Best Free TV Apps in the U.S. for Streaming Without Cable

In the United States, the rising cost of cable TV subscriptions continues to frustrate many viewers, who are stuck with expensive monthly fees and packages that don’t match their viewing preferences.

That’s why more and more Americans are turning to free alternatives to watch TV directly from their smartphones — including apps that can simulate a projector experience for a big-screen feel.

While smartphones don’t have native projection capabilities, there are apps that simulate projection using mirroring, casting (such as Chromecast), or integration with smart TVs. For users looking for comfort, mobility, and cost savings, this combination of free TV apps and screen mirroring features offers a smart and effective solution.

Discover the Best Free TV Apps Available in the U.S.

These apps are ideal for streaming live channels, on-demand content, local news, movies, and more — all without any subscription fees.

Top Free TV Apps in the U.S.

• Pluto TV

• Tubi

• Xumo Play

• Plex TV

• The Roku Channel

• Crackle

• Local Now

• Peacock Free

Pluto TV

A free streaming platform offering hundreds of live channels and curated content including movies, sports, news, and reality TV.

• Requirements:

Android 5.0+ / iOS 11+

Stable internet connection

• Content Highlights:

Live channels such as CNN, NFL Channel, Pluto Movies

• Performance:

Fast loading times with minimal buffering

• Compatibility:

Available on Android, iOS, Smart TVs, Web, Amazon Fire, and Roku

• Key Features:

Live TV guide

On-demand viewing mode

Easy and intuitive navigation

Download the application by clicking the button to continue to your application store

Tubi

Tubi is a free, ad-supported streaming app that offers a vast library of movies and TV shows on demand. With minimal advertising and no subscription required, it’s a top choice for users seeking quality entertainment at zero cost.

• Requirements:

Android 6.0+ / iOS 12+

• Content Highlights:

Action, comedy, horror, drama, and kids’ content

• Performance:

HD streaming with limited ads for a smooth viewing experience

• Compatibility:

Smartphones, gaming consoles (PlayStation/Xbox), Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV

• Key Features:

Favorites list

“Continue Watching” functionality

Genre-based search for quick content discovery

Download the application by clicking the button to continue to your application store

Xumo Play

Xumo Play is a free streaming app that provides access to live TV channels and on-demand movies, featuring a wide range of U.S. programming. It’s a solid option for users who want instant access to entertainment without signing up or paying.

• Requirements:

Android 5.0+ / iOS 11+

• Content Highlights:

Sports, comedy, documentaries, and lifestyle programming

• Performance:

Fast, responsive interface that works well even with average internet connections

• Compatibility:

Samsung and LG Smart TVs, iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV

• Key Features:

Continuous live TV streaming

Dedicated section for featured movies

Download the application by clicking the button to continue to your application store

Plex TV

Plex TV is a multi-functional streaming platform that offers free movies, TV shows, and podcasts — along with the unique ability to organize and stream your own personal media library from anywhere.

• Requirements:

Android 6.0+ / iOS 12+

• Content Highlights:

Free ad-supported content plus the option to manage your own media files

• Performance:

Highly stable with smooth and intuitive navigation

• Compatibility:

iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Smart TVs

• Key Features:

Device syncing for seamless viewing across platforms

Built-in podcast support

Download the application by clicking the button to continue to your application store

The Roku Channel

The Roku Channel is a completely free streaming service available to Roku device users and also via mobile apps and the web. It offers a wide range of popular and classic content without requiring a subscription.

• Requirements:

iOS 11+ / Android 5.0+

• Content Highlights:

NBC series, classic movies, and live news channels

• Performance:

Excellent on Roku devices; solid performance on mobile apps

• Compatibility:

Roku devices, smartphones, smart TVs, and web browsers

• Key Features:

“Continue Watching” mode for seamless viewing

Clean and user-friendly interface

Download the application by clicking the button to continue to your application store

 

Local Now

Local Now is a free streaming app that delivers local news, weather updates, and traffic reports based on your real-time location — making it an ideal companion for staying informed in your area.

• Requirements:

Android 6.0+ / iOS 12+

• Content Highlights:

U.S. local channels and live weather forecasts

• Performance:

Fast loading speeds, especially in major cities

• Compatibility:

Android, iOS, Fire TV, Apple TV

• Key Features:

Integrated GPS for location-based content

Emergency alerts and real-time notifications

Download the application by clicking the button to continue to your application store

Ideal App for Every User Profile

Key Points

• Pluto TV is perfect for those who miss the traditional “channel surfing” experience of cable TV.

• Tubi appeals to viewers who prefer to watch content anytime, without being tied to schedules.

• Local Now stands out for users who value real-time weather forecasts and local news coverage.

Conclusion

Choosing free TV apps is one of the most effective ways to avoid the high costs of cable subscriptions in the United States. With apps like Pluto TV, Tubi, Xumo Play, and others, you can watch a wide variety of content — including movies, news, sports, and series — without paying a dime. Compatible with smartphones, smart TVs, and even featuring screen mirroring capabilities, these apps put programming control in your hands, offering both freedom and savings.