Plex has long been a favorite for organizing and streaming personal media, but it’s not perfect for everyone. Some users find its setup complex, premium features expensive, or device compatibility limited.
Fortunately, there are a variety of alternatives that provide similar media management and streaming capabilities. From free, open-source platforms like Jellyfin to versatile paid options like Emby Premiere and Infuse, these alternatives allow you to enjoy movies, TV shows, and live content across multiple devices. This guide highlights the best Plex alternatives available in 2025, helping you find a solution that fits your media needs and viewing habits.
Part 1. Why You Need a Plex Alternative
While Plex is a popular media server, it’s not always the perfect fit for every user. Some people find its setup complicated or its premium features expensive. Others want more customization, broader device compatibility, or enhanced streaming options that Plex may not fully offer.
Whether you want a free open-source platform, better media management, or more control over your library, exploring Plex alternatives can help you find a solution that matches your specific needs. With the right alternative, you can enjoy movies, TV shows, and live content safely and smoothly across all your devices.
Part 2. How to Choose the Best Plex Alternative
Choosing the right Plex alternative starts with understanding what matters most to you.
- Consider the type of content you want to stream, whether it’s movies, TV shows, music, or live TV.
- Check device compatibility to ensure your media server works on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and computers.
- Decide between free or paid options based on your budget and desired features.
- Free platforms like Jellyfin or Kodi offer full control but may require more setup.
- Paid services like Emby Premiere or Infuse provide polished interfaces and advanced streaming options.
- Prioritizing safety, ease of use, and the features that fit your lifestyle will help you find the best Plex alternative for your media needs.
Part 3. Best 12 Plex Alternatives
1. Jellyfin
Jellyfin is a free, open-source media server that lets you organize and stream movies, TV shows, music, and more across multiple devices.
Pros:
Cons:
Completely free and open-source
Setup can be technical for beginners
Supports multiple devices and platforms
Lacks some advanced features of paid platforms
No subscription or hidden fees
Remote streaming requires configuration
2. Kodi
Kodi is a customizable media center that allows you to play local and online media with a variety of add-ons and skins.
Pros:
Cons:
Highly customizable interface
Add-ons from unofficial sources may pose security risks
Supports a wide range of media formats
Requires manual setup for advanced features
Works on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and Raspberry Pi
No native cloud streaming
3. Emby
Emby is a media server that offers both free and premium tiers, allowing users to manage and stream media across devices.
Pros:
Cons:
Easy media organization and streaming
Some features require Emby Premiere subscription
Remote access supported
Ads may appear in the free version
Cross-platform compatibility
Setup can be complex for beginners
4. Infuse
Infuse is a media player designed primarily for Apple devices, offering smooth playback of local and network-stored media.
Pros:
Cons:
Clean and user-friendly interface
Premium features require a subscription
Supports multiple file formats
Limited to Apple devices
AirPlay and subtitle support
No server-side management for large libraries
5. Stremio
Stremio aggregates movies and TV shows from multiple sources, letting you stream or cast content easily across devices.
Pros:
Cons:
Easy to use and intuitive
Depends on third-party add-ons for full content
Supports add-ons for extra content sources
Some content legality varies by region
Cross-platform support
Limited media management features
6. MediaPortal
MediaPortal is a Windows-based media server and DVR that can stream live TV, record shows, and manage multimedia content.
Pros:
Cons:
Supports live TV and DVR functionality
Windows-only software
Free and open-source
Interface can feel dated
Highly configurable for Windows users
Setup and configuration require technical knowledge
7. Serviio
Serviio is a DLNA-compliant media server that allows you to stream movies, music, and TV shows to devices on your home network.
Pros:
Cons:
Supports multiple devices and formats
Some advanced features require a Pro license
Free version available with essential features
Setup can be technical
Reliable local streaming
Remote streaming is limited without configuration
8. PlayOn
PlayOn is a media server and streaming recorder that lets you watch, record, and stream content from online platforms to any device.
Pros:
Cons:
Can record streaming content for offline viewing
Paid subscription required for full functionality
Works across multiple devices
Setup can be slightly complex
Supports popular streaming services
Ads may appear in some features
9. Universal Media Server
Universal Media Server is a cross-platform media server that streams content to DLNA-compatible devices such as smart TVs and game consoles.
Pros:
Cons:
Cross-platform support
User interface is basic
Free and open-source
Limited media library management
Compatible with a wide range of devices
Some features require manual setup
10. Vidibox
Vidibox is a media center software with a simple user interface for streaming movies, TV shows, and music locally or online.
Pros:
Cons:
Easy-to-use interface
Smaller feature set than Plex
Supports streaming from multiple sources
Not as actively updated
Works on Windows and Mac
Lacks advanced remote streaming options
11. OSMC
OSMC is an open-source media center built for Raspberry Pi and other devices, focusing on simplicity and wide format support.
Pros:
Cons:
Free and open-source
Limited to supported hardware
Lightweight and efficient on Raspberry Pi
Advanced setup may require technical knowledge
Supports a wide range of media formats
Some add-ons can be difficult to install
12. Popcorn Time
Popcorn Time is a streaming app for movies and TV shows, offering a simple interface and access to a wide range of content.
Pros:
Cons:
Easy to use and attractive interface
Legal issues in some regions
Streams movies and TV shows instantly
Quality and availability vary depending on source
Available on multiple platforms
Not a traditional media server, lacks library management
Part 4. FAQs About Plex Alternatives
Q1. Is there anything better than Plex?
Yes. Platforms like Jellyfin, Kodi, and Emby offer features Plex lacks, such as full open-source access, cross-platform support, and customizable interfaces.
Q2. Is it safe to use Plex?
Plex is generally safe when downloaded from the official site or app stores. Using third-party add-ons may increase risk.
Q3. Why is Plex not illegal?
Plex is legal because it lets users stream their own media or licensed content. It does not provide unauthorized access to copyrighted material.
Q4. Will Plex no longer be free?
In March 2025, Plex announced it will end free remote streaming. Basic media playback remains free, but features like streaming outside your home network now require a Plex Pass. The change starts with the Roku app and will roll out to other platforms soon.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Plex alternative comes down to balancing functionality, ease of use, and cost. Free platforms like Jellyfin and Kodi are great for tech-savvy users seeking full control, while paid services like Emby Premiere or Infuse offer polished interfaces and advanced features for a smoother experience.
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