Best Movie Apps to Stream Movies & TV Shows

Posted on the 24 August 2024 by Jyoti92 @Jyoti_Chauhan1

In this article, you will discover the best movie apps to stream movies and TV shows.  You don’t need to plan a cinema trip or buy any physical DVDs because now you can enjoy your favorite movies/shows from the comfort of your home.

However, with so many movie streaming apps available, selecting the best and most affordable can be a daunting task. But no more worry, we have compiled a list of the top 10 movie apps for your continuous entertainment. This list includes free and premium apps.

Time to jump in, let’s get started!

Top 10 Best Movie Apps

  1. Netflix
  2. Amazon Prime Video
  3. Disney+
  4. Hulu
  5. Apple TV+
  6. Peacock
  7. Paramount+
  8. Tubi
  9. Pluto TV
  10. Plex

Let’s delve into the details.

1.  Netflix

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Netflix is the top movie streaming app to watch your favorite movies and shows on your phone, laptop, tablet, and smart TV.  Beyond movies and TV shows, you can also watch anime and documentaries on Netflix.

Additionally, you can apply filters on your searches like choosing a region, United States or Global, and movies or TV shows.

Key Features

  • Personalized Recommendations: Netflix suggests movies, and TV shows according to your location, interests, and watch history.
  • Original Content like The Crown, Roma, etc.
  • Multi-device support feature of Netflix allows you to stream on different devices seamlessly.
  • Parental controls: With Netflix, parents can create a separate space for their kids to ensure that they only access the right content.
  • User profiles: You and your family can create multiple user accounts under the main account on Netflix.

Advantages

  • A huge content library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, etc.
  • High-quality streaming plans from 1080p to 4K ultra depending on the subscription plan, you have opted for.
  • Easy to navigate interface: Netflix provides features like continue watching and creating a watchlist, making it easier to operate for users.
  • Download shows to watch offline: It is beneficial for areas with low or no internet connectivity.
  • Kid profiles: You can create a kid profile on Netflix to ensure a safe viewing experience.
  • Global availability: It is available in about 190 countries and multiple languages, making it a top movie streaming app globally.

Disadvantages

  • No free version: All the content on Netflix is behind a paywall. Therefore, you can not stream content on Netflix for free.
  • Content removal: The content on Netflix keeps on deleting due to various contract and licensing issues from its library without any official announcement. Thus, to avoid missing out on your favorite content, consider using Netflix downloaders to download content to your device.
  • No real-time content like sports events, or live TV.

Pricing for Premium Plans

The standard plan with ads is billed at $6.99 per month and provides access to the following features.

  • 1080p resolution.
  • Good video and sound quality.
  • 2 devices allowed.
  • Ad-enabled

The standard plan without ads is billed $15.49 monthly with the below-given features.

  • 1080p resolution.
  • Good video and sound quality.
  • 2 devices allowed.
  • No ads

The premium plan offers the following features and is billed at $22.99 per month.

  • 4K + HDR resolution.
  • Best video and sound quality.
  • 4 devices are allowed at the same time.
  • Without ads.

2. Amazon Prime Video

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Amazon Prime Video, a subscription-based service by Amazon, is widely known as one of the best apps for streaming movies and TV shows. However, if you are looking for the best app to watch movies free, consider switching to a free, ad-supported streaming service Freeve, owned by Amazon.

Furthermore, you can stream live events, Amazon originals, drama, popular movies, top-rated comedy movies, and whatnot. Other than this, it also features huge content specifically made for kids like animated shows, kid’s movies, TV shows, and more.

Key Features

  • Access to a free streaming option, Freeve.
  • 4K ultra HD and HDR streaming.
  • Download for offline viewing which makes it independent of an active internet connection.
  • Provide extra info about the content you are streaming like bios, related music, and others.
  • Add-on subscriptions to additional channels like Tubi, Showtime, and more.
  • Watch party where you can stream movies with your friends and family along with chat interactions.

Advantages 

  • Integrated with Amazon Prime membership that gives additional benefits of Amazon Prime like free shipping, prime music, etc.
  • Diverse content library including TV shows, drama movies, original, live TV, etc.
  • Competitive pricing.
  • Support multiple devices including smart TVs, Fire TV, smartphones, and others.
  • Integration with Alexa for voice searches and playback control.

Disadvantages

  • Cluttered interface: Compared to Netflix, the interface of Amazon Prime Video is less intuitive.
  • Ad-enabled: Yes, it shows promotional ads though it is a paid streaming platform which can be frustrating for users.
  • Limited simultaneous streams: It allows streaming up to 3 devices but three of them cannot watch the same movie.
  • Regional restrictions: The content on Amazon Prime Video varies according to region.

Pricing for Premium Plans

The pricing for Amazon Prime video membership is as follows:

  • $8.99 per month.

