10 Best Netflix Alternatives in 2025: For Free Movies & More

Repetitive content, stricter policies, and frequent price hikes have led many Netflix users to look for alternatives. For instance, Netflix recently increased its ad-supported Standard plan from $6.99 to $7.99 monthly — a 14% jump¹. The ad-free Standard and Premium plans in the US saw similar price increases. On top of that, frequent content removals and tighter account-sharing restrictions have made Netflix even less appealing.

What are the best Netflix alternatives? While Netflix remains the top streaming platform with over 280 million users, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ are not far behind². Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable streaming services with diverse content and unique features. Some are entirely free, while others offer exclusive originals, live TV, or niche selections that Netflix doesn’t.

Best Netflix Alternatives in 2025

1. Tubi — The #1 Free Netflix Alternative for Movies, TV Shows, and Hidden Gems

If you're looking for a completely free and legal alternative to Netflix, Tubi is a fantastic choice. It has the largest collection of premium on-demand content, with over 275,000 movies and TV episodes and more than 300 exclusive originals³. Its massive library covers everything from classic films and indie gems to reality TV and kids’ programming.

You don’t have to sign up to watch, but if you do, you’ll get extra features

While it doesn’t have as many originals as Netflix, it shines in variety, offering plenty of hidden treasures you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, it does a great job supporting independent and Black filmmakers, giving diverse voices a platform.

Tubi is available in multiple regions, including the US, Canada, Latin America, the UK, and Australia, though content may vary by country. It’s also expanding its reach by integrating TiVo OS and Netgem TVs, making it even more accessible. You can install the app on your phone or tablet and stream on the go — no subscription or sign-up required.

With over 97 million monthly active users³, it’s clear that plenty of people love Tubi’s mix of mainstream hits, niche favorites, and exclusive finds. The only catch? It’s ad-supported, so you’ll have to sit through a few commercials. But for unlimited free streaming, that’s a pretty fair trade.

2. Plex — Free Streaming With Personalization and Shared Viewing Features

Plex is a free on-demand streaming service that works like Netflix but has some cool extras for managing your own media. With over 600 live TV channels and more than 50,000 movies and shows, there’s plenty to binge.

You can also watch YouTube videos within the Plex interface

One of its standout features is Plex Picks, which lets you create playlists of your favorite movies and get recommendations based on what you watch. If you love streaming with friends, Watch Together makes it easy to sync up and enjoy movies or shows in real time, no matter where you are.

Plex has easy-to-use apps for Android, iOS, Amazon Fire TV, and more, plus great media-sharing tools for organizing your personal collection. The free tier offers a solid selection, but upgrading to Plex Pass is worth considering if you want extras like offline viewing and premium content. Just keep in mind that Plex isn’t the best place for recent releases or original content.

3. Amazon Prime Video — Huge Library, Exclusive Originals, and Extra Perks

Amazon Prime Video has one of the biggest content libraries out there, offering everything from blockbuster hits to niche international films. I initially subscribed to watch favorites like The Boys, Fallout, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, but there’s something for everyone. Its flexibility makes it stand out — you can add extra channels, get free trials, or even buy and rent movies without committing to a full subscription.

It has a cool X-ray feature — tap the screen while watching to get actor bios and more

If you're already in the Amazon ecosystem, Prime Video comes with extra perks like free shipping and Amazon Music. Plus, if you're looking for free content, Prime Video now has a Watch for Free section, which includes the ad-supported library that used to be Amazon Freevee.

That said, availability varies by region, so some titles might not be accessible everywhere. And while it’s more affordable than Netflix’s higher-tier plans, it’s still not the cheapest option for budget-conscious streamers.

4. Hulu — The Best Service for Latest Shows, Sports, Bundles, and Live TV

Hulu is a leading platform for streaming on-demand TV shows and movies. It offers a wide variety of content, from classic TV series to new releases. Its vast library includes popular originals like The Handmaid’s Tale and Only Murders in the Building. For the budget-conscious, Hulu offers a basic ad-supported tier, giving you access to its extensive content library, though ads are included.

Hulu allows streaming on multiple devices at once, depending on your plan

With a Hulu + Live TV subscription, you also get unlimited Cloud DVR storage to record shows and live games, providing even more flexibility. For those looking to enhance their experience, Hulu also allows you to bundle services like Disney+, ESPN+, and Max, adding extra value for families and sports fans at an additional cost.

The biggest downside? Hulu is only available in the US and Japan, with the Japanese version having a separate content library, making it less ideal for international viewers outside those regions.

