Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteSome links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
World of Warcraft’s free trial lets new and returning players play through level 20, and you can start it with an existing Battle.net account. To keep playing a character above level 20, install and play through the Battle.net account and WoW account that hold that character, then add a subscription or non-recurring game time to that same WoW account. Blizzard’s Free Trial information explains the current access rules; the trial does not include WoW Classic.
The safest way to preserve continuity is to identify the account before you install, create a character, or pay for access. Battle.net is the sign-in account; a Battle.net account can list one or more WoW accounts. The character belongs to the WoW account where it was created, so choosing a different WoW account can put you in the wrong place even if you signed into Battle.net successfully.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Recommended Free Tools
What do you need before starting?
You need a Battle.net account and the Battle.net desktop app. If you already have a WoW character, first make sure you can sign in to the Battle.net account associated with it. A single Battle.net account may show more than one WoW account, so you will also need to identify the one where you want to create or continue a character.
An active subscription or non-recurring game time is not required to use trial access. Blizzard says an account without either returns to Free Trial status. That trial permits playable content through level 20, including quests and dungeons available to a level 20 character. Blizzard’s Free Trial FAQ also says WoW Classic is excluded.
Popular on Amazon
- 【90 Degree Full Function USB C Adapter】Supports the latest USB4 standard for up to 40Gbps of bandwidth, 8K video support, and up to 240W Fast charging; Support USB PD 3.1 Extended Power Range (EPR) including 140W, 180W and 240W. Your productivity is easily doubled. *Warm Tip: For the best fit, please make sure the USB-C port is fully exposed; thick or bulky cases may affect compatibility.
- 【Reliable Quality】Made from high-quality, scratch-resistant aluminum alloy, delicate metal frame. get excellent wear resistance and heat dissipation. Non-Slip Design for easier insertion and removal.
- 【Small and portable】Ultra thin size, ultra compact design, a petite physique that matches the minimalist design of your modern laptops. Coming with a slim figure that won't block the port next to the one it's plugged into.
- 【Compatibility】Widely work with most usb c, thunderbolt 4/3 devices. Compatibilit for ROG Ally, Steam Deck, Switch, MacBook Pro, Quest 3 VR headset, Surface Book 2, iPhone 18/17/16/15, Samsung Galaxy S23/S22/S21, Note 20/10, Google Pixel, ChromeBook, etc.
- 【Excellence Customer Support】If you experience any issues or cable failure, simply reach out to our dedicated customer service team. We provide a prompt response within 18 hours, providing you with the necessary technical support to resolve any concerns.
Before you start, separate two questions: which Battle.net account should you sign in to, and which WoW account within it should you choose? If you are new to WoW, you can use your Battle.net account and select the WoW account you want to use for the trial. If you have played before, use the Battle.net sign-in associated with your existing character. If the app lists several WoW accounts, do not assume they are interchangeable; select the one that contains the character you want to continue.
You do not need to choose paid access just to begin the trial or play the included content through level 20. A subscription or non-recurring game time becomes relevant when you want to play a character above that limit. Prices and options depend on region, so the Battle.net Shop for your region is the appropriate place to check them rather than relying on an amount quoted elsewhere.
How do you start the WoW free trial?
Use Blizzard’s Battle.net desktop app to install the game, and select the intended WoW account before you launch it. Blizzard’s Getting Started on your Free Trial guide gives this setup sequence:
- Create or sign in to Battle.net. If you have played before, sign in to the account that contains your existing WoW character rather than creating a separate account.
- Install and open the Battle.net desktop app.
- Choose World of Warcraft. If the app lists more than one WoW account, select the one you intend to use. This is the important point for returning players: choosing another WoW account can put you in a different account context from the one holding your character.
- Install the game and play. The trial supports play through level 20. It is not a WoW Classic trial.
If you are new, the selected WoW account is where you begin your trial character. If you are returning, check the selected account before creating or entering a character. The practical way to keep continuity is to return to the same Battle.net and WoW account where the character was created.
For a returning player, it helps to treat the setup as a short verification sequence rather than clicking through on autopilot:
- Sign in with the Battle.net account you believe holds the character.
- Open the World of Warcraft entry in the desktop app and inspect the WoW account selection if more than one is available.
- Choose the account associated with the character before installing or launching the game.
