Introduction
As the cost of subscription-based streaming services continues to climb in 2025, millions of viewers are looking for alternative ways to enjoy high-quality entertainment—without breaking the bank. The good news? There’s a growing number of completely legal, free streaming platforms offering everything from blockbuster films and classic sitcoms to niche indie gems and documentaries. In this guide, we’ll explore the best free streaming services available right now, all of which are entirely legitimate, ad-supported, and worth your time.
1. Tubi
Backed by Fox Corporation, Tubi has grown into one of the most popular ad-supported video on demand (AVOD) platforms. Its content library has exploded in 2025, offering over 50,000 movies and TV shows from nearly every genre imaginable. Tubi features a strong lineup of classics, cult favorites, horror, anime, and even some original content.
Notable Features:
- Completely free with no subscription required
- Rotating catalog of popular studio content
- Available on nearly all smart TVs, mobile devices, and streaming sticks
2. Pluto TV
Owned by Paramount Global, Pluto TV stands out by offering live television-style channels in addition to on-demand content. As of 2025, it has over 300 free channels including news, sports, crime, comedy, and lifestyle programming. It’s ideal for viewers who want the comfort of channel surfing without a cable bill.
Notable Features:
- Live and on-demand streaming
- Themed channels for everything from reality shows to classic sitcoms
- Easy-to-navigate EPG (electronic program guide)
3. Crackle
A pioneer in free streaming, Crackle is now co-owned by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment. Its strength lies in its library of cult classics, indie hits, and original series that are hard to find elsewhere. In 2025, Crackle has amped up its curation to include new documentaries and fan-favorite B-movies.
Notable Features:
- Curated playlists and recommendations
- Original shows like “StartUp” and “Snatch”
- Available across all major platforms
4. Freevee (formerly IMDb TV)
Amazon’s Freevee has quietly become a major player in the free streaming market. With the tech giant’s muscle behind it, Freevee offers high production-value originals like “Bosch: Legacy” and exclusive access to select Prime Video titles for non-subscribers. It’s a great entry point to Amazon’s ecosystem without a monthly fee.
Notable Features:
- Ad-supported with optional Amazon integration
- Hollywood blockbusters and popular TV series
- Includes some Prime Originals with delays
5. The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel is unique in that it not only provides free movies and TV shows but also aggregates content from other providers. If you own a Roku device, this platform integrates seamlessly, and even non-Roku users can enjoy it through web browsers and mobile apps.
Notable Features:
- Exclusive Roku Originals like “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story”
- Live channels and on-demand content
- News, entertainment, and kids’ content
6. Kanopy
While not open to everyone, Kanopy is a hidden gem available through participating libraries and universities. It offers a curated selection of independent films, documentaries, and critically acclaimed cinema. As of 2025, more public libraries than ever are offering access.
Notable Features:
- Completely free with a library card
- Educational and thought-provoking content
- Excellent for film students and indie fans
7. Xumo Play
Xumo Play is another AVOD platform offering a mix of live and on-demand programming. Backed by Comcast, it has expanded its offerings to include localized news stations, streaming-exclusive channels, and genre-based collections.
Notable Features:
- Seamless integration with LG, Vizio, and Hisense TVs
- Great for casual viewing
- Dozens of genre-specific channels
8. Peacock Free Tier
While Peacock is known for its subscription model, it also offers a free tier with thousands of hours of content, including episodes of popular NBC shows, select sports coverage, and movie favorites. The free tier gives you a taste of what the platform offers without having to commit.
Notable Features:
- Free tier with rotating content
- Access to NBCUniversal archives
- Great for sitcoms, reality TV, and late-night shows
9. Plex
Originally known for media server software, Plex now offers a completely free streaming service with thousands of titles across categories like horror, comedy, action, and documentaries. It also integrates personal libraries and allows users to access live TV features.
Notable Features:
- Hybrid of media server + free streaming
- Strong community features and customizable experience
- Unique indie picks and niche genres
10. Hoopla Digital
Similar to Kanopy, Hoopla is available through public libraries and offers an impressive array of movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and even comics. If your local library supports Hoopla, you can enjoy content for free with your library card.
Notable Features:
- Family-friendly selections
- Downloadable for offline use
- Educational materials included
What Makes These Platforms Legal?
It’s important to note that all of the platforms listed above operate under distribution licenses and ad-supported business models. They earn revenue by running non-invasive ads before or during streams. Unlike illegal torrent sites or shady streaming links, these platforms invest in curation, safety, and user experience.
Some tips to ensure you’re using a legit platform:
- Look for official apps in the Apple App Store, Google Play, Roku Channel Store, or Amazon Appstore
- Check if they disclose partnerships or licensing agreements with studios
- Avoid third-party apps with no digital footprint or security credentials
How to Access These Platforms
All of these platforms are accessible in the U.S., and many are available internationally. Use a supported device—such as a Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, or smart TV—or simply stream via browser or mobile app. No subscription, no shady popups—just content.
In some cases, using a reliable VPN (like NordVPN or ExpressVPN) can help unlock U.S.-based libraries if you are traveling or based in a restricted region. But even with location limitations, platforms like Tubi, Pluto, and Crackle offer global variations in partnership with local content providers.
Conclusion
Free streaming in 2025 isn’t just possible—it’s thriving. With more competition and higher expectations from users, platforms are investing in better libraries, cleaner user experiences, and original programming—all without charging a dime. Whether you want classic sitcoms, obscure documentaries, or brand-new exclusives, there’s a legal free streaming service that fits your mood.
Bookmark your favorites, grab your popcorn, and enjoy the revolution of free entertainment—legally.