Putlocker’s closure has left many looking for free movie streaming alternatives. This guide highlights the top 10 Putlocker alternatives for 2024, with options for movies and TV shows. It also covers how to download content using UniConverter and the best VPNs for safe streaming. Explore trusted sites for an uninterrupted, secure movie experience.
In this article
Part 1: What happened to Putlockers?
Putlocker was once a widely used platform for free movie and TV show streaming, offering a vast library of content. However, due to ongoing legal issues surrounding copyright infringement, the site faced multiple shutdowns and domain changes over the years. Despite efforts to return under different URLs, Putlocker eventually became inaccessible in many regions. As a result, users have turned to alternative streaming sites, while Putlocker’s legacy continues to influence the search for free movie platforms.
Part 2: 10 Best Free Movie Sites Like Putlocker You Must Try
Though streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu are often subscription-based, there are several high-quality, free alternatives available for movie lovers. These sites provide a wide range of films and TV shows for free, often supported by ads, making them a great option for those seeking entertainment without the cost.
1. 123Movies
123Movies is a popular free streaming site that offers a vast library of movies and TV shows, updated frequently with new content. With its simple user interface and impressive collection, it’s a great option for binge-watchers. Although it's unofficial and often faces legal challenges, it continues to be widely used across the globe.
2. Yesmovies
YesMovies is a popular free streaming website that offers a vast library of movies and TV shows across various genres. It’s known for its simple and user-friendly interface, making it easy for users to browse and discover new content. With regular updates and a wide selection of films, YesMovies has become a go-to destination for those seeking free entertainment.
3. Solarmovie
SolarMovie is a free streaming site known for its extensive catalog of high-quality movies and TV shows. With a sleek, user-friendly interface and no sign-up required, it’s a go-to for many looking for a hassle-free viewing experience. The site offers high-definition streaming for most of its content, and it’s updated regularly with new releases.
4. Crackle
Crackle is a free, ad-supported streaming service that offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and original content. It is available on various devices, including smartphones, smart TVs, and web browsers. Crackle stands out for its legitimate and legal streaming options, providing a reliable platform for users looking for free entertainment without worrying about piracy.
5. Popcornflix
Popcornflix is a free streaming service that offers a broad selection of movies across various genres, including action, comedy, drama, and more. The platform is entirely free with no subscription required, though it is ad-supported. It is one of the few free streaming services that has been around for years and continues to offer a reliable experience.
6. Tubi
Tubi is a popular free streaming service offering thousands of movies and TV shows across all genres. It’s legally licensed, which means it’s a reliable and safe platform to use. Tubi is completely free, supported by ads, and available in various countries, making it accessible to a wide audience.
7. Vudu
Vudu offers a free section with thousands of movies and TV shows, alongside its paid content. The platform’s free collection includes a variety of popular movies and series, though users should be prepared for ads during their viewing experience. Vudu's streaming quality is high, and it’s known for its easy-to-use interface.
8. Watchserieshd
WatchSeriesHD is a free site for watching movies and TV shows with a focus on the latest episodes and films. It boasts a clean, simple interface that makes navigation easy, and it offers HD video quality for most of its content. The site is updated regularly with fresh content, but its reliance on pop-up ads can be a downside for many users.
9. Moviewatcher
MovieWatcher is a free streaming site that hosts a wide selection of movies and TV shows in HD quality. The site is easy to navigate and offers content from various genres, catering to a wide range of tastes. It’s known for being a reliable source of free entertainment, though it does come with its fair share of pop-up ads and occasional broken links.
10. Cmovieshd
CMoviesHD is a free streaming site that offers a large collection of movies and TV shows in HD quality. The site is known for its user-friendly interface and a broad selection of genres. It’s regularly updated with the latest movies and TV series, although it’s often cluttered with ads that can interrupt the viewing experience.
Part 3：How to Download Movies with Ease
While streaming services provide an easy way to watch movies online, there are times when downloading movies for offline viewing is more convenient. Whether you're planning a long trip, facing slow internet connections, or simply want to keep your favorite movies accessible without worrying about buffering, downloading is a great option. With the right software, you can easily save high-quality videos directly to your device. In this section, we'll show you how Wondershare UniConverter can help you download movies with ease and offer other features to enhance your video experience.
Wondershare UniConverter
Wondershare UniConverter is a comprehensive video tool that allows users to download, convert, edit, and even compress videos with ease. With its user-friendly interface, it simplifies tasks that would typically require multiple software solutions into one powerful program. Whether you're downloading movies from streaming websites or converting videos to a preferred format, UniConverter provides the tools to do it quickly and efficiently. This makes it an excellent option for anyone looking to download movies and enhance their video library with minimal hassle.
Best Video Downloader
Key Features of Wondershare UniConverter:
1. Fast and Efficient Movie Downloading
Wondershare UniConverter allows you to quickly download movies from over 1,000 streaming sites in various resolutions, including HD and 4K. It supports simultaneous downloads of multiple files, saving you time. The simple process ensures movies are stored directly on your device for offline viewing.