- After launching, make sure you are continuing in the account context you intended. If the expected character is not present, stop and recheck the sign-in and WoW account selection instead of creating another account or buying access elsewhere.
The official setup route is the Battle.net desktop app: sign in or create an account, select World of Warcraft, choose the intended WoW account if there is more than one, install, and play. This sequence matters because installing the game is not the same as identifying the account that owns a character. The app is used to reach the game, while the selected WoW account is the account context to keep track of for the trial and any later upgrade.
How do you keep your character’s progress when you upgrade?
Upgrade the same WoW account that contains the character. A subscription or non-recurring game time is required to play characters above level 20, according to Blizzard’s Free Trial FAQ. You can add access through the Battle.net Shop or the in-game Shop.
Also popular on Amazon
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
- Confirm the account. In the Battle.net app, check which WoW account is selected and make sure it is the one associated with your trial character.
- Choose paid access for that account. Blizzard offers subscription and non-recurring game-time options; availability and pricing vary by region. Check the regional Battle.net Shop for current terms rather than relying on an old price or offer.
- Allow the account access to update. Then launch WoW using that same WoW account and character. Do not assume that buying access on a different WoW account will carry over a character from the trial account.
Blizzard’s published guidance establishes that trial access can be upgraded and that paid access is needed above level 20. It does not provide a universal guarantee for every character-data or account situation. For that reason, keeping the same account throughout is the safest continuity advice; if a character is missing or an account is not recognized, consult Blizzard support before creating another account or making a purchase.
There are two points in the process where the same-account rule matters. First, choose the WoW account where the trial character is located when you launch. Second, make sure the subscription or game time is applied to that WoW account, not merely to a different account that happens to appear under the same Battle.net sign-in. The purpose of checking is straightforward: paid access lets characters above level 20 be played on the account receiving that access; it is not a way to move a character from one WoW account to another.
If you cannot tell which WoW account is associated with a character, do not guess at checkout. Recheck the accounts listed in the Battle.net app and use Blizzard support if the character or account is not where you expect. Blizzard’s reviewed guidance supports the same-account path for continuing, but it does not state a blanket guarantee that every character or account situation will be resolved in the same way. Careful account selection is therefore a practical safeguard, not a promise that account data can be transferred or recovered in every case.
What changes at level 20?
Level 20 is the free-trial ceiling. The trial is not described as a timed period in the cited FAQ; its stated boundary is the content available through level 20. If you want to play a character above that level, add a subscription or non-recurring game time to the account.
Blizzard Entertainment’s official World of Warcraft Free Trial FAQ describes the included content this way: “The Free Trial includes all playable content in World of Warcraft through level 20.” It also states: “A WoW subscription or non-recurring game time is required to play any characters above level 20.” Those two points define the decision: continue with the trial if level 20 access is enough for now, or add paid access to the same account if you want to play above the trial ceiling.
The level limit is about access, not a reason to create a new account or abandon the one with your character. The trial includes the playable content available to a level 20 character, including quests and dungeons available at that level. It does not include WoW Classic. If you reach the boundary and want more access, check that you are using the right WoW account before you choose a paid option.
Do not rely on an exact maximum level for paid accounts based on older guide text. Blizzard’s current Free Trial FAQ and New Players Starter Guide have conflicting paid-account maximum-level information, while both agree on the level 20 trial limit. Check Blizzard’s current product information for expansion access and level details rather than assuming a cap from one of those pages.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Also popular on Amazon
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What happens if subscription or game time expires?
Blizzard says an account without an active subscription or non-recurring game time reverts to Free Trial status. That does not mean you should switch accounts: return to the same Battle.net and WoW account associated with the character. Blizzard also notes that some social features may be disabled when an active subscription expires.
The key distinction is access, not an invitation to start over. Expiration returns the account to trial access; it does not make a different account the right place to continue. If you need to resume access above level 20, add paid access to the account holding the character.
It is useful to think of expiry as a change in account status rather than as a separate trial sign-up. Blizzard’s guidance says that accounts without active subscription or non-recurring game time revert to trial status. If your paid access expires, use the original Battle.net sign-in and the WoW account associated with the character when you return. Do not create a new Battle.net account simply because the account no longer has paid access.
