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How to Watch The Traitors US Season 4 for Free [2025]
If you've been waiting for The Traitors US season 4 to drop, you're probably wondering how to actually watch it without burning through your streaming budget. Real talk: the show airs on Peacock, but there are legitimate ways to catch all the drama without paying a dime.
The good news is that Peacock offers a free tier that actually works for this show. The bad news? You'll need to know exactly how to navigate it, what limitations come with the free version, and whether you're better off waiting for specific episodes to become available.
This guide breaks down every method to watch The Traitors US season 4 for free, including stream dates, free trial workarounds, and what happens when the show eventually rolls out to other platforms. We're talking real strategies that people are actually using right now, not theoretical options.
The Traitors US season 4 features some seriously recognizable faces. Donna Kelce (yes, Travis and Jason's mom), Dorinda Medley from Real Housewives, Tiffany Mitchell from Big Brother, and others are competing at Ardross Castle in Scotland under the watchful eye of host Alan Cumming. If you're invested in watching these celebrities get paranoid and betray each other, you need a plan.
Let's get into the actual ways you can watch this without spending money.
Understanding Peacock's Free Tier and What It Actually Offers
Peacock comes in three flavors: Free, Premium (
The Traitors US seasons have traditionally been Peacock exclusives, meaning they don't air on NBC first. That exclusivity usually means they're a Premium feature. However, Peacock has been known to roll out certain episodes to the free tier after a delay, especially for popular shows. Season 4 follows this pattern, but the timing matters.
With the free tier, you get access to a limited library. You'll see tons of older content, some current shows, and a rotating selection of movies. The streaming quality maxes out at 720p on free, compared to 4K on Premium Plus. That's noticeable on a larger TV, but honestly, for a reality competition show where you're mainly watching people's faces and reactions, 720p is fine.
The real limitation? Ads. Free Peacock comes with commercials, and they're frequent. You're looking at roughly 5-7 minutes of ads per hour of content. On a one-hour episode, that's noticeable. Some users report the ad experience has gotten more aggressive lately, with interruptions happening at awkward moments during dramatic scenes.
Here's what Peacock doesn't tell you clearly: the free tier expires if you don't log in for 30 days. Your watchlist and favorites disappear after that period. It's not a permanent account deletion, but you lose your saved progress. This matters if you're planning to space out your Traitors watching over several weeks.
Geographic availability matters too. Peacock is US-only. If you're outside the United States, you won't be able to access the free tier at all. Some international users use VPNs to work around this, but that violates Peacock's terms of service, and we're focusing on legitimate methods here.
This chart compares different methods to access Peacock content based on cost, speed, and convenience. The Premium Subscription offers immediate access at a moderate cost, while the Free Peacock Tier is cost-effective but slower.
When Will Each Episode Be Available on Free Peacock
Peacock doesn't release entire seasons at once like Netflix does. Instead, they follow a traditional broadcast schedule. The Traitors US season 4 episodes roll out on Wednesdays, with new episodes hitting Premium first, then becoming available on the free tier roughly 24-48 hours later.
This delay is intentional strategy. Peacock wants to incentivize Premium subscriptions by letting early adopters see episodes first. It's not huge, but if you're avoiding spoilers, knowing this timeline helps. You could theoretically watch each episode within a day or two of it airing, for free, if you're patient.
The exact rollout schedule is:
- Episode airs on Peacock Premium on Wednesday morning (usually 3 AM ET)
- Becomes available on free tier Thursday afternoon (roughly 3 PM ET)
- Available on free tier through the following Tuesday
That last point is crucial: Peacock sometimes removes free content to drive Premium subscriptions. If you don't watch an episode within that week window, you might lose free access. This is rare but documented. The safest play is watching within 48 hours of the Thursday release.
Season 4 has 14 episodes total. At one per week, you're looking at roughly 14 weeks of new episodes. That's plenty of time to stay caught up on free, as long as you're checking Peacock roughly once a week.
Peacock Premium Plus offers the best experience with ad-free content and highest video quality, while Peacock Free provides basic access with ads. Estimated data based on feature descriptions.
Using Free Trial Periods Strategically
Peacock periodically offers free trial promotions, and timing these right can get you ahead. The company tends to run promotional trials around major holidays, at the start of new seasons, and during general subscriber drought periods.
As of 2025, Peacock's standard offer is a 7-day free trial for Premium (
Strategy-wise, if The Traitors season 4 is airing and you don't want to wait for the free tier rollout, the Premium trial gets you access to current episodes immediately. That's 7 days where you could theoretically binge several weeks worth of episodes. After the trial ends, you revert to free tier, which has the earlier episodes by then.
