The Best Apps and Websites for Watching Full Episodes of Your Favorite Shows

Introduction If you’re like most TV fans, keeping up with all your favorite shows can be a challenge. Between DVR recordings, on-demand options and streaming releases, it’s not always clear where to find full episodes of that latest sitcom or drama you love. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 apps and websites that make it simple to watch your favorite shows in one place.

Best Apps and Websites

#1: Network and Studio Websites and Apps

Many broadcast and cable networks as well as production studios offer their own dedicated streaming platforms to catch up on shows. Sites like CBS.com, NBC.com, FOX.com, ABC.com, CWTV.com, TBS.com and more allow you to stream full recent episodes of their programs for free with commercials. Premium cable channels like HBO and Showtime also offer standalone streaming and on-demand apps to watch their original series.

This is often the best option for quickly finding the latest episodes of your favorite network shows without any subscriptions. Just be aware that older seasons may not be available depending on the individual service.

#2: Live TV Streaming Services

If you’ve cut the cord but still want to watch live TV, services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV and Sling TV provide robust on-demand libraries alongside their live streaming channels. For a monthly fee, you get access to dozens of popular networks and can find full seasons of many current and past shows in one centralized place.

Network and Studio Websites and Apps

While not completely free, these services offer a more robust selection than individual network sites alone and are perfect for catching up or rewatching your favorite broadcast, cable and premium shows. Many also offer free trials to test them out.

#3: Free Streaming Aggregators

Free, legal sites like The Roku Channel, Plex, Crackle and Tubi bring together video libraries from multiple sources to stream movies and TV for no cost at all. While they don’t have every show, you can often find full seasons of older network favorites as well as a selection of more recent episodes.

These free streaming services make it easy to discover new content and watch your favorite shows without signing up for anything. Ads are included but the zero subscription price can’t be beat for casual viewers.

#4: Subscription Video on Demand

For avid TV fans, paid SVOD services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and HBO Max offer massive on-demand libraries by themselves or as part of bundle packages. For a monthly fee, you get access to thousands of full TV episodes and seasons spanning multiple genres and eras.

Live TV Streaming Services

While not free, these services are ideal for real TV enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in their favorite shows. Many also produce original content you won’t find anywhere else. The cost is well worth it for anyone who watches frequently.

#5: Public Libraries

Don’t forget about your local public library! In addition to physical DVDs and Blu-rays, many library systems now offer digital checkouts of TV season passes through services like Hoopla and Kanopy. You can instantly stream full episodes and seasons of popular shows without any late fees.

Selection varies by individual library but it’s worth exploring as a free option for watching your favorite shows, especially for titles not widely available elsewhere online. A library card is the only requirement.

Free Streaming Aggregators

Conclusion

From network apps to live TV services to free streaming sites, there are now more options than ever for watching full episodes of your favorite shows. By exploring these top 5 apps and websites, you’re sure to find your new go-to source for catching up on your favorite programs any time you want. Happy streaming!

FAQs

How do I find older or less popular shows?

For lesser-known or older programs, check free video portals like Tubi, Plex, Vudu and IMDb TV. Public libraries and DVD/Blu-ray rentals from services like Netflix are also good options. Episode guides on fan sites sometimes have legal streaming links. As a last resort, consider digital purchases on Amazon.

Is it legal to download full TV episodes?

While streaming full episodes is generally fine, downloading copyrighted TV shows for later viewing can risk legal issues. Stick to official streaming from networks, studios and paid subscriptions sites rather than unauthorized torrents or file sharing.