There is one qualification to keep in mind: Blizzard says some social features may be disabled if an active subscription expires. That note is not a promise that every feature or account behavior remains unchanged after expiry. If access is different from what you expect, consult Blizzard’s live account and product information. For the basic choice, though, the guidance is clear: returning the account to trial status does not change which account you should use to continue with the character.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Free trial or paid access: which do you need?
Use the trial if you want to explore WoW through level 20 without an active subscription or game-time purchase. Choose paid access on the same account if you need to play above level 20. The regional Battle.net Shop is the reliable place to confirm the current price and available purchase options.
| Access | Level/content access | Cost or commitment | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Trial | Playable content through level 20, including quests and dungeons available to a level 20 character | No active subscription or non-recurring game time required | WoW Classic is excluded |
| Subscription or non-recurring game time | Required to play characters above level 20 | Pricing and terms vary by region; check the Battle.net Shop | Some social features may be disabled if active subscription access expires |
The choice depends on what you want to do next, rather than on a published conversion deadline. If you are exploring the game and level 20 access is sufficient, you can remain on trial access. If you want to play a character above level 20, the official requirement is a subscription or non-recurring game time. Check the regional shop for the option and current terms that apply to your account.
No single price should be treated as universal: Blizzard says pricing varies by region. Similarly, the exact paid-account maximum level should not be inferred from a conflicting guide and FAQ. The information that remains consistent is that trial content reaches level 20 and paid access is required above level 20. Check the live Battle.net Shop and Blizzard product information for current pricing, expansion access, and level details at the time you decide.
Also popular on Amazon
- Portable and powerful USB-C HUB: BENFEI USB Type-C HUB, with super-soft and knot-free silicone woven design cable, meets most mobile office needs. Compact, lightweight, stylish, and powerful portable USB C Hub equipped with 1 x HDMI port, 1 x 100W charging, and 3 x USB ports. 18-month warranty, 24-hour response, to ensure you feel at ease when using our product.
- Design centered on comfort and reliability: Thanks to BENFEI's end-to-end in-house cable production capability, in-house PCBA and assembly capability, using the industry's most advanced silicone woven design and process, 20cm cable in length, no knots, super-soft, the HUB is easy to use in all scenarios: laptop, tablet, stand etc. Super-soft, 25000+ life cycles, to meet your daily carrying and office needs.
- 100W Charging: Support up to 90W USB C pass-through charging via Type-C port to keep your laptop powered. 10W is reserved for other interface operations. No data and video function on the Type-C port.
- 4K HDMI Display: The HDMI port supports media display at resolutions up to 4K 30Hz, keeping every incredible moment detailed and ultra vivid. Please note that the C port of the Host device needs to support video output.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Transfer files and from your laptop at speeds up to 10 Gbps with USB A 3.2 port. Extra 2 USB A 2.0 ports are perfectly for your keyboards and mouse.
Access details checked against Blizzard’s official guidance in November 2026; regional prices and current expansion-level access should be confirmed in the Battle.net Shop and live product information.
Common mistakes that can interrupt progress
- Signing in to the wrong Battle.net account: switch to the account associated with the character before installing or launching.
- Selecting the wrong WoW account in the app: when multiple WoW accounts are listed, choose the one holding your character before playing or purchasing access.
- Expecting the free trial to include WoW Classic: Blizzard’s cited trial guidance excludes Classic.
- Assuming a trial account can play above level 20: the trial stops at level 20; add a subscription or game time to the same account for access beyond that boundary.
- Assuming a particular price or paid level cap: regional prices vary, and Blizzard’s cited pages conflict on the paid maximum level. Check current Blizzard product details instead of treating either figure as settled.
Two other errors are easy to avoid. One is treating the Battle.net sign-in and WoW account as though they were always the same choice. A Battle.net account may list more than one WoW account, so the specific WoW account still matters. The other is assuming paid access on any listed account will make a trial character available. Blizzard’s guidance supports upgrading the account used for that character; it does not say to purchase access on a different account and expect the character to follow.
Finally, do not treat the level 20 ceiling as a timer or assume that an inactive trial must be restarted under a new login. Blizzard describes the trial by its included content and says an account without active subscription or non-recurring game time returns to trial status. If your account or character does not appear as expected, verify both account selections and seek Blizzard support before making a second account or purchase.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Frequently asked questions
Can I play the WoW free trial if I already have an account?
Yes. Blizzard says an existing Battle.net account can use the trial when it does not have an active subscription or non-recurring game time. Sign in to that account and select the WoW account you intend to play.
