What is Pluto TV: channels, where to get it, and more

In today’s world, there are numerous streaming services to choose from, making it challenging to keep track of which shows and movies are available on which platforms. While options like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video offer top-tier content, the rising costs of these services have prompted many to seek alternative options. Advertising video on demand (AVOD) and free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) services, such as Pluto TV, provide a cost-effective alternative for those looking to explore new content.

Pluto TV is a free AVOD/FAST service that offers a wide range of live TV channels and on-demand programming. With over 250 live channels and thousands of shows and movies to choose from, Pluto TV is a popular choice for viewers looking for diverse content options. Additionally, Pluto TV serves as the content source for Vizio’s WatchFree Plus.

Let’s take a closer look at what Pluto TV has to offer.

What is Pluto TV?

Pluto TV is a live-TV streaming service that offers free content sourced mainly from online sources, distinguishing it from traditional cable TV streaming services like Sling TV or DirecTV Stream. Launched in 2013, Pluto TV has gained popularity quickly, boasting over 80 million active users as of April 2023. While not available globally, Pluto TV can be accessed in regions such as Latin America, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Canada.

With Pluto TV, viewers can enjoy a mix of familiar and unfamiliar channels, catering to a wide range of interests. Even those who subscribe to other live TV streaming services may find value in Pluto TV’s curated content layout.

What is Pluto TV’s navigation like?

Pluto TV features a user-friendly interface that simplifies content discovery and playback. The navigation is linear, allowing users to easily access various live TV categories such as sports, movies, news, entertainment, kids, and local news. The On Demand tab offers genre-based categories while maintaining a traditional TV guide feel. With 22 categories to choose from, including Classic TV, The Black Collective, History + Science, and Kids, Pluto TV continues to expand its channel offerings.

Users can customize their favorite channels, save shows and movies to a watchlist, and access additional information such as cast lists, directors, and trailers. Pluto TV regularly introduces new channels and categories to enhance the viewing experience.

Which channels are available?

Pluto TV offers a diverse range of content from over 400 global content partners across 1,000+ channels. Channels are grouped into categories such as news, sports, movies, entertainment, and comedy, providing a variety of viewing options.

News

While traditional TV channels may not be available on Pluto TV, the service features web counterparts of popular news outlets like Bloomberg, Cheddar, CNBC, MSNBC, and CBSN. Additionally, themed channels such as CNN and NBC News Now offer curated content on various topics, enhancing the news viewing experience. Pluto TV has also added channels like CMT, Kevin Hart’s Laugh out Loud, and Red Bull TV to cater to diverse interests.

Sports

Pluto TV’s sports coverage includes unique channels like Fight, World Poker Tour, and Impact Wrestling, offering an alternative sports viewing experience. The addition of the PGA Tour channel provides 24/7 coverage of major golf tournaments, appealing to sports enthusiasts.

Entertainment

The entertainment section of Pluto TV features a mix of reality shows, documentaries, and classic TV series like Thunderbirds and Criminal Minds. Specialized channels such as Nosey and Curiosity offer a curated selection of content, while Pluto TV also includes channels dedicated to sitcoms and Spanish-language programming.

Comedy, travel, and more

Pluto TV offers niche channels like Anime All Day, Stand Up, Slow TV, and Cats 24/7, catering to specific interests. Additional channels like Pluto TV Travel and Internet radio stations provide a diverse range of entertainment options for viewers.

International flavor

Pluto TV has expanded its international presence, offering content in over 30 countries and territories. By partnering with local broadcasters, Pluto TV ensures that viewers in different regions have access to region-specific channels and content.

What about on-demand content?

Pluto TV’s on-demand catalog features a vast selection of movies and TV shows, including classics like I Love Lucy and modern favorites like Criminal Minds and S.W.A.T. The rotating selection of on-demand content ensures that viewers have access to a variety of entertainment options.

While Pluto TV may not offer the extensive library of content found on platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, it provides enough quality titles to keep viewers engaged. On-demand content availability may vary across platforms, but Pluto TV ensures that a diverse range of shows and movies are accessible to viewers.

What devices can I use to watch?

Pluto TV is accessible on a wide range of devices, including web browsers, desktop apps for Windows and MacOS, mobile apps for iOS and Android, and various streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and PlayStation 5. Smart TVs from Samsung, Hisense, Roku, and Vizio also support Pluto TV, with more devices expected to be compatible in the future. It’s important to note that not all Pluto TV channels may be available on every platform.

Will Pluto TV stick around?

As Pluto TV celebrates its 10th anniversary, it appears to be a stable and growing platform in the streaming industry. With its ad-supported model and strategic partnerships, Pluto TV has garnered significant interest from advertisers and viewers alike. The platform’s longevity is further supported by Paramount’s marketing efforts, which leverage Pluto TV to enhance its other properties, such as Paramount+.

To determine if Pluto TV is right for you, consider downloading the app on your preferred platform or visiting the company’s website to explore its offerings. With a diverse range of programming, Pluto TV offers something for everyone, although it may not feature the latest content available on other networks.

For recommendations on streaming devices compatible with Pluto TV, check out our list of the best streaming devices. If you prefer a traditional TV experience, explore our comparison of the best live TV services for more options.