Top 10 Free Movie Apps for PC [2025 Update]

This page gathers today's top 10 most popular free movie apps for PC to let you watch free movies on PC or mobile device to entertain yourself when bored. Select and install any of the apps to watch movies for free in 4K, HD 1080p and 720p on Windows PC.

Top 10 Best Free Movie Apps for PC [Updated]

How did you use to watch movies? Relying on a DVD player on Windows 10? It works indeed, but you have to buy or rent physical DVDs. Ever, so, there are possibilities for various DVD playback errors on desktop. To get out of the situation, you're recommended to watch movies with the best free movies apps for PC. Here are top 10 free HD movie app for Windows PC/laptop.

1. Popcorn Time

• Wide compatibility: Available for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Android TV boxes (like Nvidia Shield, Firestick), and web browsers.
• HD streaming: Offers 720p, 1080p, and even 4K movies with no watermarks, plus multilingual subtitles and casting options.
• Massive resource: Streams the latest blockbuster movies, TV series, anime, and documentaries.

Popcorn Time is widely considered one of the best free movie streaming apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It uses a P2P protocol to stream the latest movies and TV shows from popular torrent sources, including free versions of titles from Netflix, HBO, and Disney+. The app frequently updates its content library, so you won’t be stuck with outdated titles.

It requires no registration, credit card, or trial subscriptions — just download and start watching. Popcorn Time also supports Chromecast and AirPlay for easy casting to your TV and allows downloads for offline viewing. The playback experience is smooth with no forced pop-up ads. However, keep in mind that copyright laws vary by country, and using Popcorn Time might be restricted in some regions. If you're concerned about legal issues, safe alternatives like Kodi, GoMovies, and Snagfilms are worth considering. Always download the app from trusted sources, preferably ones recommended on Reddit or verified movie forums, to avoid malware or fake versions.

>> If you have any problem using Popcorn Time, check How to solve Popcorn Time not working problem >>

2. Crackle

• 100% free and legal: No subscription or credit card needed, fully licensed movies and TV shows.
• Available on multiple platforms: Supports Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and some devices come with it pre-installed.
• Official Sony content: Features movies and shows from Sony Pictures, Columbia, TriStar, and other Sony-owned studios.

Crackle is one of the very few legal and completely apps to watch movies for free available today. Backed by Sony, it offers a solid selection of Hollywood movies, TV shows, and original web series without any subscription fees or account registration. You can stream full-length HD movies as soon as you download the app. The trade-off is a smaller content library compared to major paid services, and the app includes occasional ads during playback — but for a legal, free option, it’s hard to complain. Is Crackle really free, safe, and legal?

While Crackle can’t match Netflix or Disney+ in terms of movie selection, it shines by offering official, licensed content directly from Sony’s own catalog. That includes titles from Sony Pictures, Columbia Pictures, TriStar, Screen Gems, and more. The app is available on multiple platforms and even comes pre-installed on select smart TVs and devices. If you’re after a free, legal, and trustworthy movie app with decent quality and no hidden strings, Crackle is a solid pick.

Useful Tips:

Some free movie websites allows you to download the movies for offline watching, while some don't provide a download option. If you want to save online movies for watching without the Internet, it's recommended that you use a video downloader program like Video Keeper, which allows you to download streaming videos from more than 1000 websites on Windows, Mac and Android. Simply copy and paste the URL and you’re ready to enjoy your favorite movies offline in a few seconds.

3. Netflix

• Premium streaming service: Offers ad-free playback with a massive selection of movies, TV shows, and Netflix Originals.
• Major platforms support: Compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and TV boxes like Nvidia Shield and Firestick.
• Subscription required: Plans start at $8.99 to $15.99 per month, with no free trial currently available.

Netflix is one of the world’s leading streaming platforms, offering a huge library of movies, TV series, documentaries, and exclusive Originals. Known for its clean, ad-free viewing experience and consistent high-quality streams — including 4K and HDR support — it’s a favorite for users looking for premium entertainment on-demand. The app is available on Windows 10, Mac, Android, iOS, Smart TVs, and popular streaming devices.

While Netflix delivers an unmatched variety of content, it requires a paid subscription to access its library, with plans ranging from $8.99 to $15.99 per month depending on your streaming quality and number of screens. Unlike some other platforms, Netflix no longer offers a free trial, so new users must subscribe upfront. If you prioritize original content, reliable streaming, and a polished, ad-free experience across multiple devices, Netflix remains one of the best choices — provided you’re willing to pay for it.

