For a streaming service from one of the biggest companies in the world, Apple TV Plus certainly punches above its weight. Unlike many competitors that offer a massive back catalog of mediocre content, Apple‘s platform focuses on prestige and niche programming, with every show appearing lovingly crafted. There’s less content overall, but what’s there counts – from acclaimed hits like Ted Lasso and Severance to buzzworthy newcomers like Black Bird and Lessons in Chemistry.

One standout is the darkly comedic spy thriller Slow Horses, which has already run for three gripping seasons. Gary Oldman stars as the disheveled head of a dumping ground for MI5 rejects who keep getting reluctantly swept into national security crises. It’s funny, thrilling, and packed with British talent.

Recent additions include the historical drama Manhunt, where Tobias Menzies portrays the detective who tracked down Abraham Lincoln’s assassin in a 19th-century chase across America’s East Coast. There’s also the highly anticipated Masters of the Air from Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg – the third installment in their celebrated World War II trilogy after Band of Brothers. Austin Butler and Ncuti Gatwa lead an all-star ensemble cast.

With such promising original programming, many will want to sample Apple TV Plus. Luckily, there are numerous ways to do so for free.

The standard Apple TV Plus free trial

Like most streamers, Apple TV Plus offers a standard 7-day free trial. This allows you to binge any shows that catch your eye without paying upfront, though you’ll need to cancel before the week is up to avoid the $9.99 monthly charge.

The Apple One free trial

An even better option may be trying Apple One, a bundle that includes Apple TV Plus alongside Apple Arcade, Apple Music, Apple Fitness+, Apple News+, and iCloud+ storage. New subscribers get one month free trial before paying $19.95/month for an individual plan or $25.95/month for a family plan and $37.95/month for a Premier plan, note that Family and Premier plans cover up to five people.

Free Apple TV Plus episodes & show samplers

Already used up the free trials? Apple TV Plus still offers some episodes and show samplers completely free on its website, with no subscription required. It’s a great way to get hooked on a new series.

Buy an Apple device and get 3 free months of Apple TV Plus for free

Buying a new Apple device like an iPhone, iPad, Mac, or Apple TV can also score you three free months of the streaming service. If you were already planning an Apple purchase, it’s a nice bonus.

Final thoughts

So for those curious about Apple TV Plus’s original programming, there are plenty of opportunities to sample it for free. Between the trials, free episodes, and device offers, you can get a generous taste before deciding whether to subscribe monthly. With such a focused, high-quality library of shows, Apple TV Plus just might reel you in for good.

Disclaimer: Prices and promotions mentioned in this article are accurate at the time of writing and are subject to change based on the retailers’ discretion. Please verify the current offer before making a purchase.