Top Free Streaming Services for Cord Cutters

Cable and satellite TV bills are climbing higher than ever, and even live TV streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu+Live TV are getting pricey. But don't despair, fellow cord-cutters! There's a whole world of free entertainment out there, just waiting to be discovered.

You might be thinking, "Free? There's gotta be a catch!" And yes, most free streaming services are ad-supported. But let's be honest, even cable TV and those expensive live streaming services have commercials. The difference? You're not shelling out a hefty monthly fee to watch them!

As someone who rarely uses paid services outside of college football season, I rely on free streaming to keep me entertained year-round. And trust me, there's something for everyone.

Here's a rundown of some of the top free streaming services available:

For the Movie Buff:

• Tubi: A massive library of movies and TV shows, from classics to recent releases. Tubi even has some exclusive original content!
• Pluto TV: Offers a mix of on-demand content and live channels, with a focus on movies and popular TV shows.
• Plex: Known for its media server capabilities, Plex also offers a free streaming service with movies, TV shows, and live channels. You can even add your own media!

For the TV Fanatic:

• Xumo: A great option for live TV lovers, with a wide variety of news, sports, and entertainment channels.
• Freevee Content on Prime Video: Amazon has incorporated Freevee's content into its Prime Video service. You'll find a selection of movies, TV shows, and originals available for free (with ads) even if you don't have a Prime membership.

For the News Junkie:

• NewsON: Provides access to local news broadcasts from across the United States.
• Haystack News: Curates news stories from various sources and presents them in a personalized feed.

Beyond the Big Names:

• Fandango at Home (formerly Vudu): While primarily known for its digital movie purchases and rentals, Fandango at Home also has a free section with ad-supported movies and TV shows.
• Kanopy: Offers a curated selection of independent films, documentaries, and classic cinema, often available through your local library or university.

Don't Forget Your Antenna!

For the ultimate free TV experience, combine these streaming services with an over-the-air (OTA) antenna. You'll get access to local channels, major networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox), and often sub-channels with classic shows and movies – all in crystal-clear HD!

Check Your Smart TV Platform

Many Smart TVs have built-in platforms like Roku TV, Google TV, or Fire TV that offer their own free streaming services and apps. Explore what your TV already offers – you might be surprised at the free content available right at your fingertips!

Tips for Free Streaming Success:

• Be patient with ads: Free services have commercials, but they're usually shorter and less frequent than traditional TV.
• Explore different services: Each service has its own strengths and weaknesses, so try out a few to find your favorites.
• Use a good internet connection: A stable internet connection will ensure smooth streaming and prevent buffering.

With so many free streaming options available, there's no reason to break the bank for entertainment. Cut the cord, ditch the expensive subscriptions, and enjoy a world of free content!

My Streaming Life is all about finding the best value, and these free services, combined with an antenna and my Smart TV apps, make it easier than ever to enjoy great entertainment without spending a dime.