Who says you need to pay to enjoy certain applications on your mobile devices? In the realm of Android, the best mobile apps are always free! Too good to be true? We’ve got you! From your day-to-day business applications to entertaining apps, here are the 50 best and free Android apps that every user should have on their phone for the utmost experience.
To make everyone’s life a little easier, we’ve organized these apps according to their category. And in each category, we’ll break down the five best apps for you to choose from.
Inside This Article
- Social Media Apps
- Android Music Player Apps
- Free Movie and TV Streaming Apps
- Free Photo Editing Apps
- Android Wear Apps
- Virtual Reality Apps
- News Apps
- Android TV Apps
- Widgets Customization Apps
- Gaming Apps
Best Social Media Apps
These five best Android apps are a must-have so you can stay connected with your friends and colleagues and even meet new people!
Of course, number one on our list is the most popular of them all, Facebook! When you think of social media, the first thing that you’ll probably think of is Facebook. With over 2 billion users worldwide, keeping up with your friends and families is faster and easier than ever. Plus, you can easily source all the pieces of information at an almost instantaneous rate. Regardless if you’re trying to search for a personal profile or a business address, everything you need is just a few clicks away on Facebook.
Not only is this among the best Android apps for private use, but it’s also useful for business owners who want to stay engaged with their audiences. With the extensive advertising services, business owners can gain more exposure to targeted demographics and locations among the crowds. The best part is that it’s absolutely free. Now, you can stay connected and even get your job done on the go.
If you’re into sharing beautiful photos or simply keeping up with your friends’ and families’ activities, add Instagram to your bucket list of best Android apps. Aside from the usual selfies, you’ll also see loads of stunning artworks and plenty of events happening simultaneously in a different part of the world.
Whether you’re using Instagram for personal use or business marketing, this app boasts its user-friendly interface. So, share your stories, photos, and videos now!
Want to stay updated on the latest news about your favorite celebrities, sports, or just the daily hot topics? Thankfully, Twitter is here to save the day. Though there’s the danger of fake news as with the other best social media Android apps, the resources you can get here are still legit.
The nature of tweets is to let you stay updated with the news without reading chunky long texts. As a booming popular social media for academics, politicians, and even students, Twitter has become an essential choice for many.
LinkedIn is the best social networking platform for professionals. Not only is it becoming one of the best Android apps for building your CV or finding a new job, but it is also the most effective social media platform for gaining website traffic and leads. If you’re looking to start a new career, you can easily connect with hiring managers and recruiters on LinkedIn. It’s the best modern alternative to the tedious newspaper classified ads.
Even if you’re not looking for a job, LinkedIn can be quite helpful to build your portfolio and get more engagement with professionals across the world.
Snapchat
Calling all the youngsters searching for the best Android apps out there! Snapchat is a fun-filled social media app that you should definitely try. Similar to Instagram, the Snapchat-verse is comprised of images, stories, and videos. What makes Snapchat different is its quirky filters and stickers.
Initially focused on private, person-to-person photo sharing, Snapchat now has evolved into a multi-tasking social media app where you can broadcast a live chat and start messaging at the same time. Apart from that, it also has a designated “Discovery” area that showcases short-form content from major publishers like Buzzfeed.
Another thing that you can only find on Snapchat is its AR-based lenses. It revolutionized the way we connect with each other. Instead of the boring old text messages, with Snapchat, you can spice up the conversation with a few tweaks.
Best Android Music Player Apps
Everybody needs music, whether you’re chilling, working, or jogging outdoors. Here are all the best music player apps on Android you can choose from; you should have at least one on your phone!
Spotify
Spotify was, is, and will always be the greatest music streaming platform of all time. Not to mention, it’s among the most recognizable and reliable music apps ever. Thus, it’s here in our roundup of best Android apps, too. It’s justifiable with its extensive music archives, radio stations, and playlists. With the versatility and flexibility to customize your own stations and playlists, Spotify is like a wonder in a pocket.
Its premium plan lets you enjoy more perks, so it’s no surprise users are interested in it or the workarounds for getting free Spotify Premium. Nonetheless, the free version doesn’t come any lesser than the paid version. You’ll still be able to play your desired music but of course, you have to accept the fact that you can’t skip any of the ads.
Pandora Music
Similar to any other music player apps on Android, Pandora Music can come hand in hand with Spotify. As one of the best Android music apps today, the highlight of Pandora Music is its minimalistic design, ease of use, and its cross-platform support.
Though there’s an extensive music library on Pandora, it stands out the most for its podcast choices and the latest music released. However, the only downside of this app is that it’s only available within the US. But, we couldn’t speak for the future. Who knows, the next day you’re reading this, it’s already available in your country. So, we shall wait and see what the future holds.