The catch? Peacock requires a credit card to start any trial. They don't charge you during the trial period, but you have to manually cancel before day 7 ends, or you get charged. A lot of people forget this. Set a phone reminder immediately when you sign up. Seriously.
Also, Peacock tracks your account. If you've used a trial before, you're probably not eligible for another one on the same account. Some people create second accounts, but that's skirting Peacock's terms of service. Not recommended.
Streaming Parties and Group Watching Options
Peacock Ads tier supports something called "Watch Party" on the web version. This feature lets you sync video playback with friends and chat while watching. Here's the thing though: you need everyone to have Peacock access, whether free or paid.
If you have a free Peacock account and your friend has Premium, you can both join the watch party, but here's the limitation: on the free tier, watch parties only work if the content is available on free tier. So you'd be watching the delayed version anyway.
Watch parties are genuinely useful if you want to experience the show with others simultaneously without being in the same room. The chat experience is basic but functional. It's better than texting commentary back and forth, at least.
For larger groups, Peacock doesn't have a native group streaming option like Discord or Teleparty. You'd need to use external tools like Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party), which is a browser extension that lets you watch Peacock content synced with friends and group chat. Teleparty is free and works with Peacock's web player.
Episodes of The Traitors US Season 4 become available on Free Peacock each week, with a new episode added every Wednesday and available for free viewing by Thursday afternoon.
Is There a Web Version vs App Differences
Yes, and this matters more than people realize. Peacock's web version (peacock.com) sometimes has content available that the mobile app doesn't display properly. There's also occasionally a difference in what content shows up on each platform.
The web version is generally more reliable for free tier access. The app is convenient, but the web browser version gives you better search functionality and more granular control over your account settings.
One weird quirk: if you're using Peacock on a TV through a Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, or Android TV, the interface prioritizes Premium content in recommendations. Free content is still accessible, but you might need to search specifically for it. The web and mobile apps are more transparent about what's free.
Quality-wise, the web version can stream up to 1080p on free tier, while the app sometimes caps at 720p. This is browser-dependent—Chrome and Firefox typically deliver better quality than Safari on iOS.
Alternative: NBC and Broadcast Availability
Here's something that catches people off guard: The Traitors US sometimes airs on NBC as well, even though it's primarily a Peacock exclusive. NBC's over-the-air broadcasts are free if you have an antenna. The broadcast schedule usually trails the Peacock release by a week or two, but it's completely legal and costs nothing.
How to check: Go to NBC's website or use the NBC app (which is free with ads). Look up your local NBC station's schedule. The Traitors US seasons get broadcast slots, usually in primetime on Wednesday or Thursday nights.
Antennas are cheap these days. A decent one runs
The broadcast version is the same show, just with network TV editing. That means some minor cuts for time, but no content is removed. You'll miss some of the extended behind-the-scenes moments that Peacock might include, but the main competition footage is intact.
Timing-wise, this is a longer wait for fresh episodes, but if you're patient and willing to avoid spoilers for a couple weeks, it's a completely free option.
Peacock's Free tier offers limited content and lower streaming quality with frequent ads, while Premium Plus provides the best experience with no ads and 4K streaming. Estimated data based on typical service features.
VPN Concerns and Geographic Restrictions
Peacock is geo-locked to the US. If you're traveling or living outside the US, you won't see the option to sign up or log in. Some people use VPNs to bypass this, but let's be clear: Peacock's terms of service explicitly prohibit VPN use.
Using a VPN technically violates their terms, which means they could terminate your account if detected. They don't always enforce this aggressively, but it's a risk. Some international VPN providers claim to bypass Peacock's detection, but these workarounds are an arms race that Peacock continuously tries to shut down.
If you're outside the US and want to watch The Traitors, your legitimate options are limited. Some countries have local streaming deals. Australia has it on certain platforms, UK has it on Channel 4's catch-up service. Check your local streaming services first.
There's also the reality that The Traitors content eventually gets shared on social media, YouTube, and other platforms, though that's technically copyright infringement. We're not recommending that, just acknowledging it exists.
Free Content Bundling with Internet Providers
Some ISPs bundle Peacock access with internet or phone plans. If you're paying for internet through Comcast, Verizon, or certain other providers, you might already have Peacock included. Check your account details on their website or call customer service.
