Kanopy is an OTT on-demand streaming service that provides viewers access to indie films and documentaries. The site is available at no cost for users, with free content available on-demand, while content creators are paid per view. However, the service is limited to students, professors, and viewers that hold library cards at participating locations.
Given its limited access, the site is used primarily by film students and connoisseurs. Over the last several years, Kanopy has seen a notable increase in use in the US, entering into a contract with several large municipal libraries – though some have discontinued the service due to high costs and unpredictable content availability.
We examine Kanopy as a streaming service for students and film buffs.
Content Library
Kanopy has a decent collection of movies. However, the selection is limited primarily to indie films and independently produced documentaries. Kanopy has a monthly viewership of over 350 thousand viewers, according to PrivacySavvy. Users can enjoy titles on Kanopy free on PC, mobile devices, or television via supported operating systems and streaming hubs. However, there is a catch – accessing the content requires a valid college email or library card.
Library card
As mentioned above, Kanopy is intended for students, educators, and public libraries. This website is not free and accessible to everyone. Users must provide valid university credentials or proof of membership with a participating library to gain access to their movie library.
If you aren’t comfortable providing personal information about your college or student account, you can sign up using a valid university or state college email. Once you create an account, you can view all available titles for free.
Ad annoyance
The best part about Kanopy is that it has zero ads. Surprisingly, Kanopy, unlike other free streaming sites, does not force its users to suffer the types of ads that have become prevalent online. There are no ads on the homepage or anywhere in the wireframe, nor are there ads during the viewing experience. Again, the site is geared towards students and educators, so foregoing the typical ad-heavy business model makes sense for Kanopy and its intended audience.
Smooth and enjoyable
The site itself is very responsive. Users can browse different sections of Kanopy or stream a movie without lag or clutter. This smooth interface makes the website very enjoyable.
Multi-device support
There is no limit on the multi-device login. You can log in to the same account on different devices and watch simultaneously.
Pros
- Ad-free
- Legit
Cons
- Registration is mandatory and limited to educators or members of participating libraries
Summary
You are in luck if you have a library card or a registered university email address—access unlimited content on Kanopy without ads in a safe and responsive environment.
Enjoy!
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