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10 Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies & TV in 2025 (Safe & Legal)

Kaidaira Miyahira

Kaidaira Miyahira Updated on Mar 31, 2025

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Finding the best free streaming sites for movies and TV can be tough. While there are many options out there, combining the right content variety with safety and legality remains challenging. Some platforms may inject malware, while others violate copyright laws, making it risky to stream your favorite shows or movies. 

After extensive testing, we've shortlisted 10 free TV streaming sites that deliver high-quality content while also highlighting how to stay safe online with ExpressVPN. If you want secure access to these platforms without worrying about hackers or malware, ExpressVPN is one of the most reliable tools for the job. It keeps your online activities private, lets you bypass restrictions, and ensures secure streaming.

Read on to explore these trusted free TV sites and learn how they stack up! 

Best for New TV and Movies 

1.Peacock TV

Peacock TV is NBCUniversal’s streaming platform featuring an impressive mix of movies, TV shows, and live channels. Available in the US and select countries like the UK, Germany, and Italy for Sky and NOW subscribers, Peacock offers over 40,000 hours of free content with limited ads. 

Screenshot of Peacock TV home screen

What Makes It Stand Out:

  • Popular TV shows like The Office, Modern Family, and House. 
  • Rotten Tomato ratings on thumbnails, helping you decide if a title is worth your time. 
  • Easy access on devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, smart TVs, and gaming consoles with just an email for signup (no verification needed!). 

Peacock TV does have ads, but they’re minimal, making it one of the most good TV show websites for free content. 

2. Kanopy

If you’re a library member in the US, Kanopy is a hidden gem among free streaming websites for TV shows. Specializing in independent films and documentaries, it’s the perfect platform for cinephiles seeking original content. 

Screenshot of Kanopy home screen

What You’ll Love:

  • A curated library of indie gems like Ex Machina and The Florida Project. 
  • No ads! 
  • Access to Kanopy Kids for unlimited family-friendly viewing. 

While content is limited to 10 monthly Play Credits, Kanopy remains one of the most exclusive current TV shows streaming sites for free, blending quality with originality. 

3. FreeVee 

Formerly IMDb TV, FreeVee is Amazon’s free, ad-supported streaming service. While not as polished as Prime Video, it’s still a free streaming website for TV shows offering plenty of binge-worthy and live content. 

Screenshot of title options on FreeVee's home screen

Highlights:

  • Regularly updated library of popular movies, documentaries, and shows like Project Runway and Divorce Court. 
  • Compatible with devices like Fire TV, Roku, and major web browsers. 
  • Accessible directly through the Prime Video interface in the US and UK. 

Ads can vary in length but remain manageable, ensuring FreeVee delivers great value among good TV show websites. 

4. PBS 

For lovers of educational content and kids’ shows, PBS remains a standout. Though available only in the US, PBS offers diverse programming that reflects its mission as a public broadcaster. 

Screenshot of Grantchester streaming on PBS

Why It’s Worth Watching:

  • Free access to award-winning educational series and kids' programming. 
  • Airs exclusive BBC shows like Grantchester and Broadchurch. 
  • Watch via browsers, Android or iOS devices, and smart TVs. 

Though PBS operates on a regional basis, its mix of live and on-demand options earns it a spot among the current TV shows streaming sites for free. 

5. The Roku Channel 

The Roku Channel offers free access to hit TV shows, live channels, music videos, and even original content featuring stars like Kevin Hart and Liam Hemsworth. 

Screenshot of Roku Originals' titles on The Roku Channel

What Makes It Unique:

  • Roku Originals with engaging stories and A-list talent. 
  • No signup required to start watching. 
  • Available on Roku streaming players, Samsung TVs, and Amazon Fire TV devices. 

While the ads on The Roku Channel are more frequent than some others, it remains an excellent option for those searching for free TV sites with fresh programming. 

Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies and TV Shows 

Finding reliable free streaming websites for movies and TV shows can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don’t worry, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. Whether you're a fan of classic films, binge-worthy series, or hidden gems, these free TV streaming sites are perfect for movie enthusiasts and TV show lovers alike.

1.Sony Crackle

Looking for classics and nostalgia? Sony Crackle’s got you covered. 

