In today's saturated streaming landscape, choosing a single service feels increasingly difficult, especially with Netflix's recurring price hikes. Netflix, once a mail-order giant, now boasts a massive library of original content exclusive to its platform. This trend, followed by competitors, makes choosing between Netflix and alternatives more challenging than ever.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, many Netflix alternatives offer free trials, allowing you to explore their offerings before committing. While their original content libraries may not match Netflix's breadth, they provide compelling alternatives, making free trials an excellent way to assess them before potentially canceling Netflix.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
A strong Netflix contender, Hulu consistently delivers high-quality original content. It's the exclusive home of shows like Shōgun, new Futurama episodes, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. Hulu's 30-day trial (reduced to three days with live TV) provides ample time to explore its extensive library. Subscription options range from $7.99 to over $100 per month, depending on add-ons like live TV and premium channels (ESPN+, Cinemax, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, etc.). 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 offers a generous 30-day trial. Known for its high-quality, arthouse films and series, Amazon Prime Originals rival Netflix's offerings. After the trial, the monthly cost is $14.99 ($139 annually), or $7.49 for students ($69 annually). Prime Video exclusively streams 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
Crunchyroll is a must-have for anime fans. While offering three paid tiers ($7.99/mo to $14.99/mo), it also streams some free anime. Crunchyroll provides access to the latest anime episodes shortly after their Japanese release, offering a wider selection than Netflix (e.g., all 6 seasons of My Hero Academia vs. Netflix's 4, 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 rising star, known for its exclusive, critically acclaimed shows (Ted Lasso, Severance, Masters of the Air) and films (Killers of the Flower Moon, Spirited, Napoleon). After the 7-day trial, the monthly subscription is $9.99 (pricing varies based 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 diverse range of original shows and movies, including exclusive access to Mission Impossible films, the Halo series, and the entire Star Trek universe. After the 7-day trial, the monthly cost is $4.99 (limited ads) or $11.99 (ad-free with SHOWTIME). Paramount+ will also be the streaming home for Sonic 3.
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 short 5-day trial, including live TV and various movies and series. Three packages range from $79.99 to $119.99 per month, with 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 subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial.
