Live TV used to mean sitting on your couch at a specific time to catch your favorite shows, news broadcasts, or sports events as they aired. Now your smartphone has become a portable television that fits in your pocket. But cutting the cord on cable doesn’t mean you want to pay for expensive streaming subscriptions. Therefore, if you’re in search of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS, we’re here to help you!
Best Free Live TV Apps for Android and iOS
From news and sports to entertainment channels and international programming, these apps cover it all.
1. Pluto TV
Pluto TV offers a mix of live channels and free on-demand movies, making it feel like a modern twist on cable television. Owned by Paramount, it streams hundreds of channels and a wide variety of films at no cost. The app is supported by ads but doesn’t need sign-ups or subscriptions, keeping things simple. While not all devices support offline downloads, some mobile versions allow saving on-demand titles. It’s an excellent pick for anyone who wants free live TV and movies in one place.
2. Fandango At Home
Vudu is a great option if you’re after free movies with fewer ads and high-quality playback. It allows you to stream films in crisp 1080p resolution and supports Dolby Atmos for an impressive audio experience. Signing up is free, and there’s no pressure to pay for a subscription. The app also has a clean layout, making it simple to browse through movies. For anyone who values quality streaming without extra cost, Vudu stands out.
3. Crackle
Crackle is a longtime favorite for free Hollywood movies, TV shows, and web series. It comes with subtitle support, making its library more accessible to a global audience. The app doesn’t require users to create an account, which makes it easy to dive right into streaming. While there are some ads, they’re not overwhelming compared to other free services. Its smooth interface ensures a comfortable viewing experience.
4. Redbox
Redbox goes beyond just free movies by also offering a variety of paid films and live TV channels. Its catalog includes everything from Oscar-winning films and indie gems to comedies, kids’ movies, and horror. Users can also explore its free on-demand section for a wide range of choices. The app’s design is modern and easy to use, making navigation smooth. With both movies and live channels in one place, Redbox gives you plenty of entertainment options, making it one of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS.
5. Yidio
Yidio is unique because it works as an aggregator, pulling movies and shows from platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime into one convenient place. It offers personalized watchlists and recommendations, helping users find something new quickly. Another standout feature is its daily reminders, which make it easier to keep track of upcoming content. While it doesn’t host movies directly, it simplifies the search process. For Android users, Yidio can save a lot of browsing time.
6. Kodi
Kodi is more than just a streaming app because it’s a powerful entertainment hub. Alongside movies, it can handle music, podcasts, photos, and local media playback. To stream movies, you’ll need to set up a server and install add-ons, but the process only takes a minute. Despite being slightly larger in file size, it offers unmatched flexibility. For users who enjoy customizing their viewing setup, Kodi is an excellent choice, one of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS.
7. YouTube
YouTube remains one of the easiest and fastest ways to watch free movies online. Beyond paid rentals, it has countless free films uploaded by official channels like Movie Central, Horror Central, and PizzaFlix. Thanks to its global reach, you can find both regional and international movies in minutes. The app also lets you build playlists and save films for later viewing. With its massive library, YouTube is almost impossible to beat for accessibility.
8. Classix
Classix is a haven for fans of old-school cinema, offering a massive library of public domain films and shows. Whether you love vintage comedies, horror classics, or golden-era westerns, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Its straightforward interface makes it easy to start watching without distractions. Downloads are supported too, so you can carry your favorite nostalgic titles anywhere. For retro film lovers, Classix feels like a pocket-sized time machine.
9. Vimeo
Vimeo stands out for its creative and high-quality video content, often featuring indie films and unique projects from filmmakers. While it’s mostly known for shorts and artsy videos, you’ll also find full-length movies to stream. The design is clean and professional, making the browsing experience smooth and enjoyable. Many creators allow downloads for offline viewing, giving users the flexibility to watch later. For cinephiles who want something fresh beyond mainstream options, Vimeo is a great choice as one of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS.
10. PBS KIDS Video
PBS KIDS Video is an excellent free app designed for young audiences. It brings together popular shows and movies featuring trusted characters like Daniel Tiger and Arthur. The app is safe, ad-free, and doesn’t require a subscription, so parents can relax knowing kids are in good hands. Offline downloads are available too, perfect for travel or quiet moments. It’s an easy pick for families seeking fun, educational, and wholesome entertainment.
