Looking for a way to binge-watch movies without breaking the bank? You're in luck! I've scoured the app stores to bring you the 14 best free movie streaming apps of 2024. I've personally tested each one, and I've got to say, a few have become my go-to movie night companions (stick around to find out which ones).
But wait! Somewhere in the list, I'll also let you in on a unique app that lets you stream movies AND pick up a new language at the same time. Talk about killing two birds with one stone! So, grab your popcorn, and let's check out all these amazing streaming services!
Best Free Streaming Services
Tubi
Pros
- • Vast library of 20,000+ titles
- • No account required to watch
- • Smart recommendation system
- • Unique curated collections
- • Partnerships with major studios
Cons
- • Ad-supported (but hey, it's free!)
- • No latest releases or original content
- • Video quality may vary
Think of it as Netflix's free-spirited cousin, boasting an impressive library of over 20,000 movies and TV shows. While you won't find the latest blockbusters, on-demand movies, or exclusive originals here, Tubi is one of the best free streaming apps because of its catalog that is surprisingly robust for a free service.
Owned by Fox Corporation, Tubi has partnered with over 250 providers, including big names like Paramount, Lionsgate, and MGM. This collaboration results in a diverse selection that caters to all tastes.
Each movie page provides useful info like release date, duration, genre, and similar titles. And the best part? You can start watching immediately without creating an account.
Lingopie
Pros
- • Dual-purpose: entertainment and language learning
- • Curated content from Netflix, Lingopie Originals, and more
- • Interactive subtitles for instant translations
- • Ability to save and review new vocabulary
- • Diverse content across multiple genres and difficulty levels
- • Free trial available to test the platform
Cons
- • Subscription required after trial
- • Focused on language learning, which may not appeal to all viewers
Lingopie offers a unique twist on streaming, combining entertainment with language learning. This innovative platform curates movies, TV shows, and videos specifically for language learners, making it an ideal choice for those looking to improve their language skills while enjoying quality content.
Whether you're a beginner trying to grasp basic phrases or an advanced learner aiming to fine-tune your skills, Lingopie offers advanced features and content at various difficulty levels. From Lingopie Originals designed specifically for language learners to popular Netflix shows, there's something for every taste and learning goal.
While it's not a free service, Lingopie offers a free trial, allowing you to experience its unique blend of entertainment and education before committing. Wondering how it helps you learn? Read our guide on how to learn a language by watching TV.
Amazon Freevee
Pros
- • Completely free, no Prime subscription required
- • Well-organized with refined search options
- • Includes popular TV shows and movies
- • Original content available
- • Accessible across multiple platforms
Cons
- • Ad-supported viewing
- • Not available in all countries
- • Smaller library compared to paid streaming services
- • Content rotates, so favorites may disappear
Don't let the Amazon name fool you - you don't need a Prime subscription to enjoy Freevee. Formerly known as IMDb TV, this free movie streaming app is Amazon's gift to movie lovers everywhere. It's seamlessly integrated into the Amazon Prime Video app, offering several free movies and TV series at your fingertips (and on your smart TVs!).
Freevee's library is a mix of old favorites, hidden gems, and even some original content. You'll find popular shows like "Lost," "Desperate Housewives," and "Mad Men" rubbing shoulders with Freevee Originals.
Another big plus is Freevee's versatility. Whether you prefer watching on your phone, tablet, computer, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire TV, Freevee has you covered with its multi-platform availability.
Pluto TV
Pros
- • Free cable TV-like experience
- • Mix of live channels and on-demand content
- • No registration required (though an account offers perks)
- • Clean, user-friendly interface
- • Available on multiple platforms (mobile, TV apps)
Cons
- • Ad-supported viewing
- • Curated content from major networks, not full live broadcasts
- • Content can be older or niche
- • Video quality may vary
Pluto TV's standout feature is its live TV option. It mimics the traditional cable TV guide, complete with a grid layout showing what's playing on each channel. This setup is perfect for those moments when you're not sure what to watch and want to browse through options. There are even dedicated movie channels that run films 24/7, giving you that nostalgic feeling of stumbling upon a great movie.
It also offers an on-demand section where you can choose specific movies or shows to watch. The app clearly separates these two viewing modes, making it easy to switch between them based on your mood.
Content-wise, I think that Pluto TV leans heavily on Viacom's properties. You'll find channels dedicated to MTV shows, BET content, and even news snippets from CNN. While you won't get full live broadcasts of major networks, you'll find curated content from recognizable brands.
Crackle
Pros
- • Completely free to use
- • Offers original content with recognizable actors
- • Large movie library
- • No registration required (but account offers benefits)
- • Long-standing service with established content relationships
Cons
- • Ad-supported viewing
- • Original content may be hit-or-miss
- • TV show selection is limited compared to movies
- • Content rotates, so favorites may disappear
- • Video quality can vary
Now owned by Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment (yes, that Chicken Soupbook series you used to read!), Crackle sets itself apart with a mix of familiar titles and original programming. While you won't find the latest blockbusters here, you'll discover a treasure trove of movies and TV shows that might have flown under your radar.
While Crackle may not be your go-to for the latest releases, it's a solid option for discovering hidden gems and original content without spending a dime. It's perfect for those nights when you're in the mood for something different and don't mind sitting through a few ads.
