Confusion surrounds the relationship between Amazon Prime and Prime Video, two services offered by the e-commerce giant. While their similar names and branding lead many to believe they are the same, they are distinct offerings with different benefits and pricing structures.
Amazon Prime is a comprehensive membership program encompassing a wide range of benefits beyond video streaming. These include faster shipping options – from free two-day delivery to same-day delivery in select cities – free scheduled delivery, and access to exclusive deals like Prime Day. Members also receive benefits such as Amazon Household sharing, unlimited photo storage, 5GB of cloud storage through Amazon Drive, ad-free access to a vast music library via Amazon Music, and cloud gaming through Amazon Luna. Prime members can access free eBooks and magazines through Prime Reading and receive fuel savings at participating gas stations.
Amazon Prime’s shopping benefits are a significant draw for many subscribers. These include free one-day or two-day shipping on eligible items, early access to Lightning Deals, exclusive Prime-only discounts, and free and easy returns on eligible products. Special discounts are also available on grocery and household essentials.
The cost of an Amazon Prime membership is $14.99 per month or $139 per year in the United States. A discounted Prime Student plan is available for $7.49 per month or $69 per year, requiring student identity verification.
Amazon Prime Video, conversely, is specifically focused on streaming movies and television shows. It can be accessed as part of an Amazon Prime membership, or as a standalone service.
A standalone Amazon Prime Video subscription costs $8.99 per month, and does not offer a yearly subscription option. While it provides access to a library of movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals, it does not include the shopping and other benefits associated with a full Amazon Prime membership.
Amazon Prime Video’s content library includes Amazon Originals, Hollywood movies, regional and international content, kids and family shows, live sports in select markets, and the option to subscribe to additional channels. Users can also rent or purchase digital content, download videos for offline viewing, create multiple user profiles, and utilize parental controls. Streaming is available in 4K UHD for supported devices.
The key differences between the two services are summarized as follows: Amazon Prime membership costs $14.99 monthly or $139 annually and includes fast shipping, shopping discounts, and Prime Video access. Amazon Prime Video alone costs $8.99 monthly and provides only streaming benefits. Prime members enjoy benefits like free fast shipping and Prime Day access, which are not available to standalone Prime Video subscribers. Both services offer offline downloads and multiple user profiles, with 4K/HD streaming available on compatible devices.
Cancellation of an Amazon Prime Video subscription depends on how it was purchased. If subscribed through Google Play, cancellation requires navigating to the Google Play Store, accessing subscriptions, selecting Prime Video, and tapping “Cancel Subscription.” iPhone users must cancel through their Apple ID settings under Subscriptions. Subscriptions purchased directly through Amazon can be cancelled via the Amazon website under Memberships & Subscriptions.
