43 Best Kodi Addons in 2024

Ruheni Mathenge  - Streaming Expert
Last updated: January 1, 2024
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Struggling to get a functional Kodi addon for your entertainment needs? This article has an extensive list of tested extensions for movies, documentaries, and all the content genres one would wish to watch.

THE TAKEAWAYS

While Kodi appears like a one-stop solution for your streaming needs, it actually draws its strength from different addons. The trick to using Kodi safely lies because not every addon is reliable. This guide lists the best Kodi addons to rejuvenate your streaming experience. Though installing them isn’t difficult, remember to keep a VPN activated during the process to remain safe.

Kodi allows you to create a comprehensive home theater by uniting different viewing streams from various sources. It is open-source software that works well with most devices, including laptops, smartphones, tablets, TVs, etc. With the best Kodi add-ons, you can combine your entertainment media on a single dashboard, including movies, sports, documentaries, and music.

During our research, we also discovered that some add-ons being presented to users online had broken links while others did not exist.

So, to help you pick the right resources, we have compiled a list of reliable Kodi add-ons of movies, TV shows, documentaries, sports, and more in this article.

Disclaimer:

Kodi is based on an open-source code, and in this guide, we have highlighted both official and third-party add-ons. Most of them are available publicly and free of charge. Here at Privacysavvy, we are not accountable for how our readers decide to use Kodi software or the extensions. In addition, we don’t encourage downloading or sharing copyrighted content. Moreover, PrivacySavvy is not affiliated with Kodi in any way.

Top 10 addons – The quick list

  1. Exodus Redux allows you to watch movies and TV shows on Kodi completely free.
  2. Odin – Contains various free on-demand movies and TV series.
  3. Popconflix – Allows you to stream the latest Hollywood and blockbuster movies and TV shows from anywhere.
  4. BinkyTV – Comes with various free-to-watch cartoons and Kid’s shows.
  5. CTOON – Brings a wealth of cartoons and Japanese anime with English subtitles.
  6. Deutsche Welle (DW) – Boasts Live TV with German local and international news.
  7. ESPN3 – Hosts many sporting events, including NFL, NBA, soccer, and more.
  8. YouTube – Gives you access to on-demand videos and live content of almost everything from food, cars, music, etc.
  9. National Geographic – Comprises a massive selection of free documentaries and other content.
  10. Disney+Hotstar – Offers the most recent Bollywood and Indian content.

Beware: Protect your privacy

Your ISP (internet service provider) could share and sell details about the videos you stream or download, and the sites you visit. Hence, using a VPN during streaming and all other activities online in recommended. Having such a tool is critical today as it ensures your web activities remain hidden, and cannot be stolen, shared, or sold. Since a VPN encrypts your connection, your internet provider won’t have any clue about your online activities. We’ve tested dozens of VPNs for privacy, speed, and security, and ExpressVPN is our #1 recommendation for Kodi users.

Types of Kodi addons

Generally, add-ons expand Kodi’s functionality. Here is their classification.

Official add-ons

These are Kodi add-ons created and supported by the XMBC Foundation. They are called ‘Official’ because they respect laws, restrictions, and copyrights. In most cases, they will give you access to official streaming services. This means you can access pay-per-view and subscription services within Kodi when you install the app.


Third-party add-ons

The Kodi community is very diverse and develops various third-party add-ons. These will help you access virtually any stream and even break the most notorious barriers to present you with desired content. Third-party add-ons act like master keys that unlock closed doors without the owners’ permission. That is why they are often taken down. Nonetheless, these add-ons are widespread in the Kodi community, and you can use them to access any content you want for free.


Top Kodi addons categories

We have sorted all the best 43 Kodi extensions into the seven categories below to help you quickly find what you want.

  • Movies and TV serials – Stream popular movies and TV shows with easy-to-install add-ons like Netflix, Venom, Exodus, and more.
  • Cartoons and anime – Keep your children engaged and entertained with cartoons and Japanese anime with add-ons like FunimationNOW, Crunchyroll, and BinkyTV.
  • Live TV and News – Follow local and international news and current affairs on add-ons such as Deutsche Welle, USTVNow, and XumoTV.
  • Sports – Stay in touch with the most significant sporting events on ESPN3, SportsHD, The Crew, and DAZN add-ons.
  • Videos – Stream your favorite YouTube content add-free on your Kodi device.
  • Documentaries – Enjoy high-quality documentaries with Kodi extensions like National Geographic and Seeker.
  • Bollywood, Indian, and Hindi movies – Watch the popular and latest Bollywood movies on the Disney+ Hotstar add-on.

Best Kodi add-ons for movies and TV shows

The best Kodi movies and TV show add-ons should offer a vast content selection.

