Is Putlocker Safe? Best Putlocker Alternatives & How to Use Them Securely

Looking for Free HD Streaming Without the Risks?

Putlocker might seem like the perfect solution with free HD access to popular movies and shows, but it comes with major drawbacks. You could be a target of phishing pop-ups and malware threats, and risk your privacy and device security.

Putlocker is often unstable, frequently offline, and bombards you with redirects. There are safer, more reliable alternatives to Putlocker. With the help of a trusted VPN, you can access these platforms securely, plus protect your identity and bypass region locks.

Best Country-Specific Putlocker Alternatives You Can Access with a VPN

Free streaming sites like Putlocker are often illegal and insecure. Numerous legitimate regional platforms offer high-quality content, though access is usually limited to some regions. With a reputable VPN, you can safely bypass these regional barriers and stream legally available content from anywhere in the world.

Platform	Ideal For	Available In	Content Type	Access
BBC iPlayer	British dramas, documentaries, and news	United Kingdom	Live channels, on-demand TV, factual series	Free (UK only)
SBS On Demand	Australian shows and world cinema	Australia	Indie films, local series, global sports, news	Free (AU only)
Disney+ Hotstar	Bollywood hits and Indian cricket	India, SE Asia (varies)	Hindi series, Hotstar Specials, IPL coverage	Freemium / Paid
JioCinema	Hindi films and sports (including IPL)	India	Regional cinema, TV dramas, live sports	Free (India only)
ZDF Mediathek	German crime series and public TV	Germany	News, sports, kids’ programming, documentaries	Free (DE only)
France.tv	French-language cultural content	France	Lifestyle shows, series, live and replay TV	Free (France only)
RTÉ Player	Irish programming and local news	Ireland	Talk shows, drama, sports, live news	Free (Ireland only)
CBC Gem	Canadian originals and real-time news	Canada	Films, CBC shows, live & on-demand news	Freemium (Canada only)
Viu	Asian dramas and reality shows	SE Asia, Middle East	Korean, Thai, Filipino series and variety shows	Freemium
NHK+	Japanese national broadcast content	Japan	Live news, cultural programs, archives	Free (Japan only)
RaiPlay	Italian entertainment and UEFA coverage	Italy	Sports, fiction, variety programs	Free (Italy only)
TVNZ+	Kiwi dramas and current affairs	New Zealand	Local reality shows, news, and drama series	Free (NZ only)

Is Putlocker Safe and Legal?

No, Putlocker is neither entirely safe nor legal. The original site and its many clones operate without proper licensing, which means they distribute copyrighted content unlawfully. Streaming from such platforms violates copyright laws in many regions, exposing you to legal consequences.

In terms of safety, Putlocker and its mirror sites host intrusive ads, phishing pop-ups, and hidden malware. These risks can compromise your device security and personal data.

7 Free & Legal Putlocker Alternatives Worth Trying

Some alternatives, supported by well-known companies like Paramount, Fox Corporation, and Plex, provide high-quality, reliable content. However, the trade-off is that they often include ads, which can be a downside if you’re looking for an uninterrupted viewing experience.

1. Tubi

Subscription: Free (Ad-supported)
Best For: Family-friendly shows, movies, and genre-specific browsing

Tubi is a free alternative to Putlocker, with a legal and easy-to-use streaming experience. Backed by Fox Corporation, it features a large, diverse library of movies and TV shows across various genres. No sign-up is required, though creating an account helps you explore extra features like watchlists and history syncing.

Pros:

• Wide-ranging content with genre filters
• No sign-up needed for streaming
• Family-safe content options

Cons:

• Available only in the U.S. (VPN required elsewhere)
• Frequent ad interruptions
  

2. Crackle

Subscription: Free (Ad-supported)
Best For: Classic movies and Sony-owned originals

Crackle is a Sony-backed platform offering a mix of older hits, indie gems, and original content. It’s a legitimate source for free movies and shows, though its global availability is limited, and the content selection can feel dated at times.

Pros:

• Decent library of classic and indie titles
• Optional sign-up for a better user experience
• Backed by a major studio (Sony)

Cons:

• Limited availability outside the U.S.
• Smaller, less updated content catalog
  

3. Pluto TV

Subscription: Free (Ad-supported)
Best For: Live channels and traditional TV-style streaming

Pluto TV replicates the cable-TV experience with over 250 live channels plus on-demand movies and shows. It’s perfect for those who enjoy channel surfing without any subscription.

