Pluto TV is a completely free streaming app that's backed by Paramount. With Pluto, you get access to over 250 live channels along with a full on-demand movie library. And better yet, you don't need a subscription, credit card, or even an account to start watching.
Pluto TV is one of the best free streaming apps; it's that good. If you love flipping through channels to see what's on but don't want to pay for expensive channel packs, Pluto makes free television feel like actual cable TV.
If you want to save your shows or star your favorites, you can create a free account with just your email. The entire setup process took under two minutes. Within three taps, even more Pluto features were unlocked, and I was watching Blue Bloods on the TV guide.
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What is Pluto TV?
Pluto TV is a free (ad-supported) streaming service owned by Paramount. That ownership is the reason the channel lineup is as strong as it is. Dedicated live channels for CBS News, MTV Hits, and Comedy Central classics run around the clock, with the latest seasons of Survivor and 60 Minutes.
Plus, you can catch up on the latest episodes of current CBS series available on demand. Pluto has more current, recognizable content than you'd expect from a free app.
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Pluto has the best TV experience
Open the app, tap any channel in the TV guide, and playback starts immediately. Pluto is the closest thing to actual channel surfing you'll find on a free app. The guide is organized and scrollable just like a cable listing, and the content running on it is better than you'd expect at zero cost. Trekkies can find a dedicated Star Trek: Voyager channel. News viewers have round-the-clock streams from CBS News and other outlets.
Image: Jessica Santero | WhistleOut
You get the same frequency of ads as cable TV, but think of them the same way: a bathroom break, a snack run, a moment to check your phone. It's the only caveat to a free service, but the ads don't feel worse than what you probably already put up with on other platforms.
More movies and on-demand shows
The on-demand library isn't filled with obscure titles nobody's heard of. The first time I switched to the movies section, I spotted one of my favorite Adam Sandler films. I immediately popped popcorn and sat down for a full movie session. The full Mission Impossible saga is available, alongside a mix of studio films and fan favorites that keep the selection easy to browse.
Image: Jessica Santero | WhistleOut
The category setup makes it easy to find something without scrolling forever. An "On Now" section lets you jump straight into whatever's currently streaming, and sections like Recently Added, Last Chance to Watch, and News + Opinion add enough structure that browsing doesn't feel random.
The downside to Pluto
On both the app and desktop, there's a pop-up window in the lower right corner that you cannot close. It doesn't block the screen, but it sits there during browsing and playback in a way that's distracting enough to mention.
It's not a dealbreaker, but it's worth knowing before you sit down for a movie. Pluto also keeps video playing in the background like most streaming apps, so watch your data usage if you're on a cellular connection.
How WhistleOut reviews apps
Our mobile experts scour the app stores, looking for the best new apps for Android and iPhone. Before recommending an app, we put it to the test to evaluate whether it delivers on its promises.
- Easy to use
Great apps simplify your phone. We select tools that don't require a complicated instructional manual to figure out. - Affordability
We lean into quality apps that don't cost a fortune. Extra points if they're free. - Hands-on testing
We tested Pluto TV on both mobile and desktop, navigating the live guide, watching full-length content, browsing on-demand categories, and timing ad breaks across both the logged-in and accountless experience.
Pluto TV: FAQ
Is Pluto TV really free?
Yes, the Pluto TV app is completely free to use. There is no paid tier, no subscription, and no credit card required to use it.
Do you need an account for Pluto TV?
A Pluto TV account is optional, but the accountless version offers a much smaller content selection. Creating a free account with your email takes under two minutes and unlocks the full library.
How many channels does Pluto TV have?
Pluto TV offers 250+ live channels, including dedicated streams for CBS News, MTV Hits, Comedy Central, and franchise-specific channels like Star Trek: Voyager.
Who owns Pluto TV?
Pluto TV is owned by Paramount, which is why its live channel lineup includes CBS programming, MTV content, and Paramount-licensed movies and series.
Does Pluto TV work on smart TVs?
Yes, Pluto TV works on iOS, Android, web, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Samsung Smart TVs, and most other major smart TV platforms.
Jessica Santero
Staff Writer
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