SoundCloud
If you’re not keen on the latest pop music, SoundCloud is the right choice for you. Unlike other music player apps, SoundCloud features a more unique interface. And although it has plenty of different music genres and podcasts, it allows you to upload and download songs from the platform.
The best part about using this platform is that you can put up your original content to gain exposure in different verticals. SoundCloud is also possibly one of the best music platforms where you can look for original content posted by the general public.
iHeartRadio
iHeartRadio is a great music app for people who enjoy podcasts, talk radio, and comedy shows. Featuring AM and FM radio stations that support data streaming, it even lets you listen to news and sports. It’s a radio app where you can explore a variety of stations based on your individual tastes.
Jango Radio
Jango Radio does not have the same level of popularity as the other best Android music apps but it does pack a punch! It has a variety of music from both big names and indie artists alike. Jango Radio allows independent artists to pay for plays, meaning that you may hear a song that an artist paid to hear. This gives Jango its operating revenue which helps the app stay free for all.
Best Free Movie and TV Streaming Apps
For when you need your dose of entertainment on the go, these best Android streaming apps are the way to go!
Crackle
Crackle offers an outstanding number of TV shows and movies that can be streamed for free. What’s truly awesome about this app is that it doesn’t require you to sign up to stream your favorite movie or video. One thing for you to take note of is that Crackle runs the videos on high quality. Hence, to have an uninterrupted experience, you are required to have a stable internet connection.
Tubi
Tubi is also one of the best Android apps for free video streaming because it hosts a wide collection of movies and TV shows. The shows are classified into several genres, and the search option is easy to navigate and definitely mobile-friendly. If you’re into a more classic yet elegant media-playing platform, you’ll like that Tubi projects a sleek yet sporty dark theme too.
Popcornflix
Just like Netflix but with a free-streaming option, Popcornflix also offers Popcornflix Originals. This free streaming app is fully devoted to streaming movies and TV shows at your convenience. With a minimalistic interface, Popcornflix highlights different genres of films separated into different sections. All these features make it a great alternative to Netflix and worthy of a spot on our best Android apps list.
Plex
Plex also deserves to be among the best Android apps for free streaming. What is Plex and why is it great, then? The app is not your traditional streaming platform. It not only allows you to watch content from its partner entertainment companies but also supports the upload and organization of your own media files. Moreover, you can access podcasts, games, and music on the platform.
Pluto TV
If you can’t go without your daily dose of live TV shows, check out Pluto TV. It rivals the other best Android streaming apps here because of its big catalog that features hundreds of live channels. There are thousands of movies that also await you on Pluto TV.
Free Photo Editing Apps
If you like taking photos on your phone, these best photo-editing apps are your essential companion. Use them to enhance your photos before you share them on your favorite social media apps!
Snapseed
Snapseed is Google’s very own photo editing app. It offers extreme versatility, giving you the capability to do a whole lot more than just adding filters to your photos. With this app, you can enhance the balance and tone of your photos, remove unnecessary objects, resize your images, and more.
The best part is that it’s quite user-friendly, which is perfect even for beginners. If you want to increase your image clarity, you can; smoothen your skin, no problem too. If you’re halfway across your edits and need some time off, you can customize each aspect of the editing, and save them for later perusal.
PicsArt Photo Editor
The best Android photo-editing apps can also help you express your artistic side. Specializing in that is PicsArt. As one of the most popular photo-editing software, the app is packed with different functionalities. From stunning ColourSplash and Pop Art to Corrections, this app boasts extensive functionalities.
If you want to spice up your image, you can easily blend it with another one from the library of PicsArt. You’ll find it easy and fun to convert a simple image into a work of art. The app allows you to make changes to your photos with just a couple of taps on the screen and draw on your photographs to give them that custom touch.
PhotoDirector
PhotoDirector is a complete photo editing app that lets you do more with your photos as you shoot them with the camera. Using live camera filters and effects, the app allows you to get much more out of your photos as opposed to regular editing. There are standard editing features present here as well in case you want to use them.
AirBrush
AirBrush, as the name suggests, helps you make modifications selectively to your desired spot or angle without changing its ensemble of it. But if you want to transform the entire image, you can do that too. Tons of filter options are offered here as well as single-tap transformation features that help you change the look and feel of the picture entirely. Try this app and see how it can transform your face complexity with just a few clicks.
Adobe Photoshop Express
Adobe is undeniably one of the most popular developers of photo-editing software for computers and mobile devices alike. That being said, it’s no surprise that Adobe Photoshop Express is on this best Android apps list. It has a minimalistic user interface and gives access to all the top features that you need from a photo editing app. Whether you want to add filters, adjust the appearance of subjects, or eliminate blemishes from photos, you can do all of that and more with this app!
Android Wear Apps
If you’re using a wearable with your Android phone, particularly a Wear OS wearable, then check out these apps too!