Plex
Pros
- • Free streaming library plus personal media server capabilities
- • Unique, curated movie collections
- • "Leaving Soon" section to catch movies before they're gone
- • Watchlist alerts and remote watching with friends
- • Integration with other streaming services
- • Available on multiple platforms
Cons
- • Setting up personal media server can be complex for beginners
- • Some advanced features require a Plex Pass subscription
- • Some of the rental flicks are mixed in with the free movies
- • Ad-supported free content (though less intrusive than some competitors)
- • Streaming quality for free content may vary
At its core, Plex offers a solid selection of free movies and TV shows, much like other streaming services. But what sets it apart is its ability to seamlessly integrate with your personal media library. If you have a collection of movies, TV shows, or music stored on your computer, Plex can stream these to any of your devices, turning your home PC into a personal Netflix.
It also offers features like watchlist alerts, remote watching with friends, and even the ability to see what's available on your other streaming services. This last feature turns Plex into a central hub for all your streaming needs, saving you the hassle of jumping between apps.
Filmrise
Pros
- • Focus on independent films and classic TV shows
- • Daily updates to content library
- • Diverse range of genres
- • Completely free to use
- • Opportunity to discover unique, lesser-known films
Cons
- • Lacks sorting options within genres
- • No trailers available for previewing content
- • Ad-supported viewing
- • May not have the latest blockbusters or current TV hits
- • User interface could be more intuitive
If you're a fan of independent films, classic TV shows, or just looking for something off the beaten path (yet recognized in film festivals), FilmRise might just be your new favorite streaming app. This platform carves out its niche by focusing on content that you might not find on mainstream streaming services.
One of FilmRise's strongest points is its dynamic content library. They add new movies and shows every day, ensuring that there's always something fresh to watch. This constant brigade of new content keeps the platform exciting and gives you a reason to check back frequently.
Filmzie
Pros
- • Focus on independent and small studio films
- • User-friendly interface
- • Free to use
- • Quality-focused curation
- • Regularly updated content
Cons
- • Limited mainstream selections
- • Ad-supported viewing
- • Smaller library than major platforms
- • May require more effort to find preferred content
Filmzie is a free streaming platform dedicated to independent films and small studio productions. It's the perfect destination for viewers seeking unique, lesser-known cinematic gems.
In my experience, Filmzie is ideal for adventurous movie lovers ready to explore beyond Hollywood blockbusters. It offers a diverse range of films that push storytelling boundaries, making it a go-to for those in the mood for a thought-provoking drama, an offbeat comedy, or an experimental documentary.
Roku Channel
Pros
- • Diverse mix of on-demand and live TV options
- • Highlights movies leaving soon
- • Available on multiple platforms
- • Free to use
Cons
- • Requires a user account
- • The interface can be less user-friendly (e.g., horizontal scrolling)
- • Doesn't separate free films from paid ones
The Roku Channel has evolved from a simple remote app to a comprehensive streaming platform. It offers a mix of on-demand movies, TV shows, and live TV channels, all for free. While it's particularly useful for Roku device owners, you need to create an account in Roku to enjoy its content.
However, the Roku Channel isn't without its quirks. The interface can be less intuitive than other streaming apps, with horizontal scrolling and a mix of free and paid content. It also requires a user account, which might be a drawback for some.
Redbox
Pros
- • Well-organized content library
- • Highlights movies leaving soon
- • Showcases recently added and popular films
- • Clear genre categorization
- • Familiar brand with a history in movie rentals
- • Free to use
Cons
- • Ad-supported viewing
- • May not have the latest releases
- • Limited to movies (no TV shows)
- • Requires the Redbox app
Redbox's streaming service is a solid choice for movie lovers who appreciate good organization and don't mind sitting through a few ads. While it may not have the extensive library of some larger streaming platforms, its curated categories and user-friendly interface make it easy to find something to watch. It's particularly useful for those who already use Redbox's rental services and want to expand their viewing options.
Fandango at Home
Pros
- • Large selection of high-quality movies
- • Clear distinction between free and paid content
- • Frequent addition of new titles
- • Custom lists for organizing favorites
- • Robust parental control options
- • Includes movie trailers
Cons
- • Requires account login
- • Ad-supported viewing for free content
Fandango at Home stands out with its curated selection of films and user-friendly features. The ability to create custom lists and access parental controls makes it a versatile option for families.
They recently acquired Vudu, another free streaming landscape. Together, the platform offers a good mix of older but quality titles, making it a great option for movie buffs looking to catch up on classics or discover hidden gems. The interface is user-friendly, with clear distinctions between free and paid content.
While the frequent rotation of free content might be frustrating, it also means there's always something new to discover. The platform's clear labeling of free vs. paid content is particularly helpful for budget-conscious viewers.
Which Streaming Service Will You Try Next?
And there we have our complete list of the best free movie streaming apps on your phone, android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV devices, and more. From well-established platforms like Tubi and Crackle to innovative newcomers like Lingopie, there's a wealth of options to suit every taste and need.
While each of these free streaming services has its unique strengths and limitations, they all share one common trait: they provide hours of entertainment without costing you a dime (or at most, the price of sitting through a few ads).
Remember, while these apps are free, they're constantly evolving. New content is added regularly, and features are updated. So don't be afraid to revisit apps you've tried before or explore new ones.
Lastly, for those looking for streaming apps with language learning elements, don't forget about Lingopie. It offers a unique opportunity to turn your movie nights into language learning sessions, making it a standout choice for those wanting to combine entertainment with personal growth.
