Smart TV and streaming services have transformed the entertainment scene into an unparalleled spectacle. The competition among different streaming networks has made way for several free apps, adding to our convenience.
However, too much variety can be a problem too. When every app has tons of amazing content to binge, choosing what to watch and what to skip might make your head hurt.
If you wish to make the most of free apps for Smart TV, we’re here to facilitate. We’ll hash out the best free streaming apps to enhance your viewing experience!
1. Freevee
Freevee is the first on our list, as it is compatible with a wide range of devices. This app surely lives up to its name; it’s totally “free” and all the awesome content will make you go “vee” (I swear that sounded better in my head).
Best Features
- Extensive range of content
- You can filter searches by subgenre
- Option to hide content you don’t want to see
- Accessibility across multiple devices
- Trailer previews
Things to Consider
- Content is updated every few weeks, so you might lose access to certain shows.
- The interface is somewhat cluttered.
2. Tubi TV
Most free apps require users to watch ads, which isn’t a bad bargain since you’re getting exclusive content in exchange. Tubi TV is a decent ad-supported service from FOX Entertainment, and it’s a guaranteed heaven for movie addicts.
This app has a bigger pool of movies, but lately, it's been adding more TV shows to its content library. Tubi TV is particularly great for households with children (under 18) because it offers a separate category, called Tubi Kids, for them.
If you’re a fan of classic cartoon shows like Scooby Doo, this is the app to download and enjoy with your family. The app also features a handful of Australian shows, which adds the element of diversity.
Best Features
- Easy-to-use interface
- Reasonable amount of ads
- Child-friendly platform
- Video-on-demand service included
- Accessible nationwide
Things to Consider
- More movies than shows
- Few live channels
3. Crackle
Crackle is a free ad-driven app by Sony, so prepare to sit through your fair share of ads when you use this service. This app has a sizeable collection of old and new movies, though it’s not that impressive when it comes to TV shows.
If you’re looking to stream the latest television dramas, this app might not live up to your expectations. It does offer a few hundred shows, but most of them are old-time favorites.
The app does not require you to register, but I suggest you should for your own convenience. With a registered account, you can resume content from where you left off and save shows to watch later to achieve a more personalized experience.
Best Features
- No sign-up needed
- Parental controls included
- Can be logged in from multiple devices
- Tailored recommendations
Things to Consider
- Not enough new content
- Limited content for kids
4. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is the go-to free app for on-demand and live content. I highly recommend it to sports enthusiasts and anyone who likes to keep up with the latest news. Apart from that, it’s a good resource for reality TV too.
The best part about this app is the broad array of genres. This aspect makes it suitable for a wide audience interested in free streaming apps for their Smart TV. Another notable feature of the app is the inclusion of Latino content – you get 50+ channels in Spanish and Portuguese.
Streaming content on Pluto TV is similar to surfing channels on cable TV. It has a user-friendly interface and includes a kid’s mode.
Best Features
- Most popular movies and shows are available
- Customers receive a newsletter to be notified of upcoming content
- More than 250 live channels
Things to Consider
- You cannot pause live shows
5. Hoopla
If you’re an authorized Library Patron, you can use Hoopla to stream all kinds of content for free. This app is designed for public libraries, so you’ll need your library card to sign up. It lets you borrow the best e-books, audiobooks, comics, music, movies, and TV series.
Once you’ve registered with Hoopla, you can access content from anywhere; movies are an exception when you’re overseas. The app provides much more than generic entertainment options, so it’s largely favored by intellectuals.
Best Features
- Global accessibility
- Nice collection of indie content
- Downloaded material can be consumed without the internet
Things to Consider
- Requires a valid Library card/ restricted eligibility
- A limited selection of movies and TV shows
6. Roku Channel
Saving best for last, let me introduce the Roku Channel. This free streaming app for Smart TV is trusted by more than 120 million users around the world. The variety of free content and level of personalization granted is unmatched.
Whenever I look up a movie or TV show, Roku has never failed me. The library for old and new content is vast, so you’ll never be disappointed. Additionally, this app comes on top in the category of live content – 350+ live channels at your service!
Best Features
- Abundance of live channels
- Home screen customization
- Registration isn’t mandatory
Things to Consider
- Many shows are incomplete (all episodes not uploaded)
- Contains premium channels (paid)
Free Smart TV Apps- Features and Ratings
Key Takeaways
- Roku has the best user interface, which explains the extensive audience.
- Compatibility issues are rare with Freevee.
- Both Freevee and Roku are known for their vast and diverse content library.
- Using Hoopla requires a library card, so it scores the lowest in ease of access.
- Tubi TV has the most reasonable amount of ads whereas Hoopla does not rely on ads to generate revenue.
- Roku has the most to offer in the category of live content.
What To Look For in Smart TV Apps?
You may subscribe to multiple free apps for streaming content on your Smart TV, but sticking to one or two is more practical and manageable.
Here’s what you need to look out for when narrowing down your choices:
- Ease of access
- User-friendly interface for effortless navigation
- Ad frequency and duration
- Status of on-demand content
- Variation/content diversity
- Child-friendly content + Parental controls
- Content categories vs. your likes/preferences
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Robert is a dedicated and knowledgeable author, an SEO expert with a passion for all things tech. He has a keen eye for detail, allowing him to write interesting blogs that are informative and engaging for readers. He has extensive knowledge of internet, TV, and phone pricing and plans, and has created numerous how-to guides to help users make informed decisions. As a tech geek and TV buff, he is always up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the industry, making his content always fresh and relevant.
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