Want to watch your favorite shows online? This article walks you through the 25 best sites to watch TV shows online, free and paid.
The advent of online streaming and its skyrocketing adoption changed how people consume content. In today’s day and age, you can stream thousands of TV shows at the click of a button. There’s no shortage of sites that let you watch TV shows.
You can browse through an endless catalog of TV shows spread across genres. We have cherry-picked the 25 best streaming sites to watch TV shows online, free and paid.
I have split the sources into three categories:
- Top Premium/Paid Sites to Watch TV Shows Online.
- Free and legal (official) Sites to Stream Shows.
- Third-party or unofficial/unverified Websites to Watch TV Shows Online free.
Attention Streamers: Read before you continue
Your government and ISP are probably monitoring your streaming activities using your IP address 2a03:2880:f800:1b:: (exposed to all). You may get into serious legal trouble for streaming copyrighted videos.
I strongly recommend getting a trusted VPN to hide your IP address and protect your online identity.
I use ExpressVPN on all my devices as it is the most secure, fastest, and easy-to-use VPN. It comes with an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee, and you get 3 free months with the yearly plan.
Don't miss out on the peace of mind and online security ExpressVPN provides.
Are the Websites to Watch TV Shows Safe and Legal?
This post lines up both official and unofficial websites. The official websites, such as Hulu, Netflix, and PrimeVideo, are safe and legal. However, I can’t be this confident about the third-party websites mentioned here.
If you are concerned about safety, I recommend using VirusTotal or any other online antivirus tool to scan the website. For example, the following image displays the scan results of the website https://vumoo.vip with VirusTotal.
The website has been red-flagged by two vendors. However, 88 vendors have also given it the green signal.
The legality aspect of third-party free streaming sites is not as straightforward as running it through an antivirus. No tool can decisively conclude whether a website is legal or illegal.
There are two ways to avoid any legal troubles while using such websites.
First, find and watch the videos available in the public domain. However, if you are unsure how to proceed, the second (and the most recommended) option is to use a trusted VPN while streaming on these websites.
I use ExpressVPN on all my devices. It is the fastest VPN and best for streaming. It is also highly secure with military-grade encryption.
The following list includes websites that require a premium or paid subscription. These are official and legal websites with the license to distribute content.
If you are looking for options to stream free TV shows, you may scroll down to the next section containing free and official websites or the last section with third-party or unofficial websites.
1. Hulu
Hulu offers solid DVR features and a decent collection of live TV channels. Moreover, it lets you enjoy many popular TV shows and movies in one place. Hulu offers originals like:
- The Relative Worlds
- Love at First Stream
- All That We Destroy
Popular cable TV shows include Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Seinfeld, Scrubs, Archer, Better Things, and more. You can also choose from various live sports channels, including ESPN, CBS Sports, and NFL Live.
Features:
- Customize the home page based on your preferences.
- Content is neatly laid out and can be discovered easily.
- The content is segregated into TV Shows, Movies, Hulu Originals, Networks, Comedy, and documentaries.
- You get to schedule feature shows and record them using the DVR feature.
Pros:
- Impressive content library and Live TV channels.
- DVR features are comparable to traditional cable TV.
- Available on multiple platforms.
Cons:
- Hulu serves ads on the base plan.
- Supported platforms – Web, Android, iOS, Gaming Consoles, and FireStick
- VPN Compatibility – Yes. Works great with ExpressVPN
- Ad annoyance – Low – depending on the pay plan
- Streaming quality – 720p, 1080p and 4K
How to Install & Watch Hulu on FireStick
2. Prime Video
Owned by Amazon, Prime Video is one of the best streaming sites to binge-watch TV shows online. It has many popular titles and a diverse and massive collection of top-quality TV series.
You can watch some free TV shows online free on Prime Video. But to unlock the whole experience, you’ll have to purchase a subscription. Amazon Prime members have free access to Prime Video.
Features:
- TV shows are cataloged according to their genres.
- You can search for the specific TV show you want via the Search option.
- The website lets you curate your playlist by adding your favorite TV shows online.
- You can download the content for offline viewing later.
Pros:
- Includes all the latest TV shows like Modern Love.
- Blockbuster movies like Robert Pattinson’s Batman.
