Can I Use Hotstar for Free? Top Ways to Use It and Best Alternatives
Hotstar is one of the most popular streaming platforms, offering a wide range of content, including movies, TV shows, sports, and live events. Many users wonder if they can access Hotstar for free without paying for a subscription. The good news is that there are ways to watch Hotstar content without a paid subscription. In this guide, we will explore how you can use Hotstar for free and provide some of the best alternatives.
How to Use Hotstar for Free
1. Free Content on Hotstar
Hotstar offers a limited selection of free content, including TV shows, news, and some movies. Users can access these without needing a subscription. However, premium content such as live sports and exclusive TV shows require a subscription. The free version includes content from Star network channels and limited regional movies, making it a decent option for those who want some entertainment without paying.
2. Free Trial Period
Hotstar occasionally offers free trial periods to new users. This allows you to watch premium content for a limited time without paying. The trial period may last for a week or a month, depending on the ongoing promotions. Keep an eye out for promotional offers that provide a free trial. If you want to maximize the free trial, you can use different email addresses and payment methods to sign up multiple times. However, ensure you cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged.
3. Jio and Airtel Hotstar Bundles
Many telecom providers, including Jio and Airtel, offer Hotstar VIP or Premium subscriptions as part of their recharge plans. If you have a Jio or Airtel SIM card, check their latest plans to see if they include free access to Hotstar. Some popular plans include:
- Jio: Recharge plans above ₹399 often include a complimentary Hotstar subscription.
- Airtel: Certain postpaid and broadband plans come with a bundled Hotstar VIP or Premium subscription.
- Vi (Vodafone Idea): Some data and calling packs also offer free access to Hotstar VIP. If you frequently recharge your mobile or broadband, opting for these plans can help you get Hotstar access without any extra cost.
4. Referral Programs and Promotions
Hotstar sometimes runs referral programs where users can earn free access by inviting friends. Participating in these programs can grant you temporary access to premium content. Check the official website or Hotstar’s social media pages for updates on such promotions. Some past promotions have allowed users to watch live cricket matches for free by simply registering on the platform during a promotional period.
5. VPN Access for Free Hotstar in India
In some regions, Hotstar offers more free content compared to others. Using a VPN to connect to an Indian server can sometimes allow users to access Hotstar’s free content section. However, this method might not work for premium content. If you are traveling outside India and want to watch your favorite shows or cricket matches, a VPN can help you bypass geo-restrictions. Some popular VPNs that work with Hotstar include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and CyberGhost.
6. Publicly Shared Accounts
Some people share their Hotstar login credentials with friends and family. If someone in your circle has a premium subscription, you may be able to watch content on their account. Hotstar allows multiple device logins, so if you have a close friend or family member with a subscription, ask them if they can share access with you.
7. Hotstar via Educational Institutions
Some universities and colleges provide free access to Hotstar as part of their student perks. If you are a student, check with your institution to see if they offer any such benefits. Some educational institutions also provide access to streaming platforms for research purposes, so it’s worth inquiring about.
Top Alternatives to Hotstar
If you are unable to access Hotstar for free, there are several alternatives that offer similar content:
1. SonyLIV
SonyLIV provides free and premium content, including sports, movies, and TV shows. Some content can be accessed without a subscription. It is a great option for sports lovers as it broadcasts events like UEFA Champions League and WWE.
2. JioCinema
JioCinema offers a vast library of free movies and TV shows, especially for Jio users. It’s a great alternative for Indian content lovers. Recently, JioCinema has started offering exclusive Bollywood movies and web series.
3. Zee5
Zee5 has both free and premium content, including Bollywood movies, TV shows, and news. Users can enjoy some content without paying. It has a strong collection of regional content in Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, and other Indian languages.
4. YouTube
Many movies, TV shows, and live events are available on YouTube for free. Some sports leagues also stream live matches on YouTube. Channels like Goldmines Telefilms and Rajshri regularly upload full-length Bollywood movies for free.
5. MX Player
MX Player offers a huge selection of free content, including movies, TV shows, and web series. Unlike Hotstar, it doesn’t require any subscription for its original content, making it a completely free alternative.
6. Voot
Voot is another platform with a good amount of free Indian content, including TV shows and movies. It is known for offering popular reality shows like Bigg Boss and Roadies without any cost.
7. ESPN+
For sports lovers, ESPN+ provides live sports streaming, although a subscription is required for premium events. It is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for international sports coverage.
8. Amazon miniTV
Amazon miniTV is a free streaming service available in the Amazon Shopping app. It offers web series, comedy shows, and short films at no cost.
9. Pluto TV
Pluto TV offers live TV streaming for free and includes a variety of channels covering different genres. It is a great option for those who love watching TV without paying for a subscription.
Conclusion
While Hotstar does offer some free content, premium content requires a subscription. However, by using telecom offers, referral programs, and free trials, you can access Hotstar without paying. If you are looking for alternatives, platforms like SonyLIV, JioCinema, and Zee5 also offer great content. Choose the best option based on your preferences and enjoy streaming!
By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can enjoy Hotstar and similar streaming platforms without spending too much. Whether you are a sports fan, movie lover, or TV show enthusiast, there is always a way to watch your favorite content for free or at a lower cost