Pros:

• Includes news, movies, sports, and more
• No account required
• Large number of live channels

Cons:

• Only accessible in the U.S. without a VPN
• No custom watchlists or account personalization
  

4. Plex

Subscription: Free (Ad-supported)
Best For: On-demand movies, live TV, and personal media servers

Plex offers a hybrid experience, combining free movies and live TV with media server capabilities. It works globally, though the content catalog may vary depending on your location.

Pros:

• Offers both streaming and personal media hosting
• Live TV and web shows included
• Available worldwide
  

Cons:

• Regional limitations on certain titles
• User interface can feel cluttered

5. Xumo Play

Subscription: Free (Ad-supported)
Best For: News, sports, and live TV without registration

Xumo Play delivers over 190 live channels and a range of on-demand content. With no account needed, it’s a quick way to jump into streaming news, movies, or sports, ideal for those in the U.S. and Canada.

Pros:

• Instant access, no login required
• Live news, sports, and entertainment channels
• Simple, cable-like viewing
  

Cons:

• Limited to North America (VPN required elsewhere)
• Less robust on-demand movie selection
  

6. YouTube

Subscription: Free (Ad-supported, varies by content)
Best For: Documentaries, indie films, and legally free movies

YouTube isn’t just for user-generated content; it also hosts a wide range of free, legally available films and web series. Its algorithm-driven suggestions and amazing creator base make it highly versatile.

Pros:

• Global access with diverse content
• No subscription needed
• Includes documentaries and niche content
  

Cons:

• Ads vary by video and can’t always be skipped
• Free movie availability changes frequently
  

7. Kanopy

Subscription: Free with Library Card
Best For: Academic films, indie cinema, and ad-free viewing

Kanopy is an ad-free streaming service accessible via participating libraries and universities. It’s ideal if you want quality content, including indie films, documentaries, and educational content.

Pros:

• Completely ad-free viewing
• Excellent academic and independent film selection
• High-quality streaming
  

Cons:

• Requires a library card or institutional access
• Not as widely available as commercial platforms

11 Tried and Tested Premium Putlocker Alternatives 

If you’re tired of relentless pop-ups, intrusive ads, and constant redirects, it may be the right moment to switch to premium Putlocker alternatives that offer a cleaner, uninterrupted streaming experience.

1. Netflix

Subscription: From $6.99/month
Best For: Original series, international movies, trending shows

Netflix is one of the most reliable alternatives to Putlocker if you want an ad-free streaming experience. Its extensive library of HD and 4K content features everything from binge-worthy original series to award-winning international films, including titles like Crimson Divide, Iron Pact, and Echoes of the Fall.

Pros:

• Extensive content library featuring critically acclaimed originals
• Tailored recommendations and multiple user profiles
• High-quality streaming in HD, Full HD, and 4K resolutions

Cons:

• Frequently changing content library
• Some titles are restricted by region due to licensing limitations

2. Amazon Prime Video

Subscription: $14.99/month
Best For: Movie rentals, Prime Originals, sports add-ons

Amazon Prime Video is an amazing alternative to Putlocker, offering a premium streaming experience with added flexibility. With its subscription-based library, you can rent or buy the latest movie releases, making it a great option for those who want both on-demand and pay-per-view content.

Originals like Frontline Protocol, Neon Shift, Digital Remains, and Flicker highlight Prime Video’s remain unique when it comes to seamless entertainment. The platform also supports customizable channel add-ons like STARZ, Discovery+, and Acorn TV, to tailor the content lineup according to your preferences.

Pros:

• Bundled with Amazon Prime perks like fast shipping and exclusive shopping deals
• Offers optional premium add-ons for live sports and blockbuster movie channels
• Balanced selection of timeless classics and current trending content

Cons:

• User interface may appear busy or overwhelming for some viewers
• Additional fees apply for premium channels and on-demand rentals

3. Disney+ 

Subscription: $7.99/month
Best For: Family content, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars

If you’re looking for family-friendly entertainment with stunning animation and big-budget productions, Disney+ is a standout alternative to Putlocker.

Whether it’s animated hits from Pixar like Ocean Breeze and Wild Hearts, superhero action from the Marvel universe with shows like Shadow Pulse and Legacy Code, or Star Wars-inspired adventures like Galactic Echo and Chronicles of the Force, Disney+ offers a broad mix of genres to keep everyone entertained.

Pros:

• Designed for children with customizable parental controls
• Home to exclusive Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars titles
• Supports ultra-high-definition streaming in 4K HDR

Cons:

• Content library primarily features Disney-owned franchises
• Lacks adult-oriented programming and third-party content

4. Hulu 

Subscription: $7.99/month (ads)
Best For: Next-day access to the U.S. TV, Hulu Originals

Hulu gives you quick access to the latest episodes from top U.S. networks like ABC, NBC, and FOX, often available just a day after airing. Its on-demand library features standout original series such as The Fade, Ten Quiet Guests, and Unit 22.

