But even non-cable options aren't completely free. And if you're not paying attention you could still rack up quite a bill.
So to cut out the hassle of finding places to watch your favorite movies and TV shows I've brought together some of the best sites that stream for free (legally). You'll find hours of entertainment for the whole family!
YouTube - Believe it or not, YouTube has more uses than funny cat videos and crazy dash cam footage. YouTube hosts plenty of free movies, and not just user-created clips.
YouTube Movies offers full-length feature films from Hollywood and around the world and many are completely free! You can also find classic films, independent films, and Disney movies. But remember, some of these movies are not suitable for all audiences, so be sure to surf for movies with your kids.
Internet Archive - When a film enters the public domain, it means that you and I own it! So where's your copy of the original Little Shop of Horrors? It's online at the Internet Archive.
This site collects public-domain works, so it's mostly classic films. Features, shorts, silent films, talkies and even vintage newsreels and advertisements are available. You can get your fix of classic noir and Charlie Chaplin right here.
Big Five Glories - During the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema in the 1930s and '40s, the five biggest production companies were Fox, RKO, Paramount, Warner Bros. and MGM. Four of them are still making movies, but Big Five has movies from all of them.
You'll be able to find many of the most glorious pictures made between 1903 and 1976 on Big Five Glories. All these classic flicks stream without commercial interruption.
Crackle - If you'd rather browse from hundreds of more contemporary movies, Crackle has plenty of popular options for television shows and movies. Many of them are recent blockbusters, but there are also a number of classic, underground and independent choices.
There are hundreds of films and TV shows from every genre. Crackle is supported by advertising, so each video will have commercial breaks. Again, not all the content is appropriate for everyone.
Hulu - One of the most popular sources for brand-new TV shows and movies is Hulu. Hulu hosts hundreds of shows, many of them recently broadcast on major networks.
Hulu is also supported by commercials, and you will be required to create an account and sign in to view content intended for mature audiences. But there are also plenty of movies for kids and the whole family to watch.
for watching your favorite movies or TV shows, one of which includes cutting the cord to cable.
Viewster - You'll find plenty of popular and contemporary movies at Viewster. Here's a site that collects tons of films from every genre that flew under the radar. Most of these films will be lesser known, but no less enjoyable.
Most of them are free, although some will give you a choice between watching advertisements or paying a $3 fee. Be careful when watching with kids: Many of these films are not rated and could include objectionable material.
Listen To A Movie - Audio books make a lot of sense for those times when you have your hands or your eyes full. The same is true when it comes to movies!
Listen To A Movie is a site that has hundreds of flicks - well, the audio from hundreds of flicks! There are also TV shows, radio programs and stand-up comedy. As with Viewster, there are no ratings attached to any media, so use your own discretion.