- The premium version is completely ad-free.
- Free or Amazon Prime subscribers.
Cons:
- Several advertisements will pop up when you are using the free version.
- Supported platforms – Web, Gaming Consoles, Android, FireStick, and iOS
- Ad annoyance – None with its premium streaming services. A little for the free one
- Streaming quality – 720p, 1080p, and 4K UHD
- VPN compatibility – Yes
3. Netflix
Of all the streaming websites available on the market, Netflix is by far one of the most popular. This popular streaming site has a vast catalog of neatly categorized content. So you have no trouble finding the content you wish to watch.
Some popular Netflix originals are Lucifer, Too Hot to Handle, House of Cards, Ozark, and more.
Features:
- Features content not readily available on other streaming sites.
- Top-rated paid streaming service.
- Allows you to continue watching movies and TV shows for a while after your subscription expires.
- Excellent UI both on the web and in apps.
Pros:
- This streaming site has zero pop-up ads.
- You can watch TV shows online, which cannot be found elsewhere.
- The content is categorically divided into genres and can filter TV shows.
- Available on all popular platforms.
Cons:
- It’s a bit costly in some regions.
- Supported platforms – All popular web browsers, Android devices, Apple machines, Fire TVs, and more
- Ad annoyance – None
- Streaming quality – 720p, 1080p, and 4K UHD
- VPN compatibility – Yes
How to Install & Watch Netflix on FireStick
4. HBO Max
HBO Max includes several original documentaries and TV shows that cannot be found anywhere else. All your favorite HBO programming is available via HBO Max. This includes Julia, Tokyo Vice, The Staircase, Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, Game of Thrones, and more.
Features:
- A large number of original TV shows are available here.
- HBO Max offers an impressive set of documentaries.
- A user-friendly interface.
- Has provisions for multiple user profiles.
Pros:
- Has the option to set parental controls.
- Allows you to download content for offline viewing.
- It has no advertisements to halt you from watching movies or online TV shows.
- Some free content.
Cons:
- No trial.
- Supported platforms – Most platforms, including iOS, Web, iPad, Android, and FireStick
- Ad annoyance – Depends on the subscription
- Streaming quality – 720p, 1080p, and 4K UHD
- VPN compatibility – Yes
How to Install & Watch HBO Max on FireStick
Free and legal Sites to Stream TV Shows
This section lines up the official and free streaming sites to watch TV shows online free. These websites are legal. Most of them are ad-supported.
5. Tubi TV
Tubi TV is the best way to legally stream TV series content without paying. You sit back and relish TV shows across categories like action, drama, comedy, and documentaries.
Tubi claims to offer 40,000 movies and TV shows. And the list is only growing.
Features:
- The “Highly Rated on Rotten Tomatoes” section helps streamline the viewing experience.
- 100% free – you don’t need a credit card or any payment to use the service.
- It has a feature that learns from your viewing history to suggest tailor-made content.
Pros:
- Rich and easy-to-use interface.
- Regular content update.
- No sign-up is required.
Cons:
- Old movies and TV shows.
- Supported platforms: FireStick, iOS, Android, and Web
- Ad annoyance – Low
- Streaming Quality – 720p and 1080p
- VPN Compatibility – Yes
How to Install & Watch Tubi TV on FireStick
6. PopcornFlix
PopcornFlix is an excellent free streaming site for watching TV shows. You can get started in an instant. No login or credit card details. This also means your viewing data is not stored. Moreover, PopcornFlix’s search option is compelling. Also, you can set multiple filters and further refine the search.
Features:
- The latest version is stripped of useless features like GIF maker and focuses more on the viewing experience.
- There is a 10-second fast forward/rewind button, subtitle loading, and an option to select preferred audio.
- No sign-up is required to access content.
Pros:
- Exhaustive collection of movies and TV shows.
- Doesn’t require access to personal details.
- Intuitive user interface.
Cons:
- Lacks FHD in many TV shows and movies.
- Supported platforms – FireStick, Web, Android, and iOS
- VPN Compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Mid
- Streaming Quality – Mostly 720p
How to Install Popcornflix on FireStick
7. Pluto TV
Pluto TV offers a mix of TV shows, movies, and live TV channels. The user interface is similar to traditional cable TV.
