In today's ever-expanding world of streaming services, choosing the right platform can feel overwhelming, especially with Netflix's recent price hikes. From its origins as a DVD-by-mail service, Netflix has evolved into a powerhouse of original content, offering thousands of hours of exclusive shows and movies. However, this trend of exclusive content has spread across the industry, complicating the decision to stick with Netflix or explore other options.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, many of Netflix's competitors offer free trials, allowing you to test the waters without committing financially. While these platforms may not yet match Netflix's extensive library of originals, they still boast compelling content. Here are some top alternatives you can try for free:
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
Hulu stands out as a formidable Netflix alternative, offering a wide range of high-quality, original content. It's the exclusive home to series like *Shōgun*, new *Futurama* episodes, *The Bear*, and *The Handmaid's Tale*. With a 30-day free trial, you can explore Hulu's extensive library, which includes award-winning shows and well-known films. Post-trial, subscription options start at $7.99 per month, going up to over $100 if you add live TV or premium add-ons like ESPN+, Cinemax, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, and more. Note that the free trial shortens to just three days if live TV is included.
For those looking to bypass the trial, Hulu offers enticing streaming bundles. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle is available for $16.99 a month, providing access to an extensive content collection. Alternatively, you can bundle Hulu with just Disney+ for $10.99 a month.
### Get the Disney+, Hulu, Max Streaming Bundle
27$16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free.See it at HuluRead our review of Hulu or check out all of the Hulu bundles available.
Amazon Prime (30-Day Free Trial)
### 30 Days Free Amazon Prime Free Trial
45Prime Video is included with an Amazon Prime subscription.See it at Amazon
Amazon Prime, a well-known name in streaming, provides a 30-day free trial to explore its offerings. Known for its high-quality, arthouse films and series, Amazon Prime's original content catalog rivals Netflix's. After the trial, a subscription costs $14.99 a month or $139 a year, with free shipping on Amazon orders. Students can enjoy a discounted rate of $7.49 a month or $69 a year. Prime Video is the exclusive streaming platform for the *Fallout* series and *Rings of Power*.
Read our review of Prime Video.
Crunchyroll (14-Day Free Trial)
### 14 Days Free Crunchyroll Free Trial
80See it at Crunchyroll
For anime enthusiasts, Crunchyroll is the ultimate destination, offering a 14-day free trial. With three membership tiers ranging from $7.99 to $14.99 per month, Crunchyroll also provides free access to a considerable amount of content. While Netflix has some excellent anime, Crunchyroll boasts the most comprehensive anime library, including all seasons of *My Hero Academia* and exclusive access to new episodes of *Demon Slayer* and *My Hero Academia* season 7 shortly after their Japanese release.
Read our review of Crunchyroll.
Apple TV+ (7-Day Free Trial)
### 7 Days Free Apple TV+ Free Trial
20See it at Apple
Apple TV+ has quickly become a contender in the streaming wars, renowned for its exclusive, critically acclaimed shows like *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *Masters of the Air*, as well as films such as *Killers of the Flower Moon*, *Spirited*, and *Napoleon*. A 7-day free trial allows you to sample its offerings, after which the subscription costs $9.99 per month. Note that an Apple ID is required, which may pose a challenge for non-Apple device users.
Read our review of Apple TV+.
Paramount+ (7-Day Free Trial)
### 7 Days Free Paramount+ Free Trial
109Includes a 7-day free trial.See it at Paramount+
Paramount+ offers a solid selection of original content, including the *Mission Impossible* series, the *Halo* series, and the entire *Star Trek* universe. With a 7-day free trial, you can explore its growing library. Post-trial, subscriptions start at $4.99 per month (or $59.99 a year) with limited ads, or $11.99 per month (or $119.99 a year) for an ad-free experience with SHOWTIME's full library. Paramount+ is also the home of everything *Sonic*, including future releases like *Sonic 3*.
Read our review of Paramount+ or learn more about the Paramount+ free trial.
DirecTV Stream (5-Day Free Trial)
Although primarily known for satellite TV, DirecTV also offers a streaming service with a 5-day free trial. DirecTV Stream provides a variety of movies, series, and live TV streaming. Subscription packages range from $79.99 to $119.99 per month, with premium add-ons like Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, and Cinemax included in the first three months. It's a solid choice for those seeking a live TV alternative to Netflix.
See our guide on how to get the DirecTV Stream free trial.
Can You Watch Netflix Without a Paid Subscription?
Unfortunately, Netflix's original content is exclusive to its platform and requires a paid subscription. Unlike some competitors, Netflix does not offer a free trial. Subscription plans range from $6.99 to $22.99 per month. For more details, check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices.