(And smart tips to make the most of them)
Note: Free-trial offers vary by region, device, and user status (new vs existing). Always check the latest T & Cs before signing up.
Introduction
In a world where streaming platforms abound, taking advantage of free trials is one of the smartest ways to sample services, enjoy great content — and pay nothing for a time. If you’re looking to binge-watch smart, avoid locked-in contracts, and explore what’s out there, this blog post is for you. I’ll walk you through 10 streaming platforms that currently offer free trials (or very generous starter deals), explain exactly how to activate them, highlight what to watch, and give you strategic tips to turn those trials into maximum value.
Whether you’re a global subscriber, based in London, or moving between countries, I’ll also flag region-specific issues (geo-restrictions, device compatibility, payment methods) so you can avoid surprises.
Let’s dive in.
How to use free trials smartly
Before we get to the list, here’s how to get the most from a free trial platform:
- Use a fresh email or account: Many trials apply only to new subscribers or accounts that haven’t used the service before.
- Check cancellation terms: Some trials auto-renew into paid plans unless you cancel in time.
- Set a reminder: Mark the trial’s expiry date in your calendar, so you’re not caught off guard.
- Check device & payment requirements: Some services require a credit/debit card, and may restrict devices or regions.
- Explore the full library: Don’t just stick to one show—use the trial to test the service’s breadth, interface, device compatibility, etc.
- Consider rotational use: Try a service for a month, cancel, then move to another. It’s a smart way to sample many platforms for free over time. One Reddit user put it succinctly: “I rotate through different subscribers throughout the year. I can catch up on the shows I like with one service, then unsubscribe and switch to another.” Reddit+1
- Be aware of region-limitations: Even if you sign up, content or features may differ by country.
With those in mind, here are ten streaming platforms worth checking out.
1. BritBox
Free trial: Often 7 days. Decider+1
What it is: A streaming service focused on British television — dramas, mysteries, soaps, period pieces — backed by the BBC and ITV. Wikipedia+1
Why it’s good:
- Unique catalogue of British content not always available elsewhere.
- If you enjoy shows from the UK, this is a strong niche pick.
Tip: If you’re in the UK or elsewhere, check whether the trial applies in your country (it’s internationally available via BritBox International). Also check device support and whether the library changes by region.
2. Acorn TV
Free trial: Offers a free trial (e.g., via its site) for new subscribers. signup.acorn.tv+1
What it is: A service specialising in British and international mysteries, dramas, comedies — “world-class TV from Britain and beyond.” signup.acorn.tv
Why it’s good:
- If you love well-crafted TV from the UK, Australia, New Zealand or Canada, this is a strong pick.
- Smaller library than the giants, but curated quality.
Tip: Use the free trial to check streaming quality and whether the content appeals to you — then evaluate if you want to keep it as a dedicated niche service.
3. Hulu
Free trial: Historically 30 days for certain plans (for new or eligible returning customers). PCWorld+2agoodmovietowatch.com+2
What it is: U.S-based platform with a large catalog of originals, movies, and TV shows — strong for binge watchers.
Why it’s good:
- Large library, many hit TV shows, good for testing.
Caveat: Geographic availability: Hulu is primarily available in the U.S., so if you’re in the UK you may need a workaround (VPN, payment method) but this can be complex and may violate terms of service.
Tip: If you’re based in the UK or Europe, check the region-availability carefully. If you do sign up, use the trial to explore the UI, device compatibility, and whether the shows you want are included.
4. Amazon Prime Video
Free trial: Amazon Prime often offers a 30-day free trial (which includes Prime Video). PCWorld+1
What it is: A massive service bundling streaming movies/TV, plus other Amazon perks (depending on country).
Why it’s good:
- Huge library, strong originals, available in many countries.
- Even if you cancel after trial, you’ll have sampled one of the most versatile platforms.
Tip: If you cancel the trial before it auto-renews you’ll avoid paying. Use the time to test features like downloads, watch on multiple devices, assess library depth in your region.
5. Apple TV+
Free trial: Standard 7-day trial, but there are often promotions (e.g., 30-day through Apple One). PCWorld+1
What it is: Premium streaming service by Apple, focusing on high-production-value originals.
Why it’s good:
- Strong production quality.
- If you already have Apple devices, it integrates nicely.
Tip: Even if the trial is shorter (just 7 days), use it to check whether you like the style of originals and whether you want to keep it. Since Apple often promotes longer trials when you buy a new device, keep an eye out for those deals.
6. Paramount+
Free trial: Typically 7 days, sometimes 30 with codes or bundles. PCWorld+1
What it is: Streaming platform from Paramount, hosting original series, movies, live sports in some markets.
Why it’s good:
- Offers something slightly different from the major competitors.
- If you’re interested in their IP (Star Trek, etc.), this is a good sample.