However, like streaming websites, some add-ons contain content restricted to people living in selected countries. In such cases, you can use a reputable VPN to bypass the restrictions and access whatever you want.

So, without further ado, below are some of the best Kodi add-ons for movies and TV shows:

Exodus Redux

Exodus Redux is a reliable Kodi addon for top-notch TV shows and movies. We spent several days surfing the selection and were impressed with the high-quality content and fast streaming. However, we don’t encourage illegal activities, so ensure you do not stream copyrighted material. Moreover, we advise you to use a reliable VPN, especially because Exodus Redux is an unofficial third-party Kodi addon. Fortunately, you will get full HD and playback options if you integrate it with Real-Debrid.


Odin

  • Repository name: Odin Repository
  • Source URL: http://www.narcacist.com/repo/
  • Available countries: Worldwide

Odin is a video addon that allows users to stream a wide selection of on-demand content’s extensive shows and movies. This one is worth checking out if you’re looking for a one-stop shop for your entertainment needs. Moreover, it has a separate section for boxsets, kids’ zone, classics, documentaries, etc.

A third party developed Odin. Therefore, we can’t assure you of its safety. However, the Virus Total scan of the zip file shows no malicious things in it.

Still, always take extra precautions before considering it or any unknown addon you add. Moreover, the site’s legality is also a critical alert. We don’t recommend Odin, but you can consider it if you have a top-notch VPN like ExpressVPN, Private Internet Access, or NordVPN.

Using Odin or any Kodi add-on with Real Derbid and Trakt TV is highly recommended. It may cost you a few monthly bucks, but it will keep you safe from potential trouble. Moreover, you can enjoy your favorite content in 4K quality.


PopcornFlix

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official add-on
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: the US and Canada

It is another popular Kodi addon with many movies and TV shows spanning various genres. It is an official Kodi addon with some of the most famous titles. They include What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, The Clearing, Crown Vic, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, etc.

Note: It might not be available to users in some countries. The easiest way to stream Popcornflix content from anywhere is through a VPN with United States and Canada servers.


Crackle

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official add-on
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: the US

Crackle is an addon with a rich collection of free movies and TV shows. Fortunately, there is no need to create an account – download the addon from the Kodi official repository to start streaming. It offers some of the most popular titles, like StartUp, Snatch, Chosen, etc.

Note: Crackle’s US version has the most extensive catalog of movies and TV shows available free of charge. However, you will need a VPN to access the content from overseas. Check out how you can unblock Crackle from anywhere.


Netflix

Netflix has not yet released an official Kodi add-on. But you can use the CastagnalT add-on. This third-party add-on works well with various Netflix libraries, including Australia, the UK, Japan, and the US. While testing, we could stream HD movies and TV shows with minimal lags.

Currently, there are thousands of unofficial Netflix Kodi add-ons available. However, CastagnalT is the safest option as its developer is respected within the Kodi community. In addition, it is highly secure as it encrypts your Netflix login credentials. Also, it uses HTTPS internet protocol to connect you to Netflix. Thankfully, it deletes your data altogether when you log out.


Magic Dragon

Magic Dragon is a Kodi addon for streaming various content, including movies and TV shows. While it has a vast collection of content, you should be cautious with the links you follow. That is because some may contain ad trackers that may compromise your privacy. Therefore, you should consider using a reliable VPN service.


Disney+

  • Repository name: SlyGuy
  • Source URL: https://k.slyguy.xyz/
  • Available countries: Canada, Australia, Channel Islands, Austria, Germany, France, Ireland, India, the Netherlands, Italy, Puerto Rico, the Isle of Man, the US, Spain, the UK, and Switzerland.

Similar to Netflix, Disney+ doesn’t have an official Kodi addon. However, you can use the unofficial one from the SlyGuy repository, a trusted and well-maintained repository. We tested this Disney+ addon and could watch movies and TV shows in HD quality. One of its exciting features is the Search function, which makes finding the content easier.

Unfortunately, the addon is not accessible worldwide and only works where Disney+ is available. However, you can use a VPN to unblock it whenever you want.


iPlayer WWW (BBC iPlayer)

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: The UK

iPlayer WWW is the best Kodi addon to watch BBC iPlayer content. It lets you stream Catchup TV, Radio, and even live shows straight from the official BBC iPlayer site. Nonetheless, it contains popular titles such as Doctor Who, Killing EVE, EastEnders, etc.

Note: Regrettably, this addon is restricted in the UK. So, you’ll need a VPN to connect to a UK-based server to get a UK IP address if you’re abroad. However, it will let you access iPlayer WWW any time you want, from anywhere. This article here features the best UK VPNs should you need one.


Gaia

Gaia is a high-quality and powerful Kodi addon. It is perhaps the best addon on this list, primarily because of the browsing interface. It has various streaming options with all the necessary information on the home screen, making it easy to choose whatever you want to watch. For example, it lists file types, quality, and sources, eliminating the likelihood of getting a bad link.

