The use of traditional television is gradually declining following the
introduction of OTT (over-the-top) platforms, which enable users to access
content on demand over the Internet. These platforms are accessible on
almost every modern electronic device, be it Android, iOS, or Windows.
Netflix is one such platform and is widely used for video streaming purposes
including TV shows and movies.
Founded in 1997 by two entrepreneurs named
Reed Hastings and
Marc Randolph, it was initially introduced as Kibble instead of Netflix. It used to sell
DVDs in those days as the internet and streaming were not popular then. The
Netflix domain was launched a year later, in 1998. However, the streaming
service was mainly launched in 2007. Nowadays, Netflix is one of the most
popular paid subscription platforms active in more than 37 languages in
around 190 countries. Although in today's time, there are many other similar
platforms like Netflix (called Netflix Alternatives).
Why do we need Netflix Alternative?
There is no doubt that Netflix is super impressive in almost all
departments, be it its user interface, availability of TV series or movies,
subscription plan variation, or anything else. However, having more than two
options in a list is always better. There can be many reasons that may
compel users to switch to another similar platform like Netflix.
For example, it is possible that most users have a tight budget, or users
are looking for more content or variety in content topics, such as sports,
news, or something else. Beyond that, users may want to try something that
offers both contents and live TV. Although the reasons can be many, it is
also advised not to depend on only one thing. It can also lead to boredom.
So, it is better to explore and try new platforms, not just in the case of
Netflix but others as well.
What are the alternatives to Netflix?
As there is a wide range of Netflix alternatives on the internet, it becomes
difficult to find a good one as per the requirements. Furthermore, some are
paid (also called "premium") and some are free (usually called "freeware"). Also, there are some that offer free access to limited content while
users can always pay for their subscription plans to enjoy all the content.
Such alternatives or platforms are considered "freemium".
Hence, we have listed all the notable alternatives to Netflix under
categories such as
paid, free, and
freemium,
making it easier for the users to choose the suitable one. They are as
follows:
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Note: Before signing up or subscribing to any of the listed Netflix
alternatives, make sure that the respective platform is available to use in
your country or not. It is important to note that not all platforms are
serviceable worldwide.
Paid Netflix Alternatives
Amazon Prime Video
Whenever we hear the name Amazon, the first thing that comes to our mind is
an e-commerce site. However, Amazon is not just an e-commerce site. Instead,
it is a family on the Internet-based ecosystem of multiple tools, services,
and platforms. Amazon Prime Video is the video streaming platform of Amazon,
which is a completely paid service. Surprisingly, it is offered in over 200
countries and territories.
Compared to Netflix, Prime Video offers slightly lower prices for its Prime
membership subscription in most countries. Apart from this, the membership
also provides additional benefits, such as free delivery on its e-commerce
site, access to music, reading, gaming, etc. In addition, users can opt only
for its Prime Video subscription at an even lower price.
Amazon Prime Video, Netflix's biggest rival, typically buys the streaming
rights to theatrical releases earlier than other similar platforms. Hence,
the user gets fast access to the latest content on demand on the Internet.
Although it has over 200 original shows, series, and popular movies, it
still lacks some series and movies that Netflix includes. To keep users
engaged, it often shows advertisements for its upcoming or latest shows or
movies.
Disney+
Disney has a long history as it was founded in 1923 by two brothers
Walt and
Roy O. Disney under the name of
Walt Disney Studios. Since then, it has continued to follow the
available mediums to serve entertaining content to the public. With
increasing competition and traffic in digital platforms, Disney was forced
to launch its own streaming service for Internet users, named Disney+.
Disney+ was launched in 2019. However, it gained immense popularity in a
very short span of time.
Disney+ is perfect for kids as it has a wide range of content from Disney
along with other contract partners like Marvel, Pixar, National Geographic,
etc. This on-demand streaming platform service is available at a cheaper
price than Netflix. Much of its content is not even easily searchable on
other platforms. Like Netflix, Disney+ also offers offline downloading
within its application.
As of the writing of this article in 2023, Disney+ has been made available
in 60 countries across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, including the
US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and
India. In India, Disney+ has contracted with Hotstar and hence is now known as
Disney+Hotstar.
Apple TV+
Launched in 2019, Apple TV+ has become one of the amazing streaming
platforms because of its brand value and the content it offers. It is an
American subscription-only-based streaming platform created and managed by
Apple Company. Even though Apple is a late entrant in the streaming platform
industry, it has currently become one of the top rivals of Netflix and
Amazon Prime Video.
