This is a common question that many consumers have when considering various streaming service options. With so many choices out there, it can get confusing about what is included with which subscription. In this article, we’ll break down if Netflix is free with Amazon Prime membership and look at what other benefits each service provides.
What is Included with Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime is Amazon’s membership program that provides users with various benefits for an annual or monthly fee. Prime members get access to free two-day shipping on eligible items, Prime Video streaming service, Prime Music, Prime Reading ebooks, Prime Gaming, Prime Try Before You Buy and more.
However, one thing that is not included with Amazon Prime is a free Netflix subscription. An Amazon Prime membership does not provide access to Netflix shows and movies. These are two separate streaming services, so if you want access to both, you would need to purchase subscriptions to each individually.
Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video comes included with an Amazon Prime membership. This gives access to thousands of movies and TV shows, including Amazon Originals like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Boys, Carnival Row and more. Prime Video has a collection of popular shows and films to stream on demand. However, the content catalog is still much smaller than Netflix.
Netflix
Netflix is the pioneering streaming entertainment service that hosts popular original programming like Stranger Things, The Crown, Bridgerton along with movies, documentaries and more. There are a few different Netflix subscription plans available depending on video quality and number of simultaneous streams supported.
A basic Netflix plan allows 1 stream in standard definition for $9.99/month. The standard plan offers HD streaming for 2 devices simultaneously for $15.49/month. And the premium plan enables 4K streaming on 4 screens at once for $19.99/month. Add-ons are also available such as enhanced 4-screen streaming or Blu-ray DVD rental service.
Comparing Prime Video and Netflix
When considering if Netflix is worth the additional cost over just an Amazon Prime subscription, it helps to compare the two streaming services:
| Category | Amazon Prime Video | Netflix |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost (base plan) | $14.99 included with Prime | $9.99 basic SD plan |
| # of titles | Over 20,000 | Over 3,000 movies and TV shows |
| Original programming | The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Jack Ryan, The Boys | Stranger Things, The Crown, Bridgerton |
| Supported devices | Fire TV, Roku, game consoles, iOS/Android apps | Roku, Smart TVs, iOS/Android, browsers |
| Offline downloads | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, Prime Video comes at no extra cost with a Prime membership. But Netflix offers a larger content library and more acclaimed originals. Netflix also supports more devices. So whether Netflix is “worth it” depends on your viewing preferences and how much you value the exclusive Netflix content.
Bundling Options
If you want the benefits of both Prime and Netflix, there are no deals that bundle them together at a discounted rate. However, you can get Prime Video bundled with other streaming services through Amazon Prime Channels. For example:
- Prime Video Channels like HBO, Showtime or Starz give access to that network’s shows on demand.
- Paramount+ and Apple TV+ can be added to Prime Video.
- Internet providers like Verizon Fios also offer Prime Video bundled with plans.
But none of these bundles include Netflix. The only way to get both is to pay for the two subscriptions individually. Though you can link them in one place by accessing Prime Video and Netflix through a streaming device like Roku or Fire TV.
Free Netflix Alternatives
If you’re looking to cut costs, there are some free streaming options that offer movies and shows similar to Netflix, such as:
- Tubi – Ad-supported on demand streaming with over 20,000 titles.
- Pluto TV – An ad-based live TV and on demand channel lineup with hundreds of movies.
- IMDb TV – Ad-supported on demand from Amazon-owned IMDb with hit movies and Originals.
- The Roku Channel – Free movies and programs on Roku devices.
- YouTube – User uploaded videos and movies available for free streaming.
While the selection is not as robust as paid services, these free options offer plenty of content you can stream without spending money on a subscription.
Using Prime Video and Netflix Together
Having both Amazon Prime and Netflix can provide you with the most extensive content library and maximum streaming options. Here are some ways to use the two services together:
- Access them through one device like Roku or Fire TV for easy switching between apps.
- Watch Prime Video exclusives like The Boys along with Netflix hits like Stranger Things.
- Use Prime Video for new release movie rentals and purchases.
- Let family set up their own Netflix profiles while sharing your Prime benefits.
- Download titles on their mobile apps for offline viewing when traveling.
- Cut cable TV and use them as your main source of entertainment.
Having both unlocks more streaming possibilities so you can choose the service that best fits your current mood or viewing needs.
Is the Netflix Cost Worth It with Prime?
Whether or not paying for Netflix is “worth it” depends on your personal preferences and how you prioritize access to Netflix’s popular original content. Here are some factors to consider:
- Netflix exclusives like Stranger Things are only available to subscribers.
- Netflix offers download options for offline mobile viewing.
- The Netflix content library is significantly larger than Amazon’s.
- Netflix plans support more simultaneous streams.
- You may find you watch Netflix regularly and get value from the subscription cost.
- Alternatives like free streaming services or DVD rentals could replace Netflix.
Do a personal inventory of your viewing habits, budget, and what content you value most. This can help determine if Netflix provides that extra $10-20 of value to you or if Prime Video alone meets your streaming needs.
Conclusion
While Amazon Prime does not include free access to Netflix, the two streaming services can complement each other well. Netflix brings its deep content library and originals like Stranger Things. Amazon Prime Video offers shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel as part of the overall Prime membership. Subscribing to both unlocks the most entertainment options. But free services like Tubi or Pluto TV can also supplement Prime Video at no added cost if you’re looking to save money. Consider your personal viewing preferences and weigh the benefits to decide if you find Netflix worth the additional monthly payment over relying solely on Amazon Prime Video for streaming.