The Best Netflix Alternatives With Free Trials in 2025

Navigating the world of streaming services can be a challenge, especially with Netflix's frequent price hikes. Many are seeking alternatives, especially considering Netflix's vast library of exclusive original content. This exclusivity is a trend mirrored by other services, making the choice between platforms increasingly complex.

Fortunately, many Netflix alternatives offer free trials, allowing you to explore their offerings before committing. While their original content libraries may not yet match Netflix's scale, these services boast compelling content, making the trials a valuable way to assess before switching.

Hulu (30-Day Free Trial)

7 Days Free### Hulu Free Trial

61See it at Hulu

Hulu consistently delivers high-quality original programming comparable to Netflix. It's the exclusive home of shows like Shōgun, Futurama, The Bear, and The Handmaid's Tale, among others. Its extensive library includes award-winning series and popular films. The generous 30-day trial allows exploration of its vast content before committing to subscription options ranging from $7.99 to over $100 a month (depending on add-ons like live TV, ESPN+, Cinemax, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, and more). Note that live TV options reduce the free trial to three days.

Alternatively, Hulu offers attractive bundles. The Disney+, Hulu, and Max bundle provides access to extensive content for $16.99 (with ads) or $29.99 (ad-free) per month. A Disney+ and Hulu bundle is also available 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 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, known for its extensive catalog, offers a 30-day trial. It consistently produces high-quality, arthouse films and series that rival Netflix’s offerings. After the trial, a subscription costs $14.99 per month ($139.00 annually), including Amazon Prime benefits like free shipping. A student discount of $7.49 per month ($69 annually) is also available. 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

Crunchyroll is a must-have for anime fans. While offering three paid membership tiers ($7.99/mo to $14.99/mo), it also streams a significant amount of anime for free. It provides access to new episodes shortly after their release in Japan, surpassing Netflix's anime offerings. For example, while Netflix only has four seasons of My Hero Academia, Crunchyroll offers all six seasons plus the latest episodes of season seven and Demon Slayer season four.

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 rapidly growing streaming service known for its exclusive, critically acclaimed shows (Ted Lasso, Severance, Masters of the Air) and films (Killers of the Flower Moon, Spirited, Napoleon). After a 7-day free trial, the monthly subscription costs $9.99 (price may vary based 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 diverse selection of original shows and movies, including exclusive access to franchises like Mission Impossible, Halo, and the entire Star Trek universe. Its content library is constantly expanding. After a 7-day trial, subscriptions start at $4.99/month (with limited ads) or $11.99/month (ad-free with SHOWTIME). Paramount+ will also be the exclusive streaming home for the Sonic franchise.

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, movies, and series. Subscription packages range from $79.99 to $119.99 per month and include add-on streaming services (Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, MGM+, & Cinemax) for the first three 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 but provides various subscription tiers ranging from $6.99 to $22.99 per month.

You can check out our guide to Netflix plans and prices for more info.