10 Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies and TV Shows (Tested in 2025)

Free streaming sites can be convenient, but they come with risks. Knowing where to look and how to protect yourself is essential. After testing over 100 free streaming platforms for safety, usability, and speed, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best free streaming sites for movies and TV shows to keep you entertained safely.

What You Need to Know Before Streaming

Free movie websites can pose dangers, including hackers, trackers, and malicious ads. On top of that, some platforms might offer copyrighted content, which can land you in legal trouble. To stay safe and protect your data, consider using a VPN. This ensures privacy, provides access to geo-restricted sites, and shields you from trackers. 

We recommend ExpressVPN for secure browsing and uninterrupted streaming. It offers advanced data encryption, top-notch speed for HD streaming, and a broad server network compatible with platforms worldwide. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee for a risk-free trial. 

Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies and TV Shows

1. Tubi TV

• Library: Over 40,000 movies and TV shows

• Accessibility: US, Canada, Australia, Mexico, and New Zealand

• Features: Tubi Kids, Live TV, optional account for recommendations and parental controls

• Limitations: Ad-supported, geo-restricted (use VPN when traveling)

2. Vudu Movies on Us

• Content: Popular titles like School of Rock, Mad Max

• Features: 1080p HD quality, clear distinction between free and paid content

• Limitations: US-only access (use VPN abroad)

3. XUMO Play

• Live Channels: 200+ live channels, on-demand movies & TV shows

• Countries Available: US, Canada, France

• Limitations: No search bar, navigation can be tricky

4. Plex

• Content: Free live TV and video library

• Features: Works on all major devices

• Limitations: Ad-supported unless upgraded to premium

5. Freevee (formerly IMDb TV)

• Ownership: Amazon

• Features: On-demand content, personalized recommendations

• Limitations: No true live TV; re-runs only

6. Vumoo

• Interface: Clutter-free, easy to navigate

• Features: Stream/download, bookmark options, no registration required

• Limitations: Unofficial, may contain copyrighted material and risky ads

7. Crackle

• Content: Sony-powered exclusive content

• Availability: US-only (VPN required abroad)

• Features: Resume playback, search by title/actor/genre

• Limitations: Ads present, optional registration

8. Popcornflix

• Focus: Documentaries, cult B-movies, older classics

• Accessibility: Select countries

• Limitations: Rare new releases, basic search function

9. AZMovies

• Interface: Minimalist and autoplay-enabled

• Features: Browse by year or genre

• Limitations: Hosts copyrighted content, excessive pop-up ads (use with caution)

10. Flixtor

• Library: 30,000+ TV shows and movies

• Features: No registration required, optimized for mobile and desktop

• Limitations: May be blocked or restricted in some countries (VPN recommended)

Comparison Table: Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies and TV Shows

Why You Need a VPN for Free Streaming Sites

Online Risks

Most free streaming services rely on ads for revenue, but without proper protection in place, these sites can put you at risk of tracking, identity theft, and malware.

Benefits of Using a VPN

• Privacy: Encrypts your data

• Unblocking: Access geo-restricted platforms

• Anonymity: Hides your IP from ISPs and hackers

Best Free Streaming Sites for Movies and TV Shows + Recommended VPN

1. ExpressVPN

• Speeds: Ultra-fast HD/UHD streaming

• Security: Military-grade encryption, DNS leak protection

• Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, etc.

• Bonus: Threat Manager, Smart DNS, TrustedServer tech

2. CyberGhost VPN

• Ease of Use: Beginner-friendly interface

• Coverage: 11,690 servers in 100 countries

• Speeds: Only 7% speed drop on nearby servers

• Security: AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch

• Extras: Ad blocker, router support, risk-free 45-day trial

3. Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN

• US Content Access: 53 US server locations

• Network: 29,650+ servers in 91 countries

• Speed: Only 14% drop

• Security: AES 256-bit, WireGuard protocol, MACE ad-blocker

Quick Guide to Streaming Free Movies and TV Shows With a VPN

Step 1: Download a VPN

Choose a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN for fast and secure access.

Step 2: Connect to a Server

For best performance, choose a server close to your location.

Step 3: Start Streaming

Head over to your selected free streaming site and enjoy content safely.

Global Streaming Platforms (Region-Specific)

United States

• NBC: Primetime shows & late-night classics

• ABC Go: Includes iconic movies

• Disney Now: Family-friendly titles

• Fox: Reality TV, news, and sports

United Kingdom

• BBC iPlayer: Free for UK residents with TV license

• ITVX: Reality shows, dramas

• All4: Comedies, documentaries

Canada

• CBC Gem: Local and international content

Australia

• SBS On Demand: TV and sports

• ABC iView: Broad content library

FAQs on Using a VPN for Free Streaming Sites

Is 123Movies legal and safe to use?

No. 123Movies sites with autoplay are illegal and risky due to unlicensed content and malware exposure.

Are there free VPNs that work with free streaming websites?

Free VPNs often have limited servers, bandwidth, and security. Premium VPNs like ExpressVPN offer a much safer and smoother experience.

Is it illegal to use VPNs to watch free streaming platforms?

Using VPNs is generally legal. However, accessing copyrighted content illegally—even with a VPN—may violate laws and platform terms.

Where can I watch free movies without signing up?

Try platforms like Braflix, Tubi TV, Flixtor, XUMO Play, and Plex.

Which free streaming websites should I avoid?

Avoid 123Movies, Putlocker, and Popcorn Time. These free illegal movie websites pose significant privacy and legal risks.

Get the Best VPN for Free Streaming Sites

Not all free movie websites with autoplay are available globally. A reliable VPN provides IP addresses from various locations, granting safe and seamless access to streaming platforms worldwide.

Top Pick: ExpressVPN – Fast speeds, ironclad security, 3,000+ servers, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Perfect for accessing autoplay free movies, free illegal movie websites, and sites like Braflix securely.

Start streaming with confidence!