Best Entertainment Apps for Streaming Movies and TV Shows (2025 Guide)

In today’s digital age, streaming apps have become the cornerstone of entertainment. Whether you’re into blockbuster movies, gripping TV series, documentaries, or indie films, there’s an app that caters to your specific tastes. From on-demand streaming to live TV and original content, the choices are vast—and growing.

To help you cut through the clutter, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best entertainment apps for streaming movies and TV shows in 2025. These apps combine quality, convenience, and content diversity to ensure an unbeatable viewing experience.

1. Netflix – The Streaming Giant

Platform: iOS, Android, Web, Smart TVs
Price: Plans start at $6.99/month (with ads)

Why It’s Great:

Netflix continues to dominate the streaming world thanks to its massive library and groundbreaking originals like Stranger Things, The Crown, and The Witcher. In 2025, it’s still a must-have for movie and TV show enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• Original content not available elsewhere

• Offline downloads

• Personalized recommendations

• 4K Ultra HD (on premium plan)

2. Amazon Prime Video – More Than Just Shipping

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: Included with Amazon Prime ($14.99/month)

Why It’s Great:

With hits like Reacher, The Boys, and Oscar-nominated films, Amazon Prime Video offers a wide selection of premium movies and TV shows. Plus, it includes access to other Amazon services.

Key Features:

• Bonus X-Ray content

• Option to rent or buy new releases

• Parental controls

• Available in 4K

3. Disney+ – Perfect for Families and Marvel Fans

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: $7.99/month (with ads), $13.99/month (bundle options)

Why It’s Great:

Disney+ brings together everything Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic under one roof. It’s family-friendly and loaded with nostalgic and modern favorites.

Key Features:

• Kid-friendly interface

• Access to Marvel Cinematic Universe

• High-definition streaming

• Bundling with Hulu and ESPN+

4. HBO Max – Home of Prestige Television

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: Starts at $9.99/month (with ads)

Why It’s Great:

HBO Max combines HBO’s premium content with a deep vault of Warner Bros. classics, DC Universe shows, and top-tier originals like Succession and Euphoria.

Key Features:

• Simultaneous theatrical releases

• Award-winning documentaries and series

• Download for offline viewing

• Multiple user profiles

5. Hulu – Ideal for TV Show Lovers

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: $7.99/month (ads), $17.99/month (no ads)

Why It’s Great:

Hulu offers next-day access to current TV shows, making it a top pick for cord-cutters who want to keep up with network TV. Its original content and bundle options also add value.

Key Features:

• Live TV add-on

• Extensive TV show archive

• Multiple bundle deals (with Disney+ and ESPN+)

• User-friendly interface

6. Apple TV+ – A Rising Star in Original Content

Platform: iOS, Android (via browser), Smart TVs, Web
Price: $9.99/month

Why It’s Great:

Apple TV+ might not have the largest library, but it offers some of the highest-quality original programming, such as Ted Lasso, Severance, and The Morning Show.

Key Features:

• Exclusive Apple originals

• 4K HDR and Dolby Atmos support

• Shareable with Family Sharing

• Growing reputation for award-winning content

7. Peacock – NBC’s Answer to Streaming

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: Free (limited), $5.99/month (premium)

Why It’s Great:

NBC’s Peacock offers a mix of free and premium content, including live sports, hit TV shows (The Office), and Universal films. It’s a budget-friendly option with solid offerings.

Key Features:

• Live channels and sports

• Unique retro and sitcom selection

• Tiered pricing

• Content from Bravo, Syfy, and more

8. Paramount+ – A Treasure Trove of Classics and New Releases

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: Starts at $5.99/month

Why It’s Great:

Paramount+ offers a solid catalog of CBS shows, Paramount movies, and exclusive originals like Halo and 1883. It also includes live sports and news.

Key Features:

• Live local CBS streams

• Kid-friendly content

• Strong franchise lineup (Star Trek, NCIS)

• International availability

9. Tubi – The Best Free Streaming App

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: Free (ad-supported)

Why It’s Great:

Tubi offers a surprisingly deep library of movies and TV shows—all for free. It’s ad-supported, but a great option for casual viewers looking to save money.

Key Features:

• 100% free

• No subscription required

• Growing collection of indie and classic films

• Regularly updated catalog

10. Crunchyroll – For Anime Enthusiasts

Platform: iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Web
Price: Free (with ads), Premium starts at $7.99/month

Why It’s Great:

Crunchyroll is the go-to app for anime lovers. From simulcasts to exclusive titles, it offers a wide range of Japanese animation with English subs and dubs.

Key Features:

• Largest anime library

• Manga access included

• HD streaming

• Simulcast new episodes

How to Choose the Best Entertainment App for You

✅ Consider These Factors:

• Budget: Free vs paid apps

• Content Library: Movies, shows, originals, or niche content

• Video Quality: 4K, HDR, Dolby support

• Device Compatibility: Smart TVs, mobile, gaming consoles

• Offline Access: Great for travel and commuting

• Simultaneous Streams: For family or roommates

Conclusion

The world of streaming is more diverse and competitive than ever. Whether you’re into award-winning originals, classic sitcoms, or the latest anime, there’s an entertainment app that’s just right for your needs.

Top Picks for Different Needs:

• Best Overall: Netflix

• Best for Families: Disney+

• Best Free Option: Tubi

• Best for Originals: Apple TV+

• Best for Anime: Crunchyroll

With so many great options, your next movie night is just a click away!

FAQs: Best Entertainment Apps for Streaming Movies and TV Shows

1. Which streaming app has the most movies?

Amazon Prime Video generally has the largest library when it comes to sheer number of movies.

2. What is the best free streaming app?

Tubi and Pluto TV are excellent free streaming apps with large content libraries supported by ads.

3. Can I stream in 4K on mobile devices?

Yes, apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+ support 4K streaming on compatible mobile devices.

4. Is Netflix better than Amazon Prime?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Netflix has better originals, while Amazon Prime includes more extras and rentals.

5. Are there any apps that combine multiple streaming services?

Yes, apps like Plex, JustWatch, and Reelgood help you discover content across multiple services in one place.

6. Do these apps work internationally?

Most offer international versions, but availability and content libraries vary by country.

7. Can I use these apps on Smart TVs?

Yes, all major streaming apps are compatible with Smart TVs, Fire Stick, Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast.

8. Which app is best for live TV?

Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV are great options for streaming live television channels.