Movie fans used to watch their favorite films and TV shows on 123movies for free. However, copyright and legal issues forced 123movies to close. There are many non-piracy streaming options. This comprehensive guide covers the best sites like 123movies for legally and safely streaming your favorite content.
What happened to 123movies?
Free movie and TV streaming platform 123movies were once popular. A vast library of content was available without a subscription or rental fee. However, the website faced many copyright and legal issues. In March 2018, the MPAA labeled 123movies the “most popular illegal site in the world,” shutting down its primary domain.
123movies’ closure hurt users who relied on the platform for entertainment. Fortunately, online streaming is vast, and several legal alternatives have emerged to replace 123movies.
Safety and Legal Issues
Understand online streaming’s legality and safety before exploring the best 123movies alternatives. Many alternative websites follow the law, unlike 123movies, which streams copyrighted content. These legal sites offer free and legal access to many films and TV shows, making them safe and reliable.
Illegal websites and streaming platforms still exist. Using such sites puts users at risk for legal issues, malware, and viruses. Streaming online safely requires reputable and legal options.
8 Free 123Movies Alternatives
We’ve compiled a list of the best free and paid sites like 123movies and you would surely find a substitute for your favorite platform without any hassle.
1. Popcornflix
Popcornflix is a free, ad-supported streaming service with many films and TV shows. Popcornflix is a good 123movies alternative with a simple interface and an extensive library. It has classic and contemporary content across genres, making it suitable for a broad audience.
2. Tubi
Tubi is another free and legal streaming service with a giant movie and TV series library. Its major studio and network content make it a legitimate entertainment source. Tubi’s easy-to-use platform works on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
3. Vudu
The streaming service Vudu offers free ad-supported content and premium rentals and purchases. Vudu offers an extensive movie and TV show library, but it’s not free. Rent or buy the latest releases for high-quality streaming.
4. Crackle
Sony owns Crackle, a free streaming service. Movies, TV shows, and originals are available. Crackle offers free content despite being ad-supported. Multiple platforms make it convenient for viewers.
5. Putlocker
Putlocker is a popular streaming site, but its legality is disputed. Mirror and proxy sites continued to operate while the original Putlocker site was shut down for legal reasons. Users risk legal issues on mirror sites that host copyrighted content without permission.
Be careful when using Putlocker or its mirrors. Choosing legal alternatives is safest.
6. SolarMovie
SolarMovie is a popular streaming site with films and TV shows from various genres. SolarMovie has a lot of content, but its legality is unclear. SolarMovie, like Putlocker, may host copyrighted content without permission, putting users at risk. Explore legal streaming options for risk-free streaming.
7. YesMovies
YesMovies streams many films and TV shows. YesMovies, like SolarMovie and Putlocker, may host copyrighted content without permission, making it risky for legal-conscious users.
Consider legal streaming options that are free and legal for peace of mind and legal avoidance.
8. Fmovies
Fmovies is another popular streaming site. Fmovies may host copyrighted content without permission, like other questionable streaming platforms. Fmovies and similar sites pose legal and security risks.
Copyright-compliant streaming options are best for safe and legal streaming.
6 Paid Sites Like 123Movies
Popcornflix, Tubi, and Crackle offer a variety of content, but premium options provide a more extensive library of films and TV shows. Some popular paid alternatives are:
1. Netflix
Netflix, said to have invented online streaming, is now a global entertainment powerhouse. Netflix offers something for everyone with its vast and diverse library of content across genres and languages. Its high-quality original series and movies and user-friendly interface have made it a streaming favourite. We’ll explore Netflix’s vast content library and the pros and cons that make it a favourite among millions of subscribers.
Features
- Netflix has many films, TV shows, and original content.
- Multiple subscription tiers: Users can choose from Basic, Standard, and Premium plans based on streaming quality and device usage.
- Users can download Netflix content for offline viewing.
- Individualized recommendations: The platform uses algorithms to recommend content based on viewing history.
- Netflix is available in over 190 countries, making it accessible to many.
Pros
- Netflix’s critically acclaimed original series and films include “Stranger Things,” “The Crown,” and “Bird Box.”
- Easy-to-use interface: Users can create multiple profiles for personalized recommendations on the platform.
- Netflix is ad-free for uninterrupted viewing.
- Regular updates: New content keeps the library interesting.
- Netflix works on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Cons
- Netflix’s monthly subscription cost varies by plan, so budget-conscious users may not like it.
- Content rotation: Licencing agreements may remove titles from the platform, disappointing users.
- Netflix may not have the latest films due to exclusive distribution deals with other streaming services.
2. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video goes beyond expedited shipping in the comprehensive Amazon Prime membership. Prime Video is a versatile streaming platform for all audiences with a large catalogue of films, TV shows, and original content. Its unique mix of entertainment, convenience, and extras sets it apart in streaming. Let’s explore Amazon Prime Video’s diverse content library and strengths and weaknesses.
Features
- Prime Video has many films, TV shows, and original content.
