Top apps like Kodi: Stream media with these alternatives.

Kodi, the open-source media center, is a fantastic tool for organizing and enjoying your digital media. But perhaps you’re looking for something different, something with a smoother interface, tighter security, or a specific feature that Kodi lacks. Maybe the legal gray areas surrounding some Kodi add-ons are making you uneasy. Whatever your reason, plenty of excellent “top apps like Kodi” are ready to take center stage in your home theater setup.
At a glance:

Kodi is a powerful, free media center, but it has limitations.
Alternatives offer improved user interfaces, security, ease of use, and features.
Plex is a popular choice for centralized media management and streaming.
Stremio offers a lighter, more streamlined experience with easy add-on installation.
Emby provides robust parental controls and offline syncing.
Other options like OSMC, MediaPortal, and Universal Media Server cater to specific needs.

Table of Contents

Why Consider Alternatives to Kodi?

Kodi (formerly XBMC) has been a streaming staple for years, offering a customizable and powerful platform for managing and playing your media. It’s a free, open-source home theater software compatible with operating systems like Raspberry Pi, Windows, Android, Linux, OSX, and iOS. But Kodi isn’t perfect for everyone. Here’s why you might want to explore alternatives:

Legal Concerns: Some third-party Kodi add-ons grant access to copyrighted content, which has led to legal issues.
Complexity: Kodi’s customization options can be overwhelming for new users.
Security Risks: Community-produced add-ons don’t always receive regular updates, making them vulnerable to malware.
Resource Intensive: Kodi can consume significant system resources, potentially slowing down older devices.
User Interface: While customizable, Kodi’s default interface isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

What to Look for in a Kodi Alternative

Before diving into the list, consider what features are most important to you. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Ease of Use: How intuitive is the interface? Can you easily navigate and find what you’re looking for?
Device Compatibility: Does the app work on all your devices (TV, phone, tablet, computer)?
Media Support: Does it support the file types you need (movies, music, photos)?
Streaming Capabilities: Can you stream from local storage, network drives, or online sources?
Add-on Support: Does it offer add-ons or plugins to expand functionality?
Parental Controls: Can you restrict content for children?
Offline Playback: Can you download content for offline viewing?
Price: Is it free, subscription-based, or a one-time purchase?
Security and Privacy: Is the app secure and trustworthy? Does it respect your privacy?

Top Kodi Alternatives in 2024

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Here’s a curated list of some of the best apps like Kodi.

1. Plex: The Centralized Media Powerhouse

Plex is a media server software that stores and plays your favorite content. To operate Plex, you will first have to install the software onto your computer. This will be the source where your data and content are stored. Applications will then need to be installed onto your desired streaming devices for viewing. After installing Plex, you can access the stored content wherever you are via the streaming devices.
Key Features:

Centralized Media Management: Plex organizes your movies, TV shows, music, and photos into a beautiful library.
Streaming to Multiple Devices: Stream your content to any device with the Plex app (smart TVs, phones, tablets, game consoles, etc.).
Live TV and DVR: With a Plex Pass subscription, you can watch and record live TV using an antenna.
User-Friendly Interface: Plex boasts a clean, intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate.
Parental Controls: Restrict content based on ratings.
Offline Syncing: Download content for offline viewing with Plex Pass.
Unlimited Storage: Store as much media as you want (storage is limited only by the capacity of your server).
Why Plex is a Great Alternative: Plex excels at centralizing your media and making it accessible on all your devices. It’s a secure and trusted platform used by thousands. The app also organizes your content based on descriptions, titles, and casting listings, making it more straightforward than Kodi
Pricing: Plex offers a free version with basic features. Plex Pass provides additional features like live TV, DVR, offline syncing, and premium music features. The Pro version even lets you download your favorite movies and music.

2. Stremio: The Lightweight Streaming Hub

Stremio is a one-stop solution for video entertainment. You can watch movies, TV shows, Live TV, and web channels on Stremio. After downloading and installing the app on your device, you must create an account.
Key Features:

Easy Add-on Installation: Install add-ons with a single click to access various content sources. Stremio uses 3rd party apps to view Movies, TV Shows, and more.
Lightweight and Fast: Stremio is a much lighter app than Kodi, so you won’t need to worry about storage space on your device.
Cross-Platform Compatibility: Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Guest Mode: Use the app without creating an account (though you won’t be able to save your add-ons).
Torrent Streaming: Stream torrents directly within the app.
Why Stremio is a Great Alternative: Stremio provides a streamlined streaming experience with easy access to content through add-ons. It’s an open-source app that lets you access your favorite videos for free. One of the greatest assets Stremio offers is the ability to view your content from any of your favorite devices.
Pricing: Stremio is free and open-source.

