What Is Pluto TV? Pricing & How It Works

Connected TV

In a world where streaming options seem endless, Pluto TV stands out as a free, ad-supported service that delivers a cable-like experience without the bill. Whether you’re a viewer hunting for binge-worthy shows or an advertiser eyeing a massive audience of cord-cutters, this platform mixes live channels with on-demand content to keep everyone engaged.

With over 80 million monthly active users, it’s a go-to for effortless entertainment and targeted marketing opportunities. But, how does it work? Here’s everything you need to know about Pluto TV.

What Is Pluto TV?

Pluto TV is a free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) service owned by Paramount, offering hundreds of live linear channels and thousands of on-demand titles. It caters to viewers seeking a traditional linear TV feel with modern convenience, while providing advertisers a vast pool of engaged users across diverse demographics.

How Does Pluto TV Work?

At its core, Pluto TV streams content directly to your device via an app or website, mimicking cable TV with scheduled programming sponsored by ads. Viewers can flip through channels or dive into on-demand libraries without any subscription hurdles.

For advertisers, the platform integrates seamlessly into campaigns by placing TV ads within this flow, reaching audiences in real-time as they watch.

Is Pluto TV Free?

Yes, Pluto TV is entirely free for viewers, with no subscription fees or hidden costs—just occasional streaming ads to keep the lights on. This model makes it accessible for anyone with an internet connection, appealing to budget-conscious consumers who want variety without commitment. Advertisers fund the service through ad placements, ensuring the platform remains cost-free while offering brands a high-reach opportunity.

Types of Content Available

Pluto TV boasts a wide array of content to suit every taste, from classic reruns to live events, making it a versatile choice for viewers and a contextual playground for advertisers.

• Movies: A massive library spanning genres like action, comedy, horror, and classics, perfect for movie nights or targeted film-themed ads.
• TV Shows: Full episodes of popular series, reality TV, and scripted dramas, drawing in binge-watchers across age groups.
• News: Live broadcasts from channels like CBS News, CNN clips, and weather updates, ideal for timely advertiser tie-ins.
• Sports: Highlights, analysis, and niche events from channels like NFL or PGA Tour, attracting sports enthusiasts.
• Kids and Family: Safe, fun programming including cartoons and educational shows, with family-friendly ad opportunities.
• Lifestyle: Cooking, travel, and home improvement channels, appealing to hobbyists and relevant brands.
• Music and Entertainment: Concert footage, music videos, and pop culture specials for a younger, vibrant demographic.

How to Sign Up for Pluto TV

Signing up with Pluto TV is straightforward and optional for basic viewing, but it unlocks personalized recommendations for consumers and better audience insights for advertisers.

• Visit the Pluto TV website or download the app from your device’s store (iOS, Android, Roku, etc.).
• Click “Sign In” – no credit card required.
• Enter your email, create a password, and verify if prompted.
• Customize your profile for favorites, parental controls, or kid modes.
• Start streaming immediately; ads will appear naturally during playback.

How Does Pluto Advertising Work?

For advertisers, Pluto TV operates on a robust ad-supported model where brands can place in-stream video ads like pre-rolls and mid-rolls, or display banners within the app. Targeting is delivered via Paramount’s EyeQ, using contextual and audience segments across Pluto TV. Demographic composition varies by content rather than skewing uniformly to millennials or Gen Z.

Advertisers typically buy Pluto TV ads on CPM using VAST (Video Ad Serving Template) ad tags and server‑side beacons; reporting focuses on reach, frequency and completion rate.

What Devices Support Pluto TV?

Pluto TV is compatible with a broad range of devices, ensuring easy access for viewers at home or on the go, and seamless ad delivery for marketers targeting multi-screen audiences.

• Smart TVs: Samsung, LG, Vizio, and others with built-in apps.
• Streaming Devices: Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast.
• Gaming Consoles: PlayStation, Xbox.
• Mobile: iOS and Android phones/tablets via app.
• Web Browsers: Desktop access through pluto.tv.

Why You Need Performance TV

Want to reach audiences streaming on Pluto TV and beyond? MNTN’s platform gives you direct access to premium CTV inventory, including Pluto TV, ensuring your brand shows up where viewers are highly engaged. With AI-powered targeting, automated optimization, and real-time attribution, your TV marketing campaigns don’t just run—they perform.

Here’s how MNTN Performance TV helps marketers advertise on Pluto TV and across streaming:

• Premium CTV Inventory – Run ads on Pluto TV and other top streaming networks with guaranteed, brand-safe placements.
• MNTN Matched – AI-powered targeting ensures your ads reach high-intent audiences most likely to engage.
• Verified Visits™ Attribution – Tracks site visits and conversions tied directly to ad exposure, proving campaign effectiveness.
• Automated Optimization – AI continuously fine-tunes campaigns, maximizing efficiency and eliminating wasted spend.
• Reporting Suite – Access real-time data on performance, audience engagement, and ROI to optimize strategy.

Reach Pluto TV viewers with performance-driven CTV advertising campaigns—sign up today to get started with MNTN’s self-serve software.

Pluto TV: Final Thoughts

For consumers, Pluto TV delivers a hassle-free way to enjoy diverse content without dipping into your wallet, though ads are the trade-off for that freedom. Advertisers benefit from its expansive reach and precise targeting, turning passive viewing into measurable opportunities in the growing FAST landscape. 

Overall, as streaming evolves in 2025, Pluto TV remains a smart pick for accessible entertainment and effective marketing alike.