In a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape, free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) services have become a go-to for cord cutters seeking quality content without the hefty price tag of traditional cable or premium subscriptions. A recent survey conducted by Cord Cutters News polled 1,400 cord cutters to determine the best free streaming service of 2025, and the results are in: The Roku Channel has taken the top spot, securing 31.6% of the vote. Pluto TV followed closely in second place with 25.7%, while Tubi rounded out the top three with 20.9%.
The Roku Channel’s victory highlights its growing dominance in the FAST market. Known for its extensive library of movies, TV shows, and over 400 live channels, The Roku Channel has captivated audiences with its diverse offerings and user-friendly interface. Its recent investments in original programming, such as The Spiderwick Chronicles and UFO Cowboys, along with live sports like Major League Baseball games, have bolstered its appeal. The service’s accessibility across multiple platforms, including Roku devices, Amazon Fire TV, and Samsung smart TVs, further cements its position as a favorite among cord cutters. According to Nielsen’s March 2025 report, The Roku Channel captured 2.2% of total streaming activity, outpacing competitors and reflecting its ability to deliver content that resonates with viewers.
Pluto TV, earning 25.7% of the vote, remains a strong contender, particularly for those who enjoy a cable-like experience. With hundreds of live channels spanning news, sports, movies, and niche categories like classic cartoons, Pluto TV’s linear channel guide appeals to viewers transitioning from traditional television. Its vast on-demand library, featuring genres like sci-fi, crime, and reality TV, adds to its versatility. Despite being bundled with Paramount+ in Nielsen’s recent rankings, Pluto TV’s standalone popularity endures, with 0.9% of streaming traffic in May 2024.
Tubi, with 20.9% of the vote, continues to shine as a leader in on-demand content. Boasting a robust library of movies and TV shows, Tubi is particularly popular among Black viewers (53%) and Samsung smartphone users (38%), according to a 2024 MX8 Labs study. Its dedicated “Tubi Kids” section, featuring characters like Shrek and Scooby-Doo, makes it a family-friendly option. Tubi’s 1.9% share of streaming viewership in March 2025 underscores its competitive edge.
The survey results reflect the growing importance of FAST services as cord cutters prioritize affordability without sacrificing quality. With The Roku Channel, Pluto TV, and Tubi leading the pack, viewers have plenty of options to explore. As one respondent noted, “You can’t go wrong with any of these—they’re free, and each has something unique to offer.”
Please follow us on Facebook and X for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help. You can find Luke on X HERE.