Cord cutting in today’s world has its advantages because streaming services give you access to thousands of hours of content on-demand. However, your favorite titles may not be carried on your go-to streaming service since a lot of catalogs are transitory due to contracts and rights. But if you own physical media or a download then you’re in luck because Plex allows you to store all of your content in one place and stream it on any supporting device.
Here are 5 things to know about Plex.
What is Plex?
Plex is a client-server media player system and a software suite that gives users the ability to upload their own media and stream it on supporting devices. The Plex Media Server desktop application is free to use and runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It makes storing your content easy by organizing video, audio, and photo files from your personal collection and from online services. The player can access and stream content by playing a robust amount of files which separates it from other media players. You can also share your content with any of your friends who are using Plex.
Where can I watch?
Plex makes watching content simple because there are official clients on many devices. Content stored on Plex can be viewed on their web app, mobile devices, smart TVs, streaming boxes, Plex Home Theater (no longer actively supported), and many third-party alternatives. The service has one of the best interfaces and it gives platforms like Netflix and Hulu a run for their money.
Is Plex a streaming service?
Yes and no. Plex has expanded recently with its ad-supported streaming service as the company wants to become a one-stop media service. At its core, Plex isn’t a streaming service in the traditional sense. There aren’t any subscriptions needed to use as its base service is completely free and the content is user generated. You’re not pigeonholed to a company’s library that often changes monthly, as Plex is a media server that allows you to upload your own media library and stream it across devices that support the Plex Media Server software.
Is Plex legal?
A lot of people have questioned the legality of Plex because some choose to stream pirated content through their server. The service does not provide a direct way to stream pirated content. Plex is completely legal to use, as you’re using your content that you own whether it be music, movies, or TV shows.
How to set up your Plex server?
To start streaming your content from anywhere, you can set up your completely legal Plex Media Server easily in 4 quick steps.
- Step 1: Download the Plex Media Server software here on your desktop or any compatible device that stores your media.
- Step 2: Add media libraries by type of content and Plex will automatically catalog it by adding info and artwork.
- Step 3: Install and open the Plex app on your smartphone, tablet, smart TV, streaming device, game console, personal computer, or browser by clicking here.
- Step 4: Just press play. Now you can relax and enjoy your media as it streams from the Plex Media Server straight to your device.
Premium perks of Plex Pass and the Tidal Bundle
Plex Pass is a subscription service that enhances your Plex experience by delivering upgraded features. Plex Pass perks include early access to new features like beta (preview) release versions of Plex Media Server, watch and record over-the-air broadcasts with Ultimate Live TV & DVR by using a compatible tuner and digital antenna. Other perks include mobile sync, camera upload, expanded premium music features, access to offers, discounts, deals, VIP experiences from partner services, and much more. Plex Pass subscriptions are available for $4.99/mo., $39.99 yearly, and $119.99 lifetime. Right now, Plex has a Black Friday offer for 25% off a lifetime pass. You can sign up for Plex Pass here to get the best Plex experience.
Plex has partnered up with Tidal to create a bundle that makes the most out of audio streaming by combining Tidal’s 60 million song library with Plex’s exclusive audio features. There are 2 plans that Plex users can use with Tidal. For $9.99/mo., Tidal Premium gives you access to all of Tidal’s music library with standard sound quality, plus Plex’s audio features. For $19.99/mo., Tidal HiFi + Plex Pass is a $60 per year savings, and it delivers audio in lossless and CD quality. Plus exclusive access to Plexamp music player and everything aforementioned in Plex Pass.
Take your at-home streaming experience to new heights by signing up for Plex now.