Netflix vs. Amazon Prime Video

Streaming services are quickly becoming an alternative to cable TV and an essential consideration whenever choosing one’s internet plan or provider.

However, the addition of new options to the market each year is making it more and more difficult for consumers to weigh their options. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! Let’s take a look at two of the biggest names in streaming and what they have to offer.

Compare Netflix vs. Prime Video plans

Netflix offers a four-tier subscription service consisting of Standard Definition, High Definition and 4K Ultra HD, while Amazon Prime Video provides the one service which is included with its Prime membership or available for individual purchase.

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*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. As of 05/09/23.

Netflix vs. Prime Video overview

Content

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*According to data from JustWatch.com on 01/17/20

If you’ve seen or heard everyone talking about that new show they can’t get enough of (Black Mirror, 13 Reasons Why, or Stranger Things, for starters), odds are it’s a Netflix original. They’ve been setting a new standard across the industry with original content that’s only available on their platform. Its original movie selection includes 2020 Oscar nominees like The Two Popes, Marriage Story and The Irishman.

Netflix’s practice of premiering every episode of a season at once, makes it easy for audiences to binge-watch a series upon release and quickly move on to the next original hit show.

“Netflix is actually shaping the way that consumers are viewing content by focusing on content that’s higher quality and original,” says streaming expert and principal analyst at Frost & Sullivan, Dan Rayburn.

Netflix has become such a trusted source in the media industry that content that previously aired elsewhere experienced an instant boost in attention just from being on the service. So, the question is no longer whether you need Netflix, but whether or not you need additional streaming services.

While Amazon boasts almost five times as many titles as Netflix, the evidence suggests it’s quantity more than quality. In addition to its edge in original content, Netflix also has more titles in IMDb’s lists of the top 250 TV shows and movies, which combine user ratings and popularity to determine its rankings.

Winner: Netflix

Value

Netflix splits its subscription service into four tiers: $9.99/mo. for the Basic package, $6.99/mo. for the Standard package with ads, $15.49/mo. for the Standard package with HD and $19.99/mo. for the Premium package with 4K Ultra HD. Amazon Prime Video alone is $8.99/mo., but you can upgrade and receive all the perks of Prime membership, including free shipping, Prime Music and numerous discounts, for $14.99/mo. or $139/year. 

Amazon also offers some nice discounts on its Prime membership, including a student discount for $0.99/mo. for your first six months, followed by half off its standard price until you graduate. Both services offer free 30-day trials for new customers. 

Winner: Amazon Prime Video

User experience

There are numerous possibilities with your Netflix account, such as audio descriptions for the viewing impaired, subtitle options and multiple profiles. With your Amazon Prime Video account, you have access to parental controls, customizable captions and offline viewing on the go.

You can control what you see on Netflix by keeping a watchlist and making sure it’s current with your favorite titles. Netflix also sends notifications based on your interests. Amazon Channels allows you to set up channels from other services, such as HBO or Showtime, and house them all in one app. Since Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are both premium video streaming services, you won’t have to worry about being interrupted by advertisements. That said, you can watch teasers and trailers for both of their original respective works. 

Netflix’s interface and intuitive recommendation tool, valued at one billion, makes the service easy to use and navigate. As a monthly subscriber, you’ll be able to add titles to a queue called “My List” to view later. When it’s time to watch, get right to the good stuff with a convenient “Skip Intro” feature that kicks in after the first episode of the series.

Winner: Netflix

The bottom line

What does Prime Video offer that Netflix doesn’t? In short, all the perks of an Amazon Prime membership. But if you compare them only on their streaming merits, it’s no competition: Netflix has better original content, a better user experience and a better overall library of movies and TV shows.

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Written by

Joe Supan

Principal Writer, Broadband Content

Joe is a senior writer for CNET covering home technology and broadband. Prior to joining CNET, Joe led MYMOVE's moving coverage and reported on broadband policy, the digital divide, and privacy issues for the broadband marketplace Allconnect. Joe specializes in broadband policy, the digital divide a… View profile

Edited by

Robin Layton

Senior Editor, Broadband Content

Robin Layton is a Senior Editor for Allconnect, dedicated to helping consumers navigate the often-co… View profile

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