Apple TV+ typically includes content mostly from its own production, called
Apple Originals. Even though it has comparatively lesser production of movies and
television series than Netflix, the quality and storyline of its original
content are much better for most content.
As it is well known that Apple mainly focuses on offering its services for
its family of Apple devices or products, Apple TV+ does not have any
application for the users of Android devices. Luckily, the service is
available via the web, making it easy for everyone to access. It is
available in more than 100 countries including
US, UK, India, Germany, Italy, Brazil, Japan, etc.
Hulu
Another great Netflix alternative is Hulu. It has been active since 2007;
however, the subscription service for Hulu streaming was launched in 2010.
Later in 2017, it came up with the idea of Live TV. It is a joint venture,
but majority owned and managed by The Walt Disney Company. This
American
OTT
video streaming platform has over 3000 titles in its catalog including
movies and shows.
Hulu offers two subscription plans, one with commercials and one without
commercials. However, users will have to pay for the desired plan; nothing
is free on Hulu. Hulu is accessible through both the web and mobile apps.
The bad news is that Hulu is not available to users outside the US. It is
only serviceable in the US as it is not licensed to serve overseas.
MUBI
Like Netflix, MUBI is a paid video streaming platform that allows people to
watch content on demand. It was launched in 2007 by
Efe Cakarel. Interestingly, the service was initially launched under the name "The Auteurs" and was rebranded as MUBI in 2010. The name "MUBI" is said to be an
accented pronunciation of "movie".
MUBI mainly targets indie movies and shows. To make it unique, MUBI offers
most of the movies which are not usually released in theatres. For example,
MUBI's own art-house cinema, film festival films, and documentaries. With
MUBI, users can stream and download movies in 195+ territories worldwide.
Acorn TV
Acorn TV has become a well-known name as a video streaming platform that
enables users to watch a combination of classic mysteries, dramas, comedies,
and documentaries with a paid subscription. The company was registered in
1994 and used to sell media hardware such as VHS tapes,
DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. The streaming service named Acorn TV was made
available in 2013 and is now owned and managed by
AMC Networks.
Acorn TV has availability in relatively fewer countries than Netflix.
However, it is also accessible with Apple TV+ in many countries, making it
reachable in more countries. Moreover, it works via the web and mobile
applications for iOS and Android.
Starz
Starz Entertainment (founded in 1991 as Encore Movie Group) launched its own
network called Starz (stylized as STARZ!) in 1994 through a cable system
operated by Tele-Communications. Starz was acquired by Lionsgate
Company in 2016 and hence it is now also referred to as
Lionsgate. Also, StarzPlay (an application for mobile users) is often
referred to as Lionsgate+.
Starz is a paid streaming platform and is active in more than 40 countries
including the US. It focuses on providing premium on-demand streaming
content to viewers around the world. It currently houses over 7,500 episodes
and movies, including Starz originals and first-run movies. It is possible
for Internet users to access Starz through web and mobile applications.
Showtime
Showtime's history dates back to 1976 when it was launched by
Viacom as a subscription-based
cable network. It continued with momentum till the 21st century. However, to
keep pace in this digital age, it had to come up with a streaming platform
in 2010 which is often called Showtime Anytime.
Showtime now allows its paid subscribers to access on-demand content at any
time in either standard or
HD
quality using a web platform or mobile application. Along with its paid
service, it also offers commercial-free or ad-free access to popular series,
hit movies, and more. But, unfortunately, the service is currently only
available in the United States and its territories.
Free Netflix Alternatives
Tubi TV
Tubi TV is a great free alternative to Netflix and it is completely legal.
It was jointly developed in 2014 by developers named
Farhad Massoudi and
Thomas Ahn Hicks. Since then, it has been providing users with free streaming services for
a range of
TV
shows and movies across all major genres including action, sci-fi, horror,
comedy, and crime.
Tubi TV is currently active in several countries, including India, the US,
Canada, Australia, and Mexico, and is accessible on nearly every modern
device via the web and its mobile apps. Tubi TV displays advertisements
(though not many) to earn revenue from its advertisers and to keep the
service free for users.
Vudu
Launched in 2004, Vudu initially began operating as a company offering
hardware, most notably a digital DVD media player called the Vudu Box. The
company was founded by
Tony Miranz and
Alain Rossmann. Later, in 2009, it came into existence when it became the first on-demand
service to offer users the option to download HD movies. In 2010, Vudu was
acquired by Walmart. Later in 2020, it was sold to
Fandango Media, a joint venture between NBCUniversal and
Warner Bros. Discovery.
