10 Best Popcorn Time Alternatives for Free Streaming in 2024

Popcorn Time officially shut down due to piracy issues, leaving cinema buffs to find other online platforms. Many unofficial copycats have emerged, but they carry numerous risks. Most free streaming platforms recommended on Reddit contain illegal content and, possibly, malware.

Luckily, my guide contains only legitimate Popcorn Time alternatives with tons of free movies and TV shows. Most sites on my list have intuitive Android, iOS, and smart TV apps. I also explain how to improve your safety and security on free streaming platforms.

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Best Free Popcorn Time Alternatives That Still Work in 2024

1. BBC iPlayer

BBC iPlayer is the go-to free streaming platform in the UK, offering live channels, movies, and shows across all genres — from big hits to fan-favorite series like Doctor Who. To get started, all you need to do is sign in. One of the best parts? It’s ad-free.

Registration is free for UK residents

You can save shows to your Favourites easily by clicking the star icon when you hover over a program or by selecting Favourite below the video. Plus, when new episodes of your top shows hit iPlayer, they’ll be added automatically to your Favourites, so you’ll never miss out.

BBC iPlayer keeps its content fresh by adding new episodes and shows soon after they air on the BBC channels. Streaming quality varies from HD (720p) to Full HD (1080p), and you can even download select programs for offline viewing on your phone or tablet.

Key Features:

• No advertisements
• Supports various devices, including web browsers, iOS, Android, Chromecast, Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and some Amazon Fire devices
• Only available in the UK

2. Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is my go-to for anime and manga, with an endless lineup of favorites like Naruto Shippuden, Attack on Titan, Sword Art Online, Bleach, and Toradora. New episodes are often available right after they air in Japan, and you can watch in either subbed or dubbed formats.

I watched Chainsaw Man for free without even registering

The platform offers a free ad-supported version and a premium subscription. The free version has a lower resolution and includes ads, while the premium subscription provides ad-free streaming in UHD quality. In some countries, Crunchyroll provides a free 7-day free trial to test premium features.

Owned by Sony, Crunchyroll works on pretty much any device, from iOS and Android to web browsers and gaming consoles. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to browse and find what you want to watch quickly. There are also forums and customer reviews to dive into if you want to chat with other fans or read up on shows.

Key Features:

• Over 1,000 anime and manga titles
• Supports iOS, Android, web browsers, gaming consoles, and various streaming devices
• Available worldwide

3. Plex

Plex is a media powerhouse packed with free movies, shows, and over 1,000 live TV channels. Originally, it was all about letting you set up a media server to organize and stream your own library from a PC or Mac. But now, it’s expanded to offer a solid lineup of free, ad-supported content, too.

You can also watch YouTube videos within the Plex interface

Plex gives you a choice between a free version and a premium Plex Pass. The free version has tons to explore, but if you go with Plex Pass, you get awesome extras like live TV, DVR, and mobile sync. It’s also super flexible, working on almost any device — from desktops and mobiles to Roku.

Key Features:

• 50,000 free titles for on-demand streaming
• Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, Roku, and more
• Available in over 180 countries

4. Fandango at Home (Vudu)

Fandango at Home is a US streaming platform that offers a great mix of free, ad-supported movies and shows across genres like action, comedy, and documentaries. It keeps its free content fresh with regular updates, so there’s always something new to check out. Along with its free library, Fandango also has a vast selection of titles you can rent or buy — including the latest releases.

Fandango integrates with Movies Anywhere to merge your digital movie collections into one library

Fandango’s user-friendly interface and handy search filters make it super easy to find what you’re looking for. You can stream on almost any device, from smartphones and tablets to streaming devices and consoles.

Key features:

• Thousands of movies and TV shows of all genres
• Supports Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and more
• Available in the US

5. The CW Network

The CW Network is a great option for catching up on your favorite movies and shows without needing a subscription. You can watch popular series like The Flash and Supernatural for free, which is super convenient for fans wanting to stay updated.

