Navigating the world of streaming services can be a challenge, especially with Netflix's frequent price hikes. The rise of exclusive content makes choosing a replacement difficult. Netflix, once a simple mail-order service, now produces a vast library of originals found nowhere else. This trend has been followed by other services, creating a complex landscape for viewers.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, many Netflix alternatives offer free trials. While their original content libraries may not be as extensive as Netflix's, they provide compelling options worth exploring before committing to a paid subscription.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
Hulu consistently delivers high-quality original content rivaling Netflix. It's the exclusive home of shows like Shōgun, Futurama, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. This 30-day trial (reduced to three days with live TV) offers a wide range of subscription options afterward, from $7.99/month to over $100/month (with live TV and premium add-ons like ESPN+, Cinemax, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, and more). Hulu also offers attractive bundles with Disney+ and Max.
### 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 boasts a generous 30-day trial. Known for its high-quality arthouse films and series, its original content easily competes with Netflix. After the trial, the subscription costs $14.99/month ($139/year) or $7.49/month for students ($69/year), including Prime Video and Amazon shopping benefits. It's the exclusive streaming home for shows like 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 fans, Crunchyroll offers a compelling 14-day trial. While it has three paid tiers ($7.99/mo to $14.99/mo), it also streams some free content. Crunchyroll provides access to the latest anime episodes shortly after their release in Japan, surpassing Netflix's anime offerings. For example, while Netflix has only four seasons of My Hero Academia, Crunchyroll offers all six and is the exclusive streamer for 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+ is a rapidly growing streaming service with exclusive, critically acclaimed shows (Ted Lasso, Severance, Masters of the Air) and movies (Killers of the Flower Moon, Spirited, Napoleon). After the 7-day trial, the monthly subscription is $9.99 (price may vary depending on users). Note: an Apple ID is required.
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 good selection of original shows and movies, including exclusive access to franchises like Mission Impossible, Halo, and the Star Trek universe. After the 7-day trial, subscriptions start at $4.99/month ($59.99/year) with ads or $11.99/month ($119.99/year) ad-free with SHOWTIME. It will also be the streaming home for future Sonic films.
Read our review of Paramount+ or learn more about the Paramount+ free trial.
DirecTV Stream (5-Day Free Trial)
DirecTV Stream offers a streaming service with a 5-day trial. It includes a wide range of movies, series, and live TV. Three packages are available, ranging from $79.99/month to $119.99/month, with add-on streaming services (Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, and Cinemax) included for the first three months.
See our guide on how to get the DirecTV Stream free trial.
Can You Watch Netflix Without a Paid Subscription?
While some Netflix content might be available elsewhere, its original shows and movies require a paid subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial but provides various subscription tiers ranging from $6.99/month to $22.99/month.
You can check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices for more info.
