Streaming movies and TV shows have become the go-to form of entertainment for many. Unfortunately, the costs of multiple subscription services can add up, leaving budget-conscious viewers looking for free alternatives. On the other hand,, there are plenty of legal apps available that offer a wide variety of films and shows without requiring a premium membership. Though some may have ads or limited libraries, they’re an unbeatable way to enjoy quality content for free.

Below, we explore the top 10 free apps for streaming movies and TV shows. These platforms strike the perfect balance between affordability and content variety, making them a must-have for anyone who loves entertainment on a budget.

1. Tubi

Tubi has quickly become a favorite for free streaming enthusiasts. With its massive library of movies, TV shows, and even live news channels, Tubi is all about giving users access to great content at no cost.

Key Features:

  • Access to thousands of movies and TV shows across genres like comedy, drama, horror, and family favorites.
  • No subscription required; just download the app, and you're good to go.
  • Compatible with smartphones, smart TVs, and game consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.

Limitations:

  • Ad-supported; short commercials will play periodically during your viewing.
  • Limited access to the latest blockbuster releases or trending series.

Tubi’s user-friendly interface and extensive catalog make it a top-tier option for anyone cutting back on entertainment spending.

2. Pluto TV

Pluto TV combines live TV-style viewing with on-demand movies and shows, all for free. Owned by Paramount, it offers a curated lineup of content that rivals many paid options.

Key Features:

  • Over 250 live streaming channels, including news, sports, and lifestyle content.
  • An impressive on-demand library featuring classic movies, beloved TV shows, and exclusive channels for niche viewing interests.
  • Works on virtually all devices, from phones to smart TVs.

Limitations:

  • Ad breaks are frequent on both live and on-demand content.
  • Some lesser-known titles dominate the library.

For those who miss the traditional channel-surfing experience but want something free, Pluto TV is a fantastic choice.

3. Crackle

Crackle, backed by Sony, offers an excellent lineup of free movies and TV shows across multiple genres. It’s particularly great for classic film fans and those looking for unique indie gems.

Key Features:

  • A rotating selection of movies, so there’s always something new to watch.
  • Features some originals, such as Crackle’s own series and films.
  • Available on all major devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, and Apple TV.

Limitations:

  • The interface can feel a little clunky compared to other apps.
  • The catalog may feel limited to niche audiences.

If you love indie films, classics, or the occasional cult hit, Crackle’s curated library will not disappoint.

4. Plex

Originally known as a media server app, Plex has grown into a robust platform offering thousands of free movies and TV shows you can stream legally.

Key Features:

  • Offers both on-demand streaming and live TV.
  • Includes access to web shows, podcasts, and a news library.
  • Works as a one-stop shop to organize your own media files and stream them across devices.

Limitations:

  • Content updates can be slower than competitors like Tubi or Pluto TV.
  • Ad breaks occur, though they’re less frequent than on other platforms.

For those who value organization and broad entertainment options, Plex is a solid option.

5. The Roku Channel

Even if you don’t own a Roku device, The Roku Channel is available as a standalone app, giving users free access to movies, shows, and even live TV.

Key Features:

  • Includes exclusive Roku Originals, adding value for anyone looking for something unique.
  • Provides live TV in addition to an on-demand library.
  • Allows streaming across multiple devices, not just Roku players.

Limitations:

  • The library is lighter compared to platforms like Tubi.
  • Ads will pop up during streams, though they’re fairly short.

If you want an app that blends live TV with free, binge-worthy original shows, The Roku Channel is a standout.

6. IMDb TV (now Amazon Freevee)

Amazon’s Freevee is a rebrand of the popular IMDb TV platform, delivering thousands of free movies and shows straight to your device. Its integration with Amazon Prime makes it easy to discover new titles.

Key Features:

  • High-quality shows like "Bosch" and "Leverage" available for free.
  • Intuitive search and browsing tools, thanks to its connection to IMDb's massive database.
  • Watchable on Fire Stick, mobile apps, and browsers.

Limitations:

  • Requires an Amazon account to access content.
  • Ads are integrated into the viewing experience.

If you’re already invested in the Amazon ecosystem, Freevee is a no-brainer for excellent free streaming.

7. Peacock (Free Tier)

While Peacock does have paid subscription options, its free tier offers a significant chunk of content that doesn’t require a membership. Owned by NBCUniversal, Peacock is a solid player in the streaming world.

Key Features:

  • Access to over 10,000 hours of content, including popular classic sitcoms like “The Office” (select seasons) and “Parks and Recreation.”
  • Includes live news, sports highlights, and late-night shows.
  • Easy to upgrade to paid tiers if you crave more content.

Limitations:

  • Premium content like recent NBC hits may be locked behind the paywall.
  • Frequent ads on the free plan.

Peacock’s blend of nostalgia and modern shows makes it great for casual viewers.

8. Hoopla

Hoopla is unique in that it works through your library card, allowing access to a world of media, including free movies and TV shows, for anyone who signs up.

Key Features:

  • Borrow digital movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and more, all for free.
  • No ads interrupt your viewing.
  • Compatible with most devices, from tablets to smart TVs.

Limitations:

  • Requires a library card from a participating library.
  • Content availability depends on your local library’s resources.

If you love libraries and media on demand, Hoopla is an absolute treasure.

9. Kanopy

Another excellent option for library cardholders, Kanopy often leans heavily toward indie films, documentaries, and critically acclaimed art-house cinema.

Key Features:

  • Access to premium films and educational content, including documentaries and award-winning cinema.
  • Designed for students, offering free streaming through participating schools and universities.
  • Streams completely ad-free.

Limitations:

  • Content availability hinges on whether your library or school participates.
  • Not ideal if you’re looking for blockbuster hits or mainstream shows.

For film buffs and students, Kanopy is unbeatable in terms of quality and ethos.

10. Vudu (Free Section)

While Vudu is known for paid rentals, its “Movies on Us” category offers free content supported by ads. It strikes a balance for anyone searching for newer titles without dipping into subscription services.

Key Features:

  • Constantly updated free movie library with hundreds of titles available.
  • High-definition streaming, making it a favorite for cinephiles.
  • Works seamlessly across streaming devices.

Limitations:

  • Ads are baked into the free-viewing experience.
  • The library of free movies is smaller than that of its paid selection.

If you prefer higher-quality viewing but don’t mind watching ads, Vudu is a great option.

With multiple options to mix and match, you’ll never run out of movies and shows to binge. Try a few of these apps today and bring affordable, legal entertainment straight to your screen!