3. Emby: Your Personal Media Server with Enhanced Features

Emby is a personal media server platform that lets you bring all your music, home videos, photos, and live TV and automatically convert them so you can stream and play them on any device.
Key Features:

Media Organization: Emby automatically organizes your media library with metadata, artwork, and trailers.
Live TV and DVR: Watch and record live TV with a supported tuner.
Parental Controls: Set time limits and create access schedules for users.
Offline Sync: Download media for offline viewing.
Multiple Operating Systems: Supported Server, you can access it on Multiple Operating systems, Docker, NASes, and gaming consoles, unlike Kodi.
Mobile Sync: With Emby mobile sync, you will always access your videos, music, and photos everywhere you go, even when you do not have access to the internet.
Why Emby is a Great Alternative: Emby offers robust parental controls, offline syncing, and a user-friendly interface. To use Emby, you first need to download and install the server, download the Emby app for your device, sign up, and access your media.
Pricing: Emby is a free app with optional Emby Premiere subscription for enhanced features.

4. OSMC: The Linux-Based Media Center

OSMC (Open Source Media Center) is an open-source media center that allows you to access movies, TV shows, music, pictures, and games. The software is built on Debian Linux, but you should not worry if you are inexperienced with Linux; the OSMC interface makes it user-friendly.
Key Features:

Clean and Simple Interface: Easy to navigate and use.
Debian Linux-Based: Stable and reliable.
Can Run Kodi Add-ons: OSMC can run every add-on available on Kodi.
Regular Updates: OSMC undergoes a monthly update.
Why OSMC is a Great Alternative: OSMC is a solid choice if you want a dedicated media center operating system with a clean interface and Kodi add-on compatibility. Also, Kodi is a media center application that runs on the OSMC operating system so that OSMC can run every add-on available on Kodi.
Pricing: OSMC is free and open-source.

5. MediaPortal: Transform Your PC into a Media Hub

MediaPortal is open-source software that will transform your PC into a media solution allowing you to view your digital media in the comfort of your living room.
Key Features:

TV Recording and Streaming: Watch, schedule, and record live TV.
Automatic Media Listing: MediaPortal will automatically list your videos, music, and pictures in your folder, so you will not need to access them manually like in Kodi.
Remote Control Support: Control your HTPC with a remote.
Weather and News Integration: Stay informed with built-in weather and news feeds.
Why MediaPortal is a Great Alternative: MediaPortal excels at turning your PC into a comprehensive media center for your living room. The advantage of using MediaPortal over Kodi is that it will automatically list your videos, music, and pictures in your folder, so you will not need to access them manually like in Kodi.
Pricing: MediaPortal is free and open-source.

6. Universal Media Server: DLNA-Certified Streaming

Universal Media Server is a Digital Living Network Alliance-certified (DLNA), Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), and an HTTP/S media server supported by major operating systems, including macOS, Linux, and Windows.
Key Features:

DLNA Compliant: Compatible with a wide range of devices.
Web Interface: Beautiful web interface for managing your media. This Kodi alternative not only gives you a beautiful web interface but will not track your activity on the app giving you total privacy.
Podcast and Radio Support: Manage your podcasts and online radio channels.
Subtitle Support: Live subtitle feature supports over 40 languages.
Why Universal Media Server is a Great Alternative: If you need a simple and reliable DLNA server, Universal Media Server is an excellent choice. It also supports a wide range of devices including smartphones, computers, gaming consoles, audio devices, and TVs.
Pricing: Universal Media Server is free and open-source.

7. Serviio: The Java-Powered Media Streamer

Serviio is a media server that lets you stream your media files, like images, music, or video, to renderer devices, including mobile phones, game consoles, Blu-ray players, or TVs.
Key Features:

Java-Based: Runs on various platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux).
Online Content Streaming: Stream content from online sources, RSS feeds, and web pages.
Automatic Library Updates: Automatically updates the library whenever you remove, add, or update a media or metadata file.
Alexa Integration: Control the app with your voice using Alexa.
Why Serviio is a Great Alternative: Serviio’s Java-based architecture and online streaming capabilities make it a versatile option. Serviio is one of the best Kodi alternatives in 2025 because it functions well with almost all devices like Mac, Linux, and Windows as it is built with Java Technology.
Pricing: Serviio has a free version with limited features. A pro license is available for $24.99 – $39.99 and the screen server license is available for $14.99 – $29.99.

