Top 5+ Best Free TV Apps for Smart TV
Cutting the cord is easier than ever with a wide range of free TV apps available for Smart TVs. These apps provide access to live channels, on-demand movies, series, and even original content-all without subscription fees. Here’s a detailed review of the top 5+ best free TV apps for smart TV in 2025:
| Top 5+ Best Free TV Apps for Smart TV in 2025 | Live TV Channels | On-Demand Library | Originals | Device Compatibility | Registration Required | Ads |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VivaTV | Yes | Yes | No | Most Smart TVs, mobile | No | Yes |
| Pluto TV | Yes (250+) | Yes | No | Most Smart TVs, mobile | No | Yes |
| Tubi TV | Yes (100+) | Yes (35,000+) | No | Most Smart TVs, mobile | No | Yes |
| Crackle | No | Yes | Yes | Most Smart TVs, mobile | No | Yes |
| Peacock (Free) | Limited | Yes | Yes | Most Smart TVs, mobile | No | Yes |
| The Roku Channel | Yes | Yes | Yes | Roku, select Smart TVs | No | Yes |
1. VivaTV
The first option in our list of the top 5 best free TV apps for smart TV is VivaTV. VivaTV hosts numerous official channels and independent uploaders that offer free BL dramas, especially popular Thai BL series from studios like GMMTV. Although some content may be censored or vary in quality, VivaTV’s accessibility and zero cost make it a convenient choice. Fans can also find fan-subbed episodes and related content, though the experience depends on the uploader.
Key Features
- Discover and watch any movie or TV show in stunning quality, up to 1080p and even 4K.
- Seamlessly manage your watchlist, favorites, and viewing history with Trakt.tv integration.
- Enjoy a sleek and intuitive design optimized for both phones and TVs.
- Enhance your streaming experience with premium support for Real-Debrid, Alldebrid, and Premiumize.
2. Pluto TV
Pluto TV stands out for its cable-like experience, offering over 250 live TV channels and thousands of on-demand movies and shows. The app features a user-friendly interface, allowing easy browsing across categories such as news, sports, entertainment, documentaries, and kids’ content. No account or payment is required, and it’s compatible with most Smart TVs, making it a favorite for users seeking a traditional TV feel with zero cost. Pluto TV is ad-supported, but ads are generally less intrusive than on regular cable.
Key Features:
- 250+ live channels
- Extensive on-demand library
- No registration required
- Kid-friendly profiles available
3. Tubi TV
The third option in our list of free TV apps for smart TV is Tubi TV. Tubi TV offers a massive library of free movies and TV shows, including classics and current series. It’s ad-supported but does not require a subscription or login. Tubi’s standout features include personalized recommendations, high-definition streaming, and robust parental controls. The app is available on nearly all Smart TV platforms and is ideal for binge-watchers who want a wide variety of genres without paying a dime.
Key Features:
- 35,000+ movies and TV shows
- 100+ live news channels
- Family-friendly options
- Personalized recommendations
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4. Crackle
Crackle, owned by Sony, provides a mix of original programming, Hollywood movies, and classic TV series. The app is free and ad-supported, with a curated content list that includes exclusive shows. Crackle’s interface is easy to use, and it offers some offline viewing options for select content. It’s available on most Smart TVs and streaming devices, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking for the best free TV apps for smart TV.
Key Features:
- Original and exclusive content
- Curated playlists
- Minimal ads compared to traditional TV
- Offline viewing on select titles
5. Peacock (Free Version)
NBCUniversal’s Peacock TV offers a robust free tier with access to popular NBC shows (such as select episodes of “The Office”), movies, live sports highlights, and news. While some content is locked behind a premium paywall, the free version still includes a substantial library. Peacock’s design is intuitive, and it’s available on all major Smart TV platforms.
Key Features:
- NBC classics and current shows
- Live sports highlights
- Regularly updated movie selection
- Easy navigation
6. The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel delivers a wide range of free, ad-supported shows, movies, and original content. It also offers live TV and the option to add premium channels (for a fee). The app is available on Roku devices and many Smart TVs, and it can even turn your phone into a Roku remote. While its library can feel random, it’s a solid choice for free streaming, especially for Roku users.
Key Features:
- Free original shows and movies
- Live TV channels
- Premium channel add-ons (optional)
- Mobile app remote feature