With Pluto TV, you can browse different channels and take your pick. You get to choose between hundreds of live TV channels.
That said, Pluto TV misses out on premium live channels. But that won’t bother you, as it has a solid collection of TV shows.
Features:
- Solid database of TV shows and movies.
- It lets you search for specific channels and related content.
- Hide channels to reduce clutter on the homepage.
- Pluto TV offers Android and iOS device apps.
Pros:
- Free on-demand shows.
- Intuitive Live TV guide.
- Signup is not required.
Cons:
- Limited cable channels.
- Cannot schedule programs that extend beyond a few hours.
- Supported platforms – FireStick, Android, and iOS devices.
- VPN Compatibility – Yes.
- Ad annoyance – Mid
- Streaming Quality – 720p and 1080p
How to Install Pluto TV on FireStick
8. Plex
Plex is more than just a video service. It is an entire ecosystem of free TV series and live shows.
With Plex, you can enjoy podcasts and live TV across multiple genres. In short, Plex is a one-stop shop for all your home entertainment needs.
Lastly, you can use Plex as a media server and access content on multiple devices.
Features:
- It lets you search content by actor and channel.
- The watch page details the complete cast list, reviews, and trailers.
- You can create a queue and enjoy an uninterrupted binge session.
- Watch-worthy TV shows include Idris Elba King of Speed, The Ellen Show, The Good Doctor, and more.
- Plex Pass is one of the fascinating aspects of the service to watch content offline and sync with multiple devices, including smartphones.
Pros:
- Doesn’t require a sign-in.
- Plex offers 50,000 free on-demand TV shows and movies.
- 300 channels, depending on your location.
- Available worldwide.
Cons:
- Search results mix both movies and TV shows.
- Supported platforms – Device-friendly, available on Apple, Android, Smart TVs, FireStick, and more
- VPN Compatibility – Yes. Works smoothly with ExpressVPN
- Ad annoyance – Low
- Streaming Quality – 720p/1080p
How to Install Plex on FireStick
9. Xumo
Xumo Play offers a great blend of on-demand TV series and live shows. The service has inked deals with major television manufacturers and is available on FireStick, Android, and iOS.
Xumo Play Shows category features sections like comedy, drama, reality, crime, history, and more. Also, it claims to offer 190+ channels, and the list is ever-growing.
Features:
- Ads are less annoying than other streaming services and don’t pop up that often.
- Has a user-friendly interface.
- It lets you watch many TV shows, live TV channels, and movies.
Pros:
- Slick and easy-to-use interface.
- Supports multiple platforms.
- Integration with television brands.
Cons:
- No original content.
- Supported Platforms – Web, FireStick, Android, and iOS
- VPN Compatibility – Yes. Works smoothly with ExpressVPN
- Ad annoyance – Low
- Streaming Quality – 720p/1080p
How to Install & Use Xumo TV on FireStick
10. Crackle
Crackle is a decent video streaming service launched by the media conglomerate Sony Entertainment. It comes with a relatively decent amount of on-demand content and popular TV shows. This makes it one of the free streaming sites worth your time.
Features:
- It allows you to watch TV shows, movies, and several web series.
- Award-winning TV shows are available for you to stream.
- Free-uncut and unedited content.
- Many genres are available, like Action, Horror, Sci-fi, Comedy, etc.
Pros:
- The parental control feature makes it suitable for being used as a family streaming site.
- Good selection of TV shows and movies.
- 100% free.
Cons:
- Some ads are annoying.
- Supported Platforms – Web, FireStick, Android, and iOS
- VPN compatibility – Yes.
- Ad annoyance – Low.
- Streaming Quality – Up to 4K.
How to Install Crackle on FireStick
11. Amazon Freevee (previously IMDb TV)
We all know that IMDb is in the business of reviewing and rating movies and TV shows. As of late, they have entered the fray of streaming sites. Owned by Amazon, Freevee is an excellent free streaming site for you to watch TV shows online free.
Amazon Freevee comes equipped with all the information that IMDb is usually known for. When you are watching free TV shows, you will know what to expect from the show. These impressive features make it one of the best free streaming services.
Features:
- It is free to use and can be accessed via the app and website.
