In the rapidly evolving landscape of streaming services, selecting the perfect platform can be daunting. With Netflix's recent price hike, many are reevaluating their entertainment subscriptions. From its origins as a DVD rental service, Netflix has transformed into a powerhouse of original content, available exclusively on its platform. This trend of exclusivity is now common across the industry, complicating the decision to stick with Netflix or explore alternatives.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, numerous Netflix alternatives offer free trials, allowing you to sample their offerings without committing financially. While these services may not match Netflix's extensive original content library, they provide quality entertainment and a chance to explore before deciding to cancel your Netflix subscription permanently.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free
Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
Hulu stands out as a top Netflix alternative, boasting a robust lineup of original content rivaling Netflix's quality. Exclusive to Hulu, you can enjoy series like Shōgun, new Futurama episodes, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. With an impressive collection of award-winning shows and acclaimed films, Hulu's original content is noteworthy. Their 30-day free trial offers ample time to explore their extensive library. Post-trial, Hulu provides various subscription tiers, ranging from $7.99 monthly to over $100 with live TV and premium add-ons like ESPN+, Cinemax, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, and more. Note that including live TV shortens the free trial to just three days.
For those seeking value, Hulu also offers enticing streaming bundles. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle at $16.99 monthly gives you access to a vast content pool. Alternatively, bundle Hulu with Disney+ for $10.99 monthly.
Get the Disney+, Hulu, Max Streaming Bundle
27$16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free.See it at Hulu
Read 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 has carved out a significant place in the streaming world, offering a generous 30-day trial. Its catalog of Amazon Prime Originals, featuring high-quality arthouse films and series, rivals Netflix's offerings. Post-trial, subscribers pay $14.99 monthly or $139 annually, with added benefits like free Amazon shipping. Students enjoy a discounted rate of $7.49 monthly or $69 yearly. Prime Video is your exclusive destination for series like Fallout 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
Crunchyroll is a must-visit for anime enthusiasts, offering a 14-day free trial across three membership tiers ($7.99 to $14.99 monthly). Even without a subscription, a substantial amount of anime content is available for free. While Netflix boasts some anime, Crunchyroll provides unparalleled access to the genre, including new episodes shortly after their Japanese release. For instance, while Netflix has four seasons of My Hero Academia, Crunchyroll offers all six seasons and is the exclusive platform for new episodes of season 7 and Demon Slayer season 4.
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 emerged as a formidable player in the streaming wars, known for its exclusive, high-quality original shows and movies like Ted Lasso, Severance, and Killers of the Flower Moon. A 7-day free trial gives you a taste of their offerings, followed by a $9.99 monthly subscription. Note that a verified Apple ID is required, which may be a hurdle for non-Apple 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 Mission Impossible films, the Halo series, and the entire Star Trek universe. Their 7-day free trial gives you a taste of their growing library, which competes with Netflix in original content. Subscription options post-trial range from $4.99 monthly with limited ads to $11.99 monthly for an ad-free experience with SHOWTIME's full library. Paramount+ is also your go-to for all things 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)
While DirecTV is often associated with satellite TV, their streaming service offers a 5-day free trial with a broad selection of movies, series, and live TV. Subscription packages start at $79.99 monthly, with premium add-ons like Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, and Cinemax included for the first three months. This makes DirecTV Stream a viable option 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 subscribers, and they do not offer a free trial. Subscription tiers range from $6.99 to $22.99 monthly. For more details, check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices.