11. Public Domain Movies
Public Domain Movies provides legal access to films that are no longer under copyright, meaning they’re completely free. The library includes a mix of classic comedy, romance, sci-fi, and educational titles. You can download many of these films directly for offline viewing, making it a simple solution for movie fans. While it doesn’t feature modern blockbusters, it shines for anyone who enjoys vintage storytelling. This app does one thing, and it does it well: free and legal classic!
12. Hoopla
Hoopla is a multipurpose digital service that lets you borrow movies, shows, and even eBooks with a valid U.S. library card. Once signed in through a participating library, you get instant access to thousands of titles across multiple genres. One of its best features is offline downloads, letting you enjoy borrowed content without Wi-Fi. The app works smoothly across devices, making it great for students, families, and frequent travelers. For those looking to save money on entertainment, Hoopla is a strong alternative to paid streaming apps.
13. Tubi
Tubi is one of the most popular free movie apps, offering thousands of films and shows from major studios like MGM and Lionsgate. Supported by ads, it requires no subscription or account, so you can jump right into streaming. The app updates its library frequently, ensuring there’s always fresh content to explore. On mobile, certain titles can even be downloaded for offline viewing. With genres spanning action, horror, romance, and more, Tubi has something for every taste, making it one of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS.
14. FilmRise
FilmRise is a free streaming app that focuses on indie films, documentaries, crime shows, and timeless TV classics. Its library is steadily growing, giving users fresh options without the need for a subscription. The platform is fully ad-supported, but the ads are fairly minimal compared to most free apps. On mobile, some titles are available for offline download, making it convenient for travel. For movie lovers who enjoy unique and lesser-known titles, FilmRise is a hidden gem.
15. The CW
The CW app makes it easy to stream popular network series alongside a selection of movies and specials at no cost. You don’t need a subscription or even a login, which keeps the experience hassle-free. Fans of CW originals like Riverdale and Superman & Lois especially benefit, as current-season episodes are quickly added. Offline downloads are supported for many of the newest releases, allowing viewers to watch on the go. For fans of teen dramas, superhero shows, and network hits, The CW is a must-have!
16. Xumo Play
Xumo Play blends live channels with on-demand movies, offering a cable-like experience without the bill. Users can choose from genres like action, comedy, and documentaries, all supported by ads. The live TV element sets it apart from many other free streaming services, making it feel more traditional. Offline access is limited, though certain on-demand content can be saved on mobile. For those who want both streaming movies and live TV channels in one app, Xumo is a strong option one of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS.
17. Amazon Freevee
Amazon Freevee, formerly IMDb TV, delivers a mix of popular films, hit series, and even Amazon Originals, all for free! It’s integrated directly into the Amazon Prime Video app, so you don’t need a separate setup. Some titles are available for offline download through the Amazon app, though this depends on licensing agreements. While it does include ads, the overall streaming quality is excellent. For anyone already using Amazon’s ecosystem, Freevee is a bonus.
18. Popcornflix
Popcornflix is one of the earliest free streaming platforms, still going strong, known for its mix of cult classics and newer indie films. The app doesn’t require sign-ups, so you can jump right in and start watching. It’s supported entirely by ads, which is the trade-off for its free access. The mobile version allows downloading select titles, letting you watch without Wi-Fi when traveling. If you want quick, easy, and no-strings-attached access to movies, Popcornflix fits the bill.
19. STIRR
STIRR combines free live TV, local news, and an assortment of movies into one streaming app. While the movie catalog is smaller than some competitors, it works well as an add-on for users who also want live programming. The service doesn’t require a subscription, though signing up unlocks more personalized features. On certain devices, movies can be downloaded for offline playback. Overall, STIRR is a great pick for viewers who want free TV alongside extra films.
20. The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel offers a wide range of free movies, shows, and even live news, all supported by ads. Although it was designed for Roku device owners, the app is also available on mobile devices and tablets. Registered users gain extra perks, like access to titles that can be downloaded for offline viewing. The selection includes both classic films and recent releases, giving it broad appeal. For Roku owners and non-Roku users alike, it’s a versatile free option as one of the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS.
21. Plex
Plex isn’t just a personal media organizer; it also hosts a free streaming library of movies and TV shows from major studios like Lionsgate and Warner Bros. Content is ad-supported, but the library is surprisingly strong for a free option. Subscribers to Plex Pass get additional features, such as downloading for offline playback and syncing across devices. Beyond streaming, Plex shines by letting you store and access your own media collection. It’s perfect for people who want both free movies and their personal library in one place.
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Now you will no longer have a difficult time figuring out the best free live TV apps for Android and iOS. For more helpful tips and tricks, stay tuned, and feel free to share your suggestions in the comments below.
