In today’s world of endless entertainment options, free streaming services are a great way to access tons of movies, TV shows, music, and more without spending a dime. While paid services like Netflix and Hulu offer huge libraries, there are plenty of free alternatives that provide quality content as well. From familiar names like YouTube to up-and-coming platforms, free streamers make it easy to watch what you want, when you want.
In this article, we’ll countdown the top 10 best free streaming services you can use in 2023. We’ll cover what kinds of content each offers, highlight standout features, and explain why they rank among the top free streamers. Whether you’re looking to cut the cord or supplement paid services, these free platforms have you covered. Let’s dive in!
#1 YouTube
As the largest online video platform, YouTube offers an endless amount of video content in every genre imaginable. From music videos and concerts to movie trailers, news clips, tutorials, and original shows, YouTube has it all. While plenty of creators offer paid content, the bulk of videos are free.
Standout features include a robust search function to find exactly what you want, playlists to save and organize favorites, and personalized homepages with recommended videos based on past views. The YouTube app also makes it easy to watch on all devices. With such a massive catalog of free content, YouTube takes the #1 spot.
#2 The Roku Channel
As Roku’s very own free streaming channel, The Roku Channel offers a wide variety of free movies, TV shows, live news, and more. Available on Roku devices and the web, it’s home to thousands of hit movies, cult classics, and even some original programming like the Reno 911 revival. The Roku Channel aggregates content from other services into one convenient hub.
Useful features include the ability to customize your channel lineup with subscription add-ons and seamless access on Roku hardware. For those looking to supplement a Roku setup without additional cost, The Roku Channel is a valuable free streamer.
#3 Pluto TV
As a free streaming service with live TV channels, Pluto TV sets itself apart from the pack. The innovative channel guide format and option to watch linear programming gives Pluto TV the feel of cable or satellite without any fees. Channel selections span categories like movies, entertainment, news, sports, and more.
On-demand libraries offer tens of thousands of hours to watch whenever you want. A clean, intuitive interface makes it easy to flip between channels or browse categories. For cord-cutters craving the experience of channel surfing live TV, Pluto TV hits the mark.
#4 Tubi
Boasting a library of over 20,000 movies and TV shows, Tubi is one of the largest free, ad-supported streamers available today. The catalog covers numerous genres from drama, comedy, horror, classics and more. Users can create watchlists to track favorites and get custom recommendations tailored to taste.
Available on a wide array of devices, Tubi excels on usability. Intuitive navigation and robust search abilities make it a breeze to find content quickly. For those looking for a diverse catalog of free movies and shows, Tubi is a top choice.
#5 The CW
Offering the latest episodes of network shows, The CW’s free streaming platforms keeps fans up to date on smash hits like Riverdale, All American, and more. Available on their website CWTV.com or the CW app, fans can stream new episodes as they air on cable. With a focus on dramas and supernatural shows, The CW targets a younger demographic.
Beyond next-day streaming of network shows, CWSeed offers a selection of original digital programming. For those looking to dive into fan-favorite CW shows, The CW’s free options are tailor-made.
#6 Kanopy
Unlike other services on this list, Kanopy offers a more cerebral streaming experience focused on acclaimed films, documentaries, and educational content. Boasting over 30,000 films, Kanopy partners with public libraries and universities to offer access to students and cardholders. The arthouse catalog features titles from A24, Paramount, and more.
The platform shines with its robust selection of indie movies, classic cinema, and thought-provoking documentaries. Cinephiles looking for acclaimed films outside the mainstream will find Kanopy a goldmine.
#7 Peacock
The streaming service from NBCUniversal, Peacock offers popular shows like The Office and Saturday Night Live, bold originals like Bel-Air, and timely news coverage from outlets like NBC News and Sky News. Three tiers are available, with the free version including ads. Premium paid options unlock more content and remove ads.
User profiles and watchlists enable customization. Supported devices include Roku, Fire TV, iOS, Android and web browsers. For those looking to stream NBCU content for free, Peacock fits the bill.
#8 Crackle
A long-standing name in free streaming, Crackle hosts an impressive lineup of movies and classic TV series. Users can enjoy popular titles like Taxi Driver, Spider-Man, Friday the 13th, and more for free with ads. Available on all major platforms, Crackle offers a clean, no-fuss interface.
Crackle Originals like Playing With Power: The Nintendo Story add exclusive content alongside the classic library. For ad-supported movies across all genres, Crackle remains a viable option.
#9 Freevee
Formerly known as IMDb TV, Amazon’s Freevee grants free access to a solid lineup of movies, TV, and originals. Standout titles like Mad Men, Person of Interest, and Friday Night Lights join Amazon Originals like Bosch: Legacy and Alex Rider. As an ad-supported platform, Freevee mirrors the convenience and reach of Amazon Prime Video.
Users can easily upgrade to Prime to unlock more features and content. However, Freevee satisfies as a free streamer on its own, competing with other titans of the space.
#10 Plex
Offering free streaming of personal media libraries, over-the-air TV, and on-demand web shows, Plex caters to a tech-savvy audience. Users can stream their own locally stored movies, TV shows, and music from any device. Plex’s robust media management features set it apart.
Advanced tools for metadata editing, premium music playback, photo viewing, and HDHomeRun TV tuner support enable deep customization for power users. For those seeking a slick way to manage and access their own media, Plex is a top choice.
FAQs
What are the benefits of using free streaming services?
The main benefits are the ability to stream movies, shows, music, and more completely free. Free services allow you to enjoy entertainment without monthly costs. They can also supplement paid services with additional content.
How is the content on free services different from paid ones like Netflix?
In general, free streamers have smaller catalogs versus paid services, and shows or movies may rotate availability more quickly. Original programming is also less common. However, free platforms still offer thousands of high-quality titles.
Are there ads on free streaming platforms?
Most free services feature ads to generate revenue. Some platforms like Peacock offer ad-free options at higher tiers for a monthly fee. However, ads are the tradeoff that enables so much free content.
Do I need a special device to use these services?
Most major free platforms like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Crackle have apps for common devices like Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, smartphones, browsers, and more. Some niche services may have fewer supported devices.
Are free streaming services legal?
Yes, these platforms offer fully legal content. As opposed to piracy sites, the shows and movies on free services are licensed from studios and networks. Streaming or downloading them does not infringe copyright.
Wrap Up
Cutting the cord doesn’t mean sacrificing access to tons of shows, movies, and more. Free streaming services make it possible to watch top-tier entertainment at zero cost. Whether supplementing paid subscriptions or solely using free platforms, these services deliver.
YouTube, The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi represent the cream of the crop when it comes to content libraries and usability. Fan favorite networks like The CW join prestigious arthouse offerings from Kanopy. Crackle, Freevee, and Plex round out our top 10.
Take advantage of these free resources to enjoy new titles or old classics. Thanks to their convenience, selection, and cost (or lack thereof), free streamers provide entertainment for everyone. If you prefer offline viewing, you can use respective streaming apps or 3rd-party streaming video downloaders like StreamFab to download whatever you like to watch offline on any device, anytime, anywhere you want.