newsreader; also NNTP access. |
| Eweka | Based in Europe (Netherlands), strong backbone status, good retention and completion for EU customers. |
Why these features matter:
- Retention: The longer posts are kept, the more likely you’ll find older content.
- Completion: Even if content is “there,” it might be missing parts; providers with high completion are more reliable.
- Speed + connections: Since these are large binary downloads, the provider’s infrastructure and your connection matter.
- Extras like VPN or built-in search: These can simplify setup.
Some caveats:
- Just having a good provider doesn’t guarantee you’ll find what you want — you also need a good indexer.
- Even top providers may have “fill”/back-fill issues (older posts may degrade).
- Costs vary; unlimited data is not universal and some tiers limit speed/connections.
🧭 Top NZB Indexers
These are the search/indexing services which let you locate NZB files (which tell your client what to download). Good indexers make USENET access much more useful.
Here are standout indexers in 2025:
| Indexer | Highlights |
|---|---|
| NZBGeek | Frequently mentioned as #1: open signups (or at least relatively open), good API support, large archive. |
| DrunkenSlug | Good automation & indexing; invite or registration limited. |
| NZBPlanet | Long-established, solid API/integration support. |
| NZBFinder | Strong retention/back-archive; good UI. |
| Binsearch | A free search-engine style indexer; fewer bells & whistles but useful for many users |
What to evaluate in an indexer:
- Archive depth / how far back they index.
- API access (for automation, e.g., with tools like Sonarr, Radarr). sonarr :: forums
- Reliability / uptime / UI quality.
- If invite-only or open signup (which may affect cost/access).
- Integration with your newsreader/client software.
🔍 My Top Picks (Based on Use Case)
- If you want “set up and forget” access and want the best archive: go with Newshosting + NZBGeek.
- If you have a tighter budget and are ok with slightly less “premium” service: UsenetServer + NZBFinder or NZBPlanet.
- If you’re new to USENET and want simplicity: Easynews (because of its web-interface) though you may accept trade-offs in cost.
- If you’re in Europe and want strong EU servers/backbone: Eweka is worth a look.