Streaming has become the easiest way to enjoy movies and TV shows, and Netflix is usually the first platform that comes to mind. But if you are like me, you might sometimes want something different, maybe cheaper, maybe free, or even a service that specializes in specific genres. The good news is that there are plenty of apps like Netflix that let you explore a wide library of entertainment.
In this blog post, I will take you through 12 of the best Netflix alternatives in 2025, that covers both free and paid options, so you can find the one that fits your needs perfectly.
What is Netflix?
Netflix is a subscription-based streaming service that allows users to watch a vast library of movies, TV shows, documentaries, and original productions on-demand.
Founded in 1997 as a DVD rental service, it transitioned to online streaming in 2007 and has since grown into one of the world’s largest entertainment platforms. Netflix produces award-winning originals such as Stranger Things, The Crown, and Squid Game, making it a leader in digital content creation.
Available on smartphones, smart TVs, laptops, and tablets, it offers flexible plans to suit different budgets, and gives millions of viewers access to ad-free, high-quality entertainment anytime.
12 Best Apps Like Netflix to Stream Movies and TV Shows in 2025
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Disney+
- Crunchyroll
- Hurawatch
- OnStream
- Roku Channel
- Pluto TV
- Tubi
- Peacock
- YouTube TV
- HBO Max (now Max)
If you are looking for alternatives to Netflix, you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of apps that offer amazing streaming experiences in 2025. Some of them are completely free, while others are paid but packed with exclusive originals and live TV options.
Each platform comes with its own strengths, whether it is anime, family-friendly content, sports, or even live channels. Let’s go through 12 of the best apps like Netflix, where I will explain their features and why I think they are worth trying.
1. Hulu
When I first tried Hulu, I immediately noticed how different it felt compared to Netflix. While Netflix focuses heavily on movies and full seasons dropped at once, Hulu gives you something that Netflix doesn’t: next-day access to popular TV shows.
Imagine missing your favorite drama on cable last night, and then waking up to find it waiting for you on Hulu. That’s the kind of convenience it offers.
Features of Hulu
- Next-day streaming for popular network shows
- Thousands of movies and a strong lineup of originals
- Live TV option with 75+ channels
- Multiple plans, including ad-supported and ad-free
2. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video is another platform I use quite often because it offers variety in ways Netflix doesn’t. While Netflix sticks to its own catalog, Prime Video not only streams licensed and original content but also lets you rent or buy the latest movies. It is like having a subscription service and a digital movie store in one app.
Features of Amazon Prime Video
- Thousands of movies and TV shows, including classics and exclusives
- Amazon Originals such as The Boys, Jack Ryan, and The Wheel of Time
- Option to rent or buy newly released movies
- Free access with Amazon Prime subscription, which also includes shopping perks
3. Disney+
If you are into Marvel, Star Wars, or Pixar, Disney+ is the platform you absolutely cannot ignore. Personally, I signed up just for Marvel shows, but soon I realized it had much more to offer.
From childhood classics to exclusive blockbusters, Disney+ feels like stepping into a giant digital library of family-friendly entertainment.
Features of Disney+
- Exclusive Marvel and Star Wars series unavailable anywhere else
- Huge library of animated movies from Disney and Pixar
- National Geographic documentaries included
- Simple, family-friendly interface
4. Crunchyroll
As someone who occasionally dives into anime, Crunchyroll is a platform that feels tailor-made for this genre. While Netflix has added some anime titles, it cannot compare to Crunchyroll’s depth.
This app specializes in anime, and offers thousands of titles and even simulcasts, which means you can watch episodes almost at the same time as they air in Japan.
Features of Crunchyroll
- Massive anime catalog with thousands of titles
- Simulcast episodes straight from Japan
- Free ad-supported version available
- Offline downloads with premium subscription
5. Hurawatch
Hurawatch is one of those names that keeps coming up when people look for free apps like Netflix. Unlike subscription-based platforms, Hurawatch doesn’t require you to spend a dime.
It gives you instant access to a wide range of movies and shows without any complicated sign-up process.
Features of Hurawatch
- 100% free streaming platform
- Massive library of both movies and TV shows
- User-friendly interface for easy navigation
- Works on different devices
6. OnStream
OnStream is one of the newer names on the list of apps like Netflix, but it has quickly gained attention. What makes it stand out is that it provides completely free access without drowning you in endless ads. For a free service, that’s pretty rare.
When I first tried OnStream, I was surprised at how clean and modern the interface felt compared to other free alternatives.
Features of OnStream
- Ad-free free streaming platform
- Wide selection of popular movies and shows
- Works across different devices including Android and iOS
- No sign-up required for most content
7. Roku Channel
Most people know Roku as a streaming device, but many don’t realize that Roku also has its own app called Roku Channel. What I like about it is that you don’t even need to own a Roku device to use it. Instead, you can just download the app and start watching.
Features of Roku Channel
- Free streaming with ads
- Premium add-on channels available
- Mix of movies, shows, and even live TV
- Accessible across devices, not just Roku hardware
8. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is an app that completely changes the way streaming feels. Unlike Netflix, which is entirely on-demand, Pluto TV works more like traditional cable television.
When I first tried it, I found myself flipping through channels just like I used to do with cable. The difference is that Pluto TV is 100% free.
Features of Pluto TV
- Over 250 live channels
- Large selection of on-demand movies and shows
- Completely free with ads
- Available on all major devices
9. Tubi
Tubi is one of my favorite free alternatives to Netflix. It doesn’t charge you a subscription fee, and the only catch is that you will see some ads. Personally, I don’t mind short ad breaks if it means unlimited streaming at no cost.
Features of Tubi
- 100% free streaming service
- Library of over 50,000 movies and shows
- Works on almost every device including smart TVs
- Kid-friendly section with parental controls
10. Peacock
Peacock, created by NBCUniversal, is another strong contender among apps like Netflix. What makes Peacock different is that it offers both a free and a paid tier, so you can choose what works best for you.
Features of Peacock
- Free tier with limited ads
- Premium subscription with exclusive originals and more content
- Huge catalog of NBC classics like The Office
- Sports coverage including Premier League matches
11. YouTube TV
YouTube TV is not exactly counted among apps like Netflix, but it serves as a complete cable replacement. Instead of focusing on on-demand movies and shows, it offers live television with the flexibility of streaming.
I remember using it for the first time to catch live sports, and it was smoother than my old cable box.
Features of YouTube TV
- Live streaming of over 100 channels
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage
- Sports, news, and entertainment coverage
- Works across devices seamlessly
12. HBO Max (now Max)
When HBO Max rebranded to Max, I was curious whether the content quality would remain the same. Thankfully, it did, and in some ways, it feels even better.
Max combines the prestige of HBO originals with Warner Bros. films and other networks, which makes it a powerhouse of premium entertainment.
Features of Max
- HBO Originals like Succession, The Last of Us, and Game of Thrones
- Warner Bros. movies released shortly after theaters
- A wide selection of shows for all age groups
- Offline downloads available for subscribers
Final Thoughts
After exploring all these 12 apps like Netflix, it is clear that Netflix is not the only player in the streaming world. Whether you want free services like Tubi and Pluto TV, niche options like Crunchyroll, or premium giants like Max and Disney+, there’s something out there for every preference.
Personally, I like mixing free and paid platforms so I always have new content to watch without overspending. If you have been thinking about trying Netflix alternatives in 2025, this list is a perfect starting point to find your next favorite streaming service.
