How do you play Star Wars the old republic without subscription?

Answer 1

Playing Star Wars: The Old Republic as a free to play or prefered account is the same as playing with a subscription, with just a few differences (albeit huge differences).

First, is the UI (user interface). As a free to play player you have access to two action bars (unless you spend money to purchase the unlocks), whereas as a subscriber, you have access to all six.

Second, the rate at which you earn experience is lower for free to play and prefered accounts. You also only have access to a limited amount of medical probes (for when you die). Warzones, flashpoints, and space missions are also limited to a few per week.

Third, the amount of credits you can have on a character is very limited whereas subscribers have no limit on credits.

Basically, playing the game as a free to play/prefered player is the same as playing as a subscriber, you just are limited and will take a little longer to level up.