Buzz
With the skyrocketing costs of premium streaming platforms and the recent launch of PBS Retro (a 24/7 channel showcasing classic public television), I began exploring other options. Surprisingly, there’s a vast selection of free, ad-supported streaming channels available on various platforms. This space is currently in its “wild west” phase, offering thousands of channels ranging from quirky picks like Party Tyme Karaoke, which plays endless karaoke songs, to more niche and intriguing options for specialized interests. Here’s a list of 10 standout free streaming channels you might not know are available at no cost.
Pluto TV Spotlight
Pluto TV Spotlight offers a continuous lineup of familiar movies that many viewers have likely enjoyed before. Currently, it’s showcasing The Truman Show, followed by Almost Famous, and then Stand By Me, making it an ideal choice for casual viewing while tackling household chores.
Where to stream: Pluto TV
SNL Vault
The SNL Vault lets you dive into sketch comedy any day of the week, not just on Saturdays. This channel curates standout sketches from SNL’s extensive history, offering a selection of the best moments without the need to endure less memorable segments.
Where to stream: Roku, Xumo
Universal Monsters
For fans of Frankenstein, the Mummy, Dracula, and their lesser-known counterparts, Universal Monsters delivers a non-stop marathon of classic horror. The 24/7 lineup ensures that even obscure gems like Daughter of Dracula and The Mad Ghoul get their moment in the spotlight.
Where to stream: Freevee, Xumo, Pluto TV
Bon Appétit
If you enjoy shows that whet your appetite or need inspiration for tonight’s meal, tune into Bon Appétit’s streaming channel. It’s a continuous feast of culinary content brought to you by the experts at Bon Appétit.
Where to stream: Xumo, Roku,
Car Chase
True to its name, Car Chase delivers nothing but thrilling news footage of high-speed pursuits. While nothing matches the adrenaline of watching a chase live, this channel comes pretty close.
Where to stream: Pluto TV
Baby Shark TV
I’m not saying you would personally enjoy Baby Shark TV, but if you’re a parent with a young child, I won’t blame you for using this channel as a quick distraction while you grab a shower or a moment of peace. It’s like a hypnotic pacifier for toddlers.
Where to stream: Pluto TV
Night Flight
Back in the 1980s, Night Flight was a groundbreaking late-night cable show blending edgy rock music, cult films, comedy, art, and anything unconventional. Its streaming version now serves as a nostalgic journey, revisiting those eclectic vibes, and it remains a cool throwback, especially for those who lived through that era.
Where to stream: Pluto, Xumo
Degrassi
If you find it odd to see Drake without a wheelchair, Degrassi is the perfect streaming channel for you. It features endless episodes of this quintessentially Canadian teen drama. Unfortunately, the channel only streams Degrassi: The Next Generation, leaving out classics like Degrassi Junior High from the 80s or The Kids on Degrassi Street from the 70s.
Where to stream: Freevee, Pluto TV, Roku, Tubi
Pluto Christmas
If Christmas lives in your heart year-round, Pluto’s Christmas channel will keep the holiday spirit alive every day, even in July. It’s packed with those predictable, low-budget Christmas rom-coms, so if that’s your go-to comfort watch, you can indulge in it endlessly, no matter the season.
Where to stream: Pluto TV
Vevo’s music channels
Vevo, the music-video platform, offers a variety of genre-specific streaming channels, including Vevo Pop, Vevo '80s, Vevo Hip-Hop, Vevo Country, and Vevo '90s, each showcasing videos from their respective eras or styles. Choose your preferred channel (mine is True School Hip Hop) and enjoy while tackling chores.
Where to stream: Roku, Sling Freestream, Freevee, Plex, Pluto
