Jellyfin
The free software media system that puts you in control of your media, streaming to any device from your own server.
Overview
Jellyfin is a powerful, free, and open-source media system designed to give users complete control over their digital media. Unlike commercial alternatives, Jellyfin is volunteer-built and operates on a 'no strings attached' philosophy, meaning there are no subscriptions, no tracking, and no proprietary lock-ins. Users host the Jellyfin server on their own hardware, enabling them to collect, manage, and stream their entire library of movies, TV shows, music, photos, and even live TV to any compatible device.
The core value proposition of Jellyfin lies in its commitment to user freedom and privacy. It transforms your personal media collection into a professional-grade streaming service accessible from anywhere, on almost any device, through its wide array of official and third-party clients. From organizing your favorite shows by season to enjoying a remote movie night with SyncPlay, Jellyfin provides a comprehensive and customizable entertainment hub built entirely on open standards.
Best For
Key Features
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Completely free and open-source, no subscription fees or hidden costs
- Full control and ownership over your media and server
- Extensive client support across multiple platforms (web, Android, iOS, Roku, Kodi, etc.)
- Active volunteer community for support and development
- SyncPlay feature for shared remote viewing experiences
- Privacy-focused with no data collection by a third party
Cons
- Requires technical knowledge to set up and maintain a server
- No official cloud hosting option; users must provide their own server hardware/hosting
- Performance can be dependent on the user's server hardware and internet connection
- May require manual configuration for advanced features like remote access or transcoding
- Lacks some advanced features or polish found in commercial alternatives like Plex Pass
Reviews & Ratings
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