ShowBox is defunct, so finding reliable showbox alternatives is essential for uninterrupted binge-watching. The best free, legal, and safe alternatives include Pluto TV, Tubi TV, Peacock TV, Crackle, Vudu, Plex, Hoopla Digital, and Thought Maybe.
The Best ShowBox Alternatives for Free Streaming
ShowBox stopped working in 2018 due to copyright litigation, leaving users searching for working replacements. While some third-party apps claim to be ShowBox, they often carry malware risks. The following services provide legitimate, ad-supported streaming without legal concerns. Stremio aggregates content from paid services like Netflix, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video, making it convenient for users with existing subscriptions to find content in one place. Kodi is a multiplatform service compatible with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows, but has a steep learning curve for non-techies and beginners. Hulu offers a bundle plan with Disney+ and features original content like The Handmaid's Tale and Naughty Books; it has an iOS app but Android users must access it via mobile browser.
1. Pluto TV
Pluto TV is the top free and legal ShowBox alternative, owned by ViacomCBS. It offers both live TV with over 200 channels and on-demand movies like James Bond films, Mean Girls, and Ghost. Pluto TV introduced a "Watch List" feature in 2022, allowing users to save content for later viewing without needing a free account. Commercial breaks are shorter than traditional cable TV, and the service is available on Android and iOS.
2. Peacock TV
Peacock TV is NBCUniversal's free streaming service, offering comfort movies like Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and franchises like John Wick. It includes NBC original shows such as The Office and This Is Us, plus news programs like Today. Some content requires a premium upgrade, which also removes ads.
3. Tubi TV
Tubi TV provides 100% free viewing of movies and TV series in full HD, with new releases added weekly. The service became a legitimate pick after FOX acquired Tubi for $440 million, increasing its active users by approximately 25 million. Tubi is currently only available in the US, but a VPN can bypass this geo-block. You can watch movies using the Tubi TV app on Android and iOS.
4. Stremio
Stremio is one of the best ShowBox alternatives that allows you to stream content legally by aggregating data from popular streaming services like Netflix, HBO, and Amazon Prime Video. This is convenient for those with existing paid subscriptions who have a hard time finding their favorite TV shows or movies. The app is free to download from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, and supports subtitles and Chromecast.
5. Crackle
Developed by Sony, Crackle has over 20 million users and features a massive catalog of TV shows and movies for free in HD. The service offers unedited Hollywood movies and exclusive content. Users can create playlists for quick access and choose subtitles in multiple languages. Crackle is available on Android and iOS.
6. Kodi
With Kodi, you can access a diverse range of live TV, TV shows, movies, songs, photos, and even gaming content. The app also lets you customize your themes, offering a more personalized approach. As a multiplatform service, Kodi is compatible with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows computers and mobile devices, though it has a steep learning curve for non-techies and beginners.
7. Vudu
Vudu, Walmart's digital video store, offers a free section with over 10,000 ad-supported titles in HD. Popular movies include One Army and Apocalypto, alongside over 300 TV shows like The Girls Next Door. Users can log in with a FandangoNow or Walmart account, or create a new account with an email. Vudu is available on Android and iOS.
8. Hulu
Hulu is a streaming service that has a partnership with Disney+, meaning subscribers can get both Disney+ and Hulu as part of a bundle plan. It features original content like the documentary Naughty Books and the adaptation of The Handmaid's Tale. Hulu has an app for iOS devices but is also accessible online, so Android users can still access Hulu via their mobile browsers.
9. Plex
Originally a media server for personal collections, Plex now includes a growing library of free, ad-supported movies and TV shows. Its collection expanded through partnerships with Warner Bros., Lionsgate, and Crackle. Titles include Train to Busan, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and classics like Sherlock Jr. Plex is available on Android and iOS.
10. Hoopla Digital
Hoopla Digital functions as a full online library, allowing users to borrow digital content including movies, TV shows, audiobooks, ebooks, and music. Borrowed content can be downloaded for offline viewing with up to 72 hours to watch. The service requires a valid public library card for access. Hoopla Digital is available on Android and iOS.
11. Thought Maybe
Thought Maybe is a non-profit, ad-free platform specializing in documentary films on social and political topics. It supports Creative Commons licensing, allowing guilt-free sharing and access. The service has no mobile app but is accessible through any mobile browser.
More Ways to Stream Free Movies and TV
For users who want to explore further, check out the 15 best free TV streaming apps that are legit and safe. You can also browse the top 16 free movie apps you should try out for additional options beyond this list. Using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN is recommended to hide your online identity and protect your activities when accessing free streaming or torrenting services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ShowBox still available in 2024?
No, the original ShowBox app stopped working in 2018 due to copyright lawsuits. Any websites or APKs claiming to be ShowBox are likely third-party impostors that may contain malware.
Are these ShowBox alternatives safe to use?
Yes, all listed alternatives are legitimate services from established companies like ViacomCBS, FOX, NBCUniversal, and Sony. They operate legally through ad-supported models or library partnerships.
Do I need to create an account for Pluto TV?
No, Pluto TV's Watch List feature works without requiring a free account. You can save content for later viewing without signing up.
Can I watch content offline with these alternatives?
Hoopla Digital allows offline viewing of borrowed content for up to 72 hours. Most other services require an active internet connection for streaming.
Why do some alternatives require a library card?
Hoopla Digital partners with public libraries to provide free digital content access. A valid library card verifies your eligibility to borrow from your local library's digital collection.
