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King of Stream vs Freely
Freely is the free streaming TV service from the UK's public service broadcasters, built into selected new smart TVs. Here is how it compares with an IPTV subscription.
The honest short version
Freely is free and streams live channels from the UK's public service broadcasters over broadband. It comes built into selected smart TVs released since 2024, and it cannot be added to older TVs.
King of Stream costs £59.99 for 12 months on one screen and works on the TVs and devices you already own, with a wider range of channels and an on-demand library of films and box sets.
Freely vs King of Stream, side by side
| Compared on | Freely | King of Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free, apart from the TV Licence | £59.99 for 12 months, or £9.99 for one month (1 screen). TV Licence also needed for live TV |
| Which TVs | Selected new smart TVs with Freely built in | Most TVs, using a streaming stick if needed |
| Channels | Public service broadcasters' channels and a growing free line-up | Wider line-up including film, sport, kids and international categories |
| On-demand films and box sets | Through broadcasters' own apps | Library included in one app |
| Phones and laptops | Watch through each broadcaster's own app | Same app and login on every device |
| Needs broadband | Yes | Yes |
| Try before you commit | Nothing to try, it is free | 7-day money-back guarantee on every plan |
Freely prices are the starting prices shown on its own website on 6 November 2026. They can change at any time, so check the provider's website for today's price.
Who each one suits
Why King of Stream suits most homes better
- Works on the TV you already have, not only new Freely models.
- A broader channel line-up and an on-demand library in one place.
- One login across TVs, phones, tablets and computers.
When Freely may suit you better
- You have a Freely TV and the free channels cover what you watch.
- You want free live TV without an aerial.
Our verdict
If you have a Freely TV and want only free channels, Freely is excellent value. If you want more channels, films and box sets, on every screen in the house including older TVs, King of Stream adds that for about £5 a month on a 12-month plan.
See how our IPTV UK service works
Try King of Stream with a 7-day guaranteeFreely vs King of Stream: common questions
Can I get Freely on my existing TV?
No. Freely comes built into selected new smart TVs and cannot be added to older sets. King of Stream works on most TVs through a player app or a streaming stick.
Can I use Freely and King of Stream on the same TV?
Yes. On a Freely TV, you can use Freely for free channels and a player app for King of Stream.
Do I need a TV Licence?
Yes, for live TV with either service.
More comparisons
- King of Stream vs Sky
- King of Stream vs Virgin Media
- King of Stream vs NOW
- King of Stream vs Freeview
- King of Stream vs Satellite and Cable TV
- Why King of Stream
Source: Freely is a free streaming service. No subscription price applies, checked 6 November 2026. Freely is a trademark of its owner. King of Stream is not affiliated with or endorsed by Freely. This comparison is our own, based on publicly available information.