Like Netflix, Vudu is a digital video store and streaming platform. But,
unlike Netflix, Vudu is free to use with ads. So, it is a free alternative
to Netflix. However, there are some movies that must be purchased or rented
in order to stream. Vudu is only available in the US and Mexico.
Crackle
Initially launched in 2004 under the brand name
Grouper, it has now become a free TV and movie streaming platform and is known as
Crackle. In 2006, it was acquired by Sony Pictures which is known for
changing its name to Crackle. In 2018, Crackle was rebranded as
Sony Crackle. As of 2023, it is jointly managed by Sony and
Chicken Soup for the Soul.
Crackle is a free movie and TV show streaming platform that operates by
monetizing through advertisements. Even though it's free, Crackle has enough
content to keep anyone engaged. Also, users may sign up to access more
features. It is accessible through web and mobile applications. But,
unfortunately, Crackle is only available in the US.
The CW
The CW Television Network (commonly called The CW, or CW TV)
is another well-established free-to-use streaming platform similar to
Netflix. Launched in 2006, it was initiated as a joint venture between
Paramount Global's CBS Entertainment Group, the former owner of
United Paramount Network (UPN), and
Warner Bros. Discovery's Warner Bros.
Prior to "The CW", "UPN" and "The WB" were two separate services, both
introduced in 1995. However, they could not continue their successful
journey and had to merge, sharing their resources to jointly set up a new
broadcasting company. The word "CW" is derived from the initials of its two
involved co-founders, CBS and Warner Bros. As of 2023, the platform is owned by
Nexstar Media Group with approximately 75% ownership interest.
The CW platform is primarily dedicated to wooing young age users with a
diverse range of streaming content, including movies and TV shows. Plus,
it's accessible through the web and native apps for Android and
iOS. The only negative thing about "The CW" is that it is only available in
the US.
Pluto TV
Pluto TV is one of the best free streaming platforms due to its attractive
user interface, extensive collection of shows and movies, and a wide range
of supported platforms. It was launched in 2013 and co-founded by
Tom Ryan, Ilya Pozin, and Nick Grouf. However, it is now owned and managed by the
Paramount Streaming division of Paramount Global.
Along with TV shows and movies, Pluto TV also provides users access to
multiple live channels over the internet. It sometimes displays
advertisements of longer duration within the streaming. Although Pluto TV is
a free on-demand easy-to-use streaming platform, it is only available in
Australia, Europe, US, UK, and Canada.
MX Player
Initially launched in 2011, MX Player was first developed as a video player
app for Android devices only. It was developed by a South Korea-based
company named J2 Interactive. This video player software is still widely used on mobile devices
(smartphones) as it is packed with all the essential features. With constant
updates, it was made accessible to playback content from online links as
well.
MX Player was integrated with streaming services in 2018 after being bought
by an Indian company named
Times Internet. It started to provide original content as well as the content of others
including TV series and movies based on the demand of the users to stream
through the internet. It was soon liked by a large section of users and
become a rival to major streaming
OTT
platforms, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
As of now, MX Player is better known as a streaming platform and has all
kinds of content available for free from old movies to new movies, comedy TV
shows to suspense-thriller drama series. But, it displays annoying ads
continuously to earn revenue and continue its services. However, users can
purchase its Gold membership and enjoy an ad-free experience.
One drawback of the MX Player streaming service is the availability for only
one country, which is India. However, it is soon planning to launch its
streaming service in seven more countries, notably Nepal, Bangladesh,
Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and USA.
JioCinema
Launched in 2016, JioCinema was introduced as part of the software family or
ecosystem of the Indian telecommunications company
Jio. Jio is currently one of the leading mobile network operators in India.
JioCinema is an OTT service from Jio that enables users to stream media
content on-demand, including several TV series and movies.
Initially, the service was made available only to users who were using
Jio
as their main mobile network. Jio users with data plans were able to access
JioCinema for free. However, recently this limit has been removed, allowing
all Indian users to access the content on JioCinema for free. The amazing
thing is that JioCinema recently gave everyone the facility to watch the
live telecast of
FIFA
World Cup 2022 for free.
JioCinema can be accessed through its website or Android application.
Although it is free, it displays advertisements like TV commercials.
Therefore, be sure to disable any ad blockers activated on the web browser,
if any.
PikaShow
Unlike other platforms, PikaShow is not considered a legal streaming
platform. This is because it uses different algorithms to bypass premium or
paid content of other streaming platforms and make them freely accessible to
the users. PikaShow, being a free streaming platform, is quite popular among
users.
