Navigating the world of streaming services can be overwhelming, especially with Netflix's frequent price hikes. The rise of exclusive content on various platforms makes choosing a replacement increasingly difficult. Netflix, once a simple mail-order service, now boasts thousands of hours of original programming found nowhere else. This trend has been followed by competitors, creating a complex landscape for viewers.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, many Netflix alternatives offer free trials, allowing you to explore their libraries without financial commitment. While their original content catalogs might not match Netflix's breadth, these services provide compelling options. These free trials offer a risk-free way to test the waters before potentially canceling your Netflix subscription.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
A strong contender, Hulu consistently delivers high-quality original content rivaling Netflix. It's the exclusive home of shows like Shōgun, new Futurama episodes, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. Hulu boasts an impressive selection of award-winning original series and popular films. The 30-day trial (reduced to three days with live TV) provides ample time to explore its vast library. Subscription options range from $7.99 to over $100 a month, depending on add-ons like live TV and premium channels (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 offers a generous 30-day trial period. Known for its high-quality, arthouse films and series, its original content rivals Netflix's. After the trial, the subscription costs $14.99 monthly ($139 annually), including Amazon shopping benefits. A student discount is available at $7.49 monthly ($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
For anime enthusiasts, Crunchyroll provides unparalleled access to a vast library. While offering three paid tiers ($7.99/mo to $14.99/mo), it also streams some anime for free. It offers premium access to new episodes shortly after their Japanese release, surpassing Netflix's anime selection. For example, while Netflix has four seasons of My Hero Academia, Crunchyroll offers all six and is the sole provider of season seven and Demon Slayer season four episodes.
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, emphasizing exclusive content. It features critically acclaimed original 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 costs $9.99 (pricing varies with additional 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 franchises like Mission Impossible, Halo, and the entire Star Trek universe. Its original content library is rapidly expanding. After the 7-day trial, subscriptions start at $4.99/month (with ads) or $11.99/month (ad-free with SHOWTIME). It will eventually stream 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 5-day free trial, including live TV and various movies and series. Three packages range from $79.99 to $119.99 monthly, including add-on 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, its original shows and movies require a subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial; subscriptions range from $6.99 to $22.99 monthly.
You can check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices for more info.