Tip: Use the trial to judge whether the show library justifies ongoing subscription for you. Pay attention to whether live sports (if relevant) are included in your region.
7. MUBI
Free trial: In some special offers, up to 90 days for certain readers/members (e.g., via Vogue Club perk). Vogue
What it is: A niche streaming service focused on curated films – classics, international cinema, festival selections.
Why it’s good:
- If you’re a cinephile, this is an excellent exploration platform.
- The extended trial (in some promotions) gives you plenty of time.
Tip: Use your trial period to browse the curated list of films and see if the style appeals to you. Because it’s less mainstream, the value depends on your taste.
8. BritBox International (Again, but emphasising global reach)
While we already mentioned BritBox, it’s worth emphasising its international version — BritBox International — which is available in multiple countries with a free trial. Wikipedia
Why mention it again: Because if you’re outside the UK (e.g., Europe, Australia, Canada) the “international” version may carry a trial and slightly different content.
Tip: If you’re outside the UK, verify which version you’re signing up for, and that the trial is valid in your country.
9. MHz Choice
Free trial: Offers a trial (“START FREE TRIAL”) though region may be limited (U.S. & Canada). MHz Choice Blog
What it is: A smaller but interesting service that streams international series (“world’s best TV”) — great if you enjoy non-English language content.
Why it’s good:
- If you’re interested in global shows (non-US), this is a neat add-on.
Tip: For international users, check whether it’s available in your country or whether you need VPN/payment workaround.
10. Crunchyroll
Free trial / free tier: Provides a free tier globally; also premium trial offers (depending on region). The Sun
What it is: Streaming service specialising in anime, both subbed and dubbed.
Why it’s good:
- If you’re into anime, this gives you access to a huge library and you can test for free.
Tip: Even the free tier is worth exploring. If you like it and want premium features (“download offline”, fewer ads, more simulcasts) take the trial. Always check region availability and device compatibility.
Bonus: Free Tier Instead of Free Trial
While not strictly “free trials”, services such as Pluto TV offer ad-supported models that are free to use without subscription. Wikipedia These are great if you just want to watch at no cost, although you may have fewer features or more ads.
Region & Global Considerations
Since you’re based in London (UK), but want worldwide coverage, here are key things to keep in mind:
- Geo-restrictions: A platform may exist globally but its content library may differ by country.
- Currency/Payment method: Some trials require local currency or local payment cards.
- Device compatibility: Smart TVs, streaming sticks, mobile apps — check your devices work.
- VPN & terms of service: Using a VPN to access libraries from other countries can violate service terms; use with caution.
- Trial eligibility: Some services exclude users who had previous subscriptions, or reuse email addresses.
- Auto-renewal: Many trials convert to paid plans automatically—be prepared to cancel in time if you don’t want to continue.
- Switching services: A good strategy is to trial one service, cancel, move to another, thereby sampling many platforms for free over time.
How to plan your trial “circuit”
Here’s a practical strategy you can follow:
- Make a list of 3-4 services you’re most interested in (from above).
- Check the trial duration and eligibility for each (new account? country?).
- Sign up for one service now, mark the end-date in your calendar.
- Use it intensively during the trial — test content, devices, quality.
- 5 days before the trial ends, decide: keep it or cancel.
- If keep: great — convert to paid.
- If cancel: stop auto-renew, then after a short break, sign up for another service.
- Over 6-12 months you can sample 6-10 services, only paying for the ones you truly like.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are all free trials truly “free”?
A: Generally yes for the trial period — but you may need to enter a payment method, and if you don’t cancel you’ll be charged. Also some features in the trial may be limited.
Q: Can I use free trials in any country?
A: Not always. Some trials are region-locked. Always check what the service says about your country.
Q: Can I reuse the same service later for another trial?
A: Usually not. Many platforms restrict trials to new customers or accounts. Some users report being flagged if they try again. Reddit
Q: Will cancelling during the trial affect my experience?
A: No — you should get full access until the trial ends. Just make sure to cancel before the charge date if you don’t want to pay.
Q: What if I want to keep multiple services?
A: That’s fine if you have the budget. But if you want to keep cost down, rotate services: subscribe for a month, cancel, move to another.
Conclusion
Free trials are one of the most cost-effective ways to explore streaming services without commitment. The ten platforms listed above cover a wide variety of tastes — from British dramas (BritBox) to anime (Crunchyroll), from global indie films (MUBI) to mainstream giants (Amazon Prime Video, Hulu).
By using the strategy of signing up, using, evaluating, and canceling (if the service isn’t for you), you can sample many platforms for free, discover hidden gems, and only pay for the ones that truly deliver value.
Remember: set reminders, check your region, make sure payment info is managed, and most importantly enjoy the content! After all, the free trial gives you a chance to binge, test, and then decide.
Happy streaming!