Free Ad-Supported TV: Best FAST Streaming Services (2025)

by Melissa Yap

7 Min Read

Sure, streaming services have a lot of buzzy content. But what’s better than the TV you have to pay for? Free TV! Read on to learn more about free ad-supported TV—which is admittedly a lot like old-fashioned TV, but with a lot of new tech that makes it extremely compelling to viewers and advertisers alike.

What is Free Ad-Supported TV (FAST)?

Free Ad-Supported TV (FAST) offers viewers access to streaming channels that broadcast curated content on a linear schedule, mimicking traditional TV. This service is free to users and supported by advertisements that play during scheduled programming.

FAST Channels vs AVOD Services

AVOD, or Advertising-Based Video On Demand, enables viewers to watch videos for free by agreeing to view streaming ads, typically providing a selection of on-demand content.

Conversely, FAST channels emulate a traditional TV experience by offering a lineup of streaming channels that broadcast curated shows and movies on a linear schedule with ad breaks.

Benefits of FAST Streaming Services

FAST streaming services are revolutionizing the media landscape with advantages for both viewers and broadcasters.

Affordable Access

FAST services eliminate subscription fees, offering consumers a wide range of content at no cost. For broadcasters, launching channels is more cost-effective compared to traditional TV networks.

Wide Audience Reach

These platforms provide free, widely accessible content that appeals to diverse global demographics, quickly building a large viewership. This broad reach makes FAST an appealing option for advertisers aiming for extensive market penetration.

Integrated Advertising

FAST platforms offer advertisers engaging and less intrusive connected TV advertising options compared to traditional TV ads. Advertisers benefit from placing their messages in more targeted and contextually relevant settings.

Live and On-Demand Content

FAST services combine live TV with on-demand features, allowing viewers to choose their preferred way of engaging with content, and enhancing overall satisfaction. This approach caters to both traditional TV enthusiasts and digital natives who prefer streaming.

Personalized Content

Viewers can customize their experience by selecting from various content streams and genres, leading to longer viewing times and greater satisfaction. This customization also enables providers to better segment their audience for targeted advertising.

How Does Free Ad-Supported TV Work?

Free ad-supported TV (FAST) lets viewers stream content without a subscription by integrating ad breaks into programming, creating a seamless experience that benefits both audiences and advertisers.

Here’s a brief overview of the process from the perspective of the consumer:

Select a FAST Service: Viewers choose a platform like Pluto TV, Tubi, or Freevee to access free streaming content.
Browse Available Content: They explore a mix of live channels and on-demand movies, TV shows, and specials.
Start Watching: Once they press play, the content begins just like traditional TV, with scheduled ad breaks.
Ad Delivery: Targeted ads are inserted into the viewing experience based on factors like location, demographics, and interests. Advertisers create these campaigns through OTT advertising platforms.
Continue Streaming: After the ad break, programming resumes automatically, keeping viewers engaged while ensuring brands reach their audience.

With the explosion in the sheer number of FAST channels and free ad-supported streaming TV platforms out there, here are some that are making the greatest impact:

1. Tubi TV

Tubi, owned by Fox, provides a substantial library of movies and TV shows from diverse genres at no cost. With over 74 million monthly users as of early 2024, Tubi stands out in the FAST sector for its extensive programming range.

2. Pluto TV

Paramount’s Pluto TV offers around 80 million monthly users a traditional TV-like experience with over 250 curated channels, including news and specialized content. It’s one of the biggest free streaming services available.

3. The Roku Channel

As of early 2024, The Roku Channel serves over 80 million active accounts, featuring a rich mix of content from films and TV series to live sports. It aggregates content from various providers, delivering a wide selection of free, ad-supported options.

4. Amazon Freevee

Previously known as IMDb TV, Amazon Freevee is integrated into Amazon’s vast digital ecosystem, offering a wide array of TV shows, movies, and original content. With over 65 million monthly users, it’s known for high-quality, curated programming accessible through Amazon’s devices and apps.

5. Crackle

Crackle offers a variety of movies and TV shows, supported by intermittent advertisements. It caters to niche audiences with unique and original content, setting itself apart with a focus on non-mainstream offerings.

6. Xumo Play

Owned by Comcast, Xumo Play provides over 290 channels, making it a key player in the FAST market. Pre-installed on many smart TVs and available through various apps, it caters to over 40 million monthly users with a blend of live and on-demand content.

7. Peacock

NBCUniversal’s Peacock combines free and premium content for over 30 million monthly users, offering everything from classic TV shows to current movies and live sports. However, its free plan is no longer available to new users since February 2023.

8. Sling Freestream

Operated by Dish Network, Sling Freestream offers a selection of free channels primarily focused on news and entertainment. It’s designed for viewers looking for no-cost content without subscribing to a full package.

9. At Home

Owned by Fandango, At Home presents a mix of free and paid content with over 60,000 titles. It’s known for its high-quality video streaming and vast selection of movies and TV shows available for rental or purchase.

10. Plex

Plex offers a unique combination of free live TV with over 250 channels and a robust on-demand library. It also allows users to stream their personal media from a home server, providing a customized viewing experience.

11. Samsung TV Plus

Samsung TV Plus offers over 2,000 channels worldwide, reaching audiences in 24 countries on more than 535 million devices. It delivers a diverse array of content, including news, sports, and entertainment, all free of subscription fees.

12. LG Channels+

LG Channels+ provides over 300 channels, featuring news, sports, movies, and kids’ programming, accessible on LG Smart TVs. This service offers a wide range of live and on-demand content to a global audience.

13. Vizio WatchFree+

Exclusive to Vizio Smart TVs, Vizio WatchFree+ offers hundreds of free channels and a large library of on-demand movies and TV shows. It provides a variety of genres without requiring subscriptions or extra hardware.

14. Google TV

Google TV, previously Google Play Movies & TV, combines streaming services and apps into one interface, allowing users to browse across providers. It offers personalized content recommendations and is available on Android devices and Google TV software-equipped TVs.

15. Redbox Live TV

Redbox Live TV offers a mix of free live and on-demand streaming with hundreds of channels. It focuses on entertainment, lifestyle, and news content, replicating a traditional TV experience at no cost to the viewer.

How Performance TV Connects the Dots

So, how do you reach all of these viewers on FAST channels? With MNTN Performance TV of course!

MNTN Performance TV is the ultimate platform for performance marketing on CTV. Our advanced technology ensures your campaigns are optimized automatically, reaching your ideal audience with precision.

By leveraging our Verified Visits™ technology, you can track every interaction with confidence, knowing that each visit contributes to your business goals.

Gain access to premium CTV inventory and transform your brand’s visibility. MNTN Performance TV offers you unparalleled tools to maximize your ROI and achieve outstanding results.

Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV: Final Thoughts

Free ad-supported TV (FAST) has transformed the streaming landscape, offering viewers premium content without subscription fees and giving advertisers a powerful way to reach engaged audiences through targeted TV advertising. As FAST services continue to grow, brands that embrace this ad-supported model can maximize their reach, drive performance, and stay ahead in the evolving world of Connected TV.