AccuWeather
Looking for the best weather apps for your Android Wear? This one is a great pick. All of the basics you need from a weather app are here on AccuWeather, including current temperature, forecast, radar, and weather alerts (in the US only.) Plus, this weather app also presents other stats such as humidity and wind speed.
AccuWeather can work on both Android Wear and your smartphone. If you’re wondering if it’s worth an upgrade, the free version is almost the same as the pro version despite the ads.
Bring! Grocery Shopping List
Here’s something handy for your next shopping — the Bring! app. It basically does what it says. Bring! is a very useful app featuring a great design with plenty of customization options. Plus, it’s also compatible with all Android Wear. Instead of feeling frustrated for forgetting your eggs for your baking session, this app makes sure you’re leaving the mall with everything you need.
The best part is that you can also create separate in-app lists for different activities. Also, the app uses a card and tile layout. Hence, it’s more minimal and modern than most other grocery app lists available. This is really a must-try!
YouTube Music
YouTube Music is no stranger to the Android Wear ecosystem. It remains one of the best Wear OS-ready apps out there. YouTube Music lets you add, control, and listen to your music on your smartwatch. With it, there is no longer a need to pull out your bulky phone to enjoy songs while on the go.
Podcast Republic
Podcast Republic is a great and trusted podcast app on Android Wear. It highlights huge archives of both video and audio podcasts. It also features automated downloads, multiple playlists, syncing support, multiple language support, and SD card support. The free version contains ads but besides that, there is no difference in features with the pro version.
Google Maps
Google Maps might be an obvious choice for our best Android Wear apps list, but it is undeniably useful. It’s one of the best navigation apps on a smartwatch platform to date. It has most of the same features as the smartphone version. That includes directions, local business information, and a lot more. This should be one of the apps that you should install first on your Android smartwatch.
Virtual Reality Apps
Upgrade the fun you can achieve with your Android phone through these virtual reality apps!
Google Cardboard
Google Cardboard is intended to help you get your Cardboard VR headset set up correctly and experience basic VR features. With this app, you can download Cardboard-supported apps, load VR videos, and see 3D demonstrations.
YouTube VR
You probably know what YouTube is by now. With endless streaming choices, YouTube is possibly one of the most used applications in the whole wide world. Some might even think YouTube has reached its peak.
This media platform continues to evolve, and YouTube VR adds an extra dimension to it. To access this feature, it’s simple. All you need is to install YouTube VR, then you can switch to “watch in VR” mode to enjoy cinematic viewing of your favorite YouTube videos.
Within VR
Within VR showcases animations, documentaries, music videos, and more in VR format. You should have your mobile VR headset ready to enjoy those. But in case you do not have the said equipment, worry not. Unlike some of the best Android VR apps, this lets you view its immersive content using only your smartphone.
Netflix VR
Does Netflix have VR mode? Yes, it does! Netflix VR provides you with the flexibility to stick with conventional movie previews or to take things up a notch with the VR mode. The first is a rustic living room experience and offers a static view of your media content. The second mode immerses you in your TV or movie by moving the content to match your eye movement. However, to activate this app and make it function properly, you need the Dream VR controller.
VR Thrills: Roller Coaster 360
Who says you have to get out to experience a thrilling roller coaster ride? With VR Thrills: Roller Coaster 360, all you need is your Google Cardboard headsets or other VR headsets. Trust us, the excitement, joy, and adrenaline you’re going to get from this are extreme! Do note that this VR is not for the faint-hearted!
Best News Apps
Go paperless and stay updated with news right from your Android phone with these best apps.
AP News
Want to stay up to date with the current news? AP News is a great app that does not only give you the best insights into the hottest topics. Its news sources are absolutely reliable, too. With news covering hundreds of stories from both local and international sources, and topics ranging from business to lifestyle, everything you need is just a few clicks away.
What we like about this app is that its interface is practical, clean, and sleek. The easy navigation ensures you get what you need without beating around the bush.
Flipboard allows you to create a custom feed with your favorite news sources, sites, and other places. One major feature that makes Flipboard different from the other best news apps on Android is its interface. Instead of the traditional gray and white outlook, Flipboard’s layout is more flashy and contemporary. So, you’ll find graphics hovering over the board, along with fun animations, large images, and an interface that give it the looks of a digital magazine.
Feedly
Feedly is one of the most popular news apps on Android. In fact, it’s actually an RSS reader. That means you can pull out the articles from a variety of sites and sources. Besides, it is also integrated with Facebook, IFTTT, Twitter, Evernote, OneNote, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and others. If you want to get your job done without losing touch with current events, Feedly is here to feed you with a few dosages of the daily essentials.
Inoreader
Inoreader, also an excellent Android news app, features offline support. It has a decent selection of topics (including pre-made ones) and can also track what you read. Like Feedly, you can customize it to your taste.