Sony Crackle is one of the best free streaming sites for movies, offering a variety of older TV shows and films. With titles like Alf, 21 Jump Street (1987), The Carol Burnett Show, and Here’s Lucy, it’s a treasure trove of nostalgia. The platform also features noteworthy classics like Anzio (1968), Ben, and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. 

Screenshot of title options on Sony Crackle's home screen

  • Video Quality: Streams at 480p. While it’s not HD, the playback is smooth, and the audio quality is crisp, even for black-and-white classics.
  • How to Watch:
    1.Available on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV, and gaming consoles.
    2.Android and iOS apps with Chromecast support. 
  • Note: Only available within the US, so using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN can help access it globally.

Ads pop up every 10-15 minutes, lasting about two minutes each. Despite this, you can watch without signing up or creating an account.

2. Tubi TV 

A rotating library of fan-favorites that'll impress any movie aficionado. 

Tubi TV is a standout among free TV sites for its well-designed user experience and constantly updated library. Expect titles like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Green Mile, and The Fifth Element. There’s something for everyone, with categories like anime, crime TV, and docuseries. 

Screenshot of title options on Tubi TV's home screen

  • Video Quality: Streams up to 720p. While it doesn’t support downloads, the interface is user-friendly. 
  • Device Compatibility:
    1.Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple devices, and gaming consoles. 
    2.Accessible via web browser for easy streaming. 
  • Availability: Open to users in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Australia. 

Tubi TV makes streaming new and nostalgic hits easy, though ads are a consistent part of the experience.

3. Vudu 

The perfect mix of free hidden gems and blockbuster rentals. 

Vudu is not just for rentals; its free streaming websites for TV shows and movies section is worth exploring, too. However, note that the free library leans towards lesser-known content, such as Horror Hotel and Billy Club. For blockbuster hits like The Office or Game of Thrones, you’ll need to rent them. 

Screenshot of title options on Vudu's home screen

  • Perks:
    Features over 200,000 titles, including an unmatched selection of 4K UHD movies. 
    Ideal for discovering offbeat films and cult classics.
  • Downside:
    Lacks original content and relies solely on licensed shows.

Accessible on web browsers, Blu-ray players, smart TVs, and more, Vudu is a good TV show website if you're looking to find something new.

4. Sling Free 

Live news and TV favorites for free. 

While Sling TV is best known for its paid plans, Sling Free offers notable gems for users in the US. Popular titles include Forensic Files, 3rd Rock From the Sun, and Hell’s Kitchen. It also provides free live news coverage through channels like ABC News Live. 

Screenshot of live TV options on Sling TV's home screen

  • Video Quality: Streams to most devices, including Amazon Fire TV, LG TVs, and gaming consoles.
  • Accessibility:
    Available for US users across multiple platforms.

Creating an account requires your email, but there’s no stringent verification process, so privacy is maintained. Enjoy a mix of live TV and classic series all in one place. 

5. Archive.org 

A haven for vintage film buffs and public domain classics. 

Archive.org's vast collection makes it one of the best free streaming sites for movies, especially for fans of silent films, film noir, and old TV news broadcasts. It’s a time capsule of creativity, offering movies you won’t find elsewhere. 

Screenshot of live TV options on Sling TV's home screen

  • Benefits:
    Accessible worldwide without a subscription. 
    Perfect for black-and-white and silent movie enthusiasts. 
  • Caution:
    Since it allows user uploads, always operate with a robust VPN like ExpressVPN to ensure security.
Best Alternative

Privacy-conscious users should also note that the site logs some personal data, so using a VPN adds an extra layer of protection.

Why Use a VPN for Free Streaming Websites for TV Shows and Movies

Streaming your favorite content on free TV streaming sites or good TV show websites can be convenient, but it also comes with inherent risks. Many free streaming websites for TV shows, such as Archive.org, log personal information, leaving your data vulnerable to leaks, hacking, or misuse.

Additionally, if you find yourself binge-watching on free TV sites, your internet provider could throttle your speed, even if you haven’t exceeded your data limit. These frustrations, however, have a simple solution.

With a quality VPN like ExpressVPN, you can:

  • Protect Your Data: A VPN masks your real IP address, ensuring that none of your sensitive details are logged by streaming sites.
  • Maintain Fast Streaming Speeds: ExpressVPN provides unlimited bandwidth, ensuring a seamless experience even during marathon streaming sessions.
  • Enhance Privacy: ExpressVPN’s cutting-edge features, such as AES 256-bit encryption and no-log policies, safeguard your online activity, giving you peace of mind.
Best Alternative

It’s worth noting that while a VPN can allow you to access restricted libraries by changing your IP address, this may violate the terms of service of certain free TV streaming sites. Make sure to use a VPN responsibly to access only content that is legally available.

