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As you ponder what streaming services to have, there comes a point where you realize that you can’t have all of them. The $10-$20 a month for each one starts to add up quickly!
There are over 30 different streaming providers now. So let’s start with just one decision at a time and compare Amazon Prime vs. Netflix. While both do have different programming, in the end the decision could be based on other features.
Amazon Prime vs. Netflix
Amount of Content
While it doesn’t mean that the movie you want to watch is included, the sheer numbers between the two providers is a shock with Amazon winning handily.
Just the numbers:
Amazon Prime Movies – 20,886
Amazon Prime TV Show Seasons – 1,657
Netflix Movies – 4050 (only up 80 movies in the last 2 years)
Netflix TV Show Seasons – 1,734
One thing to note is that you can also buy movies through Amazon if it’s not available for free. With Netflix if the movie isn’t listed, it isn’t available at all.
Features of Player
Both platforms can feel clunky to use on streaming devices. It’s hard to remember how to search, or find things that are related to other movies you like. You’ll also see a heavy dose from both providers of promoting their own content.
One feature that Netflix wins on is the creation of their Profiles. Setting up different profiles for each member of the family helps the system to recommend shows that interest that user. Now my husband doesn’t get recommended all the chick flicks and my Netflix doesn’t recommend every kid show imaginable. Separate profiles is also their way of having of parental controls, and completely hides content that they don’t deem “family friendly” for kids. It is not possible to find or stream content that is blocked from this section.
Amazon does not have a secure area for kids to search content. They will see all of the shows available but you can set a lock on movies above a certain rating that you select. To play those “locked” movies you will be asked to enter your Amazon Pin number.
Other Benefits
Amazon won on sheer numbers, but they also win on other perks. Along with all of your “Prime Included” content, you will also get all the other features of Amazon Prime.
- FREE Two-Day Shipping on eligible items to addresses in the contiguous U.S.
- FREE Same-Day Delivery in eligible zip codes.
- Prime Music: unlimited, ad-free access to hundreds of Prime Playlists and more than a million songs.
- Prime Photos: Secure unlimited photo storage.
- Kindle Owners’ Lending Library
- Kindle First: Early access for members in the U.S. to download a new book for free every month.
Netflix does not have any other perks or benefits.
Cost Comparison
Now that you have an idea of number of shows and movies and features, let’s talk the important numbers. How does the price of Amazon Prime and Netflix compare? Turns out all those features might be some really nice free perks…
Full Amazon Prime with all benefits – $119 a year (like $9.17 per month)
Amazon Prime Video (just video no other perks) – $8.99 a month or $107.88 a year
Netflix Standard – $12.99 a month or $155.88 a year
Netflix Premium (includes UHD programming & 4 screens) – $15.99 a month or $191.88 a year
Try Them Both For Free
If you can’t make up your mind, then take advantage of two months worth of free movies and try both of their free trial programs back to back. They each offer one month for free, so try one this month and then try the other. That makes for a lot of movies for no cost until you can decide which to keep.
