You don’t have to illegally download documentaries (and possible viruses) anymore to watch all the best documentaries for free. We’ve tested all the places that claim to be the best place to watch free documentaries and found the absolute best for streaming free docs that you’ll love.
1. DOCUMENTARY +
DOCUMENTARY + is the newest and most comprehensive place to stream documentaries for whatever you’re in the mood for: comedy, music, politics, culture, true crime, science & nature, icons, sports, and cults. The streaming platform houses everything from Academy Award-winning films, archival footage to festival favorites.
How to watch: Download the DocPlus app on iOS and Android devices, as well as Fire TV, Apple TV, Roku, and more.
2. PBS
The veteran documentary creator allows free access to all of their documentary series, including POV, FRONTLINE, American Masters, American Experience, NOVA, Nature and Independent Lens.
How to watch: PBS Website
3. The Documentary Network
The Documentary Network is a documentary YouTube channel. You can search documentaries by description, duration, rating, and source.
How to watch: Documentary Network on YouTube
4. Vimeo
If you’re looking for a wide range of professional and amature documentaries, Vimeo has more than 27,000 videos tagged as documentary films. Though not as curated as some other platforms you may be able to find some hidden gems. They also house the The Documentary Film channel with over 700 videos.
How to watch: Search “Documentary” on Vimeo
5. Hulu
If you don’t mind ads, Hulu offers a wide selection of documentaries in every category.
How to watch: Hulu Documentaries
6. VICE
VICE original documentaries tackle global issues of democracy, corruption, and underground news from around the world.
How to watch: VICE website
