In the ever-evolving landscape of streaming services, choosing the right platform can be daunting, especially with Netflix's recent price hikes. From its origins as a DVD rental service, Netflix has transformed into a powerhouse of exclusive original content, setting a trend that other services have eagerly followed. This exclusivity makes it challenging to decide whether to stick with Netflix or explore alternatives.

Fortunately, many of Netflix's competitors offer free trials, allowing you to sample their offerings before committing. While these services may not yet boast the extensive original content libraries of Netflix, they still provide a wealth of quality shows and movies for you to enjoy.

Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)

7 Days Free

Hulu Free Trial

61See it at Hulu

Hulu stands out as a top alternative to Netflix, offering a robust selection of high-quality, original content. It's the exclusive home to 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 compelling choice. During the generous 30-day free trial, you can explore the vast array of content. After the trial, Hulu offers various subscription options starting at $7.99 a month, with higher tiers up to just over $100 a month, which include 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 offers attractive streaming bundles. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max Bundle is available for $16.99 a month, providing access to a vast content library. Alternatively, you can bundle Hulu with just Disney+ for $10.99 a 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 has solidified its place in the streaming market, offering a 30-day free trial to explore its extensive catalog. Prime Video is renowned for its high-quality, arthouse films and series, rivaling Netflix’s original content. Post-trial, the subscription costs $14.99 a month or $139 a year, with a student discount available at $7.49 a month or $69 a year. Prime Video is the exclusive platform for 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 is an unbeatable choice, offering a 14-day free trial. With membership tiers ranging from $7.99 to $14.99 a month, Crunchyroll provides access to the world's best anime, including new episodes shortly after their release in Japan. While Netflix offers some anime, Crunchyroll boasts a more comprehensive selection, including all six seasons of My Hero Academia and the latest episodes of Demon Slayer.

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 become a formidable contender in the streaming wars, known for its exclusive, critically acclaimed original content like Ted Lasso, Severance, and Masters of the Air. The 7-day free trial allows you to experience this content, after which the subscription costs $9.99 a month, depending on the number of users. Note that a verified Apple ID is required to access the service.

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 strong lineup of original content, including the Mission Impossible series, the Halo series, and the entire Star Trek universe. The service is expanding its library and keeping pace with competitors like Netflix. The 7-day free trial lets you explore these offerings, after which you can subscribe for as low as $4.99 a month (or $59.99 a year) with limited ads, or $11.99 a month (or $119.99 a year) for an ad-free experience with SHOWTIME's full library. Paramount+ is also the go-to platform for 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)

DirecTV, traditionally known for its satellite TV service, also offers a streaming platform with a 5-day free trial. DirecTV Stream provides a variety of movies, series, and live TV options. Subscription packages range from $79.99 to $119.99 a month, with the first three months including premium add-ons like Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, and Cinemax. It's a solid choice 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 only available with a paid subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial, but provides multiple pricing tiers ranging from $6.99 to $22.99 a month. For more details, check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices.