Choosing a streaming service in today's market is challenging, especially with Netflix's latest price hike. Netflix, once a mail-order giant, now boasts a massive library of exclusive original content. However, competitors have followed suit, creating a difficult choice.
Fortunately, many Netflix alternatives offer free trials. While their original content libraries may not match Netflix's breadth, they provide compelling options. These trials allow you to explore before committing.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial):
Hulu consistently delivers high-quality original programming rivaling Netflix. Exclusive titles include Shōgun, new Futurama episodes, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. The 30-day trial offers extensive exploration, followed by various subscription tiers ($7.99-$100+ monthly, depending on add-ons like live TV). Note that live TV options reduce the free trial to three days. Bundling options with Disney+ and Max are also available.
Read our Hulu review or explore Hulu bundle options.
Amazon Prime (30-Day Free Trial):
Amazon Prime Video, included with Amazon Prime, provides a robust 30-day trial. Known for high-quality films and series, its original content rivals Netflix. Post-trial, the monthly cost is $14.99 ($139 annually), including Amazon shopping benefits. Student discounts are also available. Exclusive content includes the Fallout series and Rings of Power.
Read our Prime Video review.
Crunchyroll (14-Day Free Trial):
Crunchyroll caters to anime enthusiasts. While offering free streaming content, its premium tiers ($7.99-$14.99 monthly) provide access to new episodes shortly after their Japanese release. Its anime library surpasses Netflix's, including complete seasons of shows like My Hero Academia and Demon Slayer, unavailable elsewhere.
Read our Crunchyroll review.
Apple TV+ (7-Day Free Trial):
Apple TV+ offers exclusive, critically acclaimed shows (Ted Lasso, Severance, Masters of the Air) and films (Killers of the Flower Moon, Spirited, Napoleon). The 7-day trial precedes a $9.99 monthly subscription (price varies with users). An Apple ID is required.
Read our Apple TV+ review.
Paramount+ (7-Day Free Trial):
Paramount+ offers original shows and movies, including exclusive access to Mission Impossible films, the Halo series, and the Star Trek universe. The 7-day trial is followed by a $4.99-$11.99 monthly subscription (with/without ads and SHOWTIME). It's also the streaming home for the Sonic franchise.
Read our Paramount+ review or learn about the free trial.
DirecTV Stream (5-Day Free Trial):
DirecTV Stream offers a streaming service with a short 5-day trial. It includes live TV and various movies and series. Subscription packages ($79.99-$119.99 monthly) offer add-on streaming services (Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, Cinemax) for the first three months.
Netflix Without a Subscription:
Unfortunately, Netflix's original content is only accessible with a paid subscription. No free trial is offered; subscriptions range from $6.99 to $22.99 monthly. See our guide to Netflix plans and prices.
Do you currently have a Netflix subscription?
