Navigating the world of streaming services can be a challenge, especially with Netflix's frequent price hikes. The rise of exclusive content has made choosing a streaming platform more complex than ever. Netflix, once a simple mail-order service, now boasts thousands of hours of original programming available only on its platform. This trend, followed by other services, creates a difficult decision between Netflix and its competitors.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, many Netflix alternatives offer free trials, allowing you to explore their offerings without financial commitment. While their original content libraries may not match Netflix's breadth, these services provide compelling options. These free trials offer a risk-free way to assess alternatives before canceling Netflix.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
A strong Netflix contender, Hulu consistently produces high-quality original content. It's the exclusive home to shows like Shōgun, new Futurama episodes, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. Hulu boasts award-winning original series and a diverse film library. Its 30-day trial (reduced to three days with live TV) offers extensive exploration before committing to subscription plans ranging 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, known for its extensive offerings, provides a generous 30-day trial. It consistently delivers high-quality, arthouse films and series, rivaling Netflix's original content catalog. After the trial, the subscription costs $14.99/month ($139/year) or $7.49/month for students ($69/year), including Amazon shopping benefits. 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
For anime enthusiasts, Crunchyroll offers a compelling option. While it has tiered subscriptions ($7.99/mo to $14.99/mo), it also provides free streaming content. It offers premium access to new anime episodes shortly after their Japanese release, surpassing Netflix's anime library. For example, Crunchyroll has all six seasons of My Hero Academia and season 7, unlike Netflix’s limited offering. It also streams 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+, a rising star in streaming, focuses on exclusive, critically acclaimed shows (Ted Lasso, Severance, Masters of the Air) and films (Killers of the Flower Moon, Spirited, Napoleon). After a 7-day trial, the subscription costs $9.99/month (price varies with users). Note that 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 selection of original shows and movies, including exclusive access to franchises like Mission: Impossible, Halo, and the Star Trek universe. With consistent new releases, it's catching up to competitors. After a 7-day trial, plans 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 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, providing access to movies, series, and live TV. Subscription packages ($79.99-$119.99/month) include add-on streaming services (Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, Cinemax) 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 may be available elsewhere, original Netflix shows and movies require a subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial but provides various subscription tiers ($6.99-$22.99/month).
*Check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices for more info.*