However, you can also choose a membership plan of Amazon Prime for additional benefits which are billed at $14.99 per month and $139 annually.

3. Disney+

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Disney+ is the best movie app to stream your favorite and trending shows/movies. Whether you are a parent seeking the best movie apps for your kids or a fan of Marvel and Star Wars, Disney+ is the go-to destination for all age groups.

Moreover, it adds new releases to its platform right after their theater releases. Now, let’s move to the key features of Disney+.

Key Features

  • Extensive collection of movies, TV shows, and classics like Pixar, Marvel, National Geographic and more.
  • Hub for Star Wars content.
  • Groupwatch features: With this feature, you can add up to 7 people to watch movies together including you.
  • High-quality viewing experience including 4K UHD, HDR, and Dolby Atmos.
  • Parental controls to apply restrictions on content based on age ratings.
  • Allows offline viewing.

Advantages 

  • Exclusive access to popular franchises.
  • Original content such as Wanda Vision, The Mandalorian, Loki, Hamilton, and more.
  • Bundled options with Hulu, Max, and ESPN+.
  • Provide Real-Time content.
  • No-ads.
  • Family-friendly content.

Disadvantages

  • Content limitations for adults.
  • Limited Device Streaming.

Pricing for Premium Plans

Disney+ offers different plans bundled with other platforms like Hulu and Max for a discounted price. By choosing these bundle plans, you can access Hulu or Max content in the Disney+ app. So, here are the plans provided by Disney+:

  • Duo Basic of  Disney+ and Hulu: $9.99 per month.
  • Duo Premium of Disney+ and Hulu: $19.99 per month.
  • Disney+, Hulu and Max bundle with ads: $16.99 per month.
  • Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle without ads: 429.99 per month.
  • Trio Basic: $14.99 per month
  • Trio Premium: 24.99 per month.

You can visit the website to explore all the features and pricing options in detail.

4. Hulu

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Hulu is one of the best movie-streaming apps to watch TV shows from networks like NBC and Fox the day after they air. You can stream a diverse collection of content including live news, TV shows, movies, award-winning originals, and live sports games.

As well as, I am breaking down the key features of Hulu for you to get an idea of Hulu’s benefits, so that you can make an informed decision.

Key Features

  • Live TV streaming: You can access live TV, live shows, and live sports games with the Hulu premium plan.
  • Hulu Originals: Hulu is known for its award-winning originals including Castle Rock, The Handmaid’s Tale, etc.
  • Downloadable content: You can download Hulu’s content for offline viewing.
  • Multiple device support: Like the above-listed streaming platforms, Hulu also supports multiple devices.
  • Unlimited Cloud DVR: If you want to save recordings of your favorite live TV show in the cloud, you can do it with the Hulu+Live TV premium plan.
  • 6 user profiles: You can create up to 6 personalized profiles and every one of them will have a customized experience.

Advantages 

  • Live TV options.
  • Flexible Subscription Plans: You can choose a plan that matches your preferences and budget as Hulu offers various subscription plans like a basic plan with or without ads and many bundle plans.
  • Early Access to Current Season TV Episodes.
  • Bundles options: Hulu has multiple bundle plans with Disney+, ESPN+, and Max which provide access to huge content.

Disadvantages

  • Regional restrictions: You can access all the content on Hulu from the United States. However, users outside the U.S. might only access limited content. Therefore, if you are a user not from the U.S., consider using a VPN like NordVPN or look for other Hulu alternatives.
  • Affordable plans are ad-supported: The plans with lower pricing are advertisement-supported which can be sometimes irritating. On the other hand, ad-free options are also available but at a higher price.
  • Limited Concurrent Streams: The basic plan of Hulu allows two concurrent streams. So, you need to upgrade to another plan if you need to expand your streaming limits.

Pricing for Premium Plans

Hulu offers various individual and bundled plans with other streaming platforms like Disney+, Max, etc. So, here is the list of the pricing plans for Hulu.

Hulu Plans

  • Hulu with ads: $7.99/month.
  • Hulu without ads: $17.99/month.
  • Hulu + Live TV with ads: $76.99/month.
  • Hulu + Live TV with no ads: $89.99/month.

Bundle Plans of Hulu

  • Duo Basic (ad-enabled): $9.99/month.
  • Trio Basic (with ads): $14.99/month.
  • Trio Premium (no ads): $24.99/month.
  • Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle (with ads): $16.00/month.
  • Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle (with no ads): $29.99/month.

In the above-mentioned plans, the trio includes access to Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+. Additionally, you can consider visiting the official website for a full breakdown of the features provided.

5. Apple TV+

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Apple TV+ is one of the best movie apps, owned by Apple. It offers exclusive and premium original content including TV shows and movies.

