Hotstar is a streaming service that provides access to popular international and Indian TV channels. It has been one of the most reliable sites for accessing worldwide content since its launch in 2015. However, there are now many similar services vying for users’ attention.
This article will highlight some of the best alternatives to Hotstar in 2023, along with what factors users should consider when choosing a streaming service.
Tips to Choose Safe Hotstar Alternatives
When selecting an alternative streaming platform, there are certain features and qualities that all good services share:
- Mobile compatibility – A user-friendly experience for any device (mobile or desktop).
- Loading speed – The service should be capable of fast streaming without buffering, for an enjoyable experience.
- Captions and subtitles – If you’re watching in a foreign language or speak another dialect, captions/subtitles can make viewing much easier.
- Audio descriptions – This feature is essential for those with visual impairment needs.
- Personalization options – Allowing users to customize their browsing is always desirable.
- Free or paid? – While some may want a completely free service with no ads, consider whether opting to pay would benefit you.
- Licensing agreement to stream? – Consider if the content is legal, such as Disney+ Hotstar which has lots of licensed movies and shows
- Account creation/sign-in process – Check what information needs verifying before signing up (e.g . email, bank details?).
Best Hotstar Alternatives for 2023
1. Disney+ Hotstar
- Destination URL: https://www.hotstar.com/in
Disney +HotStar is part of Disney’s latest foray into the world of streaming services, combining their library with some popular Indian TV channels such as Star Plus, Colors, and Star Gold.
Aside from access to popular shows, it also hosts some of the latest Hollywood and Bollywood releases with both audio and subtitles in multiple regional languages.
Subscribers can select genre-specific packages such as Kids, Sports, or Entertainment depending on their preferences.
2. JioTV
- Destination URL: https://www.jio.com/en-in/apps/jiotv
JioTV is a streaming platform exclusive to Indian users, primarily created for customers of the Jio mobile network.
Many popular and regional language channels are free with a subscription but some premium movie channels require an additional fee.
The Jio TV also has features such as a day catch-up where viewers can watch shows at their own convenience even if they miss out on the broadcast time.
3. BBC iPlayer
- Destination URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer
One of the world’s best streaming services, BBC iPlayer offers not only a diverse selection of television programs and shows but also comes with ad-free streaming.
It is free to use for UK users and can be accessed on various types of devices. Premium features such as access to exclusive box sets may require additional fees.
4. SonyLIV
- Destination URL: https://www.sonyliv.com/
A great alternative to Hotstar, Sony LIV has a catalog of both English and Indian content. Aside from its original international titles such as The Office and Newsroom, the service also offers an impressive range of regional language TV shows.
It is free to use with ad support but users can opt for their premium package which makes the ads disappear.
5. Airtel TV
- Destination URL: https://www.airtel.in/airteltv/
Another great Hotstar alternative, Airtel TV is only available for subscribers of the Indian telecom operator, Airtel.
While it offers a library of international films and shows, its main emphasis is given to Asia’s best titles. The content can be streamed in 5 different languages and with no advertisements.
6. Vodafone Play
- Destination URL: https://www.vodafoneplay.in/
Vodafone Play modern streaming service that also has a handy mobile app. One of its main advantages is the 24/7 live TV feature which provides access to almost 40 channels from all over India as well as Africa and Asia.
Subscribers can also watch movies, shows, and music videos in HD quality with no commercials or interruptions whatsoever.
7. SportsBay
- Destination URL: https://sportsbay.org/
Sports Bay is one of the most popular streaming sites for sports fans everywhere since it covers almost all major global sporting events, including cricket and football especially.
The SportsBay app is available for both iOS and Android users where sports content can be streamed for free with no buffering or advertisement interruptions.
8. VIPRow Sports
- Destination URL: viprow.net
For American sports fans in search of a great streaming service, VIPRowsports should definitely not be overlooked.
It offers access to the NFL Redzone which features live and on-demand coverage of all NFL matches as well as other sports like boxing, baseball, rugby, and NBA. It’s great for international fans too since it does not require a subscription.
9. Mamahd
- Destination URL: mamahd.org
Another good streaming site for global sports fans is Mamahd which allows users to watch the best sporting events across the world with no need for any type of login or registration.
It has lots of live sports content from channels like ESPN and the NFL Network, as well as a comprehensive highlights library.
10. SportSurge
- Destination URL: sportsurge.net
Sports Surge is one of the newer entries in this field but it’s already become quite popular with fans thanks to its comprehensive coverage and no-subscription requirements.
The website offers both streaming and downloading options plus multiple links for each sport so viewers can always find a working one.
11. MX Player
- Destination URL: mxplayer.in
Though the MX Player is primarily known as an online video player, it has also added a dedicated streaming section. Dubbed ‘TV Time’, it allows viewers to watch popular international and Indian shows for free with no signup or registration needed.
12. Anyone
- Destination URL: anyone.app
Anyone is one of the most popular streaming sites of 2023 thanks to its simple user interface and no-fuss registration. It does not require a subscription for users to enjoy their library and can be accessed on any device, complete with HD content options, too.
13. Netflix
- Destination URL: https://www.netflix.com/
Considered one of the pioneers in online film streaming services, Netflix is a must-have for fans everywhere.
Though it requires an active account, viewers can enjoy a huge library of movies and shows in HD quality. Most titles on Netflix come with subtitles and captions for multiple countries as well.
14. Voot
- Destination URL: https://www.voot.com/
Another great Hotstar alternative, Voot streams Indian TV shows without interfering with ads or registration required.
Subscribers are able to watch regional shows from different languages such as Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati all under one roof, along with Voot originals and live news channels.
Protect Yourself With VPN – A Must-Have For Safe Streaming
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is one of the best ways to protect yourself from legal risks while streaming services like Hotstar or its alternatives.
Since these kinds of sites are geo-blocked in some regions, accessing them without protection can land you in trouble in some territories, so using a reliable VPN service for online streaming is a must.
NordVPN Pros And Cons
It’s definitely worth considering Nord VPN for all your online protection efforts since it has proven to be one of the best services out there.
It can offer up to five simultaneous connections in different locations and provides strict user privacy measures with no logging policy entirely. However, its connection speeds are known to vary from time to time during peak hours so users have been advised accordingly.
Conclusion
Hotstar is a reliable streaming service that’s been around since 2015, but there are lots of interesting alternatives now available for users to explore in 2023.
It’s essential however to make use of protection when viewing any such services online with the help of VPN and legal channels to ensure you have an enjoyable yet safe overall experience.
Hotstar FAQs
Is Hotstar Site Legal?
Yes, HotStar is a completely legal streaming site and has been in operation since 2015.
How Safe Is Hotstar Site?
The site functions under the supervision of Star India Group – one of the world’s most respected media companies in Asia. It ensures users are given complete privacy as well as secure support for any disputes if necessary.
Which Are The Top Hotstar Alternatives?
Some of the top alternatives to Hotstar in 2023 include Disney+ Hotstar, JioTV, BBC iPlayer, SonyLIV, and Airtel TV.
What Happened To Hotstar?
HotStar remains an active streaming service and is now accompanied by newer players such as Vodafone Play and SportsBay.
What Happens If I Get Caught While Watching Hotstar And Its Alternatives?
It depends on the location you are streaming from, but mostly it will result in a warning first followed by legal action if continued violations occur.
Is Hotstar Down?
No, HotStar is still up and running for both web and mobile users with clear and smooth streaming.