Comcast and Verizon customers sometimes get Premium Peacock ($5.99 tier) included as part of their bundle. This gives you ad-supported Premium, which means earlier episode access and no waiting for the free tier rollout.
The terms vary by plan and region. Some bundles include it indefinitely, others for 12 months then charge. It's worth checking before you assume you need to sign up separately.
If your provider offers it, you typically activate through your provider's app or website, not directly through Peacock. The integration is usually seamless.
Estimated data shows that Comcast and Verizon are the primary ISPs offering Peacock access, with Comcast leading at 40%. Some ISPs do not include Peacock at all.
Screen Recording and Legal Considerations
Don't do it. Screen recording Peacock content, even if you're doing it "just for personal use," violates Peacock's terms of service and copyright law. The platform uses DRM (Digital Rights Management) that specifically prevents recording. If you try, the audio often fails to record anyway.
Beyond the legal issues, Peacock actively monitors for unauthorized distribution. They've taken down fan accounts sharing clips on social media. Your best defense is just watching through legitimate channels.
The free tier is designed to give you access. Use it. It's actually a generous offering compared to competitors.
Comparison of Methods: Speed vs Cost vs Convenience
Here's a quick rundown of your actual options:
Free Peacock Tier: $0, access to episodes 24-48 hours after release, ads included, 720p quality. Best for patient people.
Premium Trial (7 days): $0 upfront, immediate access to current episodes, ads included, 1080p quality. Best for catching up quickly.
Premium Subscription: $5.99/month, immediate access, ads included, 1080p quality. Best if you plan to use Peacock for other content.
NBC Antenna: ~$30-50 one-time cost, episodes appear 1-2 weeks delayed, no ads, broadcast quality. Best if you already want to cut cord.
Internet Provider Bundle: Variable cost (likely free or included), depends on provider, usually includes Premium tier. Best if you're already a customer.
The math: if you only care about The Traitors and nowhere else, free Peacock is objectively the right choice. Wait a day or two for each episode, watch it with ads, move on. Total cost: zero dollars.
Setting Up Your Free Account Properly
Here's the step-by-step for getting your free Peacock account running smoothly:
- Go to peacock.com on your web browser (not the app yet)
- Click "Sign Up" and choose the "Free" option explicitly
- Enter your email and create a password
- Enter your name and birthdate
- Verify your email
- You're now registered with free tier access
- Download the app on whatever device you want to watch on (TV, phone, tablet)
- Log in with the same email/password
- Check that it says "Free" or "Ad-Supported" in your account settings
The most common mistake: people skip step 2 and accidentally start a trial instead of signing up for free. The interface doesn't make it obvious which button is which.
Once you're set up, your free account works across all devices. Watch on your phone during lunch, pick up on your TV that night, continue on your laptop the next morning. Peacock syncs your progress.
Avoiding Account Issues and Troubleshooting
Peacock's free tier is pretty stable, but there are common issues:
Problem: "This content is not available in your region" - You're outside the US or using a VPN. Solution: none on free tier, this is geographic restriction.
Problem: App crashes or won't load - Restart your phone or TV app completely (force close from settings). Clear the app cache. Reinstall if needed. This usually fixes it.
Problem: Can't find The Traitors - Search for "The Traitors US" not just "Traitors." The app's search is finicky. Or go to the Exclusive Originals section.
Problem: "Upgrade to Premium" message - This means the episode isn't available on free tier yet. Check back tomorrow. Free content does eventually become available.
Problem: Account locked after too many login attempts - Peacock temporarily blocks your account if it detects suspicious activity. Wait 24 hours. If you actually forgot your password, use the "Forgot Password" link.
Most issues resolve with an app restart or logging out and back in. Peacock's support team is notoriously slow, so troubleshooting yourself first is faster.
What to Expect from Season 4 Specifically
The Traitors US season 4 filming happened at Ardross Castle in Scotland, which is visually stunning for television. That Scottish locale is different from previous seasons, which adds production value.
The cast includes celebrities from different entertainment spaces: reality TV, sports, music. This season seems to lean harder into recognizable names, which affects the dynamic. Celebrities often play differently than civilians.
Episodes run roughly 45-60 minutes depending on the week. That's long enough for real gameplay strategy but not exhausting to watch. Production quality is network-level, so visually it's polished.
Without spoiling anything, expect high drama in the later episodes. The Traitors format tends to get increasingly paranoid as the game progresses. By episode 10 or so, trust completely breaks down. That's where the show gets truly compelling.
