The Ultimate Guide To Watch TV Shows Online Legally: Safe And Easy Options

Introduction:

Watching TV shows online is more popular than ever before, but it’s important to understand how to do so legally. With a wealth of online streaming services and platforms available, viewers can access their favorite shows from the comfort of their homes or on the go. But while there are plenty of options to choose from, it’s essential to ensure that the content you’re watching is legitimate. In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways to legally stream TV shows online without breaking the law.

1. Subscription-Based Services for Legal TV Streaming

The most straightforward way to watch TV shows online legally is through subscription-based streaming services. These services offer a wide array of content, including TV shows, movies, documentaries, and more. Subscriptions usually require a monthly fee, but they provide access to a vast library of TV shows without the risk of piracy.

Popular Legal Streaming Platforms:

• Netflix: Netflix is a leading streaming platform offering a vast collection of TV shows, including popular original series like The Witcher, Ozark, and Narcos. With multiple subscription tiers starting at $6.99 per month, Netflix allows viewers to stream TV shows on any device.
• Hulu: Known for its impressive TV show library, Hulu gives you access to both current and classic TV programs. Hulu has an affordable entry-level subscription option, as well as premium plans with no ads.
• Amazon Prime Video: As part of an Amazon Prime membership, Prime Video provides access to a broad range of TV shows, including originals like The Boys and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Prime Video is available as a standalone service or included with Amazon’s broader Prime subscription.
• Disney+: Disney+ offers exclusive access to all things Disney, including Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic programming. If you're a fan of these franchises, Disney+ is a must-have.
• Apple TV+: Apple TV+ focuses on original content, with exclusive shows like Ted Lasso, Servant, and For All Mankind. For just $9.99 per month, Apple TV+ offers ad-free streaming of its original shows.

These streaming platforms are legal, offering a secure way to watch TV shows online while supporting creators, producers, and the industry.

2. Free Streaming Services with Ads

For those who want to watch TV shows online legally without paying a subscription, free, ad-supported services provide a viable option. These platforms offer free access to a wide selection of TV shows and movies, with the tradeoff being that you’ll have to watch ads during the content.

Free, Legal Streaming Options:

• Peacock: NBCUniversal’s Peacock offers both free and premium subscriptions. The free tier includes a variety of TV shows and movies with ads. You can watch popular NBC shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation without paying a dime.
• Tubi: Tubi is a free streaming service with a large library of TV shows, movies, and documentaries. While you’ll have to sit through some ads, Tubi provides an extensive selection of content without any cost.
• Crackle: Crackle, owned by Sony, offers a range of TV shows and movies for free, but with ads. This service features a variety of older TV shows and movies, as well as a few original titles.
• Vudu (Movies on Us): Vudu, known for renting and buying movies, also offers a free section called “Movies on Us,” where you can watch TV shows and movies with ads. It’s a great option for budget-conscious viewers.

These ad-supported platforms provide a great way to watch TV shows legally without spending any money, though you’ll need to be patient with the ads.

3. Watch Shows on Network Websites

Many major networks offer their latest episodes for free online through their official websites or apps. These platforms provide a legal and convenient way to catch up on shows, often shortly after they air on TV.

Top Network Websites for Legal TV Streaming:

• ABC: ABC’s official website allows you to watch full episodes of shows like Grey’s Anatomy and The Bachelor after they air. While you may need to sign in with a participating TV provider, the content is free to watch with ads.
• CBS All Access (now Paramount+): Paramount+ offers a mix of free and premium content, including access to CBS shows like NCIS, Survivor, and Big Brother. The service has both ad-supported and ad-free options.
• NBC: NBC’s website and app provide access to a range of current shows, including This Is Us and Law & Order: SVU. Episodes are typically available a day or two after airing.
• Fox Now: Fox Now offers full episodes of popular shows such as The Simpsons and 9-1-1. You can stream content for free, but ads are included.

By visiting network websites or using their apps, you can watch TV shows legally without paying for a subscription. We will publish list of best Internet Service Near Me in our next article.

4. Purchase or Rent TV Shows Online

If you're not interested in subscribing to a service but want to own or rent individual episodes or seasons of your favorite TV shows, several platforms allow you to buy or rent content legally.

Platforms for Renting or Buying TV Shows:

• Apple iTunes: iTunes is a popular choice for purchasing or renting TV shows. You can buy or rent episodes of new and classic shows, watching them on any Apple device.
• Google Play Movies & TV: Similar to iTunes, Google Play offers a wide range of TV shows that you can purchase or rent. Shows are available on Android devices, smart TVs, and more.
• Amazon Video: Amazon Video allows users to buy or rent individual episodes or full seasons of TV shows. It’s another great option for viewers who don’t want to commit to a monthly subscription.

Renting or purchasing TV shows from these platforms ensures you're watching legally while giving you full control over your content.

5. Free Trials of Subscription Services

Another great option for watching TV shows legally without long-term commitments is to take advantage of free trials offered by many streaming services. Most platforms offer 7- to 30-day free trials, allowing you to watch TV shows for free during that period.

Popular Free Trial Services:

• Netflix: Netflix offers a 30-day free trial in select regions, which lets you access all their TV shows and movies.
• Hulu: Hulu offers a 30-day free trial, allowing you to watch their extensive library of TV shows without paying for the first month.
• Amazon Prime Video: Amazon also offers a 30-day free trial, which includes access to Prime Video’s full TV show collection.

Using free trials is an excellent way to enjoy premium TV content without paying upfront.

Conclusion:

There are numerous ways to watch TV shows online legally. From subscription services like Netflix and Hulu to free, ad-supported platforms such as Tubi and Peacock, there's a wide variety of legal options to choose from. Whether you're willing to pay for a subscription, prefer watching with ads, or want to rent or purchase individual episodes, there are plenty of legitimate ways to enjoy TV shows online while supporting creators and the entertainment industry.