I pay for Netflix, but I still occasionally turn to free streaming services like Tubi and Pluto TV. While you might think these platforms are just cheap knockoffs, there are good reasons why you shouldn’t overlook them.

Yes, free streaming services are ad-supported, but the experience isn’t nearly as annoying as you might think. And while ad-supported streaming services save you money, most services keep ad breaks short and spaced out, making the experience much more tolerable.

Compared to traditional TV broadcasts, they show fewer ads. Considering you’re getting full access to movies and shows (plus live TV on some services) without paying a cent, sitting through a few quick ads feels like fair trade.

It’s miles better than what paid-for streaming services like Netflix and Hulu offer, forcing you to pay to watch content with ads. Unfortunately, the number of paid streaming services with ad-supported tiers continues to grow as ad-free plans become increasingly expensive.

6

It’s a Smart Backup

Even if you pay for Disney+, Max, or other paid services, having a few free streaming options in your rotation is a smart move. They come in handy in two situations.

One is when your favorite paid service loses rights to a title you wanted to watch, and it’s available on free alternatives. This is especially true for classic movies and TV shows, which are becoming increasingly difficult to find on paid services.

Second, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by subscriptions and want a break, these services provide relief. They are a no-pressure backup plan for easy, instant entertainment whenever you need it.

5

They’re Great for Niche Content

One primary area where free streaming services often shine, whereas big platforms fall short, is niche content. Paid services usually focus on broadly appealing, mainstream titles. Meanwhile, free services cater to more specific interests.

Whether you’re into vintage sitcoms, cult classic horror movies, old-school anime, or true-crime documentaries, there’s a good chance you’ll find a free service specializing in them.

4

They Work Nearly Everywhere

One of the best things about free streaming services is their accessibility. Whether you’re using a smart TV, smartphone, tablet, or laptop, services like Tubi, Pluto TV, and Freevee are available to use.

On smart TVs alone, some services are available across various operating systems, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV.

This broad availability means you don’t have to worry about device restrictions or complicated setups to enjoy a good movie or TV show.

3

No Strings Attached

One of the best parts about free streaming services is the lack of commitment. You don’t have to sign contracts, enter payment information, or worry about monthly subscription fees sneaking up on you.

I also love that some of these free streaming services don’t even require you to sign up or log in—a novel feature that’s hard to find in this day and age. You download the app or open the website, and you’re ready to start watching.

That’s why, despite paying for Netflix, I also use these services. They’ve become just an extension of my entertainment catalog.

2

Live TV Channels Without Cable

Some of the best free streaming services offer more than just on-demand content. They also have live TV streaming, providing a free alternative if cable gets a little pricey. These sites offer dozens (sometimes hundreds) of live channels covering news, sports, movies, reality shows, and even niche interests, such as true crime or classic game shows.

Tubi is a great example, offering dozens of channels that showcase various types of content, including news, sports, movies, and TV shows. In fact, Tubi even allowed users to stream Super Bowl LIX for free, showing just how far free services have come in offering premium live events.

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1

Surprisingly Solid Content Libraries

Although these services are free, they offer a comprehensive library of content. Just like paid services, free streaming sites offer a rich catalog of content that is frequently updated. For instance, Fawesome has a catalog of over 100,000 movies and TV shows.

Tubi is another solid option, boasting a vast selection of on-demand content with over 275,000 movies and TV episodes. The service even has over 300 exclusive originals that you won’t find anywhere else.

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It has lots of docuseries, movies, and TV shows for you to watch for free.

These two are just examples. Free streaming services provide content across a wide range of genres. Whether you enjoy action, comedy, horror, anime, sci-fi, or family-friendly titles, you’ll find plenty to watch on these services. You definitely won’t find the latest blockbusters on these services, and that’s okay. After all, they’re not asking for your credit card.

Free streaming services have come a long way and now deserve a spot on your watchlist. With expanded content libraries offering both on-demand and live TV, along with their no-strings-attached model, these services are more appealing than ever. Plus, their availability across multiple devices makes them a must-have.