Here’s something unique for your best Android news apps bucket list: Pocket! This app doesn’t just offer content but rather saves whatever content you happen to encounter during your day. You can put all the stuff you want into Pocket and then come back to read it later. It has offline support, a decent reading experience, and some discovery features as well.
Best Android TV Apps
Got an Android TV? These apps are the essentials when it comes to making the most out of your screen, from streaming your movies to playing games and even accessing your files!
Netflix
Netflix doesn’t need any introduction. When it comes to movie streaming, it dominates the market. With plenty of choices, ranging from classic movies to informative documentaries, you just can’t get enough of this app. Hence, this app is essential for anyone who invested in an Android TV.
Steam Link
If you want to stream your Steam games directly to your TV, all you need is the Steam Link app. The app can support 4K resolutions at 60fps. If you want, you can go to advanced settings to change the resolution to 1080p. However, you might need a faster internet connection to maximize the use of this app.
Google Drive
Want to access your files via your Android TV? Then try the Google Drive app. Installing the Google Drive app on your TV can give you limitless access to all your cloud data while enabling you to see everything on the big display.
VLC Media Player
If you need a media player that supports nearly all video codecs, get VLC Media Player. This supports network streams, most types of audio files, and DVD ISOs. It’s probably the best all-around multimedia player for Android TVs.
Kodi
Kodi is versatile, so it’s also part of this best Android apps roundup. It moonlights as a file manager and media player. To elaborate, it helps you organize and watch your files on your Android TV hassle-free. Kodi’s interface is user-friendly; therefore, you’ll get familiarized with it quickly.
Widgets Customization Apps
To make your home screen look more like you, use these best Android apps. They’ll let you customize your widgets the way you like them!
Overdrop Weather & Alerts
Overdrop Weather & Alerts is one of the best-looking apps of its kind and offers astoundingly accurate minute-by-minute forecasts from the DarkSky service. You get 21 free widgets, plus a further 17 if you upgrade through an in-app purchase. Best of all, the app is free of charge.
Chronus
Your home screen needs a beautiful minimal clock this year! Chronus features six awesome widgets. It offers a choice of digital and analog clocks, with added agenda view, weather, stocks, or a news feed.
Google Keep
When it comes to note-taking, Google Keep is unbeatable. It offers two widgets. One is a simple shortcuts bar that allows you to create a basic note, list, voice memo, handwritten note, or photo note, while the other widget allows you to pin notes to your home screen.
Month
Simple, elegant, and functional. That’s what the Month calendar widget is all about and why it is here among the best Android apps. On it, you can choose a classy, transparent, full-page Month view, or go for a more functional Agenda view suitable for busy professionals. It’s fully compatible with Google Calendar as well.
Flashlight Widget
Want a simpler way to control and access your flashlight? Flashlight Widget is a direct On/Off switch for your flashlight right on your home screen. It has no ads and requires no permissions to make your life a little easier.
Gaming Apps on Android
An Android phone is boring without games! Here are the best games you need on your phone for when you’re bored or just feeling competitive.
Another Eden
Another Eden is an exciting mobile JRPG that’s a step above your usual mobile RPG. You roam around the game world with your friends rather than going on missions like others. Nevertheless, there are still gacha elements and simplified battle mechanics. There are also some throwbacks to smaller scenes from Chrono Trigger. There is no energy limit so you can play as much as you want to.
Alto’s Odyssey
Alto’s Odyssey features simple mechanics, gorgeous graphics, and a relaxing style. Players ski down a hill while avoiding obstacles and making massive jumps. Let us warn you, this is highly addictive!
Asphalt 9: Legends
Asphalt 9: Legends is the most recent game in the popular racing series now. It showcases more than 150 cars, and a bunch of challenges and content to play with. It has online multiplayer, single-player, and more modes for you to try too. This game uses an auto-go mechanism so you can’t control your acceleration. It may not be everybody’s cup of tea. But still, the graphics and gameplay are top-notch, making the game still very exciting to play!
PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile is one of the most popular mobile shooters available. It features a 100-player battle royale on a small island. Players collect gear, weapons, and vehicles on the island and battle it out. The winner is the last person standing. If you’re really into shooting games, you can’t really miss out on this one.
Pocket City
If you’re a fan of old Sim City games, you would instantly fall in love with Pocket City! In this game, you build a city, create its infrastructure, make sure everybody has enough work and play, and even monitor your environmental impact. You also get missions for experience points and unlockable buildings as you play. Overall, this is a fantastic game that will unlock your creativity! Head to our roundup of best city-building games for more must-play releases.
Final Word
There’s no doubt that Android apps nowadays are getting better and better. Developers are always bringing their A-game, giving users a smoother and more satisfying experience every single time. But the most impressive part is that many of the best Android apps won’t require you to shell out cash! As the saying goes, the best things in life are always free.
