In today's rapidly evolving entertainment landscape, choosing a streaming service can feel overwhelming, especially with Netflix's recent price hike prompting many to explore alternatives. From its origins as a DVD rental service, Netflix has transformed into a powerhouse of original content, exclusive to its platform. This trend of exclusivity has been adopted by other streaming services, complicating the decision-making process for viewers seeking the best value and content variety.
AnswerSee ResultsFortunately, many of Netflix's competitors offer free trials, allowing you to sample their offerings before committing. While their original content libraries may not yet match Netflix's in size, they provide compelling alternatives and a chance to explore before deciding to cancel your Netflix subscription.
Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free
Hulu Free Trial
61See it at Hulu
Hulu stands out as a strong contender to Netflix, boasting a robust selection of original content that rivals its competitor. Exclusive to Hulu, you can enjoy acclaimed series like Shōgun, new episodes of Futurama, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. Hulu's library is packed with award-winning shows and well-known films, making it a worthwhile exploration during its generous 30-day free trial. Post-trial, Hulu offers various subscription tiers starting at $7.99 per month, with options up to over $100 per month for those interested in live TV and premium add-ons like ESPN+, Cinemax, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, and more. Note that the free trial is reduced to three days if you opt for live TV.
For those looking to bypass the trial, Hulu provides some of the best streaming bundles available. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle, priced at $16.99 per month, offers extensive content access. Alternatively, you can bundle Hulu with Disney+ for $10.99 per month.
Get the Disney+, Hulu, Max Streaming Bundle
27$16.99/month with ads, $29.99/month ad-free.See it at Hulu
Read 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 is a well-established name in the streaming world, offering a 30-day free trial to explore its extensive catalog. Known for its high-quality, arthouse films and series, Amazon Prime's original content rivals that of Netflix. After the trial, a subscription costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year, with a student discount available at $7.49 per month or $69 per year. Prime Video is the exclusive home to series like Fallout 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 an unbeatable deal. With three membership tiers ranging from $7.99 to $14.99 per month, Crunchyroll also provides a significant amount of free content. While Netflix has some excellent anime, Crunchyroll boasts the world's best selection, including all six seasons of My Hero Academia and exclusive access to new episodes of season 7 and Demon Slayer season 4 shortly after their Japanese release.
Read our review of Crunchyroll.
Apple TV+ (7-Day Free Trial)
7 Days Free Apple TV+ Free Trial
20See it at Apple
Apple TV+ has quickly emerged as a formidable player in the streaming wars, offering exclusive, highly acclaimed original content like Ted Lasso, Severance, and Masters of the Air, along with films such as Killers of the Flower Moon and Spirited. After a 7-day free trial, the subscription costs $9.99 per month, with pricing varying based on the number of users. Note that a verified Apple ID is required for access, even if you don't own Apple products.
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 the Mission Impossible series, the Halo series, and the entire Star Trek universe. With new content regularly added, Paramount+ is quickly catching up to its competitors. After the 7-day free trial, subscription options start at $4.99 per month with limited ads, or $11.99 per month for an ad-free experience with SHOWTIME's full library. Paramount+ is also the home of all things Sonic, including future releases like Sonic 3.
Read our review of Paramount+ or learn more about the Paramount+ free trial.
DirecTV Stream (5-Day Free Trial)
While DirecTV is often associated with satellite TV, its streaming service, DirecTV Stream, offers a 5-day free trial. This service provides a wide range of movies, series, and live TV streaming. Subscription packages start at $79.99 per month and go up to $119.99 per month, with premium add-ons like Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, and Cinemax included for the first three months. It's a viable option for those seeking a live TV alternative to Netflix.
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 exclusive to its platform and requires a paid subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial, but provides multiple subscription tiers ranging from $6.99 to $22.99 per month. For more details, check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices.