However, Gaia is optimized for Debrid streaming services like Real Debrid and Premiumize. It means you must subscribe to the Debrid service to get started. Also, setting it up is a bit difficult, and that’s why the addon is infamous. Nonetheless, once set up, you can access premium links to stream content in 4K quality.


Covenant

Covenant is a great Kodi addon with an impressive list of free TV shows and movies. However, you need to remain extra cautious to avoid downloading illegal material. Fortunately, the addon has a filtering feature that makes it easy to find legitimate content. Protecting yourself with a VPN is also advisable since this is a third-party add-on.


Tubi for Kodi

Tubi is a popular free video-on-demand streaming website with a library of more than 50,000 movies and TV shows titles. Unfortunately, like other popular services such as Netflix and Disney Plus, Tubi doesn’t have an official Kodi addon.

Nonetheless, you can use a third-party Tubi addon available on the Diamond Wizard Repository, a highly trusted repo in the Kodi community. Luckily, the addon does not show any ads during streaming.

Unless you want to watch R or M-rated content, creating a Tubi account is unnecessary to get started on Kodi. However, you’ll need to use a VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN) if you want to stream Tubi outside the US.


Luxray Video

Luxray is a trendy addon in the Kodi community. It is elementary to navigate and use with the content sorted into categories such as TV shows, movies, crime, superheroes, animations, etc. In addition, the streaming speed is superb; we can watch Rick and Morty buffer-free.

The standard collection on the addon may be limited to your liking. However, you can get more content if you connect it to Real Debrid account. The problem is that Luxray contains some torrenting links, so protecting your connections with a reliable VPN is advisable.


Cypher Media

Cypher Media is an all-around Kodi extension containing numerous movies and TV shows. It also gives you access to IPTV, anime, and TV Calendar to stream the latest shows, such as The Tonight Show.

The addon only lagged for a few seconds during our test before streaming impeccably. Unfortunately, some links are from illegal sites, so never download copyrighted material from free sources. Also, you should use a quality VPN service as a precaution against hackers and other malicious actors.


Seren

  • Repository name: Seren Repository
  • Source URL: https://slyguy.uk/
  • Available countries: Worldwide

Seren is a popular premium Kodi add-on that works only with Real Derbid. It is well known for providing seamless and high-quality streaming. Moreover, the extension boasts a user-friendly interface and an extensive library of shows and movies. Seren uses premium hosts, like Real Derbid, which help it provide reliable and fast streaming links and buffer-free streaming.

It also has advanced features such as automatic episode playing and autoplay, making it a viable option for non-stop streaming. With its exciting features, Seren has become a top-notch choice for Kodi users.

Seren also supports a popular service called Trakt, which lets you track and synchronize your watchlist across devices. By linking with Trakt, Seren lets you personalize your recommendations based on your watchlist.

However, legality is the main issue when considering add-ons like Seren, as they can be shut down sooner or later. Copyright holders have aggressively chased Kodi developers in recent years, and they regularly remove their add-ons to avoid legal troubles. Seren may work (and be safe to use) for some time after you install it, but there is no guarantee it’ll do so for long.


FEN

Fully-Featured Entertainment Network (FEN) is an Exodus-based Kodi add-on. It has an easy-to-use interface and an extensive content library. The content includes movies, TV shows, music, and more. Moreover, you can stream movies and TV shows from popular streaming platforms like Dailymotion, Vimeo, and YouTube.

The FEN Kodi add-on is known for its ability to scrape multiple sources for content. That ensures users can access high-quality, fast, and reliable streams. Additionally, the add-on allows filtering and sorting search results, making finding content matching specific criteria quickly.

However, it’s imperative to note that some of FEN’s content may not be legal in all jurisdictions. Hence, you should exercise caution and comply with your local laws. We recommend using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN.


MTB’s Greased Lightning

Greased Lighting contains an amazing collection of movies and TV shows from popular streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO, Hulu, etc. Its ‘Movies Collection’ section lets you stream classic 90’s and 50’s films. If you have streaming issues when using the platform, head over to its menu and look for the option ‘Greased Lightning: Clear Cache’ to resolve the issues.


TMDB

The TMDB addon lets you explore and stream films based on the Movie Studio from your Kodi device. The add-on features some of the most popular movie studios like Sony Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox, Disney, Columbia Tristar, etc. It is much easier to watch films from each production company in high definition using the TMDB addon.


Boxset King Reborn

Boxset King Reborn has a fascinating design and a unique interface that is overshadowed by a continuously revolving king’s crown in the background. The addon has some of the best movies and TV shows featuring mystery, sci-fi, thriller, and action categories. Also, you can stream the movies in high-definition quality.


