When you’re looking for something new to watch, Amazon is often one of the first places you check. But figuring out the exact cost of Amazon’s streaming video can be a little confusing at first glance. Is it all part of a Prime membership, or are there separate charges? Let’s clear up the confusion and break down exactly what you can expect to pay.
Your Amazon Prime Video Membership
The most common way people access Amazon’s streaming library is through an Amazon Prime membership. For a monthly fee of $14.99 or an annual fee of $139, you get much more than just video. This bundle includes fast, free shipping, Prime Music, and of course, access to the Prime Video library. This library includes thousands of popular movies, TV shows, and critically acclaimed Amazon Originals like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Boys at no extra cost.
When You Want to Rent or Buy a Movie
What if the movie you want to watch isn’t included with your Prime subscription? Amazon also operates a massive digital store. Here, you can rent or buy new releases and classic films that aren’t on any subscription service. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $5.99 for most titles, and you usually have 30 days to start watching and then 48 hours to finish once you’ve begun. Buying a movie gives you permanent access, with costs varying widely.
Adding Channels to Your Subscription
To give you even more options, Amazon Channels lets you subscribe to other popular streaming services directly through your Prime Video account. You can add networks like Max, Paramount+, STARZ, and many more. Each channel has its own monthly fee, which is billed directly to your Amazon account. This is a convenient way to manage several subscriptions in one place without needing multiple separate apps.
Is a Prime-Only Plan Available?
If you’re only interested in the video and don’t need the shipping benefits, Amazon offers a standalone Prime Video subscription for $8.99 per month. This gives you full access to the Prime Video catalog but excludes the other Prime perks. It’s a great budget-friendly option for those who are purely focused on streaming their entertainment.
In the end, the cost of Amazon streaming video is flexible. You can enjoy a vast library for one low monthly fee, rent the occasional new release, or build a custom bundle of your favorite channels. It all depends on what kind of viewer you are.
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