The Best Apps for Streaming Movies and TV Shows

30 December 2025

Let's face it—nobody wants to spend their precious chill time hunting down the right app to stream their favorite show or the latest blockbuster. There are tons of streaming services out there, each claiming to be the king of content. But which ones are actually worth your time? Whether you're trying to kill a few hours on your phone, binge a whole season on your TV, or catch up on a movie during lunch break, I've got you covered.

In this guide, I'm breaking down the best apps for streaming movies and TV shows so you can get straight to the good stuff without all the fluff.

Why Streaming Apps Matter (And Why You Should Care)

Remember the days of DVDs and cable TV schedules? Yeah, me neither. Streaming apps have completely changed the game. They give you control—what to watch, when to watch, and where to watch from. It's like having a cinema, TV network, and your personal DVR all rolled into one tiny icon on your phone.

But not all streaming apps are built the same. Some are better for original content, some are budget-friendly, and some are perfect for sports fans or documentary junkies. So how do you choose?

Simple—we break it down.

1. Netflix: The Undisputed OG of Streaming

Netflix is basically the godfather of streaming. If you’re not already subscribed, you either live under a rock or have the most self-control known to man (seriously, teach me your ways). Here's what makes Netflix so hard to beat:

What’s Hot on Netflix?

- Massive library of movies and TV shows
- Binge-worthy originals like Stranger Things, The Witcher, and Wednesday
- Top-tier documentaries and docuseries

Pros:

- User-friendly interface
- Personalized recommendations
- 4K and HDR content available

Cons:

- Subscription prices keep climbing
- Some popular content leaves without warning

Platform Compatibility:

Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, smart TVs, gaming consoles—you name it.

2. Disney+: Your Ticket to Nostalgia and Marvel Mayhem

If you've got a soft spot for Mickey Mouse or can’t get enough of Marvel and Star Wars, Disney+ is probably already one of your go-to apps.

What You Get with Disney+:

- All Disney animated classics
- Every Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film and series
- Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic content

Pros:

- Perfect for families
- Budget-friendly bundles (with Hulu and ESPN+)
- 4K UHD and Dolby Vision

Cons:

- Limited compared to Netflix or Prime Video
- Lacks R-rated content (unless you use Star section available in some regions)

Platform Compatibility:

iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, smart TVs, and more

3. HBO Max: Where Quality Trumps Quantity

If your vibe is more Game of Thrones than Frozen, HBO Max is a serious contender for your streaming time. It's not the biggest library, but man, the quality? Chef’s kiss.

What's Worth Watching:

- Blockbuster hits like The Batman and Dune
- Iconic series like Euphoria, Succession, and The Last of Us
- Warner Bros. classics and Studio Ghibli animations

Pros:

- Exceptional original content
- Ad-supported and ad-free plans
- Includes theater releases soon after they drop

Cons:

- Pricier than most
- Interface could be smoother

Platform Compatibility:

Available on most devices including smartphones, smart TVs, consoles, and browsers

4. Hulu: The Best Mix of TV and Streaming

Think of Hulu as the hybrid car of the streaming world. It’s fast, reliable, and offers a mix of current TV episodes and a solid library of movies and originals.

Highlights of Hulu:

- Next-day access to popular TV shows from major networks
- Originals like The Bear and Only Murders in the Building
- Optional add-ons for HBO, Showtime, Starz, and live TV

Pros:

- Great for TV lovers
- Offers live TV option
- Affordable with ads

Cons:

- Tons of ads on lower-tier plans
- Interface can feel cluttered

Platform Compatibility:

iOS, Android, Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV, PC, Mac, and gaming consoles

5. Amazon Prime Video: The Hidden Gem in Your Prime Membership

If you're already paying for Amazon Prime, congrats—you’ve got access to a killer streaming library without even realizing it.

Prime Perks:

- Huge selection of movies and TV shows
- Critically acclaimed originals like The Boys, Reacher, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
- Rent or buy recently released titles not yet on streaming

Pros:

- Included with Amazon Prime subscription
- Offline downloads available
- Some 4K titles at no extra cost

Cons:

- Clunky user interface
- Hard to distinguish free content from paid

Platform Compatibility:

Works on virtually everything

6. Apple TV+: Small Library, Big Punch

Apple decided to go for quality over quantity with Apple TV+, and honestly? It's working. Everything on this platform screams high production value.

Top Titles:

- Ted Lasso (worth subscribing for alone)
- Severance
- The Morning Show

Pros:

- Ultra-high quality original content
- Competitive pricing
- 4K HDR included

Cons:

- Small catalog
- No back catalog of licensed content

Platform Compatibility:

iOS, macOS, Apple TV, and other non-Apple devices via app or browser

7. Peacock: The Underdog with Free Options

NBCUniversal’s Peacock is like the scrappy little brother of the streaming world. It may not have it all, but it’s got a surprising amount of good stuff—and it's free (sort of)!

What’s On Peacock:

- NBC hits like The Office and Parks and Recreation
- Live sports like Premier League and WWE
- Movies, news, and late-night shows

Pros:

- Free tier available
- Great for NBC fans
- Live content

Cons:

- Free tier has a limited library
- Ads—even on premium plans

Platform Compatibility:

Most modern devices are covered

8. Crunchyroll: Anime Lovers, This One’s for You

If you speak fluent anime or simply want to dive into the world of Japanese animation, Crunchyroll is your happy place.

Why Crunchyroll Rocks:

- Simulcast new anime episodes from Japan
- Thousands of titles in both subbed and dubbed versions
- Manga and community features

Pros:

- Massive anime library
- Free with ads
- Offline viewing on paid plans

Cons:

- Pretty niche
- UI isn’t the most intuitive

Platform Compatibility:

Android, iOS, Xbox, PlayStation, Roku, smart TVs, and web

9. Tubi: 100% Free (And Actually Good)

Tubi is like the good kind of junk food—unexpectedly satisfying. It’s a free app, no subscription needed, and it’s packed with movies and shows that’ll keep you occupied for hours.

What’s Exciting:

- Thousands of titles across genres
- Hidden gems and cult classics
- Kid and family content included

Pros:

- Completely free
- No login required
- Decent library

Cons:

- Ad-supported
- No original content

Platform Compatibility:

Pretty much any device with a screen

Bonus Picks Worth Mentioning

Because hey, more is more when it comes to content.

- Paramount+ – Great for CBS and Star Trek fans
- YouTube TV – Ideal for live TV lovers
- Vudu – Best for renting or owning digital movies
- Showtime/Starz – Great add-ons for drama lovers

How to Choose the Right Streaming App for You

Still overwhelmed? That’s okay. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Content Type:

Are you into classic films, the latest series, or anime? Choose apps that prioritize your preferences.

2. Budget:

Some apps offer free versions (Tubi, Peacock), while others require monthly subscriptions.

3. Device Compatibility:

Make sure the app supports your go-to device, whether it’s your phone, smart TV, or console.

4. Extra Features:

Offline downloads, user profiles, parental controls—these little details can make or break your experience.

5. Bundle Deals:

Many services offer combos. Disney+ with Hulu and ESPN+, for example, gives you more bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts: Your Stream, Your Rules

Streaming apps have made it ridiculously easy to access entertainment 24/7. Whether you’re in the mood for a feel-good rom-com, a gritty dystopian thriller, or a heartwarming anime, there’s an app tailored just for you.

So go ahead, pick your favorites, mix and match, or rotate subscriptions monthly. You’re the boss of your screen time. Just don’t forget the popcorn.