Two standout platforms for viewers seeking family-friendly and faith-based content are PureFlix (now branded as Great American Pure Flix) and Frndly TV.
Both cater to audiences who value wholesome programming but differ significantly in their approach, pricing, and offerings.
What is PureFlix?
PureFlix, rebranded as Great American Pure Flix after a 2023 joint venture with Great American Media and Sony Pictures, is a video-on-demand (VOD) streaming service focused on faith-based and family-friendly entertainment.
It caters for:
- Christian families seeking movies, TV shows, and educational content aligned with their values.
- Viewers who prioritize on-demand access to a curated library of inspirational films and series over live TV.
- Cord-cutters looking for an alternative to mainstream platforms like Netflix, with a strong emphasis on wholesome storytelling.
- Parents who want safe, age-appropriate options for kids, including animated Bible stories and devotionals.
PureFlix’s library includes original productions, classic Christian films, and content celebrating faith, family, and traditional values.
It’s less about live programming and more about a controlled, ad-free viewing experience.
What is Frndly TV?
Frndly TV, launched in 2019, is a live TV streaming service designed to deliver affordable, family-oriented channels. It is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious households who want live TV without the hefty price tag of cable or premium streamers like YouTube TV.
- Fans of specific networks like Hallmark, Lifetime, and The Weather Channel, which focus on feel-good movies and light entertainment.
- Families seeking simplicity—a straightforward channel lineup with no overwhelming options or controversial content.
- Viewers who enjoy live TV and DVR features over a purely on-demand catalog.
Frndly TV bridges the gap between traditional cable and streaming, offering a “skinny bundle” of over 50 channels at a fraction of the cost of competitors.
PureFlix vs Frndly TV: a detailed comparison
Here is a comparison of PureFlix and Frndly TV services across key factors: price, device availability, channel/content count, specific offerings, specialities, and trial options.
1. Price
Cost is a major deciding factor for most streamers.
PureFlix:
- Monthly plan: $7.99/month.
- Annual plan: $89.99/year.
- No tiered plans—all subscribers get the same ad-free, on-demand library with unlimited streaming on up to five devices simultaneously.
- Occasionally offers promotional discounts via partners like Great American Family.
Frndly TV:
- Basic plan: $7.99/month (SD quality, 1 stream, no DVR).
- Classic plan: $9.99/month (HD quality, 2 streams, unlimited DVR with 3-month storage).
- Premium plan: $11.99/month (HD quality, 4 streams, unlimited DVR with 9-month storage).
- Annual plans: Save 15%+ (e.g., Basic at $79.99/year or $6.67/month).
- Add-Ons: Optional subscriptions like Great American Pure Flix ($8.99/month), Lifetime Movie Club ($4.99/month), and others via its Channel Store.
Frndly TV’s Basic Plan undercuts PureFlix’s monthly rate by $1, and its annual pricing matches PureFlix’s at $6.67/month.
However, to unlock HD and DVR, Frndly’s Classic or Premium plans cost more than PureFlix’s. PureFlix offers better value for on-demand fans with no tiered pricing or upcharges.
3. Device availability
Compatibility with your devices is crucial for seamless viewing.
PureFlix: Available on:
- Amazon Fire TV, Android phones/tablets, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS (iPhone/iPad), Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, web browsers.
- Supports up to 5 simultaneous streams, ideal for families.
- No support for gaming consoles like PlayStation or Xbox.
Frndly TV: Available on:
- Amazon Fire TV, Android phones/tablets, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smart TVs, and web browsers.
- Streams vary by plan (1–4 simultaneous streams).
- Also lacks gaming console support but covers most major streaming devices.
Both services support various devices, with Frndly TV adding Vizio Smart TVs to its roster. PureFlix’s edge lies in its consistent 5-stream limit across all plans, while Frndly TV’s stream count depends on your subscription tier.
3. Channel
The quantity and type of content can sway your choice.
PureFlix:
- It offers a VOD library with over 2,000 titles at launch (2015), likely expanded since its rebranding. It also includes movies, TV series, documentaries, and kids’ programming—all faith-based or family-friendly.
- No live TV channels; content is curated and on-demand only.
Frndly TV:
- Provides over 50 live TV channels, including Hallmark Channel, Lifetime, A&E, and The Weather Channel.
- Includes a modest on-demand library and a 72-hour “Look Back” feature for recently aired shows.
- Add-ons like Great American Pure Flix boost its faith-based offerings.
PureFlix excels in depth with its extensive VOD catalogue, while Frndly TV offers breadth with live channels. If you prefer movies and series at your pace, PureFlix wins; if live TV is your priority, Frndly TV takes it.
4. Content
PureFlix and Frndly TV have different content. Here is a look at each.
PureFlix content:
- Originals like God’s Not Dead, The Case for Christ, and Hilton Head Island.
- Classic Christian films, animated Bible stories, and educational series.
- There are no live channels, but it focuses on curated, ad-free faith content.
Frndly TV content:
The networks available on Frndly TV include:
- Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, Lifetime, A&E, History, The Weather Channel, UPtv, Great American Family.
- Niche channels include MeTV, INSP, Bounce, and Grit TV.
PureFlix offers a controlled, faith-first experience, while Frndly TV provides a broader mix of live family entertainment. Notably, Frndly TV includes Great American Pure Flix as an add-on, blending both worlds.
5. Specialties
Each service specializes in different content. PureFlix specializes in faith-based VOD—think Christian movies, inspirational dramas, and kids’ Bible content. It is a sanctuary for viewers who want to avoid mainstream Hollywood’s edgier fare.
Frndly TV specializes in affordable live TV with a family-friendly twist. It is the go-to for Hallmark holiday movies, classic TV reruns, and light reality programming.
If your focus is only faith-based content, PureFlix is what you should choose. Frndly TV is ideal for live family entertainment.
6. Trial availability
A trial lets you test before committing. PureFlix offers a 7-day free trial for new subscribers (payment info required).
- Frndly TV also provides a 7-day free trial across all plans.
Which one should you get between PureFlix and Frndly TV?
Choosing between PureFlix and Frndly TV boils down to your viewing habits and priorities:
- Get PureFlix if you want an on-demand library of faith-based movies and shows, value ad-free streaming, and do not need live TV. At $8.99/month (or $6.67/month annually), it is a solid pick for Christian families seeking curated content.
- Get Frndly TV if you prefer live TV channels like Hallmark and Lifetime, enjoy DVR flexibility, and want the lowest entry price ($7.99/month). It is perfect for budget-conscious viewers who still crave a cable-like experience.
If faith is your filter, PureFlix is unmatched. If affordability and live TV are key, Frndly TV shines. For the best of both, consider Frndly TV with the PureFlix add-on—a hybrid solution at $16.98/month (Basic + add-on). Either way, both services deliver wholesome entertainment.