Besides, the streaming platform is available in over 100 countries including the United States, the U.K., and more. You can also try Apply TV+ with a 7-day free trial.

You can also watch Apple TV+ on multiple devices including gaming consoles, smart TVs, iPhones, iPads, and others.

Key Features

  • Original content: Apple TV+ produces high-quality original content and named them Apple Originals. It includes exclusive shows, and movies like Ted Lasso, Foundation, Coda, etc.
  • Ad-free experience: You will get an entirely ad-free experience with Apple TV+ so that you can enjoy content with no interruptions.
  • Family Sharing: You can share your one subscription with five members of your family without any additional cost involved.
  • Integration with Apple Ecosystem: Apple TV+ is integrated with the Apple TV app and other Apple products for a seamless user experience.

Advantages 

  • High-quality content streaming with 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos sound quality.
  • Exclusivity: You won’t easily find Apple TV+ content on any other platform.
  • Affordable pricing.
  • Supports uninterrupted viewing.

Disadvantages

  • Limited Content Library as it is mainly focused on original content.
  • No Real-Time Content: Apple TV+ does not provide access to live events, TV shows, and sports content.
  • Requires additional subscription.
  • Dependency on Apple Ecosystem: Therefore, users who do not use Apple devices might not be able to get full access.

Pricing for Premium Plans

There are various ways to access Apple TV+ and hence, the pricing will differ according to the offer you choose. So, let’s break it down for you.

Option 1: You will get free access to Apple TV+ for 3 months if you are planning to make an Apple device purchase or you have a subscription to the Apple Music Student plan.

Option 2: You can buy a monthly plan of Apple TV+ which is billed at $9.99/month with a free seven-day trial.

Option 3: Lastly, consider choosing Apple One a bundle plan for Apple users that combines the subscriptions of six Apple services. It includes iCloud+, Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness and Apple News+. Also, the pricing for the same is given below:

  • Individual plan: $19.95/month.
  • Family plan: $25.95/month.
  • Premier plan: $37.95/month.

However, you can visit the official website to explore all the features and pricing options in detail.

6. Peacock

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Peacock is the best app to watch movies provided by NBCUniversal. It offers a wide range of content including TV shows, sports shows, the latest movies, and exclusive originals including Mr. Throwback, Love Island USA, Love Undercover, and others.

Key Features

  • TV shows like NBC and Bravo show Live sports, hottest movies, and others.
  • Original content including Dr. Death, Saved by the Bell, etc.
  • Concurrent streaming on 3 devices.
  • User profiles and Parental control: You can create up to 6 profiles with a peacock subscription and add content restrictions for kids.
  • Device flexibility includes Roku, iOS, Android, fire TV, windows, Mac, Apple TV, and many others.

Advantages 

  • Real-Time content including live sports, premier league, etc.
  • Free plan availability.
  • Affordable Premium Options.
  • Offline Viewing.
  • No ads on the premium plan: The paid plan of Peacock proved an ad-free viewing experience.

Disadvantages

  • Limited content for free.
  • Not all content is available in high quality.
  • Regional Availability: Peacock is mainly available for the U.S. audience.
  • Limited international content: Peacock is mostly focused on United States movies and shows.

Pricing for Premium Plans

Premium Plan

  • $7.99 per month.
  • $79.99 per year.

Premium Plus

  • $13.99 per month.
  • $139.99 per year.

7. Paramount+

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Paramount+ is another best app for watching movies that you can try for free for a limited time. It is primarily known for its extensive content library of iconic movies from Hollywood.

With Pramount+, you can enjoy hit TV shows, iconic movies, live sports, and other exclusive original content.

Key Features

  • Live TV: you can stream Live TV channels like CBS with Paramount+.
  • Exclusive Originals: Likewise Peacock and Netflix, Paramount+ also produces original content including Why Women Kill, The Good Fight, Star Trek, etc.
  • Sports coverage includes NFL games, UEFA Champions League, B1G Football, The PGA Tour, and March Madness.
  • Customizable Age restrictions and Unique viewing experience: You can create individual profiles for your family members and kids for a personalized viewing experience.

Advantages 

  • Live Sports and News.
  • Seamless device switching: You can watch paramount+ content on different devices like smart TVs, streaming devices, gaming consoles, etc.
  • Different subscription tiers like ad-free bundled plan of paramount+ with showtime and paramount essential plans with advertisements, ensure a unified experience across platforms.

Disadvantages

  • Limited access for international viewers.
  • Ads on Lower-Tier Plans.

Pricing for Premium Plans

Paramount+ offers two different plans with unique features. Therefore, you can choose what resonates well with you. Following are the details of Paramount+ subscription plans:

Paramount+ with Showtime

  • $12.99 per month after 1-week free trial.
  • $119.00 per year after trial.