- Comprehensive information regarding a TV show’s rating, cast, length, genre, etc.
- It has many IMDb originals that are exclusive to this streaming site.
Pros:
- You will know everything about a TV show before you start watching it.
- As Amazon owns it, you can easily watch it on FireStick without hassle.
- Multiple categories like Freevee Originals, Popular Movies, etc.
Cons:
- You must sign up with an account before you can start streaming content.
- Supported Platforms – Web, FireStick, Android, and iOS
- VPN compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Moderate
- Streaming Quality – Up to 4K UHD
How to Install & Watch IMDb TV/Freevee on FireStick
12. Classic Cinema Online
Classic Cinema Online is for you if you are looking for free streaming sites for old classic TV shows. You can watch TV shows online from the classic era. In addition, it features numerous classic movies. You can view silent films, serials, and everything released back in the day.
CSO’s catalog is neatly divided into categories, making it easy to find your favorite content. All-in-all, Classic Cinema Online is one of the streaming websites best suited for families.
Features:
- It only features classic TV shows.
- Uses a YouTube player as its default video player.
- It features no ads despite being one of the free streaming sites listed.
Pros:
- Has an impressive collection of classics.
- It is entirely free.
- Suitable video quality, given the age of content.
Cons:
- There are no apps, only the Web.
- Supported Platforms – Web
- VPN compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – None
- Streaming Quality – 480p
Third-Party Websites to Watch TV Shows Online Free
This section rounds up the popular third-party or unofficial websites to watch TV shows online.
Please note that these websites provide videos from unverified sources. Therefore, they may not have the licenses to distribute the content.
Watch only the public-domain videos on these sites. However, to enjoy complete privacy and anonymity while using third-party websites, I recommend using ExpressVPN.
13. Vumoo Vip
Do you want to free-watch the latest TV shows online? Vumoo Vip has you covered. Its advanced filters will allow you to filter TV shows based on their genre, rating, and year of release.
If you are looking for free TV shows, this is one of the streaming sites that will provide you with good-quality streaming links.
Features:
- It includes all the latest TV shows.
- Advanced filters allow you to find your specific choice of content.
- Content is neatly cataloged into categories and genres.
Pros:
- Blockbuster releases are available here within a short time of release.
- It is free to use.
Cons:
- Ads.
- Supported Platforms – Web
- VPN compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Mid
- Streaming Quality – Up to 1080p/ FHD quality
14. YesMovies
Are you looking for a streaming service that will allow you to watch TV shows online for free? Or are you searching for a free streaming site for your entire family? Either way, YesMovies has you covered.
Launched back in 2017, YesMovies has exciting features like an easy user interface, 30+ languages supported, no account creation, and more.
Features:
- Simple and easy UI.
- New content is added regularly.
- Links are refreshed frequently.
- No sign-up is required.
Pros:
- No need to pay or create an account.
- Everything is 100% free to watch.
- Boasts a solid search function.
Cons:
- Ad interruptions.
- Supported Platforms – Web
- VPN compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Mid
- Streaming Quality – Up to 1080p
15. YoMovies
Just like its name suggests, YoMovies was originally a movie streaming site. But recently, they let you watch TV shows online.
YoMovies is a relative newcomer in the TV show category. So, they are still updating and building their catalog. But they have a large number of good TV shows available for free. You can also watch almost any free movie that you want on YoMovies.
Features:
- Good loading speed.
- Superb audio and video quality.
- You can find almost any title here.
Pros:
- It lets you download content for offline viewing.
- Allows you to watch free geo-blocked or paywalled content from other stream sites.
Cons:
- It is a torrent-based site. So its services are not exactly reliable.
- Supported Platforms – Web
- VPN compatibility – Yes.
- Ad annoyance – Mild
- Streaming Quality – Available in all video formats.
16. ProjectFreeTV
ProjectFreeTV is a content streaming website that has been around for a long time. This website has everything from top-notch TV series episodes to blockbuster movies.
Although initially designed to allow people to watch TV shows online for free, it has built up an impressive library of free movies online. Almost every TV series is uploaded here after its release.
Features:
- Dedicated mainly to TV shows streaming online.
- Movie streaming is also available.
- Free streaming platform.
