For cord-cutters seeking free entertainment without breaking the bank, the choices have never been more plentiful. But which service reigns supreme? According to the readers of Cord Cutter News, the answer is clear: Pluto TV has emerged victorious in the 2024 Cordie Awards, securing the title of Best Free Ad-Supported Streaming Service.
The Cordie Awards, an annual survey conducted by Cord Cutter News, polls readers on their favorite cord-cutting services and devices. This year’s results highlight the growing popularity of free ad-supported streaming television services and offer valuable insights into viewer preferences.
Pluto TV clinched the top spot with a commanding 30.3% of the vote. This victory underscores Pluto TV’s successful strategy of offering a vast library of content through a traditional linear channel guide experience. The service boasts hundreds of live, curated channels spanning various genres, from news and sports to movies, TV shows, and even niche categories like classic cartoons and reality TV. This familiar channel surfing experience appeals to many viewers who are transitioning from traditional cable or satellite television.
Close behind Pluto TV is Tubi, securing a strong second place with 28.3% of the vote. Tubi has carved out a niche for itself with its extensive library of movies and TV shows, including a significant selection of classic films and cult favorites. The service has also been investing in original content, further expanding its appeal to viewers. The close competition between Pluto TV and Tubi demonstrates the strength of both platforms in the free streaming arena.
The Roku Channel, another major player in the free space, landed in third place with 21.4% of the vote. Leveraging its massive user base through Roku devices and smart TVs, The Roku Channel offers a diverse selection of content, including live channels, movies, and TV shows. Its integration within the Roku ecosystem provides seamless access for millions of users.
The remaining contenders in the survey trailed significantly behind the top three. Freevee garnered 5.4% of the vote, while all other free streaming services combined accounted for just 2% or less. This disparity highlights the dominance of Pluto TV, Tubi, and The Roku Channel in the current free landscape.
The Cordie Awards results reflect the evolving landscape of television consumption. As more viewers cut the cord and embrace streaming, free services have become increasingly important sources of entertainment. The success of Pluto TV, Tubi, and The Roku Channel demonstrates the demand for free, high-quality content delivered in a user-friendly format. With continued investment in content and technology, the future of free services looks bright, offering cord-cutters a compelling alternative to traditional cable and subscription streaming platforms.