Best Free Streaming Service of 2025: The Roku Channel Wins Cordie Award

The Roku Channel has once again secured the title of the best free ad-supported streaming service for 2025, according to the annual Cordie Awards hosted by Cord Cutters News. Over 1,000 readers participated in the voting process to highlight the top services and devices transforming cord cutting.

The results show that The Roku Channel emerged victorious with a vote share of 30.6 percent, surpassing competitors like Tubi and Pluto TV. Tubi, with 29 percent of the vote, has shown significant growth and appeal among audiences for its diverse content libraries, while Pluto TV, with 23.1 percent, continues to offer live TV-style programming reminiscent of cable without the monthly bills.

Free ad-supported television services are gaining popularity as costs rise, prompting more cord-cutters to explore no-cost alternatives. In this landscape, The Roku Channel stands out for its seamless integration with Roku devices and a wide range of on-demand titles, including original programming, classic films, and popular series—all supported by targeted advertisements. Its user-friendly interface provides easy navigation, personalized recommendations, and live channels catering to various interests.

Tubi, owned by Fox Corporation, focuses on acquiring rights to Hollywood blockbusters, independent films, and international content, offering algorithm-driven suggestions and minimal ad interruptions to attract a younger audience. On the other hand, Pluto TV, under Paramount Global, excels in its channel-based format with over 250 live streams, appealing to viewers transitioning from cable.

The cord-cutting market is maturing, and innovation is crucial to staying ahead. As the trend of cord cutting accelerates, free streaming services play a vital role in providing affordable, high-quality programming to consumers. The Roku Channel’s consecutive wins demonstrate the advantage of integrating with hardware ecosystems for enhanced features like voice search and cross-device syncing.

As we approach 2026, cord cutters have access to competitive and capable free streaming options, offering compelling alternatives to expensive bundles. While The Roku Channel leads the pack, Tubi and Pluto TV are close behind, indicating a heated competition for viewer loyalty.

The 2025 Cordie Awards celebrate progress in cord cutting, with real-world preferences guiding both consumers and providers. Stay tuned for more updates and results leading up to 2026 on the latest in streaming entertainment from Cord Cutters News.