Chains Sinisters

Chain Sinisters is the latest addon in the Chains repo. Basically, it is a movies and TV show addon that includes a Real Debrid and a Non-Debrid section. Its main categories include WWE shows, Kids Zone, Documentaries, TV Shows, Movies, Chain Scrapers, Sinisters, etc.


Marvel Universe

This is an exclusive add-on for Marvel content enthusiasts. It allows users worldwide to stream Marvel movies, and it is available in the Crew repository. The most popular categories on Marvel Universe include Marvel Documentaries, Marvel Cartoons, Animated Universe, Marvel TV, and Marvel Collections. However, you must have a real Debrid account to stream videos on this addon.


DC Universe

Like the Marvel Universe, DC Universe is a The Crew addon, and it only streams DC movies like Aquaman, Harley Quinn, Batman, Superman, etc. Its main categories include DC Documentaries, DC Specials, DC Shows, DC Lego movies, Animated movies, etc.


Best Kodi addon for cartoons and anime

There are several options if you are looking for kids-friendly Kodi add-ons. Following are some of the best addons for kids’ content available:

Binky TV

Binky TV is a popular Kodi addon for kids. It comes with more than 50 shows specifically designed for young children. The add-on, with a folder for each title, is easy to use and does not require configuration.

Unfortunately, some sections contain only short clips instead of full episodes. However, it is not a big deal as most of the content is for preschoolers. Moreover, there is a sense of balance between entertainment and education-focused content. Some popular classic titles featured include Reading Rainbow, Barney, Postman Pat, and more.


CTOON Kodi

CTOON Kodi is a well-known Kodi addon for cartoons and anime. It has a vast selection with one-click playback. The links work well and will provide your kids with fun videos. Its home page is arranged perfectly with main categories such as anime, animated movies, and cartoons. You can also use its search bar to find any specific content quickly.


PBS Kids

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: the US

The PBS Kids Kodi addon has a massive library for children to stay entertained. It has more than 40 titles, each with around four episodes, which will keep your little champs occupied all the time. The good news is that the content is available in HD quality.

This add-on has an easy-to-use interface with the featured titles on a single page. Fortunately, you can choose specific episodes if you click on each title.

Note: PBS Kids is available only in the US. As you might know now, the solution is to use a VPN to avoid geo-restrictions and stream its content from anywhere in the world.


FunimationNOW

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the US, Ireland, and the UK

FunimationNOW is a famous anime Kodi addon worth trying, especially if you like English-themed content rather than the common Japanese audio. Remarkably, the addon is incredibly effortless to use. It has preview screens, quality images, and a filter option. Although it has a free mobile and desktop version, you need a subscription to use this addon.

Note: FunimationNow only works in selected countries. However, with a quality VPN, you can access it from any part of the world.


Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll has perhaps the most extensive selection of Japanese anime content with English subtitles. However, you’ll have to subscribe to Crunchyroll to use this addon.

Most anime titles are licensed in specific regions. Therefore, you must use a Crunchyroll VPN to access content from other countries. For example, when testing, the US library has at least 100 more titles than the UK.


These are some of the best add-ons to update you with the latest happenings globally.

Deutsche Welle

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: Worldwide

The Deutsche Welle (DW) Kodi addon is a great option to stay tuned with current affairs and international news. It is well-arranged with categories such as Close Up, DW News, Conflict Zone, DocFilm, etc. More importantly, you can change the language to German, Arabic, or Spanish apart from English. Thankfully, the addon is free and available in almost every country.


USTVNow

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available Country: Worldwide

USTVNow allows you to watch live TV in the United States. The free version includes popular channels such as CW, ABC, PBS, My Network TV, and CBS. However, you can also get Animal Planet, Comedy Central, ESPN, Bravo, and more if you upgrade to the paid plan. The Kodi addon has worked worldwide since USTVNow was established for the US military and expatriates overseas.


XumoTV

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: France, Canada, Brazil, Italy, Germany, the UK, Spain, the US, and Mexico

Xumo.TV is an incredible addon for your open-source media player software, as it lets you access more than 190 free-to-watch channels worldwide. Although most networks are only available in the US, you’ll also get channels from Brazil, Canada, Germany, Mexico, Italy, France, the UK, and Spain.

Note: As noted already, Xumo only works in selected countries. However, if you use a tried and tested VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN, you’ll be able to access the addon regardless of your location. Just connect to a VPN server where it is available, and you’ll be good to go.


Top Kodi extensions for sports

The following are the best Kodi add-ons to watch major sporting activities from around the world if you are a sports fanatic:

ESPN3

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: Worldwide

The ESPN3 Kodi addon offers replays, highlights, and live sporting events of basketball, football, golf, tennis, cricket, soccer, and more. Unfortunately, the free version allows you to watch only short clips, so you’ll need to get a subscription to stream games in total.