Does WoW free trial progress disappear when I stop playing?
Blizzard’s official guidance says an account without active subscription or non-recurring game time reverts to trial status. It does not make a universal guarantee for every character-data or account circumstance. If a character is missing, confirm that you are signed in to the original Battle.net and WoW account and contact Blizzard support.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Can I play WoW Classic with the free trial?
No. Blizzard’s Free Trial information excludes WoW Classic. The level 20 trial described here applies to the included World of Warcraft content, not Classic.
What content is available in the free trial?
Blizzard says the Free Trial includes playable World of Warcraft content through level 20, including quests and dungeons available to a level 20 character. The trial does not include WoW Classic.
Also popular on Amazon
- 【Read before You Buy】 Note: This adapter is USB 2.0 version and cannot transmit HDM, VGA, or other video signals. Nevertheless, they are fully capable of charging devices,duplicating files, and can be seamlessly integrated with USB-C earphones, wireless network adapters, and SD card adapters.
- 【Easy to Use and Safe】Thanks to modern manufacturing techniques, we've made these adapters sufficiently compact so that they can remain inserted in your device without noticeable protrusion or inconvenience. This means you don't have to constantly plug and unplug them, reducing the likelihood of wear and misalignment, and making them more convenient to carry around.
- 【Reliable Quality】Engineered for enhanced durability, durable aluminum alloy shell material,get excellent wear resistance and heat dissipation,the male USB C and female USB connectors & the male USB and female USB C connectors are designed to be plugged and unplugged up to 20000 times. Provides data transfer, device charging, memory space expansion, and additional computer peripherals.
- 【Think more for you】Do you need to connect a USB-C-enabled device to an odd device that only has USB-A ports? Then these USB-A male to USB-C female adapters are made for you.Simply insert the adapter into the USB-A port on the device, and you can instantly connect your USB-C device to the device that originally didn't have the correct connection port.
- 【Trusted xiwxi Quality and Service】As a responsible brand seller, you will receive xiwxi's 12-month Quality assurance and lifetime friendly customer service, you're not just buying a product,you're investing in peace of mind with all-round quality and exceptional customer service.
What do I need to play a character above level 20?
A WoW subscription or non-recurring game time is required to play any character above level 20, according to Blizzard’s Free Trial FAQ. Apply the paid access to the same WoW account associated with the character.
Where can I check the current WoW subscription price in my country?
Check the Battle.net Shop for your region. Blizzard says pricing varies by region, so an amount shown for another country may not apply to your account.
What happens when my subscription or game time expires?
Blizzard says accounts without an active subscription or non-recurring game time revert to Free Trial status. Some social features may be disabled when an active subscription expires. Continue to use the Battle.net and WoW account associated with your character.
What is the maximum level after I upgrade?
Blizzard’s Free Trial FAQ and New Players Starter Guide show conflicting paid-account maximum-level information. Both agree that the free-trial ceiling is level 20. Check Blizzard’s current product information rather than relying on either conflicting maximum-level figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an old Battle.net account for the WoW free trial?
Yes. Blizzard says an existing Battle.net account can use the trial when it has no active subscription or non-recurring game time. Sign in to that account and select the WoW account you intend to play.
Does WoW free trial progress disappear when I stop playing?
The official guidance says an account without active subscription or non-recurring game time reverts to trial status, but it does not make a universal guarantee for every character-data or account circumstance. If a character is missing, confirm you are signed in to the original account and contact Blizzard support.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteCan I play WoW Classic with the free trial?
No. Blizzard’s Free Trial information excludes WoW Classic; the level 20 trial described here applies to the included WoW content, not Classic.
Where can I check the current WoW subscription price in my country?
Check the Battle.net Shop for your region. Blizzard says pricing varies by region, so an amount shown for another country may not apply to your account.
What content is available in the free trial?
Blizzard says the Free Trial includes playable World of Warcraft content through level 20, including quests and dungeons available to a level 20 character. WoW Classic is excluded.
The Bottom Line
Start and upgrade through the Battle.net and WoW account associated with your character. The free trial includes playable content through level 20, while playing above level 20 requires a subscription or non-recurring game time on that same WoW account. Check Blizzard’s regional Battle.net Shop for current pricing and its live product information for changing paid-access details.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
