The Best Netflix Alternatives With Free Trials in 2025

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 original content exclusive to its platform. This trend of exclusive content has made choosing between streaming services more challenging than ever.

Fortunately, 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, these services provide compelling options. These free trials let you 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 Netflix contender, Hulu consistently produces high-quality original content. It's the exclusive home of shows like Shōgun, Futurama, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale. Hulu's 30-day trial (3-day trial with live TV) gives you ample time to explore its extensive 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, 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 offers a generous 30-day trial. Known for its high-quality, arthouse films and series, Amazon Prime Originals rival Netflix's offerings. After the trial, the subscription costs $14.99/month ($139/year) or $7.49/month for students. 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 fans, Crunchyroll is a must-try. While offering paid tiers ($7.99-$14.99/month), it also streams some free content. Crunchyroll provides access to new anime episodes shortly after their Japanese release, offering a wider selection than Netflix. It's the place to watch complete seasons of shows like My Hero Academia and 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+ is a rising star, known for its 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 is $9.99. 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 solid selection of original shows and movies, including exclusive access to Mission Impossible films, Halo, and the entire Star Trek universe. Subscription costs range from $4.99/month (with ads) to $11.99/month (ad-free with SHOWTIME). It will eventually 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 5-day free trial, including live TV and various movies and series. Packages range from $79.99 to $119.99/month, with add-on streaming services (Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, Cinemax) included 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?

While some Netflix content might be available elsewhere, its original shows and movies require a subscription. Netflix does not offer a free trial.