I. Introduction
We all love to watch TV shows, but the cost of subscriptions to online streaming services and cable TV channels can be a burden. Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy your favorite TV shows for free, without resorting to illegal downloads or pirated content. This article will explore various legal and hassle-free ways of watching TV shows at no cost.
II. Online streaming platforms
Crackle, Vudu, and Pluto TV are three online streaming services that offer a selection of TV shows and other broadcast content for free. Crackle is a Sony-owned streaming service accessible through its website, while Vudu and Pluto TV offer their services through their mobile apps.
Crackle has a broad selection of TV shows, including popular dramas, sitcoms, and reality shows. Vudu, owned by retail giant Walmart, offers an extensive library of free TV shows, including classic titles like Twin Peaks and The Twilight Zone. Pluto TV is a relatively newer, ad-supported service that offers a collection of TV channels that stream content 24/7 along with a selection of on-demand shows.
To navigate each platform, create a free account, and browse the available titles. Each service offers search filters, which help to find the desired TV shows quickly.
III. Free trial offers
Netflix and Hulu are both much-loved streaming services that offer free trials of their platforms. You can sign up for a free trial, which typically lasts for 30 days, and watch as many TV shows as you desire before the trial period expires.
When signing up, be sure to enter payment information. Once the free trial ends, you will be automatically charged the monthly subscription fee if you do not cancel your account before the trial period ends.
In addition to the risk of being charged, it can be challenging to resist continuing the subscription once you have started using it. Thus, it is best to use a calendar alert to remind yourself of when your trial period is over so you can cancel your subscription if necessary.
IV. Network streaming services
Network websites such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and The CW offer free streaming of some recent TV show episodes. You can tune in to the network’s website, find the TV show of your choice, and watch it for free anytime, without paying subscription fees.
However, be aware that many of these services are region-specific and geoblocked if you are not located in the US. Also, not all TV shows are available on network websites; those that are may only be current or recent episodes.
V. Borrow DVDs from the library
Many public libraries offer a vast collection of TV show DVDs that you can borrow for free. You can easily search the library’s online catalog or inquire directly at the library for a specific title.
While borrowing DVDs from the library is an entirely free method of accessing TV shows, it may have some drawbacks. Firstly, the selection may be limited or outdated, and you may have to wait in line if the TV series is trendy. Secondly, you will have to return the DVDs promptly to avoid being charged overdue fines.
VI. Youtube and DailyMotion
If you don’t mind watching low-quality videos, you can find episodes of many TV shows on video hosting sites like YouTube and DailyMotion. Once you locate the TV series you want to watch, search and filter for the highest-rated or most viewed videos to get the best viewing experience.
While there is vast content available on these sites for free, remember that the video quality may not be reliable, and there’s no guarantee that all episodes of the show will be available. Also, such sites are subject to frequent copyright strikes, so you may need to look harder to find a reliable source of free, legally-distributed content.
VII. Facebook Watch
Facebook has introduced its video hosting platform, Facebook Watch, where users can find TV shows, web series, and other video content. The service is free and ad-supported. You can use the Facebook Watch search bar to find TV shows by genre or title, and Facebook Watch will surface relevant results.
Facebook Watch’s limitations include its ad-supported system, which may interrupt you during the show, and a relatively narrow selection of shows when compared to those offered by other platforms. However, it is an excellent place to find popular and recently-released TV shows.
VIII. Ask a friend for their streaming login
You may also want to ask a friend or family member to share their streaming login with you. For example, you might find someone who has an active Netflix or Hulu subscription and is willing to lend you their login information so that you can watch shows for free.
However, there are potential concerns with using someone else’s login. Firstly, commercial services usually cap the number of concurrent streams per account; using someone else’s login may result in a decrease in the number of concurrent streams available, which may not be desirable. Secondly, misuse or abuse of login information could result in the termination of a friend’s subscription.
IX. Conclusion
The cost of subscriptions and cables should not hold you back from enjoying your favorite TV shows. There are numerous ways to watch outstanding TV shows online, legally and for free, without compromising the quality of your viewing experience.
Use any of the above methods to access high-quality TV shows without shelling out any cash. Ensure that you utilize them legally and respectfully.