2. Wide Format Support and Conversion Options
UniConverter supports a wide range of video formats, including MP4, AVI, and MOV, ensuring compatibility with any device. It also allows you to adjust video resolution and settings for optimized playback. This flexibility makes it perfect for all your video needs.
3. Video Editing Tools for Customization
With UniConverter’s built-in editing tools, you can trim, crop, and apply effects to your videos. It also allows you to add subtitles and watermarks for personalized content. These features give you full control over your movie downloads.
4. Batch Downloading for Multiple Movies
UniConverter’s batch downloading feature lets you download multiple videos at once, saving time. You can queue several movies or episodes for download without interruptions. This is ideal for users looking to download entire series or large playlists.
5. High-Quality Video Downloading
UniConverter ensures that your downloaded movies maintain high video quality, even in 1080p and 4K. It preserves the original clarity of the video during the download process. This ensures a seamless, high-definition viewing experience.
Steps to Download Movies Using Wondershare UniConverter
Step 1: Open Wondershare UniConverter
First, open the Wondershare UniConverter program on your computer. Once it’s open, go to the "Downloader" section where you can find all the tools for downloading videos. This is where you’ll start the process of saving your movie.
Step 2: Copy and Paste the Movie Link
Find the movie you want to download on your web browser and copy the URL link. Then, go back to Wondershare UniConverter and paste that link into the "Downloader" section. This will allow the program to recognize the video you want to download.
Step 3: Choose the Format and Start the Download
Pick the format you want to save the movie in, such as MP4 or AVI. Once you’ve chosen, click the "Download" button to start the download. The program will begin saving the movie to your computer.
Step 4: Watch Your Downloaded Movie
After the download is complete, go to the "Finished" tab in Wondershare UniConverter. You’ll find your movie ready to watch or move to another device. Now, you can enjoy the movie whenever you like!
Part 4: Best VPNs to Stay Safe on Free Movie Streaming Sites
When using free movie streaming sites, your online privacy and security should always be a top priority. These platforms may expose you to ads, malware, or even cyber threats, making it essential to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN encrypts your internet connection, hiding your identity and keeping your activities secure while you enjoy movies and TV shows. Below, we list six of the best VPNs for staying safe while streaming free movies.
1. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is a top-tier VPN known for its fast speeds and strong encryption, making it a great choice for streaming movies without interruptions. With servers in 94 countries, it offers a wide range of options to bypass geo-restrictions. ExpressVPN ensures your data remains private and secure, providing protection against potential online threats on free streaming sites.
2. NordVPN
NordVPN is one of the most popular VPN services for streaming, offering excellent privacy features and a large server network. With over 5,000 servers in 59 countries, NordVPN ensures a reliable and fast connection for uninterrupted movie streaming. It also has a built-in ad blocker, enhancing security by preventing malicious ads from affecting your experience on free streaming sites.
3. CyberGhost
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that excels at providing online privacy while streaming. With a focus on security, it offers dedicated servers optimized for streaming, ensuring smooth video playback. Its strict no-logs policy guarantees that your data and online activities stay private while you browse free movie sites.
4. Surfshark
Surfshark is a budget-friendly VPN that doesn't compromise on performance. With unlimited simultaneous connections, it allows you to secure all your devices while watching movies online. It also offers strong encryption, protection against malware, and a no-logs policy to keep your streaming activities private.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a reliable VPN with robust security features and a large server network spread across multiple countries. PIA is known for its no-logs policy and customizable security settings, ensuring that your browsing remains anonymous while streaming movies on free sites. Its fast speeds also ensure buffer-free streaming experiences.
6. ProtonVPN
ProtonVPN is a security-focused VPN that prioritizes privacy and anonymous browsing. While it offers a free version with limited features, its premium version gives access to high-speed servers, perfect for streaming movies without interruptions. ProtonVPN also features strong encryption and a strict no-logs policy to keep your data safe while using free streaming services.
Conclusion
With Putlocker's closure, the search for reliable and free movie streaming sites has intensified. Fortunately, there are numerous alternatives that offer a wide range of movies and TV shows without requiring a subscription. While these sites provide excellent entertainment options, it's crucial to stay safe while streaming. Using a trusted VPN and tools like Wondershare UniConverter ensures that you can enjoy content securely. Additionally, Wondershare UniConverter not only helps you download movies but also enhances your video experience with features like Scene Detection, allowing you to easily find specific parts in a video, making your viewing experience even more enjoyable.
FAQs
Q1: Is it legal to stream movies on free sites like Putlocker alternatives?
A: Streaming on free sites can be risky if the content is pirated. Always check legality in your region and use a VPN for protection.
Q2: Can I download movies from Putlocker alternatives?
A: Many alternatives allow downloads, but check for legal concerns. Wondershare UniConverter makes the download process easier and safer.
Q3: How do I stay safe when using free movie streaming sites?
A: Use a VPN for privacy, avoid suspicious ads, and consider antivirus software to protect against malware.
Q4: Are there any ads on free movie streaming sites?
A: Yes, most free sites have ads, which can be disruptive. An ad-blocker can help reduce interruptions.
Q5: What are the benefits of using a VPN when streaming movies for free?
A: A VPN encrypts your connection, protects privacy, bypasses geo-restrictions, and shields you from potential threats like malware.