5. Max — Premium Shows, Hit Series, and Classic Films in UHD Quality

Max (formerly HBO Max) is the go-to for high-quality shows and movies that really stand out. If you’re into critically acclaimed series with top-notch production, like Succession and House of the Dragon, you’ll love what Max has to offer. Most of the content is available in UHD, so streaming is smooth, and the variety is impressive, with films from Warner Bros., DC, and Studio Ghibli rounding out the mix.

If you're in the US, you can get the Max subscription bundled with Hulu and Disney+

If you're already an HBO subscriber through cable or satellite, you might get Max for free, which is a nice bonus. While the pricing can be higher than other services, Max has an ad-supported tier for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. It’s not just limited to the US — Max is also available in parts of Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe, so you can enjoy its great content from various places.

6. Disney+ — Family-Friendly Streaming With Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and More

Disney+ is a Netflix alternative with family-friendly content. It features exclusive content from franchises like Star Wars and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as well as films and series from Pixar, National Geographic, and more.

Many Marvel films on Disney+ are available in IMAX Enhanced format

While Disney+ primarily focuses on Disney-owned properties, it also features critically acclaimed adult-oriented shows like The Bear and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, appealing to a broader audience beyond families.

Disney+ offers slightly better features than Netflix despite the similar pricing. With any of the plans, you can have up to 4 simultaneous streams and stream in 4K, while the most affordable Netflix plan (with ads) supports 2 simultaneous streams and 1080p quality.

7. Apple TV+ — Quality Originals and Seamless Integration at an Affordable Price

Apple TV+ is committed to high-quality original programming, including hits like Ted Lasso, Bad Sisters, and Severance. Although its content library is smaller than Netflix's, the emphasis on binge-worthy, critically acclaimed originals makes it a good alternative. I was able to integrate the platform seamlessly with my other Apple services, such as Apple Music. This is an excellent choice if you own many iOS, Mac, and Apple TV devices.

You don't need to choose between ad-supported and ad-free plans on Apple TV+

Apple TV+ offers great value, especially if you bundle it with other Apple services. New users get a 7-day free trial, and if you buy an Apple device, you may get an extended free trial. Plus, you can share one subscription with up to six family members using Family Sharing.

8. Peacock — Stream New Releases and Live Sports at Affordable Price

Peacock is a Netflix alternative that perfectly blends new movie releases and classic TV shows. It has popular NBC classics like The Office and Parks and Recreation, along with hit franchises such as Fast & Furious and Harry Potter. Additionally, Peacock quickly streams Universal Pictures’ new films shortly after their theatrical release, making it an attractive option to stay current without visiting the theater.

Popular NBC series like Law & Order are available on Peacock the day after they air on TV

It also has live sports, providing live coverage of the Premier League, NFL games, and WWE. The two paid tiers, Premium and Premium Plus, are significantly cheaper than Netflix's standard and premium plans. However, the platform’s international availability is still limited compared to Netflix, with content only accessible to the US audience.

9. Paramount+ — Blockbusters, Sports, and Hit Series at a Budget Price

Paramount+ is a solid Netflix alternative, especially for movie lovers and sports fans. Its recent merger with SHOWTIME adds even more hit movies, original series, and live sports, including the NFL, boxing, and soccer. You also get live TV from networks like CBS, BET, and Comedy Central.

You can try Paramount+ for free

The platform is also home to popular sci-fi and drama series like Star Trek, 1883, and Evil. Plus, it’s more budget-friendly than Netflix, offering competitive plans — including an option with ads and SHOWTIME included. Paramount+ is available in several countries, including Canada and Australia. However, the app can sometimes be glitchy, with occasional playback issues like stuttering or low video quality, even on a fast internet connection.

10. Discovery Plus — The Ultimate Hub for Reality TV and Documentaries

Discovery Plus offers tons of nonfiction programming, including content from networks like HGTV, Food Network, and Animal Planet. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a Netflix alternative with reality TV and documentaries.

Discovery Plus is one of the most affordable alternatives to Netflix

Thanks to the user-friendly interface, exploring content on Discovery Plus is easy. You can also download the app and stream on most devices, including phones, smart TVs, and consoles. I installed the app on my Android device, and the playback was as good as on the desktop. However, some Discovery-owned content is available on Max instead, as Discovery merged with Warner Bros.

Editor's Note: Transparency is one of our core values at vpnMentor, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process.

Quick Comparison Table: The Best Netflix Alternatives

All of the listed platforms offer high-quality streams in full HD or higher, with a wide variety of content in store for you to watch. They also have competitive pricing if you want to subscribe for the short or long term. To help you decide which Netflix alternative might suit you best, I have summarized some of the useful features you can expect from the listed options.