When any internet, VPN, not working error occurs to Netflix, there are always free Netflix Windows 10 alternatives >

4. ShowBox

• Free movie and TV streaming app: Allowed users to stream, download, and organize movies and TV shows without registration.
• Wide platform support: Previously available for Windows (10), Mac, Android, iOS, Chromecast, and Kindle Fire.
• Discontinued service: The official ShowBox app is no longer available, and no official relaunch has been announced.

ShowBox was once one of the most popular apps to watch movies for free, letting users watch, download, and manage movies and TV series with no account or payment required. It supported a wide range of devices including Windows PCs, Macs, Android phones, iPhones, iPads, Chromecast, and Kindle Fire. Beyond streaming, it also helped users track their favorite TV shows, seasons, and latest episodes — all in one place.

Important update: The official ShowBox app has been permanently shut down, and there’s no sign of a legitimate comeback. If you search for “ShowBox” online today, you’ll find apps like Showbox Presents, ShowBox Kim, or Show Box & TV Movie Hub Cinema. Be cautious — these are unofficial clones, often packed with ads, unreliable streams, or potential security risks. It’s safer to explore verified, well-reviewed alternatives recommended by trusted tech forums and communities.

5. MovieBox

• Free movie and TV streaming app: Previously offered a wide range of movies and TV series for free without subscriptions.
• Compatible with multiple devices: Supported Windows PCs, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and some Android devices.
• Discontinued: The original app was shut down over legal issues and is no longer officially available.

MovieBox was once a well-known free app to watch movies for free, offering users a large library of movies and TV series across Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and other platforms. It provided free access to popular titles without requiring registration or payment, making it a popular choice for those looking to stream content without subscriptions.

Important note: MovieBox faced legal problems for streaming movies and TV shows without proper licensing and was eventually shut down. While it was technically illegal to use, many users accessed it without issue. Today, MovieBox has been replaced by MovieBox Pro, a private, invite-only platform. New users attempting to open the app will see a "PRIVATE GARDEN" message, requiring an invitation code to join. As with other unofficial apps, it’s advised to be cautious and consider safer, verified alternatives.

6. Hulu

• Extensive content library: Offers a wide selection of current hit movies, popular TV shows, and some classic titles.
• Work across platforms: Downloadable from the Windows Store and accessible on various devices including mobile and smart TVs.
• Ad-supported with premium option: Free to watch with ads, or pay extra to enjoy an ad-free experience.

Hulu is a popular streaming app known for its large and diverse library of movies and TV shows, ranging from the latest blockbusters to some classic favorites. Available for download on Windows 10 PCs via the Windows Store, Hulu also features content from premium networks like HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax, making it a go-to app for many viewers.

While Hulu frequently updates its collection with new releases, it tends not to add older shows as much as some users might hope. The app is free to use with ads, but you can opt for a paid subscription to remove advertisements and enhance your viewing experience. Overall, Hulu balances fresh content variety with flexible viewing options.

7. YouTube

• Largest video platform: Offers not only videos but also extensive movie-related content like trailers, soundtracks.
• Free access to thousands of movies: Features a wide range of full-length movies across genres.
• Constantly updated: New videos and movies are added daily, keeping the library fresh and diverse.

YouTube is the world’s largest video-sharing platform, doubling as a vast movie resource. Beyond full-length films, it provides rich content including trailers, movie soundtracks, interviews, and insights about cast and crew, making it a great place to explore film connections and history.

The platform hosts thousands of free movies spanning multiple genres such as War, Romance, Comedy, Fantasy, Drama, and Musicals. With daily updates, YouTube’s movie collection continuously grows, offering viewers a diverse and accessible entertainment option without any subscription fees.

8. Vudu

• Free access to HD and 4K movies: Stream hundreds of full-length movies, many in 4K UHD with Dolby Atmos support.
• Available on multiple platforms: Downloadable via the Microsoft Store for Windows, with apps for phones, laptops, and smart TVs.
• Ad-supported with frequent updates: Offers 8,000+ free movies and TV shows, though some TV series selections are outdated.

Vudu is a popular movie streaming app that lets you watch a large selection of HD and even 4K UHD movies for free. Available for download from the Microsoft Store on Windows 10, Vudu features uncut Hollywood movies and supports premium audio formats like Dolby Atmos, delivering a theater-like experience at home.

The platform offers over 8,000 free movies and TV episodes, organized into clear genre categories and updated regularly. While its movie collection is impressive for a free app, Vudu is ad-supported, and some of its TV show offerings can feel a little dated. Still, for free, high-quality movies and occasional new releases, it remains a solid option for movie lovers on Windows and other devices.