Paramount+ Essential

  • $7.99 per month after 1-week free trial.
  • $59.99 per year after trial.

8. Tubi

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Tubi is one of the best free movie apps known for its diverse collection of cult classics, anime shows, kid’s shows, sci-fi fantasy, highly rated on Rotten Tomatoes, and many others.

From preschool content for kids to foreign TV for international shows and movies, Tubi has everything for your entertainment.

Moving further to its user interface, you can play any movie by simply clicking on it. Yes, the tubi doesn’t require any sign-in or subscription to watch movies. Also, you will see options such as like, dislike, share, and add to my list.

However, You need to sign in if you want to create your movie list with Tubi.

Key Features

  • Large content library.
  • Ad-supported.
  • Free streaming service: Tubi is a completely free streaming platform with no hidden paywall.
  • Muti-device compatibility like streaming devices, smart TVs, mobiles, tablets, and desktops.
  • No account is required to stream your favorite shows or movies on Tubi.
  • Diverse genres include classics, docuseries, indie films, LGBTQIA+, lifestyle, martial arts, music & concert, and others.

Advantages

  • No subscription is required.
  • Watch anywhere, anytime: You can stream your favorite movie and TV show on any device from smart TVs to gaming consoles.
  • Add to list feature: You can add any movie or show to your list which can be accessed later. But for this, you first need to sign up.
  • No contact or commitment: Tubi is a free platform so users can start and stop watching content anytime.

Disadvantages

  • Limited parental control feature.
  • Limited new releases.
  • Ad-supported.
  • Low video quality as compared to some other streaming apps.
  • Geographic Restrictions.
  • No Original Content.
  • No Offline Viewing

Pricing for Premium Plans

Tubi is completely free. So, you do not require any premium subscription while streaming content on Tubi.

9. Pluto TV

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Pluto TV is one of the free movie streaming apps, offering a range of live TV, on-demand movies, and TV shows. Beyond this, Pluto TV offers a comprehensive genre collection such as movies, comedies, classic TV, sci-fi, drama, true crime, competition reality, local news, and many more.

You can also start streaming where you left off by browsing the last watched section. In addition to the interactive user interface, you will get options like customized audio and subtitles, share, watch from start, add to favorite, add to watchlist, in-picture, and theater mode.

Key Features

  • Free, ad-supported platform: It is available for free and is advertisement-enabled.
  • Live TV channels: Pluto TV has around 250 live TV channels for news, sports, lifestyle, and entertainment.
  • On-demand movies and TV shows: Pluto TV offers a wide range of on-demand shows like classic and contemporary.
  • No account creation is needed.
  • Device availability: Pluto TV is available on various platforms such as web browsers, mobile apps, smart TVs, etc. ensuring device flexibility for users.

Advantages 

  • No cost.
  • Comprehensive content.
  • Intuitive interface.

Disadvantages

  • Ads Interruptions.
  • Limited New Releases.
  • No Offline Viewing.
  • Limited personalization options.
  • Regional Content Restrictions.

Pricing for Premium Plans

As already mentioned, Pluto TV is a free TV streaming app. Therefore, it does not require any subscription plan.

10. Plex

Link: Android, iOS, Web

Last but certainly not least free movies app is Plex. You can stream movies, TV shows, and live TV. In its movies and shows category, you will see multiple categories like action, animation, comedy, crime, descriptive audio, documentary, drama, horror, and more.

On the other hand, you can also enjoy Live TV from numerous channels available on Plex for free.

Key Features

  • On-Demand Streaming.
  • Multiple device streaming.
  • Plex Media Server: You can create your own media server to store and stream your personal movies and shows collection.
  • Live TV & DVR: Plex provides users with the DVR feature to record live shows.
  • Plex Pass is a premium subscription plan.

Advantages

  • Centralized media hub.
  • Live TV & DVR capabilities.
  • Remote access.

Disadvantages

  • Setup complexity.
  • Advanced features require a subscription.
  • Internet dependence for remote access.
  • Server hardware requirements for running plex media.

Pricing for Premium Plans

You can watch your favorite content and live TV shows on Plex for free. But you can upgrade to the premium plan if you want to add your media and want to access unlimited TV and DVR.

So, here is the pricing for Plex Pass for additional benefits like mobile sync, premium music libraries, and more.

  • Monthly: $4.99
  • Annually: $39.99
  • Lifetime: $119.99

Conclusion

That’s it for the article on the best movie apps to stream movies and TV Shows.

We have covered a range of streaming apps, from famous paid apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Video Prime to the best free movie streaming apps like Pluto TV and Plex.

Whether you are looking for options to stream live TV shows, news or sci-fi fantasy, and cult classics, these top 10 best movie apps on the list have it all for you.

So what are you waiting for? Download one of these best movie apps that suits your requirements and budget to enjoy your favorite content today!

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