Looking to cut the cord and save on TV expenses? You don’t have to miss out on your favorite shows. Here’s your guide to the best free TV apps and streaming services to enjoy cost-free entertainment right at home.
TV remains a preferred low-budget entertainment choice for many. Fortunately, if you’re looking to economize and ditch traditional cable TV, numerous options ensure you don’t miss out on your favorite programs. All you need is an internet connection, a streaming device, and a television.
In this guide, we’ll dive into 17 apps and streaming platforms that let you enjoy TV without spending a dime.
Free TV Apps
Several apps grant free access to TV from prominent networks. Major broadcast channels mostly have free apps, although a few might charge. Here are some of the best free TV apps:
- ABC: Perfect for fans of ABC shows.
- NBC: Once the hub for “Must Watch TV”, NBC offers a plethora of free shows.
- The CW: Keep up with Arrow-verse episodes, Riverdale, and Supernatural. Remember, the number of episodes available might vary.
- PBS & PBS Kids: If you’re concerned about kids’ content while budgeting, the PBS Kids app provides a 24/7 feed without requiring login or subscription.
- Cartoon Network: Offers a range of family-friendly content. No need to log in to watch popular shows like Adventure Time and Steven Universe.
- Crunchyroll: A treat for Anime lovers. Enjoy ad-supported episodes from a vast catalog.
Free Live TV Streaming
Sometimes, you might want to flick through live TV channels. For that authentic channel surfing experience, consider:
- Pluto TV: Offers a variety of live TV channels, music, and movies.
- NewsON: Provides access to live local news broadcasts, ensuring you don’t miss out on essential local updates.
Free Movie & TV Show Apps
If you’re okay with not viewing the latest releases, these apps offer an impressive selection of shows and movies:
- Crackle: Stream as you would on Netflix but without any fees.
- Tubi TV: With over 7,000 titles, you’ll always have something to watch.
- Nosey: Indulge in your daytime TV cravings.
- Popcornflix: A broad selection of free movies and shows available on multiple platforms.
- Redbox Free Live TV: Known for DVD rentals, Redbox now offers a free live TV streaming service.
Other Methods to Watch Free TV
If the above platforms don’t resonate, consider:
- Free Trials: Platforms like Hulu and Netflix offer month-long trials. However, remember to cancel before the trial ends.
- Library Card: Some libraries collaborate with streaming services, granting free access to a plethora of content online.
- Internet Archive: Enjoy classic TV shows and memorable commercials.
- Earn Rewards: Engage in surveys or tasks with platforms like InstaGC and Swagbucks to earn points redeemable for gift cards.
- Credit Card Rewards: Use reward points from your credit card for streaming subscriptions.
- Phone Carrier Offers: Companies like T-Mobile and AT&T provide streaming services as added benefits for certain plans.
- Share Accounts: Some streaming platforms allow profile sharing, letting you benefit from a friend or family member’s subscription.
Avoiding Scams
With the popularity of streaming, scams have emerged. Protect yourself:
- Design of the Site: Scam sites usually have spelling and graphical errors.
- Ad Overload: Legitimate platforms might have ads, but scam sites bombard you with them.
- Unexpected Alerts: Beware of sites pushing malware alerts or requesting unnecessary downloads.
- Never-ending Links: If a site keeps redirecting without showing content, it’s likely a scam.
Remember to use updated security software and only rely on trustworthy platforms.
Conclusion
With so many free TV apps and platforms available, it’s easier than ever to enjoy quality content without breaking the bank. Although free TV might have limitations compared to premium services like Netflix or Hulu, they still offer a treasure trove of content. Time to dive in and save!
FAQs
- Can I watch TV online for free?
Yes, many services, including Pluto TV, Crackle, and networks like ABC, offer free content. - Which are the top free TV apps?
Pluto TV, Crackle, NewsON, Tubi TV, and Popcornflix rank among the best. - What are the drawbacks of free online TV vs. paid TV?
Free TV usually has more ads, variable stream quality, and might lack the latest content.