- It is updated regularly.
Pros:
- Intuitive search feature.
- Allows you to filter content by its year of release.
- HD quality streaming links are available to watch TV shows online free.
- A category of a TV show can be accessed simply by scrolling down.
Cons:
- As it is a free streaming site, there are several pop-up ads.
- Supported platforms – Web
- VPN Compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Medium
- Streaming Quality – Available in all video quality up to FHD.
17. Noxx
This free streaming site is an offshoot of the A to Z movies website. Noxx was created for users to watch TV shows online, free. But if you want to stream movies online, it has also got you covered.
Noxx’s user interface and fluidity are worth praising. And bundled with versatile content availability, Noxx is one of the best hubs to stream TV shows online.
Features:
- Crisp and fluid user-friendly interface.
- Solid library of TV shows from worldwide.
- It has an advanced search option.
Pros:
- Straightforward categories
- All TV shows are available for free.
- Clean interface with low clutter.
Cons:
- There are some pop-up ads.
- Supported platforms – Web
- VPN Compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Mid
- Streaming Quality – Up to FHD 1080p
18. YTS
YTS is the go-to third-party hub to enjoy various TV shows, movies, documentaries, and more. Latest TV series, trending shows, and you name it, YTS lets you watch online or download your favorite content.
YTS features separate tabs for browsing TV shows and movies. Moreover, you can view content genre-wise by opening the Genre tab. The TV Packs tab includes full-fledged seasons of shows packaged into one easy-to-access package. And lastly, there’s a 4K hub for your UHD cravings.
If you want to watch TV shows online, try YTS.
Features:
- Fewer ads and more content streaming.
- The website is split into tabs like Home, Browse TV Series, 4K, etc.
- A versatile search function to quickly find your favorite content.
Pros:
- Black and blue UI design for easy browsing.
- Separate tab for 4K content.
- It lets you download your favorite content.
Cons:
- Ads can annoy your streaming experience.
- Supported platforms – Web
- VPN Compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Low
- Streaming Quality – Up to UHD 4K
19. WatchSeriesHD Live
Want to watch TV shows online free? Say hello to WatchSeriesHD Live. With no registration or subscription, this ultimate heaven of TV shows lets you play and download your favorite content absolutely free.
Watch TV shows online via genre, country, or top IMDB list via WatchSeriesHD Live. Then, click on a show, choose the episode, and you are all set to cut the boredom out of your life.
Features:
- HD-quality TV shows are live in no time.
- Powerful keyword-based search option.
- Attractive website design.
- It lets you log in to customize your experience.
Pros:
- Find your favorite shows, movies, and more in seconds.
- Unlimited content.
- Up to 1080p video quality is available.
- Good sound Quality.
Cons:
- Ads can sometimes get too annoying.
- Supported platforms – Web
- VPN Compatibility – Yes
- Ad annoyance – Mid
- Streaming Quality – Up to 1080p
20. Movie-web
Movie-Web is a web app for streaming series online. It surfs through multiple third-party sites to provide users with the best streaming quality in an eye-catching and aesthetic user interface.
Features:
- Save the progress. You can always return and continue from where you left off.
- Bookmark to keep track of TV shows you want to watch.
- It provides an additional setting option to customize your user interface.
- Supports multiple types of content.
Pros:
- No ads.
- No sign-up or account creation is required – search the movie and hit play.
Cons:
- You won’t be able to watch the bookmarked shows on different devices as there’s no account feature.
- Supported Platforms – Web application
- VPN Compatibility – Yes- VPN compatible
- Ad Annoyance – No ads
- Streaming Quality – 1080p
21. FMovies
FMovies provides users with various TV shows, jumping through various genres, eras, and countries. It is compatible with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, allowing users to stream their favorite shows whenever desired.
Features:
- Interactive Community gives you the heads-up before you watch a show.
- It provides multiple filters to make it easy to search.
- Adaptive streaming quality technology to ensure smooth playback.
- Gives suggestions according to multiple users’ preferences and IMDb ratings.
Pros:
- Login option to ensure that user watches their bookmarked show anywhere they want.
- The latest TV shows are added as soon as they air.
Cons:
- Window pop-up ads.
