When you think of video streaming services, Netflix is likely the first thing that comes to mind. While Netflix is a high-quality service that offers affordable packages – starting at just $7.99 per month – many people like to shop around.
People aren’t always content when money is involved. While $7.99 is much cheaper than basic cable, what if you could save even more? What if you could get movies and TV shows streamed to your computer for free? That’s right, no money at all!
Check out Vudu and Crackle on DealsPlus to see what kind of deals you come across if you're looking for more viewing options.
1. Yahoo View
Source: Yahoo View
You may have noticed that Hulu ended its free service in August in order to focus on its 12 million paid subscribers. So where did the free content go? It was sold to Yahoo, with whom Hulu has had a long-standing partnership. Yahoo View allows viewers to watch the last five episodes of their favorite shows from major networks such as FOX, ABC and NBC. They must wait eight day after the original broadcast, however. There are thousands of shows from genres such as TV shows, movies and anime, with Korean, Latino and British programming available as well.
2. Tubi TV
Source: TechCrunch
This service has recently become a top player in the streaming world thanks to the variety it offers, as well as its background (film industry financial supporters include Paramount Pictures, MGM and Lionsgate. Choose from approximately 40,000 free movies and TV shows. Most of the options are a few years old, but there’s a ton of variety, from action movies to film festivals to high-profile award-winning flicks to cult favorites. There’s even a “Not on Netflix” category filled with exclusive programming. You can view movies online or use an Xbox. Just use your Facebook account to register.
3. Vudu
Source: Vudu
Walmart is the mastermind behind this free service. Walmart bought Vudu in 2010, but since not many people want to own or rent movies anymore, the retailer decided to capitalize on the streaming video market. Thousands of titles are available for free and in HD quality. You won’t find any new releases, however. Vudu Movies on Us focuses on older blockbusters and classics. The site is ad supported in order to generate revenue.
4. Popcornflix
Source: Google Play
This free service offers full-length movies as well as some TV fare. Most of the movies are cult favorites or independent films, so don’t expect to find a lot of blockbusters or classics. The same goes for the TV shows. The inventory is limited, but there some cartoons, reality TV shows and National Geographic documentaries, if you’re into those sorts of genres. Dig around and you’ll probably find a show or two that you’ll like.
5. Crackle
Source: Google Play
Crackle is an ad-supported service similar to Hulu. It focuses on content from Jerry Seinfeld but hosts a ton of free content for TV and film. The TV offerings are limited, but it does offer a wide range of films and original content. It’s a great place to find programming you won’t see anywhere else.
6. YouTube
Soure: YouTube
YouTube is immensely popular, but it’s not typically used for movies. Most people use it to upload personal videos. Some use it to view funny cat videos, music videos or short video clips from shows and commercials. Basically, YouTube is good for quick entertainment in short bits. But you may not know that there are some full-length movies available for your viewing pleasure. Some are illegally uploaded and some are not of the best quality, but there are some that are legal to watch and of high quality. Unfortunately, most are movies you’ve likely never heard of. But if you’re looking for free entertainment, it’ll do. Who knows, you just might find your new favorite movie.
With advances in technology come more and more ways to watch your favorite TV shows and movies absolutely free. You no longer have to spend $100 or more every month on cable or satellite TV packages that offer very few channels you actually want to watch. Watch the programming you want, when you want to watch it. With video streaming service, you can watch great programming on your TV, Xbox, laptop, PC or mobile device. Try one today and save money and hassle.
