Amazon Prime Video Review: Pricing, Top Content & More
Planning to subscribe to Amazon Prime Video? Check out the pricing details, content availability, and features to see if it’s the best choice for you.
Continuing the series of reviewing top streaming services, I have spent hours exploring the platform to share a transparent Amazon Prime Video review here.
I’ve had good experiences with Amazon Prime in the past year. In this Amazon Prime review, I’ll share the reasons for my statement, my experience using the service, and everything a potential subscriber needs to know before signing up.
Ultimately, I’ll help you understand if Amazon Prime is worth paying along with how it stands against its competitors in the market.
Amazon Prime Video Review: My Quick Verdict
Amazon Prime Video offers a great package, especially for existing Prime members.
While it may not be the go-to streaming service for everyone, it provides excellent value as part of the broader Amazon ecosystem.
| Feature | Feedback | Rating (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|
| Content Library | Vast selection, but some gaps | 4/5 |
| Original Programming | High-quality originals, a growing catalog | 4/5 |
| User Interface | Functional, but can be cluttered | 3.5/5 |
| Streaming Quality | Excellent 4K and HDR options | 4.5/5 |
| Value for Money | Great as part of Prime, less so standalone | 4/5 |
| Free Trial | 30 days | Yes |
| Simultaneous Streams | Industry-standard | 3 |
| Offline Viewing | Available on mobile devices | Yes |
Our Methodology Of Reviewing Amazon Prime Video
To provide a thorough and unbiased review while also saving some cost, I took advantage of Amazon Prime Video’s 30-day free trial.
I used only the Prime Video platform during this period, exploring its features, content library, and user experience across multiple devices.
My approach included:
- Binge-watching various shows and movies to assess content quality and variety
- Testing streaming quality on different internet speeds and devices
- Comparing the service to other major streaming platforms
- Exploring additional features like X-Ray and offline viewing
- Researching user reviews and community feedback
I also consulted industry reports and contacted other Prime Video users to gather a broader range of perspectives. This multifaceted approach allowed me to form a comprehensive view of the service beyond my personal experience.
Pros And Cons Of Amazon Prime Video
Before I share detailed feedback, let’s break down the key advantages and drawbacks of Amazon Prime Video:
Pros
- A vast library of movies and TV shows
- High-quality original programming
- Included with Amazon Prime membership
- 4K and HDR streaming available
- X-Ray feature provides unique insights
- Offline viewing for mobile devices
- Live sports content, including NFL Thursday Night Football
Cons
- User interface can be cluttered and confusing
- Mixes free and paid content, which can be frustrating
- Standalone subscription less compelling than full Prime membership
- Some popular shows rotate out of the free library
- Original content library smaller than some competitors
While the pros outweigh the cons in my experience, the balance may shift depending on your specific needs and preferences.
My Experience Using The Amazon Prime Video Platform
When I first signed up for Amazon Prime Video, I was immediately impressed by the sheer volume of content available.
But, the interface, while functional, often felt cluttered. I found myself wishing for a cleaner, more intuitive way to browse and discover new content. That said, once I got the hang of it, I began to appreciate some of the unique features Prime Video offers.
The X-Ray feature quickly became one of my favorites. I was also surprised by the quality of Amazon’s original programming.
One frustration I encountered was the mix of free and paid content. More than once, I found myself excited to watch a movie, only to realize it required an additional rental fee.
Overall, my experience with Amazon Prime Video has been positive. It’s become a regular part of my streaming rotation, especially for its original content and the convenience of being bundled with my Prime membership.
Who Is Amazon Prime Video For?
I have a family that can make use of the simultaneous streaming ability, and I never felt that I have subscribed to the wrong platform. Amazon Prime Video caters to a broad audience, but it’s particularly well-suited for:
- Existing Amazon Prime members: If you’re already paying for Prime for the shipping benefits, Prime Video is an excellent added value.
- Movie enthusiasts: With a vast library of films spanning decades and genres, cinephiles will find plenty to explore.
- Fans of original content: Amazon’s investment in high-quality original programming has resulted in several critically acclaimed series.
- Sports fans: The inclusion of NFL Thursday Night Football and other live sports makes it attractive for those looking to cut the cord without losing access to big games.
- Students: Amazon offers a discounted Prime Student membership, which includes Prime Video, making it an affordable option for college students.
While Prime Video offers something for almost everyone, it may be less appealing as a standalone service for those who don’t need or want the additional benefits of Amazon Prime.
Amazon Prime Video Content Availability
Amazon Prime Video has something for everyone in a family. You can find content for watching sports, anime, kids’ specials, timeless classic movies, the latest TV shows, and original productions.
1. Amazon Originals
Amazon has invested heavily in original programming, producing award-winning series and films.
Standout originals include “Monkey Man”the “All or Nothing” series, “The Boys,” “Fleabag,” and “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” and many other Amazon Original movies and TV shows.
2. Freevee With Ads
In addition to the main Prime Video library, Amazon offers Freevee, which is Amazon’s streaming plan with ads.
3. Amazon Prime Video Movies
Prime Video’s movie library is one of its most significant plus points that I found. You’ll find a mix of recent releases, classic films, and everything in between.
