The video-on-demand platforms featured in this list typically offer a mix of new releases and older movies you can buy or rent.

How to Choose a Streaming Service for New Release Rentals

On the surface, all the listed platforms can be similar, and the rental prices are about the same. The main reason to choose a platform is simply preference.

First, if saving a few bucks is your goal, then take a moment to consider how much money you will actually save. Streaming rentals often cost around the same amount as two tickets to an in-person cinema. Of course, if you factor in the cost of gasoline and the snacks you usually purchase, you may find home movie rentals a money-saving option.

Next, consider how you plan to watch the film. For example, if you use a Roku to stream, then you would want to make sure the platform has a Roku channel and that you install the channel in advance.

Finally, you may want to check the technical specifications. Most video-on-demand platforms let you choose between SD and HD video quality, so you must select the correct format for your TV or set-up box.

1. AMC On Demand

AMC is the largest in-person cinema chain in the United States and Canada. Its spinoff platform AMC On Demand rents new releases and classic blockbusters movies for at-home streaming.

If you visit AMC cinemas, you may prefer renting movies from AMC on Demand as your rentals help you accumulate AMC Stubs loyalty program points.

AMC On Demand doesn’t require a subscription fee since they rent or sell individual films. Simply open a free account, install the channel on your streaming box, log on, then purchase your rental.

AMC On Demand streams on Roku, Apple TV, various smart TVs, or your mobile device.

2. Vudu

Vudu is one of the best apps to watch movies online for free, but, like AMC on Demand, you can also use it to rent or buy specific movies or shows.

Vudu is also part of the Fandango family along with Rotten Tomatoes. If you use Fandango to purchase tickets, you may also prefer Vudu as your movie rental service. Some newer releases are labeled as “Fandango At Home Early Access.”

If you purchase physical media like Blu-rays or DVDs, you’re probably already familiar with Vudu as a platform where you can claim your digital copy.

To rent from Vudu, create or log into your account and install the Vudu channel on your streaming device. Select your film, purchase it, and start streaming it.

Vudu streams through mobile devices, its browser app, and smart TVs. You can also find the Vudu channel on many streaming platforms, including Roku, Chromecast, and Fire TV.​​​​​​​

When you open Prime Video on your device, you will find your rental in the “My Stuff” menu option.

4. Apple TV

If you use a Mac or other Apple device, then you may already be familiar with the Apple TV service (not to be confused with the physical Apple TV device). You may use the Apple TV app on various platforms to rent films and shows, including a selection of new releases.

Before renting a film, install the Apple TV channel on your streaming device and log in using your Apple ID. The same payment method you normally use on the App Store should also work to rent movies on Apple TV. Once you rent a movie, you’ll find it in your Apple TV library.

Apple TV is available where you can stream Apple TV+. That means the app isn’t available on Android phones, but you can use it on other devices, including Roku, Fire TV, and a variety of smart TVs. Apple offers free Apple TV+ trials when you purchase select Apple products, so you may want to see why signing up for Apple TV+ might be worth it if you like the base service.

5. Redbox On Demand

You may have noticed a red DVD rental kiosk outside a grocery store, gas station, or convenience store. Besides renting physical DVDs, the company Redbox also has a video-on-demand service. If you use the kiosks, you may also prefer to use Redbox’s streaming store in order to collect loyalty points.

Please note that renting movies in the Redbox kiosk is usually cheaper. Streaming new releases cost around the same as two movie tickets. Some of the newer films may not be in the kiosks for physical rental, but if it is, then the cost will be considerably lower.

Redbox On-Demand is to stream on its browser app, Roku, Chromecast, mobile devices, and various smart TVs.

6. Your Usual Streaming Service Subscription

Some of the best streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, or Disney+ often debut specific films both on the streaming platform and in cinemas. While this pandemic-inspired trend has slowed down after cinemas reopened, your existing streaming service may sometimes offer new releases. Sometimes you can legally download films to watch offline.

Check whether the film is associated with your streaming service or its parent company. For example, HBO Max sometimes shows new Warner Brothers releases, while Disney+ occasionally rents new Disney films through their streaming platform.​​​​​​​

Catch the Latest Flicks From Your Living Room

Some new release films may debut both as streaming rentals and in theaters. If you invested in creating a comfortable home theater, then you may enjoy watching movies in the comfort of your own home.

These aren’t the only platforms you can use. Other streaming services like YouTube also let you buy or rent movies.