You can Watch TV on your PC for free, without any additional equipment or subscription.
The options are simple: the channels' official websites, the app Molotov which brings everything together in one place, or the TV service on your set-top box if you're a subscriber with a provider.
Everything works right in your browser or through an app, on Windows, Mac Where Linux. This guide shows you all the options available for watching TV on your computer.
Through the official websites of the digital terrestrial TV channels
Each major network streams its programs directly in your browser, without requiring any downloads. You can access the live TV broadcast and replay with just one internet connexion and, sometimes, a free account. It's the fastest way to watch TV on your PC without installing any software.
Here are the main platforms for watching the Live TV or watch it later on your computer:
| Platform | Address | Channels and Content |
|---|---|---|
| TF1+ | tf1.fr | TF1, TMC, TFX, LCI: TV schedules in direct and in replay on PC. Free registration required. |
| M6+ | m6.fr | M6, W9, 6ter, and Gulli. Free TV service; account required. |
| France.tv | france.tv | France 2, France 3, France 4, France 5, and Franceinfo. Free TV service; an account is required for live streaming. |
| Arte.tv | arte.tv | Watch Arte live or on demand on your PC, no registration required. |
| myCANAL | mycanal.fr | A few free-to-air channels, with the rest available by subscription. |
These services cover most of the Free TNT on a PC. The only downside: the channels Canal+ Premium content is available only to paying subscribers. No subscription is required to access public channels from your computer.
Apps and software for watching TV on a PC
There are several apps that let you watch TV on your computer from a single interface. You no longer need to open multiple tabs for your favorite channels.
Molotov
Molotov is the ideal solution if you want to watch TV on your PC from a single location. The free version gives you access to 50 channels free episodes available to watch live or on demand. The no-commitment paid subscription adds the option to’record TV shows to pick them up later.
The app is available in both downloadable version for your computer and as a browser-based version, compatible Windows and MacOS. To begin with:
- Download the free software on your PC.
- Create an account to unlock the available channels.
- Start streaming and select your channel from the interface.
The free package includes most digital terrestrial TV channels, except for those from the TF1 and M6 groups, which are available only to paying subscribers.
Molotov is also available on mobile and tablet : You can switch from one screen to another without losing your place. It's a seamless TV experience across all your devices, whether you're on Windows, Mac Where Linux.
Captvty
Captvty is free software for watching and downloading on-demand shows on your computer Windows.
It brings together content from many French channels in one place. Its interface is simple: you choose your channel, select a show, and watch. It's perfect if you want access to a wide selection of shows without a subscription.
Pluto TV
Pluto TV offers a free TV streaming service that you can access from your browser on a PC.
There, you'll find live specialty channels as well as video-on-demand content. No account is required to start watching. The experience is similar to watching regular TV, with a built-in TV guide.
Watch TV from your internet box on your PC
If you already have a internet box, the PC TV service is included in your subscription at no extra charge.
Each provider offers an app or a portal that you can access through your browser. This way, you can watch your TV shows on your computer screen just as you would on your TV.
SFR TV on PC
Go to tv.sfr.fr From your computer, log in with your username and password SFR and take advantage of the programs SFR TV in live or on replay.
The application SFR TV is also available on tablets and smartphones (Android and iOS). You'll find the same channels SFR on all your screens. The service SFR TV gives you access to your favorite channels and shows from any connected device.
Free (OQEE)
Free offers its TV service on PCs with OQEE. It works in your browser, on mobile devices, on Smart TVs, and on Android TV.
From your computer, you can open the website, log in, and start watching your TV shows in just a few seconds. OQEE includes a TV guide to help you easily find your shows.
Orange
the Orange TV service provides access to more than 70 channels on PC, free for subscribers to landline and mobile plans.
You can also record your shows and enjoy video on demand on your computer or tablet. The TV experience is the same on all your screens.
Bouygues (b.tv+)
Bbox subscribers can access their TV shows with the app b.tv+. Available on a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, it brings live and on-demand content together in one place. You can easily watch TV on your computer using B.TV or on your phone.
No matter which box you have, you can enjoy your channels on all your screens, on Windows, Mac Where Linux. It's a TV service for your PC at no extra cost if you're already a subscriber.
Connect Your PC to Your TV
Want to watch TV on a big screen from your computer? Connecting your PC to your TV is easy and doesn't require much equipment.
Via a cable HDMI
The most reliable method is the cable HDMI. Plug one end into your computer and the other into your TV.
Your PC will then display its screen on the TV. You can then watch any streaming TV content from your browser on the big screen. No additional apps are needed.
Wireless : Chromecast and Google Cast
If you prefer a wireless connection, Google Cast (via a Chromecast (connected to your TV) lets you stream content from your browser to your TV.
Click the share icon in Google Chrome and choose your TV. Both devices must be connected to the same network Wi-Fi. It's a TV experience you can enjoy right from your laptop or desktop computer.
To learn more, check out our guide to Connect your PC to your TV.
Which method should you choose to watch TV on your PC?
It all depends on your situation. Here's a summary table to help you make a quick decision:
| Your Profile | Recommended Solution | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Do you want to watch a specific channel? | Official websites of the networks (TF1+, France.tv, M6+, etc.) | Free |
| Want 50 free channels all in one place? | Molotov | Free (excluding channels from the TF1 and M6 groups, which are available only through paid subscriptions) |
| You already have a subscription to a box service | Your provider's TV service (SFR TV, OQEE, Orange, b.tv+) | Included in the subscription |
| Do you want to watch it on the big screen? | Cable HDMI Where Chromecast | Free / Low-cost |
| Do you want to watch reruns and download shows? | Captvty | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a subscription to watch TV on a PC?
No. Digital terrestrial TV channels are available for free on their official websites or via Molotov. All you need is an internet connection.
Some services such as myCANAL require a paid subscription to access all available channels.
Can you watch TV on a laptop?
Yes, all of the methods described here work on a laptop. Whether you're using Windows, Mac Where Linux, you can access the same channels and shows from your browser or an app.
How can I watch live TV on my PC without an internet connection?
Without an internet connection, you can't stream TV on your computer. The only alternative is to connect a USB DVB-T tuner card to your computer to receive the over-the-air signal.
This solution is becoming increasingly rare, but it still works if you don't have access to the Wi-Fi.
Is the video quality good on a PC?
Yes. Most TV services offer streaming in HD on a PC. The quality depends mainly on your internet connection.
A connection from At least 4 Mb/s is recommended for a smooth, high-definition TV viewing experience.
English