Just keep in mind that since it’s ad-supported, you’ll see commercials before and during the episodes. Streaming quality can go up to UHD, so you can enjoy a sharp picture.

There are no login requirements

Key Features:

• Extensive collection focused on youth-oriented programming
• Supports web browsers, iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and more
• Only available in the US

6. Crackle

Crackle is a fantastic option for streaming movies and TV shows completely free of charge. Just like The CW, you can dive right in without a subscription, but be ready for some regular ad breaks. You don’t need to register, but if you create a free account, you can enjoy extra features like saving your progress, tagging your favorites, and making watchlists.

The Always On feature starts streaming a scheduled program as soon as you open the app

Its library has a great mix of action, comedy, and drama, including popular titles from Sony Pictures. We even caught several episodes of Hell’s Kitchen with Gordon Ramsay in HD, among plenty of other shows. Just a heads up, though — you’ll need an American IP address to access the site.

Key Features:

• Many titles, including Sony Pictures movies
• Supports iOS, Android, web browsers, Amazon Fire TV, LG TV, and more
• Available in the US

7. Tubi TV

Tubi TV has one of the biggest free streaming libraries out there, with movies and shows across every genre — action, drama, horror, kids, you name it. With content from major studios like Paramount, Lionsgate, and MGM, plus some original titles, there's tons to explore.

Creating an account lets you manage a watchlist and resume content across devices

No signup is needed — just jump in and start watching. Tubi is ad-supported, and you can stream in HD on just about any device, including your browser.

Key Features:

• Around 50,000 movies and TV shows
• Supports iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, gaming consoles, and more
• Available in the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and more

8. Pluto TV

Pluto TV offers a totally free, cable-like TV experience with live channels and on-demand content. You’ll find everything from movies to news, and I even caught Resident Evil on its Pluto Horror channel.

Sadly, you can't tweak the video playback quality

The interface feels like a classic cable guide, making it easy to browse live channels. Most shows stream in HD, with a few ads popping in here and there.

Key Features:

• 250+ live channels and thousands of on-demand titles
• Supports iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, gaming consoles, and more
• Available in the US, UK, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other countries

9. ITVX (ITV Hub)

ITVX has a great selection of UK programming, from British dramas and reality shows to documentaries, news, and exclusive ITVX originals. It’s possible to watch films like Downtown Abbey and The Terror on there, and most of the content streams in HD for a sharp viewing experience. You can even upgrade to go ad-free if you want.

There's also a dedicated kids' content hub called ITVX Kids

Key Features:

• Extensive collection of TV shows and movies
• Supports web browsers, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and more
• Only available with a UK IP address

10. Amazon Freevee (Prime Video's Freevee)

Amazon Freevee is a free, ad-supported streaming service offering a vast collection of movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals. Launched initially as IMDb TV, Freevee features a wide collection of on-demand and classic titles and live TV channels. You can access it on most prominent platforms, including streaming and gaming devices.

Freevee typically comes pre-installed on many Amazon devices, including Fire TV

Key Features:

• Hundreds of movies and TV shows
• Supports iOS, Android, Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, gaming consoles, and web browsers
• Available in the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany

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Quick Comparison Table: Popcorn Time Best Alternatives

This table can help you quickly compare the top Popcorn Time alternatives. It provides an at-a-glance overview of each platform's regional availability, ad support, registration requirements, device compatibility, and offline viewing options.

Why You Should Use Legal Popcorn Time Alternatives

Using legitimate streaming sites not only keeps your device and data secure but also supports the creators behind the content. When you go legal, you can stream without the risks of malware or privacy issues that often come with unofficial services. It’s a safer, hassle-free way to enjoy your favorite movies and shows.

Another benefit? Avoiding troubles. ISPs can detect if you access piracy sites, which can lead to warning notices, fines, or even termination of your internet service in some cases. Plus, ISPs often throttle speeds for high-bandwidth activities on these sites or block access entirely, which can ruin your streaming experience.

