Looking for a way to access Netflix without paying full price? Since February 2020, the platform has discontinued its free trial in most countries, but there are still a few legal alternatives. In this article, we review the methods available, their limitations, and the risks and pitfalls to avoid.
How can I watch Netflix without paying?
There are several options for accessing Netflix without paying a cent. On the legal side, you can count on promotional offers from telecom operators, family account sharing, or even certain mobile packages that include Netflix. On the less recommendable side, there are illegal methods such as pirate streaming or using foreign accounts, but these practices carry significant risks.
Is it possible to watch Netflix for free?
However, there are still a few ways to temporarily access the service without paying, or paying less:
- Operator offers: some mobile packages and Internet boxes include Netflix as part of their subscription.
- Group sharing: you can use the account of a friend or family member who has a multiscreen subscription.
- One-off promotions: some operators offer free Netflix for a few months at a time.
💡 Thanks to Netflix subscription sharing offered by the Sharesub platform, which connects you with a group, enjoy a completely legal and secure method of accessing the extensive catalog of films, series and documentaries.
Can I still take advantage of a Netflix free trial?
The platform has completely abandoned this commercial strategy. Today, it’s impossible to officially test Netflix for free. As soon as you create an account, you have to enter a payment method and start paying immediately.
The reason for this is Netflix’s growing success. The platform no longer needs to attract new customers with free offers. It prefers to capitalize on its catalog and reputation.
An important nuance: this rule may vary from country to country. In some parts of the world, Netflix sometimes tests special offers. But in the UK and most other European countries, it’s over.
If you really want to test Netflix without commitment, your only option is the subscriptions offered by Internet providers. They’re a roundabout way of accessing the service, but not a true free trial.
Faced with the disappearance of the free trial, many users are turning to the bundled packages offered by certain operators. But not all operators are created equal, and it’s important to know which ones actually include Netflix in their packages.
Which operator offers Netflix for free?
Yes, some operators still include Netflix in their box offers. But beware, it’s often temporary or subject to conditions.
Sky offers one of the best deals: some of its TV packages, such as Ultimate TV, include Netflix (the Standard with adverts plan) for as long as you keep the package.
Virgin Media also includes Netflix in some of its broadband and TV bundles, usually the plan with adverts. Conditions vary from one bundle to another, so check which Netflix plan you get and whether it is included for the whole contract.
Other providers are not as generous. Many broadband providers only offer Netflix as a paid add-on, at roughly the normal Netflix price.
On the mobile side, some networks occasionally add a few months of streaming to their most expensive plans, but these are temporary promotions, not free Netflix.
If you’re really looking for Netflix at no extra cost, a TV package that already includes it, like those from Sky or Virgin Media, remains your best option.
Does sharing a Netflix account mean I don’t have to pay for a subscription?
Sharing Netflix used to be the go-to trick for many of us to save up to 80%, but things have changed. Since 2023, Netflix has tightened the screws: giving access to your subscription outside your household now costs from £5.99 per month per extra member. While that doesn’t make the service completely free, it lets you split the bill four ways, which makes the Premium plan almost painless for your budget.
How can I avoid paying for a Netflix subscription?
It’s possible to avoid paying for Netflix with a few legal tricks. The most accessible solution is a bundle with your broadband or TV package. Providers such as Sky and Virgin Media include Netflix in some of their packages, sometimes only for a limited period.
Netflix gift cards are another great option. You can receive them as gifts or buy them with loyalty points. They have no expiration date and even work to extend an existing subscription.
On the banking side, some credit cards offer cashback or credits on streaming subscriptions. It’s not very common, but it does exist.
For free content, Netflix sometimes posts complete episodes on its official YouTube channel. It’s limited, but it does give a taste of some series.
Beware of platforms that sell accounts located abroad, such as GamsG0, which offer discounted access. Tempting as it may be, these services run counter to Netflix’s terms of use. You risk having your access suspended without notice.
The risks of illegal methods to get free Netflix
Sites that promise free Netflix often hide dangerous traps. Behind these tempting offers usually lie scams or pirate services with serious consequences.
The security risks are real. These platforms frequently install viruses and malware on your device. You end up with an infected computer, without even realizing it at first.
On the legal side, it’s just as problematic. Content piracy can expose you to substantial fines, and UK copyright law takes this kind of practice seriously.
Finally, these methods directly harm content creators. Less revenue for them means fewer quality films and series for everyone.
The safest solution is to choose a legal offer that suits your budget, or to share. Your security and peace of mind are worth much more than a few pounds saved.