My top picks include:
- The Big Sick
- Manchester by the Sea
- The Silence of the Lambs
- Knives Out
- The Farewell
The selection rotates regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. However, some titles may require an additional rental fee.
4. TV Shows On Prime Video
Prime Video offers many popular TV series franchises like Amazon’s own “ The Grand Tour”, and “Invincible” and a fair chunk of kid favorite selections too.
Regional
For U.S. viewers, popular network and cable shows like “The Americans,” “Mr. Robot,” and “Downton Abbey” are available.
International
Prime Video has a strong selection of international content, including British favorites like “Fleabag” and “Good Omens,” as well as shows from other countries.
Anime
Prime Video offers a decent selection of popular anime series and films, but with an option to add ‘Crunchyroll’ along with the Prime Video subscription, this selection can be further expanded.
The TV show library constantly evolves, adding new seasons of original series and licensed content regularly. However, some popular shows may rotate out of the free library, requiring viewers to purchase seasons or episodes individually.
Live Sports On Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video has been making significant strides in live sports programming. The most notable offering is exclusive rights to NFL Thursday Night Football, which provides subscribers with access to 15 regular-season games.
In addition to football, Prime Video also offers:
- NBA and WNBA streaming
- Tennis coverage, including the US Open and ATP Tour events
- Docuseries on a team or athlete biopics
The live sports offerings continue to expand, making Prime Video an increasingly attractive option for sports fans looking to cut the cord.
Live News On Amazon Prime Video
While not as comprehensive as some dedicated news platforms, Amazon Prime Video offers live news options through its Channels feature.
Subscribers can access live streams from networks like CBS News, ABC News Live, and BBC News.
As an independent offering, Amazon Prime Video’s live news content does not feel enough. Users can add premium news channels like Bloomberg TV+ or purchase standalone subscriptions to services like CNN+ for more extensive news coverage.
Plan Specifications And Available Features
Moving towards the features listed for the platform that make it truly unique, one of which is my favorite – the X-ray feature.
Amazon Prime Video Interface
Amazon Prime Video’s interface is functional but overwhelming at first glance. But this is just my first impression of it. As I got used to it, the interface was not concerning.
- X-Ray:
This unique feature provides instant access to information about actors, music, and trivia during playback. I have lost count of how many songs from movies I’ve stolen to make a playlist for myself.
This allows trivia geeks to be on top of their knowledge about the content they are watching.
- Mobile interface:
The mobile app offers a streamlined experience for on-the-go viewing. Another exciting feature in this is the party feature, which allows you to watch the movie with your friends and chat as it runs.
- Intuitive categories:
Content is organized into various genres and collections for easy browsing.
While the interface has improved over time, it can still feel cluttered, especially when navigating the mix of free and paid content.
Prime Video Audio And Video Quality
Prime Video offers excellent streaming quality for those with compatible devices and sufficient internet speeds:
- 4K Ultra HD: Many titles, especially Amazon Originals, are available in 4K resolution.
- Ultra HDR: High Dynamic Range is supported on select content, enhancing color and contrast.
- Dolby Atmos: Some titles feature immersive Dolby Atmos sound for compatible audio systems.
To access the highest quality streams, you’ll need a stable internet connection of at least 15 Mbps, and a compatible device, check out this link to find your set-top box or media player and its max resolution for Amazon Prime Video.
Device Compatibility
Amazon Prime Video is available on a wide range of devices, including:
- Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, etc.)
- Streaming devices (Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast)
- Game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox)
- Mobile devices (iOS and Android)
- Web browsers
- Amazon’s own Fire TV devices
The service offers a consistent experience across most platforms, with some additional features available on Amazon’s Fire TV devices.
Simultaneous Streaming
Amazon Prime Video allows for up to three simultaneous streams of different content. This is on par with many competitors and should be sufficient for most households.
Note: If you’re watching the same content, you can only watch two simultaneous streaming for the same. Also, premium pay-per-view events allow only 1 device at a time.
Amazon Prime Video Cost
Amazon Prime Video is available as part of an Amazon Prime membership or as a standalone service.
Here’s a breakdown of the pricing options:
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Video (Standalone) | $8.99/month | Access to Prime Video content only |
| Amazon Prime | $14.99/month or $139/year | Prime Video + free shipping, music, etc. |
| Prime Student | $7.49/month or $69/year | All Prime benefits for college students |
For most users, the full Amazon Prime membership offers the best value, especially if you take advantage of the free shipping and other perks.
Amazon Prime Video Add-ons
Amazon Prime Video offers a wide range of channel add-ons, allowing subscribers to customize their streaming experience and access additional content beyond the standard Prime Video library. These add-ons, known as Prime Video Channels, include both popular premium networks and niche offerings.
There are over 100 channel add-ons available through Prime Video, catering to diverse interests and preferences.
Some of the most notable options include:
- Premium networks:
- SHOWTIME
- STARZ
- EPIX
- Specialized content:
- BBC Select
- PBS Masterpiece
- Hallmark Movies Now
- Sports channels:
- MLB.TV
- NBA TV
- NBA League Pass
- Niche offerings:
- Hi-Yah! (martial arts content)
Pricing for these add-ons varies widely. For example, niche channels like Hi-Yah! can be as affordable as $2.99 monthly.