8. JRiver Media Center: The All-in-One Media Solution

JRiver is a media center for seamless image, audio, video, and TV. You will be able to play your media without any setup.
Key Features:

Comprehensive Media Support: Handles images, audio, video, and TV.
Seamless Interface: Integrates different media formats into a single interface.
Media Network Features: Stream media across your network.
Organized Media Library: How JRiver organizes its media library makes it stand out from Kodi.
Why JRiver is a Great Alternative: JRiver provides a comprehensive solution for managing and playing all types of media. Video formats on JRiver come in a lot of packages. You can stream videos from Hulu or Netflix, watch DVD and Blu-ray formats, and watch YouTube clips and movies.
Pricing: JRiver is not a free app, but first-time users will get a 30-day trial. You can purchase individual Windows, Mac, and Linux licenses for $59.98.

9. Jellyfin: The Completely Free Media System

Jellyfin is software that keeps you in control of your media. You can collect, manage, and stream your media with Jellyfin.
Key Features:

Completely Free and Open-Source: No subscription fees.
Live TV and Recording: Watch and record live TV.
Web Browser Playback: Watch media in your web browser.
Cross-Platform Apps: Available for various devices (iOS, Android, Roku, etc.).
Privacy-Focused: Jellyfin will not track your data, maintaining your privacy.
Why Jellyfin is a Great Alternative: Jellyfin is an excellent option if you want a completely free and privacy-focused media server. Furthermore, you can watch it via your Chromecast, or if you have an existing Kodi Installation, you can stream your media there.
Pricing: Jellyfin is free and open-source.

10. Splash 2.0

Splash 2.0 is a free Kodi alternative with which you can enjoy HD videos and still save the battery. It’s the best and most optimized video quality across every social media platform with amazing conversion quality.
Key Features:

Hardware Acceleration: The latest version of this Kodi replacement comes with all the trending technologies to make your media experience better like Intel® Quick Sync Video, NVIDIA® NVENC, and AMD APP.
Customisable Interface: You can customize the user interface with its predefined themes.
Smart Seek: Allows you to choose a particular clip from your favorite movie without interfering with the current playback.
Why Splash 2.0 is a Great Alternative: Splash 2.0 is great if you’re looking for a customizable and optimized media experience.
Pricing: Splash 2.0 is free, but available only for Windows devices.

Beyond the Mainstream: Other Notable Alternatives

While the above list covers the most popular options, here are a few more alternatives worth considering:

TogetherTube: A web app that lets you watch videos with friends in a synchronized player. TogetherTube is another Kodi alternative. It is a powerful moderation tool that will not only let you watch videos but also lets you interact with other users.
Infuse 7: An iOS and macOS app for playing videos from various sources. The app comes with a free and a pro version, only available as an in-app purchase.
koel: A web-based music streaming app. koel is an app that was named after a bird that sings non-stop. Thus, the developers created the app to entertain users with free streaming music. To access koel on your mobile device, purchase the app from Google Play or App Store at $11.99.
Kast: An app for watching movies, playing games, and hanging out with friends in real-time. [placeholder_link slug=”app-games-for-teenagers” text=”Best Apps for Teens”] often prioritize social features, and Kast certainly fits that bill by letting up to 20 people share their screens, and up to 100 can join the watch party.
Video Hub App: A video launcher that organizes videos on your computer. Video Hub App works on Windows, Mac, and Linux PC.
TVMuse: An app that lets you stream movies online for free. TVMuse is an app like Kodi that lets you stream movies online for free.

Common Questions and Misconceptions

Is Kodi illegal? Kodi itself is legal. However, some third-party add-ons provide access to copyrighted content, which is illegal.
Are Kodi alternatives safer? It depends on the specific alternative and the add-ons or plugins you use. Stick to reputable and well-maintained options.
Do I need to be tech-savvy to use Kodi alternatives? Many alternatives, like Plex and Stremio, are designed to be user-friendly.
Can I still use Kodi? Yes, Kodi is still a viable option. However, be mindful of the legal and security risks associated with third-party add-ons.

Making the Right Choice for You

Choosing the best app like Kodi depends on your specific needs and preferences.

For centralized media management and streaming to multiple devices, Plex is a top choice.
For a lightweight and easy-to-use streaming hub, Stremio is an excellent option.
For robust parental controls and offline syncing, Emby is a solid choice.
For a dedicated media center operating system, OSMC is worth considering.
For a completely free and privacy-focused media server, Jellyfin is a great option.
For turning your PC into a media center, MediaPortal provides an array of features.
Consider your priorities, try out a few different options, and see which one best fits your needs. Happy streaming!

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Turthledeep

Hi, I’m creator of Best App Review. As a tech enthusiast, I’m passionate about finding and sharing the best apps to help you work smarter, live better, and stay productive. Through honest reviews and hands-on testing, I aim to guide you in choosing the right tools for your needs. Let’s explore the world of apps together!