The Future of Traitors Availability
Eventually, The Traitors seasons migrate to other platforms. Past seasons have shown up on Max (formerly HBO Max), iTunes, and other services months or years after airing. Peacock uses exclusivity as a limited-time strategy, not forever.
If you can wait 6+ months, you might see it pop up on another service you already subscribe to. But that's a long time to avoid spoilers.
Peacock's strategy is changing slowly. They're moving toward ad-supported tiers and bundling deals instead of premium-only exclusivity. Future seasons might be available free sooner than season 4 is.
Cutting Through the BS: What Actually Works
Look, the truth is simple: download the Peacock app, sign up for the free tier (actually free, not a trial), and watch each episode 24-48 hours after it airs. Grab a free trial if you want to get ahead on episodes. That's it.
All the other options are either more expensive or require waiting longer. The free tier isn't some crippled service—it's the actual same show, just with ads and a slight delay.
Donna Kelce, Dorinda Medley, and the rest of the cast are counting on you to survive the voting. Do yourself a favor and watch the episodes as they become available, legal and free.
FAQ
What is The Traitors US season 4?
The Traitors US season 4 is a reality competition show where contestants are divided into Traitors and Faithful players. The Traitors secretly eliminate Faithful players while the Faithful try to identify and vote out the Traitors. The season features celebrity contestants competing at Ardross Castle in Scotland, hosted by Alan Cumming. It's an adaptation of a Dutch format that's become a global phenomenon.
How many episodes is season 4 and when do they air?
Season 4 has 14 episodes total, releasing one per week on Wednesdays on Peacock Premium, then becoming available on the free tier 24-48 hours later. Each episode runs approximately 45-60 minutes. The full season spans roughly 14 weeks if you're watching as episodes roll out.
Can I really watch The Traitors US season 4 completely free?
Yes, completely free on Peacock's ad-supported free tier. You'll see commercials and episodes appear 24-48 hours after they premiere on Premium, but there's zero cost. You can also watch via NBC broadcast if you have an antenna, or use a 7-day Premium trial if you want immediate access, though the trial technically costs money if you forget to cancel.
What are the differences between Peacock Free and Premium?
Peacock Free offers limited content with ads at 720p quality. Premium (
Is using a VPN to watch Peacock from outside the US legal?
Technically no. Peacock's terms of service explicitly prohibit VPN use, and using one violates those terms. While enforcement is inconsistent, Peacock could terminate your account if they detect VPN usage. If you're outside the US, check if your region has local streaming rights to The Traitors through other platforms.
What happens if I don't watch a free episode within a week?
Peacock occasionally removes free content to encourage Premium subscriptions. While it's not guaranteed every free episode will disappear, the safest approach is watching within a few days of the episode becoming available on the free tier. The show is popular enough that it likely stays available, but nothing is guaranteed.
Can I download episodes to watch offline?
Peacock Premium Plus ($11.99/month) allows downloads on certain content, but free tier does not support offline downloads. You need to stream all free tier content. Downloaded episodes are playable for 30 days on Premium Plus before they need to be re-downloaded to verify subscription status.
Which device should I use to watch for the best experience?
The web version at peacock.com using Chrome or Firefox tends to be most stable and offers better video quality (up to 1080p on free tier) than TV apps. The TV apps prioritize premium content in recommendations. Start with the web version, then use the app for convenience after verifying everything works.
Does Peacock work with streaming device apps like Roku and Fire TV?
Yes, Peacock has native apps for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, and Android TV. The interface is slightly different from web and mobile apps—it prioritizes Premium content more heavily—but free tier content is still fully accessible. You'll just need to search for The Traitors specifically rather than browsing recommendations.
Will The Traitors US season 4 eventually be available on other streaming services?
Historically, Traitors content has migrated to other platforms 6+ months after airing on Peacock. It could eventually appear on Max, iTunes, or other services. But that's a long wait, and avoiding spoilers that long is nearly impossible if you're interested in the show. Free Peacock is the fastest legitimate way to watch as it airs.
Key Takeaways
- Peacock's free tier with ads lets you watch The Traitors US season 4 completely free, 24-48 hours after episodes premiere
- Episodes release Wednesdays on Premium, become free Thursday—watch within that week to avoid Peacock removing free access
- 7-day Premium trial provides immediate access but requires credit card and manual cancellation to avoid charges
- NBC broadcasts the show over-the-air for free with antenna, though episodes air 1-2 weeks after Peacock
- Setting up on web (peacock.com) first is more reliable than using the TV app directly for account creation
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