Let's be honest: streaming is great until you lose your signal. Whether you are stuck on a long flight, riding the subway, or just trying to save your mobile data plan from hitting its limit, having your movies and anime downloaded locally is a lifesaver.

But here is the bad news: most "free" apps on the App Store or Play Store are just glorified ad-players that don't actually let you download anything. Or worse, downloading the wrong APK file from a random Google search is the fastest way to get malware on your phone.

That is exactly why we built MovieNerd. We test the apps, check the APKs for safety, and track the best versions so you don't have to risk your device.

Below is our curated list of the top 5 free apps for 2025 that actually allow offline viewing—so you can take your entertainment anywhere.

Note: App versions and download links change frequently. You can always find the safest, most up-to-date APKs and direct links for these apps right here on our homepage: https://www.movienerd.site/

1. OnStream (Android)

If you are on Android, OnStream is currently the king of the hill. It feels surprisingly similar to Netflix. The interface is clean, the servers are lightning-fast, and most importantly, the "Download" button actually works. It allows you to choose the quality of your download to save storage space. It pulls links from everywhere, so if a movie is out, it is likely on OnStream.

The Verdict: The closest experience to a premium app, completely for free.

🔗 Get the Link: Visit MovieNerd to find OnStream

2. Tubi App (Android & iOS)

We mentioned Tubi in our streaming site list, but their mobile app deserves its own spot. Because it is 100% legal, the app is incredibly stable and optimized for battery life. The "Tubi Kids" section is also fantastic if you need to keep children entertained on a road trip without using data. You don't need a subscription, but you will need to register a free account to unlock the "Add to Queue" and resume features.

The Verdict: The safest, most battery-friendly option for your phone or tablet.

🔗 Get the Link: Access the Tubi App via MovieNerd

3. HDO Box (Android & iOS Support)

HDO Box has gained a massive following because of its sleek design and massive library. While it is primarily an Android powerhouse, they frequently have solutions for iOS users (often via TestFlight or specific media player methods). The app specializes in having English subtitles available for almost everything, which is a huge plus. The offline viewing feature is robust, allowing you to batch download episodes of a series.

The Verdict: Best for binge-watchers who want to download full seasons at once.

🔗 Get the Link: Get HDO Box on MovieNerd

4. CloudStream (Android)

For the tech-savvy users, CloudStream is the holy grail. It is open-source and completely ad-free (yes, really). It works by using "Extensions" (similar to how you add tools to a browser) to find content. Because it doesn't host anything itself, it is incredibly lightweight. It supports high-speed downloading and even lets you stream torrents directly if you have a Debrid account.

The Verdict: The best ad-free experience if you like tinkering with settings.

🔗 Get the Link: Find CloudStream on MovieNerd

5. Aniyomi (For Anime & Manga)

Since you love Anime (and Manga), you need Aniyomi. It is a fork of the famous Tachiyomi manga reader, but with added support for Anime extensions. This means you can read the latest One Piece chapter AND watch the latest episode, all in one app, and download both for offline use. It tracks your progress automatically via MyAnimeList or AniList integration.

The Verdict: The ultimate 2-in-1 hub for Otakus who want to read and watch offline.

🔗 Get the Link: Find Aniyomi on MovieNerd

Why Use MovieNerd for Apps?

You might be thinking, "Can't I just search for these APKs?" The answer is yes, but it is risky. The internet is flooded with fake versions of OnStream and HDO Box that are injected with spyware or crypto-miners that drain your battery.

At MovieNerd, we verify the source. We ensure the links we list are the legitimate, clean versions of these apps.

Stop gambling with your phone's security. Get your apps from a trusted source.