Netflix vs Amazon Prime: Which is best?

Can you remember the last time you watched a film or started a new series that wasn't from a streaming service? 

Without a doubt, the go-to streaming services are Netflix and Amazon Prime Video! With original content that brings in billions of viewers and a range of subscription packages to choose from, they truly are the main competitors.

So whether you're already subscribed to both or you're looking to make the switch, keep reading to find out the key similarities, differences and which one is the best value!


In this blog:


Netflix vs Amazon Video: Price

It can be a difficult decision to choose between Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, but the subscription fees may just sway you!

Netflix

The streaming service giant has made a few changes to its monthly fees over the years, with the last increase in 2022. Netflix has also started to crack down on people sharing account details as the price goes off how many screens/devices you're using.

  • £4.99: The lowest membership is ad-supported and you will only be able to watch on one device at a time.
  • £6.99: You'll be able to watch in standard definition but only on one device at a time.
  • £10.99: This membership will allow you to watch on two devices at a time and in HD.
  • £15.99: This is the premium package, so you'll be able to watch in UltraHD on four devices at a time. 

Amazon Prime Video

The way pricing works for Prime Video is slightly different to Netflix. There's the standard Amazon Prime package which includes Prime Video, delivery, Prime Day access etc or there's a separate subscription that's just for Prime Video. 

Here's the current Amazon Prime pricing:

  • £5.99: This is the standard membership for Amazon Prime Video. 
  • £8.99: Not only will you get Prime Video, but you'll have access to Prime delivery, Amazon Music, Prime Day access and so many more benefits. 
  • £95 per year: If you would rather pay for Amazon Prime all in one, opt for the annual subscription. This works out at just under £8 per month. 

Netflix vs Amazon Video: Movies

Both Netflix and Amazon Prime Video work differently in the way they offer movies. 

Netflix has a huge library of movies but they don't provide new releases unless it's a Netflix Original. If you want to watch the latest movies that have just left the cinema, you'll have to wait a while for them to arrive on Netflix. 

Whereas Amazon Prime Video has a load of options to get the movies you want (if they're on there) and you'll even have access to their original movies too. 

The way it works is there are movies that are part of the package which are clearly labelled 'Prime', but you can also rent movies for a low price and you'll have 48 hours to watch them. 

You can also buy movies from Amazon Prime Video. They'll stay on your account so you can rewatch your purchases again and again.

If you rent or buy movies from Amazon Video, they will be added to your monthly bill.


Netflix vs Amazon Video: TV Shows

Both Netflix and Amazon Video have changed the game when it comes to Original TV series, bringing in billions of viewers. They've invested so much money into their platforms that the results speak for themselves.

Netflix is extremely successful when it comes to original content, producing absolute knockouts year after year. Whichever genre you're into, you can be sure to find something to binge-watch. 

Just some of the successes include You, The Witcher, Stranger Things, Squid Game, Wednesday… the list can go on and on!

That's not to say Amazon Prime Video doesn't have its fair share of original shows too! To name a few, its exclusives include The Grand Tour, Hanna, The Marvelous Mrs Maisel, Reacher and many more. 


Overview

It's needless to say both Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are experts at what they do! 

Netflix is hands down the master at original series but Amazon has a huge library for both movies and TV shows with the upper hand on new releases!

If you're looking to start a new TV series then you can't go wrong with Netflix but if you're a bit of a movie buff, Amazon Prime Video has a lot more options, although there may be some additional costs. 


Can't find what you're looking for on streaming services? Get your hands on pre-owned DVDs or shop pre-owned Blu-rays at low prices at the musicMagpie Store! You can also make some extra cash when you trade in DVDs.

Upgrading soon? Get your hands on refurbished iPhone models for way less than new or check out our range of refurbished phones