- Supported Platforms – Web application
- VPN Compatibility – Yes- VPN compatible
- Ad Annoyance – Window pop-up ads
- Streaming Quality – 1080p
22. M4uFree
M4uFree is a free TV show streaming website that allows users to filter through TV series as per their preferences without signing in. The free streaming site encourages users to leave a comment on the show they watched to make sure their algorithm filters out the best searches and search options for other users.
Features:
- Provides the user with Theather mode and lights off mode for a relaxed experience.
- Let’s filter through genre, year of release, and language and sort the shows according to their release dates.
- Effortless to search and watch free TV shows from this website.
Pros:
- Users can contact the developers if any TV show is not uploaded on the site.
- It lets you surf through the actor’s name and watch shows starring their favorite actors only.
Cons:
- Servers are often down, or sometimes, the domain itself is restricted.
- Supported Platforms – Web application
- VPN Compatibility – Yes- VPN compatible
- Ad Annoyance – Window pop-up ads
- Streaming Quality – 1080p
23. FlixHQ
FlixHQ is a free-of-charge site that provides users with an extensive playable library of free TV shows. The site provides users with high-quality content, whereas some shows are only available in low resolution.
The site is also among the fastest third-party TV show streaming sites for watching TV series.
Features:
- There are many options to help you specify according to your preference.
- It’s easy to switch to different episodes of your favorite TV shows.
- There is no requirement. You can access all their features without any sign-in or charges.
- It has an additional toggle light and picture-in-picture feature to ensure a good watching experience.
Pros:
- An adaptable user interface ensures easy searching.
- High-quality show streaming with multiple servers option if the current server doesn’t work.
Cons:
- There is often a limitation on the number of episodes you can watch monthly.
- Supported Platforms – Web application
- VPN Compatibility – Yes- VPN compatible
- Ad Annoyance – Window pop-up ads
- Streaming Quality – 1080p
24. Sflix
Sflix lets users binge-watch their favorite shows in HD quality seamlessly and safely. Sflix updates the titles of the shows daily to let users watch what they desire. It is a safe, secure, and easy-to-use site for users to log in and sit back to enjoy their favorite show.
Features:
- Everyday Update: Newly released shows are available in a day or two.
- There is no need to register or log in to access any TV show.
- Compatible with any device, smartphone, laptop, and PC.
- The content is well-organized and in a wide range.
Pros:
- Adaptable user interface and easy to use.
- All content and shows could be accessed without registration or login.
Cons:
- Frequent pop-up ads.
- Supported Platforms – Web application
- VPN Compatibility – Yes- VPN compatible
- Ad Annoyance – Window pop-up ads
- Streaming Quality – 1080p
25. Seez
Seez is your one-stop destination to watch your favorite free TV shows. This site features pre-made section filters like Popular, Top, Airing, Genre, and more to help you find your favorite show. Moreover, the dark mode allows you to enjoy your favorite shows aesthetically.
Features:
- Option of bookmarking to keep track of the TV shows the user would like to watch.
- Features like light mode add better effects to the experience.
- Wide range of content – From paid platforms to the latest animes.
- They have provided an option of contacting them if the user faces any problem regarding their site.
Pros:
- Seamless streaming experience and jumping through a wide range of content.
- Less advertisement as compared to other sites.
Cons:
- Some users have reported bugs and errors while using Seez.
- Supported Platforms – Web application
- VPN Compatibility – Yes- VPN compatible
- Ad Annoyance – Window pop-up ads
- Streaming Quality – 1080p
You are all set to watch your favorite content. However, remember streaming from third-party websites and apps can land you in trouble with authorities.
Always use ExpressVPN to safeguard your privacy and stream with complete anonymity in three easy steps:
Step 1: Click HERE to subscribe to ExpressVPN and enjoy a 49% discount with 3 months of extended service. You are also eligible for a 30-day, full money-return guarantee.
Step 2: Download and install ExpressVPN on your device.
Step 3: Choose a server and click the Connect/Power button.
Put your mind at ease now! You have successfully secured your streaming activities with ExpressVPN.
Wrapping up
These are the best free streaming sites I use to watch free TV shows online. Which streaming sites do you use to watch TV shows online, free or paid? Let me know in the comments.
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