How to Safely Use VPNs with Free TV Streaming Sites

  1. Download ExpressVPN: Head to ExpressVPN’s website and install the app on your device. 
  2. Connect to the Nearest Server: To ensure optimal speeds, choose a nearby server for your location. 
  3. Start Streaming: Whether you love movies or current series, you can now enjoy streaming safely on free TV sites without interruptions.

FAQs on VPNs and the Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies and TV

Most free streaming websites for TV shows and movies are perfectly legal if they don’t share or provide content protected by copyright. Many legal streaming sites limit access based on geographical locations to comply with licensing agreements and local laws. To stay afloat, such platforms generally support themselves by running ads. 

When it comes to the best free streaming sites for movies, all the ones listed in this guide are fully legal. However, be cautious with popular platforms like FlixTor, Noxx, CMovies, and YiFY. These sites scrape content from unauthorized sources without proper permissions, which means using them may result in legal trouble for you or their operators.

Is it safe to use free streaming websites for TV shows? 

Free streaming websites for TV shows are safe provided they operate legally and don’t offer pirated content. Even then, it’s essential to use ExpressVPN or another reputable VPN to protect your personal data. Without one, even legitimate websites could leave you vulnerable to privacy breaches. A VPN ensures your data is encrypted, giving you peace of mind while streaming.

Are there free TV streaming sites without ads? 

Yes, there are good TV show websites that don’t have advertisements, like FlixTor and Noxx. However, the lack of ads comes at a cost; these platforms operate illegally. While tools like ExpressVPN could technically allow private access, content from such sites often violates copyright laws. Supporting legal platforms promotes ethical streaming standards, and we do not condone breaking any terms of service or laws.

Can I watch premium-quality streaming channels for free with a VPN? 

Absolutely. ExpressVPN is an excellent tool for accessing premium content without interruptions. For instance, users in the UK can watch BBC iPlayer, and Australians can access 10 Play by connecting to a ExpressVPN server in their respective countries. This ensures smooth streaming without location-based restrictions, making it one of the best free streaming sites for movies with superior quality.

What else can you do with a VPN like ExpressVPN? 

Aside from helping you enjoy the best free TV streaming sites, ExpressVPN offers unmatched versatility, including the ability to:

  • Secure your data on public WiFi networks. 
  • Bypass price gouging based on your location. 
  • Gain safe access to work or school networks remotely. 
  • Avoid bandwidth throttling from your internet service provider. 
  • Prevent DDoS and other cyberattacks while gaming. 
  • Protect your digital privacy.

Can I use a free VPN to stream free movies and TV shows? 

It’s not recommended. While some free VPNs exist, even the best among them come with significant drawbacks. They often impose bandwidth restrictions and have slower server speeds, making them impractical for streaming. Worse yet, they may include malware or secretly sell your private data to third parties to compensate for their free offerings.

Instead, a premium VPN like ExpressVPN ensures fast, secure, and unrestricted access. Some premium services, such as CyberGhost, offer money-back guarantees, allowing you to test the service risk-free for up to 45 days. 

Choose the Best VPN for All Your Streaming Needs 

Most free TV sites and free streaming websites for TV shows are either restricted geographically or illegal. While you can find the best free streaming sites for movies when you know where to look, the safest way to enjoy high-quality streaming is by combining legal platforms with a reliable VPN. 

ExpressVPN is designed with exceptional privacy safeguards and lightning-fast speeds, giving content creators and binge-watchers the confidence to enjoy hassle-free streaming. Why not test ExpressVPN today? You can try it risk-free and claim a refund within 30 days if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

Kaidaira Miyahira

Kaidaira Miyahira Author

As a senior editor, Kaidaira Miyahira conducts in-depth research and data analysis on VPNs, working closely with writers to produce comprehensive reviews and guides on the best VPNs for streaming, gaming, and secure browsing. With a strong background in online security, Kaidaira provides readers with expert insights into protecting their digital privacy and avoiding cyber threats. Passionate about internet freedom, Kaidaira has authored numerous articles offering practical strategies for enhancing security and maintaining anonymity online.