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This is your TechRadar guide to the best free streaming services.
Were all familiar with thebest streaming serviceslike Netflix, Disney Plus and Prime Video.
But in recent years, free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) services have emerged as a popular alternative.
In the guide below, youll find our top picks of the best free services available today.
The best free streaming service for most people
1.
You like quality, higher res movies:Tubi streams its content in 720p.
You don’t like unpredictability:Most of the FAST services here, by definition, rely on ads.
We’ve made peace with that.
Is Tubi worth watching?
Although Tubi doesnt specify if this number includes individual episodes, the sheer volume of content is impressive.
One of Tubis standout features is how easy it is to use.
you could start watching without the need for a subscription, account creation, or even providing personal information.
The platform includes films from major distributors, including Disney, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, andSonyPictures Entertainment.
Although these channels are only available exclusively to the US.
Tubis user interface is straightforward and user-friendly, reminding me of a simplified version of Netflix.
The best free streaming service for live TV
2.
It covers a range of genres from news and sports to entertainment and kids' programming.
This could certainly make cutting the cord on your cable package easier to stomach.
A lot of ads:This is totally expected from a FAST service.
But sometimes we watched 30-minutes of a TV show with four ad breaks, which seems excessive.
Then again, that’s possibly not that different to watching cable TV.
That said, it does mix up its catalog every month with a new batch of arrivals.
No recording, pausing or offline viewing:You cant record or pause the live TV channels.
Is Pluto TV worth watching?
However, its important to note that the live channels do not support pausing or rewinding.
One of Pluto TVs greatest strengths is its accessibility.
It can also be accessed through web browsers.
However, this does mean the platform doesnt feature many new releases or original content.
Its especially well-suited for cord-cutters looking to replace their cable TV service.
The best free streaming service for movies
3.
Theres a broad spectrum of genres, too, including classic titles and recently-released content.
Personal media integration: The only option in this guide that can also become a personal media server.
Is Plex worth watching?
What sets Plex apart is its functionality as a media server.
However, it’s important to note that Plex Pass does not remove ads from the free content.
On the topic of ads, youll find lots here.
Some users have reported ads that seem frustratingly frequent.
The best free streaming service for classic cinema
4.
Great if youre interested in learning.
Free access via universities and libraries:Kanopy is available for free through participating public libraries and universities.
No ads:Unlike most other FAST services which, by definition, have ads, Kanopy doesnt.
Several alternatives:The range of classic cinema is not as good as the paid-for service the Criterion Collection.
Limited availability and limited monthly views.Not all libraries and unis are signed up.
Youll have to check.
Depending on the plan, there are also some monthly view restrictions.
Not ideal if youre a heavy user.
Is Kanopy worth watching?
This is possible through its partnerships with over 4,000 public libraries and universities worldwide.
Kanopy updates its content regularly, with new titles added on a weekly basis.
The best streaming service for Roku devices
5.
Theres a good mix, too, including classic films, popular TV series, and Roku Originals.
Will they win awards?
Are they fun and entertaining regardless?
There are some, but it doesnt feel as fresh as rivals.
Is The Roku Channel worth watching?
However, The Roku Channel is not limited to Roku devices anymore.
It can also be accessed via web browsers or the Roku app on a range of different devices.
Theyre not all worth your time, but some are fun.
Additionally, The Roku Channel offers access toCrunchyroll’s FAST channel, dedicated to anime.
The best free streaming service for Amazon devices
6.
With the addition of Freevee’s free content, the selection is even better.
Expect a lot of ads:This is standard from a FAST service.
But you do need to accept regular ads, which can sometimes feel excessive.
Watch out for location restrictions:Some content will vary by region.
Although this is to be expected, access to certain titles could be limited.
The split between free and paid options might feel confusing or less seamless for some users.
Is Prime Video worth watching?
We know what youre thinking.
Prime Video isnt free, is it?
Well, the answer is yes and no.
Until December 2024, Amazon offered a separate FAST service called Freevee.
ButFreevee is shutting downand its free content is being added to Prime Video.
This approach has huge potential.
Amazons Prime Video is accessible across a range of devices.
What were saying is you’re free to watch Prime Video almost anywhere with almost anything.
Users can now watch some free, ad-supported titles alongside premium subscription-based TV shows and movies.
The free content is ad-supported, which means youll see ads periodically.
The best free streaming service for Samsung TVs
7.
This makes it convenient no additional subscriptions or downloads required.
There is a web version for US users, but you wont get the best experience.
Some old and repetitive content:With the channel setup, some content can feel repetitive.
A lot of TV shows and movies are also quite old.
Is Samsung TV Plus worth watching?
While there is an Android app, its only compatible with Samsung phones.
For those in the US, however, theSamsung TV Plus is available online.
But the exact channels you get will vary based on your location.
Theres a good amount of content on offer here and a great mix.
But dont expect to find the latest blockbuster releases or premium originals that you might get on subscription-based services.
As with other free streaming services, Samsung TV Plus is ad-supported.
When ads do appear, however, they do tend to be long.
For Samsung unit owners, Samsung TV Plus is a no-brainer for free, easily accessible entertainment.
However, its worth noting that other TV manufacturers offer their own FAST services.
If youre in the market for a new TV, these alternatives might be worth considering.
The best free streaming service for LG TVs
8.
LG Channels
Plenty of live TV options:LG Channels offers more than 300 live channels in some regions.
Depending on where you live, that can include entertainment, news and sports.
Is LG Channels worth watching?
Its a convenient choice for casual viewers and cord-cutters looking for a cable-like experience.
What we’re saying is, if youre not already part of the LG ecosystem, look elsewhere.
Just be sure to check whats available in your region, as the selection varies.
So you could pair it with a FAST service that offers more mainstream content, like Tubi.