- Prime membership benefits: Prime members get free two-day shipping, Prime Music, and more.
- Users can download content for offline viewing.
- In addition to the subscription, users can rent or buy films and shows not on Prime Video.
- Alexa integration: Alexa can control playback and search for content.
Pros
- Amazon Prime Video has critically acclaimed originals like “The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel” and “The Boys.”
- Value for Prime members: Amazon Prime includes Prime Video, making it affordable.
- Rental and purchase options: Users can rent or buy a huge catalog of films and shows without a subscription.
- The app works on Amazon Fire TV, smartphones, tablets, and more.
- For offline viewing, Amazon Prime Video allows downloads like Netflix.
Cons
- Amazon has produced some hit originals, but its exclusive content is mixed.
- Non-subscriber ads: Some content may have ads.
- The entire Prime Video library may not be available worldwide.
3. Disney+
Disney+, the magical world of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, has won over families and fans. Disney+ takes viewers to magical worlds with classic animated films, iconic franchises, and exclusive original content. We’ll explore Disney’s kingdom of storytelling, its content, unique features, and subscribers’ magical experience.
Features
- Disney content: Disney+ has tonnes of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
- The platform offers exclusive series and films like “The Mandalorian” and “WandaVision.”
- Disney+ offers family-friendly content for all ages.
- Multiple profiles: Family members can have their profiles with preferences and parental controls.
- Download content for offline viewing.
Pros
- Disney+ is essential for Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars fans.
- Ad-free: No ads interrupt the viewing experience.
- Disney+ subscription rates are competitive.
- Disney bundle: A Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ bundle adds value.
Cons
- While the Disney library is vast, the platform may lack a diverse selection of non-Disney titles.
- Limited adult content: The service is family-friendly and may not appeal to mature or edgy viewers.
4. Hulu
Hulu, a versatile streaming platform, is known for its current TV shows, next-day episode access, and diverse library. Hulu is a popular cable alternative due to its on-demand streaming and live TV. We’ll explore Hulu’s extensive content, subscription options, and unique features that have made it a valuable streaming addition.
Features
- Hulu has an extensive library of current TV shows, movies, and original series.
- The day after airing, some TV episodes are available for streaming.
- Cable TV alternative: Hulu + Live TV streams popular channels live.
- Ad-supported and ad-free subscriptions are available.
- Hulu + Live TV subscribers get a cloud-based DVR for live TV.
Pros
- Hulu provides current episodes of popular TV shows shortly after they air.
- Content diversity: The platform offers TV shows, films, and originals.
- Live TV: Hulu lets users stream live channels, making it versatile for sports and news fans.
- Plans for all budgets: Hulu offers affordable plans.
Cons
- The basic subscription tier has ads that may interrupt viewing.
- Hulu is available mainly in the US, limiting international access.
- Content rotation: Like other streaming services, Hulu may remove licensed titles.
5. HBO Max
HBO Max, the premium streaming service that combines HBO with Warner Bros., DC, Cartoon Network, and more, is a hub for captivating storytelling and blockbuster entertainment. HBO Max offers exclusive original series, films, and iconic franchises with a preference for quality over quantity. Discover HBO Max’s content gems, unique strengths, and premium status considerations.
Features
- HBO Max has HBO, Warner Bros., DC, Cartoon Network, and more content.
- Original series and films: The platform offers “Game of Thrones” spin-offs and “Friends” reunions.
- Download content for offline viewing.
- HBO Max offers live TV streaming for HBO and other channels.
- Multiple profiles: Create family profiles.
Pros
- Premium content: HBO Max is known for award-winning shows like “Game of Thrones” and “Succession.”
- HBO Max subscribers get Warner Bros.’s major movie releases simultaneously with theatres.
- Users can download their favorite shows and films for offline viewing.
- Content diversity: The platform offers content from various genres.
Cons
- HBO Max costs more than other streaming services, which may concern budget-conscious users.
- Regional restrictions: The service may not be available worldwide.
- One plan is ad-free, but the cheaper one has ads.
6. Apple TV+
Apple TV+’s original shows, movies, and documentaries have made an impact in the streaming industry. Its high-quality, award-winning content has earned it praise despite its small library. We’ll examine Apple TV+’s exclusive content, seamless integration with Apple devices, and competitive edge in this review.
Features
- Quality originals: Apple TV+’s “Ted Lasso” and “The Morning Show.” have won praise.
- Subscribers watch ads-free.
- Sharing the subscription with family increases its value.
- Apple TV+ works well with Apple hardware and software.
- Apple usually offers a free trial for new subscribers.
Cons
- Apple TV+’s original content may be limited compared to platforms with more extensive libraries.
- It may be less accessible on non-Apple platforms than on Apple devices.
- Apple TV+ has no ad-supported free tier.
Conclusion
Each paid streaming option has unique features and benefits for different viewing preferences. The choice depends on personal preferences, content preferences, and budget. Users should weigh the pros and cons of each platform to choose the best entertainment platform.