Hulu also offers optional Live TV packages that include local channels, live sports, and up-to-the-minute news coverage. Compatible with a wide range of devices and offering both live and on-demand viewing, Hulu is a well-rounded streaming experience for all.

Pros:

• Fast access to recently aired episodes
• Offers bundle with Disney+ and ESPN+
• Affordable base plan
  

Cons:

• Ads on the standard plan
• Only available in the U.S.

5. HBO Max 

Subscription: $15.99/month
Best For: Award-winning dramas, blockbusters, and HBO exclusives

HBO Max is a premium alternative to Putlocker, giving you a rich mix of blockbuster films and high-caliber original series. With early streaming access to select Warner Bros. movies soon after their theatrical run, it’s a go-to platform for film lovers who want the latest releases without the wait.

Known for its polished visual experience and compelling storytelling, HBO Max delivers standout originals like Capital Street, Osaka Shadows, The Authority, and Game Plan. 

Pros:

• Features acclaimed HBO Originals, DC Universe titles, and Warner Bros. blockbusters
• Delivers stunning visuals with 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos sound
• Intuitive, streamlined interface for a smooth user experience

Cons:

• More expensive than other platforms
• Not available in all regions
  

6. Paramount+

Subscription: $5.99/month
Best For: UEFA matches, NFL on CBS, CBS content

Paramount+ is an affordable yet feature-rich Putlocker alternative, with a solid mix of premium entertainment and live sports. Its integration with CBS Sports, subscribers can stream live events including NFL games, NCAA tournaments, and elite European football leagues, all in real time.

The platform also offers an on-demand library that includes Paramount Pictures films and iconic TV series like Harbor Watch and District Files. 

Pros:

• Streams live NFL games and UEFA Champions League matches
• Affordable monthly subscription
• Compatible with all major streaming platforms and devices

Cons:

• Smaller selection of movies compared to competitors
• Unavailable in certain regions due to regional restrictions

7. Peacock TV

Subscription: $7.99/month (free tier also available)
Best For: Premier League, WWE, The Office, and reality shows

PeacockTV is an attractive alternative to Putlocker for fans of both American and British entertainment. It offers live streaming of Premier League games, WWE events, and an on-demand library featuring titles like Face Value, Steel Drift, and classic NBC hits such as Downtown Office and Community Circle.

One of Peacock’s standout features is its ad-supported free tier, giving you access to a wide selection of content without needing a paid subscription. 

Pros:

• Free tier available with ads
• Exclusive access to Premier League and WWE content
• Offers both live news and sports

Cons:

• Available only within the United States
• Ad-supported by default, with ads removed only on premium upgrade plans

8. Apple TV+ 

Subscription: $9.99/month
Best For: Original series, Apple-exclusive content, MLS

Apple TV+ offers a completely ad-free streaming experience and is a premium alternative to Putlocker. It’s home to exclusives such as Disconnect, Modern Threads, and Wings of Valor, all praised for their standout performances and cinematic quality.

For sports enthusiasts, Apple TV+ also provides the MLS Season Pass, giving you unrestricted access to every Major League Soccer match, no matter where you are. 

Pros:

• High-quality, exclusive shows and movies
• Smooth integration with Apple ecosystem
• Ad-free interface
  

Cons:

• Smaller library
• Limited third-party content
  

9. YouTube TV 

Subscription: $72.99/month
Best For: Live sports, cable networks, DVR functionality

YouTube TV is a versatile and feature-packed alternative to Putlocker, perfect for anyone looking for both live and on-demand entertainment. With access to over 85 live channels, including ESPN, TNT, FS1, and NBC Sports, it covers everything from global sports events to trending TV shows and up-to-the-minute news.

Pros:

• Full access to live U.S. sports
• Reliable, high-quality streams
• Unlimited cloud DVR
  

Cons:

• High monthly cost
• Only available in the U.S.
  

10. Vudu 

Subscription: Pay-per-view (no monthly fee)
Best For: Renting or buying the latest movies

Vudu is a flexible alternative to Putlocker with its pay-as-you-go model. Ideal for viewers who prefer renting or buying individual movies and TV episodes, it’s a great choice if you want access to the latest releases without committing to a monthly subscription.

The platform supports HD and 4K streaming for many titles and regularly features limited-time deals, along with a rotating selection of free, ad-supported content. With options like Skybound and The Keeper’s Code, Vudu caters to a wide audience.

