In today's competitive streaming landscape, choosing the right service can be tough, especially with Netflix's frequent price hikes. Netflix, once a simple mail-order service, now boasts a massive library of exclusive original content. This trend of exclusive content has made choosing between services 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 worth considering.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
Hulu consistently produces high-quality original content rivaling Netflix. It's the exclusive home of shows like Shōgun, Futurama, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. Its 30-day trial (reduced to 3 days with live TV) offers a generous window 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 Video, with its 30-day trial, offers a strong selection of high-quality, arthouse films and series. Its original content rivals Netflix's, and after the trial, costs $14.99/month ($139/year) or $7.49/month for students. Exclusive titles include 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 for anime fans. While offering various subscription tiers ($7.99-$14.99/month), it also streams some free content. It provides access to new anime episodes shortly after their Japanese release, surpassing Netflix's anime offerings. For example, Crunchyroll has all six seasons of My Hero Academia and Demon Slayer season 4, while Netflix only has four seasons of My Hero Academia.
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, offering 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 subscription costs $9.99/month (price may vary depending on 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 solid selection 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, subscriptions start at $4.99/month (with ads) or $11.99/month (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 range from $79.99 to $119.99/month, and include add-on streaming services (Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, Cinemax) for the first 3 months.
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 only available with a paid subscription. Netflix offers various plans ranging from $6.99 to $22.99/month.
You can check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices for more info.