PikaShow is believed to have been active since 2014. It is packed with
almost every movie, TV show, and series, all in one place, and that too is
the fastest on the net. A notable advantage of this platform over Netflix is
that it also allows streaming of live channels, be it sports, news, or any
other category channel. The developer is very active and always dedicated to
providing the latest content to the users first on the internet.
PikaShow is only available for Android devices and can be enjoyed on other
operating systems with any reliable Android emulator software such as
BlueStacks on Windows. The application must be downloaded via
Google
search as it is not available on the Play Store. As it violates the rules of
the Copyright Infringement Act, it may not be available to use in most of
the countries.
Freemium Netflix Alternatives
Fandor
Initially launched in 2011, Fandor is one of the few platforms that is said
to be one of the first on-demand subscription services for online video. In
2021, an American entertainment company named Cinedigm acquired
Fandor and relaunched it as a standalone independent streaming platform. It
is now a famous movie streaming service and a good alternative to Netflix.
Fender was jointly developed by
Dan Aronson, Jonathan Marlow, and Albert Reinhardt in
2010.
Fandor is dedicated to providing independent films, titles, documentaries,
and classics that can be accessed for free with no ads. It contains more
than 6000 movies. However, not all content is freely available on this
platform. Users may be required to purchase a paid premium subscription to
access certain content and enjoy an ad-free experience.
Fandor is primarily available in the US, and users living outside the US may
not be able to access all of the platform's content. However, it has been
observed that the service can be used by users living outside the US with a
VPN. All they need to do is set their geographic location to the US. It is
available for web and mobile devices with Android or iOS.
Plex
Launched in 2007 as a media center application by a developer named
Elan Feingold, Plex is now a popular streaming platform and allows users to watch
content on demand for free. Plex streaming service was first provided in
2019 to keep up with technology developments. In 2021, Plex was acquired by
Rockwell Automation.
Like many OTT platforms, Plex also earns through advertisements. So, if one
does not like such annoying ads, then he/she can opt for the
subscription-based membership which is provided at a low price. One
advantage is that it also has a lifetime subscription plan.
Premium users are also provided with additional features, such as the power
to download content, dash controls, sharing with others, themes, and many
other advanced settings. Furthermore, Plex is available globally in over 200
countries and territories with over 43 languages.
Peacock
Launched in 2020, Peacock is an American OTT platform owned and managed by
the television and streaming division of NBCUniversal, a subsidiary
of Comcast. Unlike Netflix, Peacock offers free access to about two-thirds of its
content with advertisements, creating revenue for its functioning. It mainly
offers series and movie content from NBCUniversal Studios and some other
third-party content platforms.
Although much of it is free, Peacock is slowly shifting most of its content
towards paid services as it continues to grow. In addition to download
support for existing content, users can stream live sports and events with
monthly-paid plans. A disadvantage of this platform is the limited
availability in very few countries, including Germany, Austria, Switzerland,
Ireland, the UK, and the US (physically located device-access only).
Hotstar
Hotstar is another major alternative to Netflix; however, it is not
available globally. It was launched in 2015 by
Star India Pvt. Ltd., and is now owned by its subsidiary Novi Digital Entertainment.
Hotstar is an online streaming platform that provides users with over
100,000 hours of playback for TV shows and movies.
Hotstar is also known for providing live coverage of every major sporting
event. When it was launched in 2015, it covered Cricket World Cup 2015 and
later
IPL. For such content, Star India tries to buy streaming rights at the
earliest to attract more with live streaming. Although many movies and shows
(usually one day earlier episodes) are free to watch, users are required to
purchase a premium subscription to gain full access to its latest content
and all movies.
In 2019, Hotstar partnered with Disney, hence it is known as Disney+Hotstar
in India. Apart from India, Hotstar is also available in Indonesia,
Malaysia, and Thailand. It provides users with geo-restricted access so that
they can get local regional content and relevant movies.
Summary
The listed platforms are not the only available alternatives to Netflix. In
fact, there are over 100 platforms similar to Netflix, and new ones are
coming along with the growing use of the internet. Since there is a huge
competition, all similar streaming platforms will top each other over time
as well as on a random basis in the list.
At this point in time, Amazon Prime, Display+, and Apple TV+ are Netflix's
main competitors. Furthermore, users without a budget often prefer to use
free platforms like Tubi TV, MX Player, PikaShow, etc. Some other notable
alternatives to Netflix include HBO Max, Discovery+, and YouTube.
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