Pros:

• Early access to new releases ahead of other platforms
• Supports 4K UHD streaming for select titles
• No subscription required—pay only for what you watch

Cons:

• Costs add up if you watch frequently
• No live or episodic TV unless purchased

11. Sling TV

Subscription: Paid (starting at $40/month)
Best For: Live sports, cable channels, and flexible streaming bundles

Sling TV is a flexible and fully legal alternative to Putlocker, with live television and select on-demand content through a customizable, contract-free streaming model. With affordable plans like Sling Orange and Sling Blue, you can access major channels including FS1, BBC America, HGTV, and NFL RedZone, covering everything from sports and lifestyle to breaking news.

Combined with cloud DVR and compatibility across most devices, Sling TV is a smart, cost-efficient option for reliable streaming.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly and highly customizable subscription options
• Robust live sports access, including ESPN, NFL RedZone, and FS1
• Broad device compatibility, supports Roku, Fire TV, mobile, and more
• Modular channel add-ons tailored to specific interests and genres

Cons:

• No free viewing option available
• Local broadcast channel availability varies by region
• User interface lacks the refinement of some rival platforms

What is Putlocker and Why Did it Get Shut Down?

Putlocker was a widely popular free streaming website that offered access to movies and TV shows without requiring any subscriptions or payments. Launched in the early 2010s, it quickly gained global attention due to its massive content library and easy-to-use interface. 

Putlocker worked without proper licensing agreements, making its distribution of copyrighted content illegal. This led to legal action from copyright holders and authorities across various countries. As a result, the original site was taken down, and its domains were repeatedly blocked or seized. Despite its shutdown, numerous copycat and mirror sites continue to circulate online, risking your security and privacy.

Free Unlicensed Putlocker Alternatives to Try Only With a Reliable VPN

Many free streaming sites offer a similar experience to Putlocker. While they aren’t entirely legal or safe, a trusted VPN can enhance your security by encrypting your internet connection and protecting your identity online.

Platform	Best For	Pros	Cons
Flixtor	HD movies and TV shows	Streamlined UI, frequent updates	Pop-up ads rely on mirror domains
YesMovies	Global films with IMDb filters	Massive content base, genre & rating filters	Aggressive ads and redirection loops
Fmovies	HD international streaming	Clean layout, responsive server speed	Domain often shifts, not always reliable
Soap2Day	Recently aired TV episodes	Regularly refreshed content, engaged user community	Heavy ad volume, blocked in some countries
TinyZoneTV	Trending and retro content	Mobile-compatible, no account required	Lower video quality, frequent redirects
BMovies	Quick movie access	Strong video quality, minimalistic interface	Ad-heavy experience
Cineb	Hollywood blockbusters	Low ad presence in some regions	Poor usability on mobile devices
LookMovie	Filterable HD content	Browse by year, rating, genre	Malware threats if no ad-blocker is used
Pubfilm	Indie and niche cinema	Unique and hard-to-find titles	Quality inconsistency, broken links are common
AZMovies	User-curated film collections	High-resolution content, intuitive sorting	Contains outdated or non-working links
123Chill	Newer series and releases	Easy-to-navigate, regularly updated TV shows	Ads can be intrusive, and some links break
CouchTuner	Binge-watching TV series	Fast uploads, large episode archive	Outdated look, buffering issues during high traffic
WatchSeriesHD	Genre-based TV series browsing	Genre/year filters, multiple mirrors	May require VPN; trackers and redirect scripts present
PrimeWire	Community-rated movie lists	Fan ratings, extensive film categories	Frequent redirects, intrusive pop-ups
StreamM4u	Indie films and lesser-known titles	Broad content range, no registration needed	Occasional lag, limited search filters
GoStream	Instant streaming with minimal wait	Fast loading, straightforward playback	TV show library is limited, ad-heavy
Movie4K	Multilingual film access	Subtitles and audio in several languages	Pop-up spam, difficult navigation
Vumoo	Clean, ad-light interface	Few interruptions, smooth UX	No filters for genre/year; limited sorting tools
Cineb.net	HD-quality new releases	No login required, stable links	May be region-blocked in some countries
SolarMovie	Well-organized movies & series	IMDb data integration, balanced selection	Many clone/fake sites exist; use with caution

Final Thoughts

Putlocker is now working through a network of mirror and clone sites, all of which lack proper licensing. These unofficial domains are often filled with intrusive ads, malicious scripts, and hidden trackers that can compromise your privacy. To reduce these risks and stream more securely on Putlocker or similar platforms, it’s highly advisable to use a trusted VPN like PureVPN.

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Frequently Asked Questions