Besides, legal platforms often provide high-quality streams, a wide variety of genres, and even exclusive content you won’t find elsewhere. Many offer options for free, ad-supported viewing or affordable subscriptions, giving you the flexibility to watch your way. So, if you’re looking to kick back, relax, and enjoy shows safely, going with a legal option is the way to go.

Popcorn Time Alternatives You Should Avoid

If you're looking for alternatives to Popcorn Time, keep in mind that some unofficial options could expose your device and data to security risks. To stay safe, stick with authorized, legal streaming services. Here are a few alternatives you may want to steer clear of:

How to Stay Safe While Watching Free Popcorn Time Alternatives

Even on legal streaming platforms, it’s smart to take precautions since these services often track what you watch to target you with ads and recommendations. By limiting data sharing and taking a few privacy steps, you can enjoy streaming without feeling monitored:

• Protect your personal info. When signing up, consider using a separate email and avoid sharing real personal details. This keeps your data from being easily tied to your streaming habits and adds a layer of anonymity.
• Limit app permissions. Only allow mic or camera access if it’s absolutely needed. Keep an eye out for unusual permission requests, and say no if they don’t seem necessary.
• Use reliable VPNs. A good VPN protects your traffic and IP address, adding privacy and making it tougher to track your activities. It’s an easy way to keep your identity, location, and browsing history safer while streaming.
• Enable your firewall. Use your device’s built-in firewall or add a third-party one to monitor traffic and block suspicious activity. Firewalls add a nice layer of protection against potential threats.
• Keep things updated. Regularly update your OS, browser, and streaming apps to stay on top of the latest security patches. Updates often include fixes for vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited.
• Set strong passwords. For any accounts you create, make sure your passwords are unique and strong. A password manager can help generate and securely store complex passwords for added convenience and security.

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FAQs on the Popcorn Time Alternatives

Is Popcorn Time still working?

Not really — the main public version went offline in 2022. Shutdowns began as early as 2015 when the UK blocked it, and Denmark forced it to close. You might still find unofficial versions floating around on GitHub, but these are often risky and loaded with pirated content. For a safer option, check out legal, free Popcorn Time alternatives to enjoy movies and shows without the hassle.

Can I get malware from Popcorn Time alternatives?

Illegal Popcorn Time alternatives can contain malware. You can encounter viruses, trackers, and phishing links on many piracy sites like FlixTor, YifyTV, 123Movies, and MoviesJoy. It’s better to use official streaming platforms with free content.

Is a VPN needed to access Popcorn Time alternatives?

Most Popcorn Time alternatives don’t require a VPN, but it can help stream safely and hassle-free. Free streaming platforms collect and sell your data to ad networks, which is used for targeted marketing. Besides, a premium VPN makes it possible to safely access Popcorn Time alternatives from anywhere.

Why can’t I access a Popcorn Time alternative site or app?

Sometimes, your ISP or WiFi network blocks certain streaming sites, or the platform itself restricts access based on your location. VPNs make it possible to safely access streaming sites anywhere. If you are still encountering issues, try the following:

• Switch VPN servers.
• Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
• Adjust VPN security settings.
• Temporarily turn off your firewall or antivirus.
• Reach out to the VPN’s support team for help.

Can I use a free VPN to stream movies?

You can, but it’s usually not worth it. Free VPNs are often slow, which leads to annoying buffering, and they have limited bandwidth that can run out fast. Many free VPN servers are also blocked by popular streaming sites. Premium VPNs with money-back guarantees are a better choice — they’re faster, have unlimited bandwidth, and give you more reliable access.

Free VPNs also don’t prioritize your privacy. They often lack essential security features and sometimes even sell your data to advertisers. In the worst cases, free VPNs can come with malware.

Conclusion

Popcorn Time is gone, but there are plenty of great options for free HD streaming. The sites I recommend have a huge range of movies and shows for every taste. Whether you prefer ad-supported options like The CW or versatile media servers like Plex, there’s something for everyone.

Sure, there are still piracy sites out there, but legal alternatives offer a safer, more reliable streaming experience. You might have to watch a few ads, but it's a small trade-off for all the free and legit content.