Streaming bills add up quickly, but a lot of quality TV is available for free — legally. Free ad-supported apps and library services license their content, so you get reliable streams without the risks of unlicensed IPTV.
Here are the free apps worth installing first, what each does best and how to get the most from them.
In this guide
How free streaming stays legal
Free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) services license movies, shows and channels and pay for them with commercials — just like broadcast TV. Library apps are funded by participating public libraries. Either way, the content is licensed, and you install the apps from official stores.
Free ad-supported apps
- Pluto TV — hundreds of live-style channels arranged in a familiar TV guide, plus on-demand movies and series.
- Tubi — one of the largest free on-demand libraries, with films and TV from many studios.
- The Roku Channel — free live channels and on-demand titles; available on Roku devices and other platforms.
- Plex — free movies, shows and live channels, plus the option to organize and stream your own personal media.
- Samsung TV Plus — free channels built into Samsung TVs and devices, also available on the web.
Free with a library card
- Kanopy — films, documentaries and educational content through participating libraries and universities.
- Hoopla — movies and TV episodes (plus e-books and music) borrowed digitally from participating libraries.
- PBS app — many public television programs free, with extended access through local station memberships.
Library availability and monthly borrowing limits depend on your local library. Check its website to see which services it supports.
Don’t forget the antenna
Major broadcast networks are still free over the air in most of the US. A one-time antenna purchase can give you local news, network shows and many big sporting events in high definition with no monthly bill.
Tips for a better free setup
- Add your favorite channels to each app’s favorites list for faster browsing.
- Use your device’s universal search to find which free app has a title.
- Combine free apps with one paid service you rotate — our comparisons help you choose.
- Seeing constant buffering? Try our buffering fixes.
Start free, then add only what you miss
Install two or three of these apps, live with them for a few weeks and only then decide whether a paid service is worth it. For the full picture, see our apps directory.