Tips for Choosing the Best Netflix Alternatives

When selecting a Netflix alternative, it’s essential to consider some key factors that might have an impact on your overall streaming experience and needs, such as:

• Content library variety and size. Consider whether the platform offers various genres, including originals, popular movies, and TV shows. If you're a fan of niche content — such as documentaries, anime, or international films — look for services that specialize in these areas. Some libraries, like Amazon Prime Video and Hulu, have a diverse selection without specializing in specific genres.
• Price and subscription tiers. There should be affordable pricing tiers, including ad-supported, ad-free, or even completely free options. Compare subscription costs and decide whether a premium, ad-free experience is worth the extra cost or if a more budget-friendly plan has features that meet your needs.
• Geographical availability. Confirm that your chosen streaming service is available and accessible from your location. Some platforms, like Hulu and Peacock, have limited international availability, whereas services like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Plex TV can be accessed from most countries.
• Family-friendly features. For families or group viewers, it's important to look for platforms that offer content suitable for all ages. Platforms like Disney+ offer bundled subscriptions, such as the Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ combo that can appeal to different household members.
• Device compatibility and user experience. Check whether the service is compatible with your preferred devices, offering straightforward apps for mobile devices, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku or Chromecast. Additional features like parental controls, multiple profiles, or offline viewing can enhance the overall experience.
• Legal and secure. For peace of mind, choose a platform that offers legal content. This helps avoid breaking copyright protection laws and falling prey to cyber threats like phishing and malware attacks.

The Pros and Cons of Netflix

Netflix has long been a leader in the streaming industry — but it’s losing its authority. As with any service, it comes with advantages and disadvantages worth considering when exploring alternatives.

Pros

• Extensive content library. Netflix’s massive and diverse library has everything from classic films to original TV shows and documentaries. Its constant additions of new content also ensure there’s always something fresh to watch for all types of viewers.
• Original programming. The site offers a wide selection of original content, with hit series like Stranger Things and The Crown, alongside a vast array of films and documentaries.
• Intuitive interface. Navigating and finding content on the Netflix website and streaming apps is easy. There are also personalized recommendations based on viewing habits, and you can create multiple user profiles and stream across devices.

Cons

• Sharing your account with others is a challenge. Netflix's password-sharing crackdown limits access to those in the same household, requiring location verification. Extra users must either pay a fee or start a new account, making sharing much less flexible than on other platforms.
• Increasing subscription costs. Netflix has steadily increased its subscription fees over the years, making it one of the pricier streaming services. This rising cost can be off-putting to some users who, instead, choose to switch to cheaper alternatives.
• Content removal. Due to licensing agreements, Netflix sometimes removes shows and movies, limiting long-term access to certain titles.

FAQs on Netflix Alternatives

Did Netflix put its prices up?

Yes, Netflix has periodically hiked its subscription prices over recent years. This is mainly attributed to the platform’s growing investment in original content and improving its streaming technology. Depending on your region, the costs for different plans (Basic, Standard, and Premium) can vary. But there are budget-friendly Netflix alternatives you can try. They offer cheaper ad-supported and ad-free plans, while some are entirely free.

What's the best Netflix alternative for families?

Disney+ is arguably the best Netflix alternative for families, offering a vast library of family-friendly content, including Disney classics, Pixar films, and popular franchises like Marvel and Star Wars. Besides, Tubi is a great free alternative for families, offering various movies and TV shows across different genres.

Which Netflix alternative has the cheapest subscription?

Tubi is a completely free Netflix alternative. As an ad-supported service, you can access thousands of movies and TV shows on Tubi without a subscription. Other affordable alternatives include Apple TV+, Paramount+, and Discovery Plus, all of which come at a lower monthly cost compared to Netflix.

Can I access Netflix for free?

No, Netflix isn't free, nor is it offering a free trial. Some countries, like Kenya, had limited free access to certain Netflix content, but this is not widely available. Instead, you can use free streaming alternatives such as Plex or Tubi. Alternatively, some phone or internet providers may offer Netflix as a bundled service, so it’s worth checking for promotions.

Wrapping Up

Netflix is no longer the only go-to for top-tier entertainment. Plenty of Netflix alternatives can meet your needs, whether you're seeking to save money, discover niche content, or enjoy family-friendly programming. Each service offers unique advantages, giving you more choices than ever.

References:

1. https://decider.com/2025/02/20/netflix-monthly-cost-went-up/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/most-popular-streaming-services-by-subscribers/#dt-heading-4-max-110-million-sort-of
3. https://corporate.tubitv.com/press/tubi-surpasses-97-million-monthly-active-users-and-10-billion-streaming-hours-in-2024/#:~:text=About%20Tubi&text=Tubi%20offers%20the%20largest%20collection,first%20with%20free%2C%20accessible%20entertainment.