The Crew

The Crew is an essential addon if you want to watch NBA, NFL, FIFA, UFC, MLB, and more. Unfortunately, although the addon works perfectly, installing it is a little annoying. As per our tests, if you already installed the Indigo addon, The Crew won’t install. The best way to solve this issue is to deactivate Indigo before installing The Crew.


DAZN

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None (select Video add-ons and scroll down until you see DAZN during the general add-on installation process you follow)
  • Available countries: Canada, Germany, Austria, Brazil, Spain, Japan, Italy, the US, and Switzerland

The DAZN addon is available on the official Kodi repository. It will enable you to watch live sports such as basketball, UFC, tennis, and NFL. We found it user-friendly, making it easy to navigate the different sections.

Unfortunately, you’ll need a DAZN account to use the add-on. Also, it is geographically restricted in selected countries. So, you’ll need a VPN to unblock DAZN content from anywhere.


Sport HD

The Sport HD addon is an excellent source for watching live sporting activities. It features various sports types such as basketball, football, handball, motorsport, UFC, NFL, rugby, volleyball, hockey, wrestling, and more. Some categories featured on the main menu include Live Events, Best Leagues, and more. Furthermore, there are feeds from SportHD and other websites presented. In addition, the extension dashboard has a green dot that indicates active live games.


The Loop

The Loop is an incredible sports Kodi addon that is actively maintained. With it, you will get countless video-on-demand and live sporting activities. Most channels are from the UK, Canada, and the US. However, there is plenty of other sporting content from different parts of the world, like cricket, F1 racing, soccer, etc. Furthermore, the Fight section contains content such as MMA and wrestling.


Rising Tide

Rising Tide is a popular Kodi addon that lets you watch your favorite sporting activities in high quality. It is updated frequently and offers everything from NFL, Football, Golf, Cricket, Boxing, Motorsport, and more. It is a fantastic third-party add-on to enjoy local and international sporting events with a VPN connection.


Johki’s Wrestling

Johki’s Wrestling is a Kodi Leia addon that focuses on all types of combat sports. You can stream live fight shows or explore the huge catalog of on-demand wrestling content. The most popular sections of Johki’s wrestling addon include Wrestling PPV, UFC replays, UFC, Smackdown, and Monday Night Raw (live), among others.


Internet Archive Game Launcher (IAGL)

If you are a retro games fan, then IAGL will definitely blow your mind. It is built and designed like RetroArch and allows thousands of users worldwide to play Retro Games from their Kodi devices. However, gamers must use a gamepad since the games cannot run on a standard remote. Once the addon is ready, you will have access to classic Retro Games that were once available on Sega.


Most-loved Kodi add-ons to watch videos online

If you like watching videos online, you can install the following add-on.

YouTube

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: Worldwide
  • The YouTube add-on allows you to stream videos, music, and other content without ads. On the downside, the installation process is challenging. A recent update requires you to have API keys. Fortunately, the screen has simple instructions on how to install the addon. Also, it works well with various devices, including Amazon Firestick, Windows, Android, Smart TVs, macOS, and iOS.

Note: Although YouTube is available worldwide, some videos are limited to specific countries. It means you need a VPN to bypass these restrictions and stream any YouTube content.


Diamond

The Diamond repository is known to bring some of the best Kodi video add-ons, and the new Diamond add-ons are no exception. The most popular sections on this addon include Trakt World, TV World, Movie World, etc. Luckily, you don’t need a Trakt account to use it.


Best Kodi extensions for watching documentaries

Do you need to watch documentaries but don’t know which addons to use on your favorite media player application? Here are some reliable add-ons that solely focus on documentaries.

Seeker

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available countries: Worldwide

Seeker contains an extensive list of technology, culture, and science documentaries. It is owned by the same company that runs the Discovery Channel, so you should expect to get original and quality content. Regrettably, the addon only shows Seeker’s YouTube channel content.


National Geographic

  • Repository name: Same, available as an official addon
  • Source URL: None
  • Available: Worldwide

National Geographic started as a magazine in the late 19th century. And now, it is perhaps the biggest documentary channel available, dedicated to promoting knowledge and exploration.

You can try the Kodi add-on option to watch the documentaries free of charge. However, you’ll primarily find short clips. Also, finding a video to watch from the many available videos is a bit of work. But, overall, you can watch high-quality documentaries for free.


Finest Kodi addon for Bollywood, Indian, and Hindi movies

Are you looking for a way to watch Bollywood, Indian, and Hindi movies through Kodi? Since Einthusa is not available anymore, here is the best alternative.