On the other hand, premium options like Paramount+ with SHOWTIME are priced at $12.99 per month, comparable to their standalone subscription costs on cable or satellite services.
Free Trials For Add-on Channels
The best part about getting some add-ons is that you also get a free trial for the selected add-on, if available. For example, you can also get a Paramount Plus free trial with an Amazon Prime membership!
This includes popular options like:
- Apple TV+
- Paramount+
These trials are a great way to sample additional content before committing to a subscription.
Buying Content On Rent
In addition to the included content, Prime Video allows you to rent or purchase individual movies and TV show episodes.
Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $5.99, while purchase prices can vary widely depending on the title and quality (SD vs. HD).
While this is a great way to watch the exclusive content, I’ve noticed the same movies to be launched for free after a while.
Amazon Prime Video Free Trial
New subscribers can take advantage of a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime, which includes full access to Prime Video.
This generous trial period allows ample time to explore the service and decide if it’s right for you.
Best Available Discounts On Amazon Prime Video
Now, regarding the available discounts on the platform, you need a special status to get a discount. Otherwise, the Amazon Prime Video price is the same for all:
- Student discount: College students can get Prime Student for half the regular price.
- Annual discount: Paying annually for Amazon Prime saves about $40, compared to monthly payments.
- EBT and Medicaid discount: Eligible customers can get Prime for $6.99/month with a special Prime access subscription.
- Mobile plan deals: Some countries like India offer a special plan – “Prime Video Mobile Edition”- that only provides Prime Video access to their iOS and Android devices.
Does Amazon Prime Video Offer A Refund?
Amazon Prime Video does offer refunds for accidental purchases under certain conditions:
- You can cancel an accidental Prime Video order within 14 days of purchase.
- The refund is only available if you haven’t attempted to watch or download the content.
To request a refund for an accidental purchase:
- Go to Your Transactions on Amazon’s website.
- Find the accidental order you want to cancel.
- Select “Cancel Your Order.”
- Choose a reason for the cancellation from the drop-down menu.
- Click “Cancel This Purchase.”
Once the cancellation is complete, Amazon will refund the original payment method. The video will also be removed from your “Purchases & Rentals” in “My Stuff.”
It’s important to note that this refund policy applies to individual purchases and rentals, not the Prime Video subscription itself.
You may need to contact Amazon Customer Service directly for subscription-related issues or exceptional cases like Pay-Per-View events.
Amazon Prime Video User Reviews
User opinions on Amazon Prime Video are mixed, with many appreciating its content library and unique features, while others express frustration with certain aspects of the service.
Do people actually use Prime Video much?
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Here’s a summary of common user sentiments:
Positive feedback:
- X-Ray feature: This unique feature is highly appreciated, with one user calling it “the greatest thing ever made.”
- Value as part of Prime: Many find Prime Video to be an excellent addition to their Amazon Prime subscription.
Negative feedback:
- Limited original content: Some users feel that Prime Video’s original content library is smaller compared to competitors like Netflix.
- Advertising: Recent changes to include ads have been met with disappointment from some users.
Overall, while Prime Video has strong points, particularly for movie enthusiasts and those who already have Amazon Prime, user reviews suggest room for improvement in content organization and interface design.
The service seems to work best as part of the broader Amazon Prime ecosystem rather than as a standalone streaming option for many users.
Amazon Prime Video vs. Its Alternatives – Which Is Better?
Does Amazon Prime Video do well against its competitors? In my opinion, it does, given the access to other Amazon Prime features.
Here’s a quick comparison of its streaming-specific services:
| Feature | Amazon Prime Video | Netflix | Hulu | Disney+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $8.99 (or included with Prime) | $6.99 – $19.99 | $7.99 – $14.99 | $7.99 |
| Live TV Option | No (except News and sports) | No | Yes (higher tier) | No |
| 4K Streaming | Yes | Yes (higher tier) | Limited | Yes |
| Offline Viewing | Yes | Yes | Yes (ad-free plan) | Yes |
While each service has its strengths, Amazon Prime Video stands out for its value as part of Amazon Prime and its growing library of original content.
From the Netflix review, it remains the leader in original programming volume, while Hulu offers a unique combination of on-demand and live TV options.
Disney+ is the go-to for family-friendly content and significant franchises like Marvel and Star Wars.
Conclusion: Amazon Prime Video Is Worth It As a Prime User
Amazon Prime Video has evolved into a streaming service that offers excellent value, especially for those already invested in the Amazon ecosystem. Its vast library of movies, a growing slate of original programming, and unique features like X-Ray make it a worthy contender in the streaming wars.
However, while the original programming is high-quality, the catalog is still smaller than some competitors. For existing Amazon Prime members, Prime Video is an excellent added benefit worth exploring.
It may be less compelling for those considering it as a standalone service unless you’re particularly drawn to its original content or the convenience of renting/buying additional titles.
But, with its 30-day free trial, there’s little risk in giving it a try to see if it meets your entertainment needs.