9. Microsoft Movies & TV

• Official Microsoft streaming app: Allows users to watch purchased or rented movies and TV shows in up to 1080p HD.
• Available on Windows 10 and Xbox: Accessible via the Microsoft Store, Xbox Store, and compatible with content previously bought on Xbox Video or Zune Marketplace.
• Rental and viewing limits: Rentals are typically valid for 14 days, with a 48-hour window once playback begins.

The Movies & TV app from Microsoft lets users stream blockbuster movies and popular TV shows in 1080p HD, including titles purchased or rented from the Microsoft Store, Xbox Store, and older platforms like Xbox Video and Zune Marketplace. It provides a convenient way for Windows 10 and Xbox users to manage and view their digital video library.

When you rent a movie through the Microsoft Store, you have 14 days to start watching, and usually 48 hours to finish it once you hit play. After the rental period or viewing window expires, the title will automatically be removed from your library. Occasionally, Microsoft offers free movie weekends, but those are typically available for only three days. While it’s not a free movie streaming service, it’s a reliable option for those who already purchase or rent content through the Microsoft ecosystem.

10. Flixster

• Movie discovery and trailer app: Lets users watch trailers, check showtimes, and stream movies from their personal collection.
• Create custom watchlists: Offers a feature to track and organize movies you want to watch.
• Declining popularity and limited streaming: App ratings dropped after a 2018 update, and it now ranks low among free movie apps.

Flixster was once a well-known apps to watch movies for free, trailers, and check showtimes at nearby theaters. It also allowed users to stream movies from their own digital collection, making it a handy option for organizing and accessing purchased titles or digital movie codes in one place.

While Flixster included helpful features like custom watchlists and movie recommendations, its popularity has declined in recent years. Following an update in 2018, the app’s rating dropped to just 1.35 out of 5 stars based on user reviews, placing it 157th among free movie apps. While it may still be available for basic movie discovery, it’s no longer a strong choice for streaming free movies on a computer or laptop.

Conclusion: YouTube, Hulu, Movies & TV, Vudu, Netflix, Crackle are legal apps, enabling you to watch free movies on PC. Other free apps to watch movies for Windows or other devices, such as Popcorn Time, Showbox, Moviebox, are illegal in some locations. Such services can be easily banned. You are also exposed to a host of potential hazards, including redirects, malware, malicious pop-ups, hacking, and potential legal trouble. It's safer to resort to free and legal HD movies apps like Netflix, Vudu, YouTube.

FAQs about Free Movie Streaming Apps

Are there any completely free apps to watch movies without ads?

Most free movie apps rely on ads to cover licensing and hosting costs. While some like Crackle or Vudu offer free streaming, they include occasional ads. Completely ad-free options typically require a paid subscription, like Netflix or Disney+. Some unofficial apps claim to be ad-free but may pose privacy or security risks.

Is it legal to use free movie apps like Popcorn Time or MovieBox?

Apps like Popcorn Time and MovieBox stream copyrighted movies without official permission, which makes them legally questionable in most countries. While many users access them without immediate consequences, doing so could violate local copyright laws. Always check your region’s regulations or use legal free services like Crackle, Pluto TV, or Tubi.

Is Popcornflix really free?

Yes — Popcornflix is a completely free, ad-supported streaming service. It offers a wide variety of movies and TV shows without requiring a subscription or account. While its library focuses more on older titles, indie films, and cult favorites, it remains a safe and legal option for free streaming.

Is there an app similar to Netflix but free?

While no free app fully matches Netflix’s selection of new, exclusive content, services like Tubi, Pluto TV, Crackle, and Freevee offer a legal way to stream thousands of movies and shows for free. These apps are ad-supported but cover a wide range of genres and categories, making them solid alternatives for casual viewers.

Which free movie apps have the newest movies?

Legal free apps typically don’t offer newly released blockbuster films. Services like Vudu, Tubi, and Freevee update their libraries regularly but focus on older or lesser-known titles. Unofficial apps like Popcorn Time used to stream newer movies, but they often come with legal and safety risks.

Can I download movies to watch offline on free apps?

Some free apps like Vudu allow limited offline downloads, but most legal free apps are streaming-only. Paid services like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu include offline download options. Unofficial apps might offer download features, but they often carry malware or violate copyright laws.

Which free apps work best on Android TV or Firestick?

For legal, reliable options, Tubi, Pluto TV, Crackle, and Vudu offer official apps for Android TV and Firestick. Popcorn Time and MovieBox Pro require sideloading and may not be available through official app stores, posing potential security and legal concerns.

Why are some free movie apps no longer available?

Many popular unofficial apps like ShowBox and MovieBox were shut down due to copyright infringement claims. Legal pressure from movie studios and content owners forced these apps offline. In their place, unofficial clones often appear, but they’re unreliable and may contain harmful ads or malware.