Disney+ Hotstar

Disney+ Hostar addon should be your top consideration if you want to stream Bollywood, Indian, and Hindi movies on Kodi. As the name suggests, this addon features the entire Disney+ catalog plus much other content. However, you’ll need a quality VPN to access most of the content if you are outside India.


Best Kodi All-in-One Addons

An All-in-One addon is a comprehensive Kodi addon that allows you to enjoy all entertainment categories like sports, movies, live TV, TV shows, kids’ content, and music from one place. This way, you don’t have to look for an addon for Live TV and another one for movies and TV shows. Here’s a list of our best all-in-one Kodi add-ons.

Guillermo Tell

Guillermo Tell is a popular all-in-one Kodi addon developed by Freeworld. It gives you access to all your favorite entertainment content, including live sports TV, and also stream movies, and TV shows live.


Limitless

Limitless is another all-in-one Kodi addon from the Luxury repository. Its most popular sections include movies, TV shows, sports, and many more. Also, the add-on has a dedicated news section covering worldwide news. What’s more, it has a Real-Debrid Lounge where you can watch movies in 4K if you have a Real-Debrid subscription.


7of9

Perhaps one of the most comprehensive all-in-one Kodi add-ons. It allows you to stream sports, live TV, movies, and TV shows. The movies category has interesting subsections like Short Films, Urban/Gangster, Martial Arts, Super Heroes, Star Wars/Star Trek, and many more. 7of 9 also has many fitness shows, news channels, stand-up comedy shows, and amazing podcasts. It is a complete package, with everything under one roof.


The addons and repositories to avoid

After thorough testing, we found these add-ons no longer working:

  • Elementum
  • Eithusan
  • Amazon VOD
  • Genesis and Genesis Reborn
  • SnagFilms
  • Planet MMA
  • UKTurk
  • Mobdro

Also, you shouldn’t download these broken repositories:

  • Maverick TV
  • KodilRepo
  • XcLordKC
  • Repository
  • SuperRepo

The problem is that they are still featured in many reviews, but unfortunately, it’ll just be a waste of your time.

Kodi addons operate in a gray area regarding legal and safety matters. It is legal to download and use Kodi add-ons, but some of them are not safe. Also, using some unofficial Kodi extensions to stream pirated content is illegal. So, to keep yourself safe, ensure you scrutinize all the add-ons to ensure they are not streaming copyrighted titles.

Besides, some repositories and add-ons may contain malicious content like trackers and malware, which can damage your device or compromise your privacy. Other Kodi add-ons are often throttled by your ISP, which could lead to poor-quality streaming. Without any protection, your IP address and Kodi activity are visible to third parties and your ISP, which puts your privacy at risk.

How you can protect yourself while using Kodi extensions

The best way to protect yourself when using Kodi and installing its add-ons is by using a quality VPN. It encrypts your traffic and routes it through a remote server to give you anonymity. Also, it masks your IP address, making it difficult for third-party users to track your online activities. Apart from using a VPN, here are other methods you can use to guard yourself while using Kodi add-ons.

  • Using a dedicated device: A dedicated device like Firestick protects your main device and sensitive data in case something goes awry with a Kodi addon.
  • Stay informed: Get the latest information about Kodi by joining Kodi communities and receiving updates about Kodi addon security and privacy issues.
  • Stick to well-known builds: New builds may have some untested addons or configurations that could pose security risks. Therefore, it would be wise to only stick with builds that have a reputation for being trustworthy.
  • Run Kodi in a sandbox environment. If you isolate Kodi’s execution environment from your operating system, you have controlled the damage of potential malware from Kodi.
  • Disable unknown sources when you don’t need them. Disabling unknown sources eliminates the probability of installing unverified addons from unofficial repositories.
  • Keep Kodi and addons updated: Keeping Kodi and addons updated fixes vulnerabilities and bugs that can compromise your security or privacy. 
  • Avoid pirated content: Streaming copyrighted content is illegal. Also, some add-ons that stream copyrighted content may infect your device with malware.
  • Use official addons only: The Kodi repository contains official addons that are tested and vetted.

Do you need a VPN for Kodi Must today?

It is recommended to use a VPN when downloading Kodi extensions. That is because some add-ons have malicious codes that can install malware and even steal your information.

Although VPNs cannot prevent viruses, they employ advanced security features to secure internet traffic and data. In addition, some services have ad blockers that also stop malware.

However, not all VPNs work with Kodi, and finding the right one is a big challenge. So, after rigorous research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best Kodi VPNs to help you get exemplary service quickly. But if you want a quick recommendation, we briefly review our top recommendation for Kodi, ExpressVPN, below.

ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN new features block logo 120 by 120 now

A highly suitable VPN for Kodi users due to its fast speeds, incredible security, and valuable additional features.

servers 3,000+ servers in 94 countries
encryption AES-256-bit encryption
protection DNS/IPv6 leak protection
P2P optimized servers P2P optimized servers
network lock feature Network-lock feature
Trusted servers nord TrustedServer technology
Zero-logs policy Zero-logs policy
simultaneous connections Allows up to 5 simultaneous devices
money-back guarantee 30-day money back guarantee
Pros
  • Compatible with a wide range of devices
  • Unblocks geo-blocked content worldwide
  • Good speed for streaming
Cons
  • Slightly costly

ExpressVPN has dedicated apps for Windows, Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and other platforms. It also provides custom firmware for specific routers and detailed installation guides for Apple TV, Fire TV, Kindle Fire, PlayStation, Chromebooks, etc. Moreover, there are Firefox and Chrome browser extensions too.

Regarding safety, ExpressVPN uses advanced features such as military-grade AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, perfect forward secrecy, TrustedServer technology, and more. Also, the provider has a no-logs policy based in the British Virgin Islands, a privacy-friendly jurisdiction.

The pricing scheme begins with a monthly package at $12.95, slightly higher than the industry standard. However, you can go with the 6-month plan costing $9.99 monthly. The one-year package offers the best value for money, reducing the cost to $8.32 per month plus 3 free months.

ExpressVPN supports various payment methods, including cards, Bitcoin, AliPay, and Yandex Money. Fortunately, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which means you’ll get a refund from ExpressVPN within 30 days of subscription if you don’t like the VPN for any reason.

It has an extensive network of over 3000 servers in 94 countries and 160 locations worldwide. That gives you various options to choose from when streaming content from Kodi add-ons. Besides, the VPN has a Smart Location feature that automatically establishes the fastest connection.

Furthermore, the provider has impressive unblocking capabilities and works well with almost all popular streaming services, such as BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Disney+, Voot, CNNGO, etc. The VPN also unblocks Google, YouTube, Facebook, and other websites restricted in workplaces and schools.


How to install addons on Kodi

How to install addons on Kodi

After installing the VPN on your device, follow the below steps to install both official and third-party add-ons:

Installing addons through the official repository

  1. Open Kodi and tap on ‘Add-ons.’
  2. Click on the box icon on the left-hand corner of the page.
  3. Choose ‘Install from repository‘ on the list.
  4. Tap on ‘Video add-ons.’
  5. From the list, click on the channel you want.
  6. Click ‘Install‘ and wait for verification.
  7. Go back to the home screen.
  8. Start watching your favorite channel on Kodi.

Installing addons from a third-party repository

You need to take extra steps to install Kodi extensions through the exterior repository. Here’s how you should proceed:

  1. Open Kodi, and on the left side of the page, click on the cog icon to open the Settings menu.
  2. Click on ‘File Manager.’
  3. Navigate to ‘Add Source‘ and double-click.
  4. Input the repository URL and click ‘OK.’
  5. Enter the repository’s name and click ‘OK.’
  6. Click on the box icon on the home page.
  7. Tap on ‘Install from Zip.’
  8. Look for the file name and click on it.
  9. Navigate back to install from the repository and repeat steps 3-8 above to install the new repository.

Why aren’t my Kodi add-ons working?

Informal developers generate most add-ons available on Kodi, so they aren’t always up-to-date and malware-free. We have tested all the add-ons listed above and found them working perfectly. However, some Kodi extensions clash with each other sometimes, like after updates.

So, below, we list some common addon issues and how to solve them.

Prevent addons from buffering or freezing on Kodi

Buffering and freezing problems are caused mainly by addon conflicts. Is it a new add-on, or has it been updated recently? If you cannot recognize the issue, disable your hardware acceleration. Here is how to do it:

  • First, click the gear icon on your home screen.
  • Go to ‘Player Settings.’
  • Click ‘Basic‘ three times to change it to ‘Expert.’
  • Next, choose the ‘Video‘ tab.
  • Deactivate ‘Allow hardware acceleration VTBDecoder.’

Sometimes, you need to re-install a Kodi addon if the problem persists. Although this may seem drastic, it’ll ensure you use the latest addon version. In addition, this will probably end the freezing issue.


Prevent the ‘Failed to install a dependency error message

Many add-ons depend on other files and programs to function correctly. Usually, these are shown when downloading the addon and will install automatically. However, an error may sometimes arise, so here is an easy fix.

First, start by clearing the Kodi cache to troubleshoot the error. The simplest way to do it is by using the Indigo addon.

Use the following steps to clear your cache:

  • Install the Fusion repository from https://fusion.tvaddons.co/.
  • Download the Indigo addon.
  • Open the Indigo add-on.
  • Tap on ‘Maintenance Tools.’
  • Click ‘Clear Cache‘ and confirm.

