Let’s be real for a second: in this golden age of streaming, not being able to download your favorite shows for offline viewing feels like a disaster. Imagine you're stuck on a long-haul flight or trapped on a train with zero signal, ready to binge the latest season of Power Book IV: Force, only to be greeted by the dreaded buffering wheel. I’ve been there, and I know exactly how frustrating it is.

Many Starz subscribers I talk to—including friends and users in my community—often scratch their heads and ask: "Wait, I’m paying for this subscription. Can't I just save these movies to watch when I'm off the grid?"

The short answer is: Yes, you can. But it’s not as straightforward as you might think.

In this guide, I’m not just going to copy-paste the official manual. Instead, I’ll walk you through the official mobile method, and then, speaking as a Product Manager who values ownership, I’ll show you the "power user" way to bypass the annoying limitations that streaming services don't tell you about.

how to download movies on starz

Does Starz Actually Let You Download Movies?

The honest answer? Yes, but with strings attached.

If you are a mobile user (iOS or Android), Starz has a decent official app that allows for downloads. I’ll cover those steps in a minute. However, if you prefer watching on a bigger screen—like your laptop or desktop PC—things get tricky.

The Starz web player does not have a "Download" button. This means if you want to watch offline on your Windows laptop during a flight, or if you want to archive a classic movie before it gets removed from the library, you’re out of luck with the official tools. This is where third-party solutions come in.

Just remember: always use these tools responsibly, adhering to Starz's terms and copyright laws for personal viewing only.

How to Download Movies on Starz on Mobile Devices?

Tool Required: Starz App

Step 1
Go to Google Play or App Store to download Starz app first.
Step 2
You need to create or login your account.
Step 3
Browse for the movie or show you want. When you open the title's info page, look for the "Download" icon (usually a downward arrow). Tap it, and your content will begin saving to your device.
how to download movies on starz: steps of starz

Why the Official App Can Drive You Crazy (The Limitations)

While the app is convenient, digging through Reddit threads like r/Starz and speaking with users reveals some common headaches. These aren't just nitpicks; they are genuine deal-breakers for many:

The Limitations:
  • The "Self-Destruct" Timer: This is the biggest complaint. Downloads don't last forever. Typically, unobserved downloads expire after 2 weeks. Even worse, once you press "Play," you often have only 48 hours to finish watching before the file deletes itself. It’s like renting a movie that evaporates.
  • Geo-Lock Nightmares: Starz is primarily a US service. If you travel internationally to a region where the service is known as Lionsgate+ (or isn't available at all), your downloaded US content might become unplayable due to region locks.
  • Trapped on Small Screens: You can only watch the content inside the app. Want to move that movie to a USB drive for your TV? Can't do it. Want to watch on a laptop? Impossible.
  • The Content Carousel: Just like users searching for how to download Shudder movies or movies from MUBI, we all face the reality of licensing. If Starz loses the rights to a movie next month, it disappears from your library instantly—even if you "downloaded" it.

How to Download Starz Movies on PC? (The Power User Method)

Tool Requird:  StreamFab STARZ Downloader

Since the official PC route is a dead end, this is where desktop downloader software shines. After testing virtually every tool on the market for stability and bitrate quality, my recommendation for building a personal library is StreamFab STARZ Downloader.

how to download movies on starz: streamfab starz downloader

Save Starz movies and shows permanently for offline viewing. Supports up to 1080p resolution and universal MP4 format for any device.

 Why choose this over screen recording? (My Test Results):
  • True 1080p Quality: Many "downloaders" are just glorified screen recorders that lag and drop frames. StreamFab downloads the actual video stream. I recently pulled an episode of Outlander, and the bitrate was identical to the web stream.
  • Keep It Forever: This is the main selling point. The output files are standard MP4 or MKV files. You can store them on your NAS, external hard drive, or USB. Even if your subscription lapses, your files stay with you.
  • Metadata for Collectors: If you use media servers like Plex, Kodi, or Jellyfin, you'll love this. It scrapes the title, cover art, cast info, and episode descriptions automatically, keeping your library looking professional.
  • Speed Efficiency: In my tests conducted in late 2025, downloading a 2-hour movie took about 15-20 minutes on a standard connection—much faster than the 2 hours required for real-time recording.

Step-by-step Guide to StreamFab STARZ Downloader

Step 1
Download and install StreamFab using the buttons above. It’s premium software, but the free trial lets you download a few videos to verify the quality yourself.
Step 2
Open StreamFab, click VIP Service and find STARZ.
how to download movies on starz: step 2 of streamfab
Step 3
Search for the movie you want to download, or you can paste the link here.
how to download movies on starz: step 3 of streamfab
Step 4
Play the video. StreamFab will automatically analyze the stream data. A pop-up window will appear asking for your preference (Resolution, Codec, Subtitles). Select 1080p and click Download Now.
how to download movies on starz: step 4 of streamfab

FAQs

1. Can I watch Starz shows without a subscription?

Generally, no. Starz is a premium cable and streaming service. However, if you subscribe via Amazon Prime Video or Hulu, you might occasionally find "First Episode Free" promotions. To use the app or any PC downloader, you must have an active, valid subscription.

2. Is Starz available outside the United States?

It’s complicated. The Starz brand is primarily US-based. In Canada, it operates as an add-on or standalone service via Crave. Internationally, what used to be StarzPlay has largely been rebranded to Lionsgate+ in regions like Europe and Latin America as of 2026, though some markets have seen service changes. If you are traveling, check if your content is hosted on a local partner (like Sky in the UK or Canal+ in France).

Related topics for North American users:

3. How much does a Starz subscription cost?

Currently, the standard monthly rate sits around $10.99/mo. The annual plan offers better value at approximately $69.99/year (saving you about 46%). However, pro tip: keep an eye out for aggressive promotions. Starz frequently runs limited-time offers like "$4.99/mo for 3 months," so don't pay full price unless you have to.

4. What are the best shows to download on Starz?

Starz is best known for the massive Power Universe, which includes Power Book II: Ghost, Power Book III: Raising Kanan, and Power Book IV: Force. For historical drama fans, Outlander and The Serpent Queen are absolute must-watches. These high-production-value series are perfect for downloading in 1080p to appreciate the details.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, it comes down to how you consume media. If you just need something to watch on your phone during tomorrow's commute, the official app is perfectly adequate, despite the expiration timers.

However, if you are like me—a quality enthusiast who wants to build a permanent library, watch on a laptop, or avoid the headache of expiring downloads—then StreamFab STARZ Downloader is the superior choice for your PC. It gives you ownership of the content you pay for.

Whichever route you choose, the most important thing is that you can enjoy your movies without being at the mercy of a spotty Wi-Fi connection.

Mandatory Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. Always use offline viewing options for content you are authorized to access, and strictly adhere to Starz’s terms of service and the copyright laws applicable in your country. Do not redistribute or sell downloaded files.