Solve the ‘Unable to Connect’ error message when adding sources

This error usually occurs when the repository isn’t working or has shut down. However, you can try the following troubleshooting tips before you give up on the addon:

  • Double-check whether you have input the repository URL correctly.
  • Confirm if your internet is working properly.
  • Use a reliable VPN to prevent your ISP from blocking your connections. It will allow you to access the content you want risk-free. ExpressVPN is an excellent choice as it has high-quality security features to keep you safe alongside excellent unblocking capabilities.
  • Find an alternative link to the repository or check if the addon is featured in a different repository.

Fix the ‘Check log for more information error message

The easiest way to check your log is by using the Kodi addon log viewer from the official Kodi repository. View your Kodi log by using the following steps:

  • Click ‘Add-ons‘ from Kodi’s home screen.
  • On the sidebar, tap on the open box icon.
  • Click ‘Install from repository.’
  • Select the ‘Kodi Add-on repository.’
  • Click ‘Program Add-on.’
  • Tap on ‘Log viewer for Kodi’ and click ‘Install.’
  • Navigate to the addon in the ‘Program add-ons‘ category.
  • Read the log file and follow the guidelines to solve the error.
  • Try to clear your cache if the log doesn’t have clear directions.

Even after trying the above instructions, there may be technical difficulties with your IP address if you still get the error message. So, in that case, the best solution is to use a VPN to change your IP address.


Keeping up with Kodi add-ons

Good things in the Kodi community are yet to come. Nonetheless, after several rough years because of the third-party add-ons, the official Kodi is back as an excellent choice software for playing media. So, try to make visiting Kodi’s official changelog page frequently a habit to stay updated about the latest changes and improvements on the current version.

Conclusion

Kodi can enable you to stream almost anything you want with the correct add-ons. But most add-ons either don’t work or can infect your devices with malware. Fortunately, the Kodi add-ons featured above work well and are safe, including those from third-party repositories.

However, we recommend using a VPN to protect your connections from potential online dangers. It will also help you bypass geographic restrictions and watch content from anywhere. Our top VPN pick for Kodi is ExpressVPN, which boasts robust security features and unblocks almost all geo-blocks.

FAQs

We check and add add-ons to this article almost daily. After numerous tests spread across multiple days, we found Pluto TV wasn’t working on Kodi. That’s why we didn’t list it.

Yes. Numerous Kodi addons offer a wide range of movies and TV shows libraries for a great streaming experience.

All Kodi add-ons hosted on the official repository are legal to use. However, you can get into trouble using an add-on that hosts illegal content. Unfortunately, it’s common with unofficial third-party Kodi addons. The easiest way to avoid such legal issues is to use a VPN. That helps keep Kodi’s activities private, and no one can track you.

Some free VPNs work well with Kodi. However, you might encounter serious issues when streaming due to various performance limitations with free VPN services. For example, TunnelBear’s free version comes with only 500MB per month – enough for only 30 minutes of HD streaming.

A Kodi addon is a simple application that lets you watch content from a specific source on your device. For example, you can install a Netflix addon to stream your favorite Netflix content on your Kodi device. Conversely, a Kodi repository is like an archive containing various add-ons, including music, programs, videos, etc. Whereas the Kodi build is a better way of using Kodi. It comes pre-configured with skins, settings, add-ons, and more.

Yes, add-ons can come with viruses and target your device if you are not careful. For example, a man-in-the-middle attack may happen during data transmission, like video streaming online. Usually, add-ons from the official Kodi repository are examined for viruses. However, those from the unofficial repository can contain cryptojackers, malware, and sniffers embedded in their codes.

Kodi is compatible with almost every internet-connected device. This includes Fire TV, Amazon Firestick, Windows, TV boxes, macOS, smartphones, tablets, etc.

You can use Kodi safely without a VPN but only interact with official add-ons. However, besides protecting you when using unofficial add-ons, a VPN will help you access geo-blocked content from anywhere worldwide.

Kodi’s code is open source and is distributed under the General Public License (GPL-2.0-or-later). It is governed by the XBMC Foundation, a tax-exempt registered non-profit organization based in the US. In addition, a community of unpaid volunteers develops the software.

You can stream Netflix content on Kodi but must install a third-party Netflix add-on. Remember, you must still use a VPN to protect your connections and unblock Netflix content worldwide.

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About the Author

Ruheni Mathenge

Ruheni Mathenge

Streaming Expert
201 Posts

Tech researcher and writer with a passion for cybersecurity. Ruheni Mathenge specializes in writing long-form content dedicated to helping individuals and businesses navigate and understand the constantly evolving online security and web freedom worlds. He specializes in VPNs, online anonymity, and encryption. His articles have appeared in many respected technology publications. Ruheni explains complicated technical concepts clearly and simply. He advocates digital freedom and online privacy at every level.

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