Amazon Prime vs Prime Video: Which Gives Full Fest-Mode Value?

Let’s settle this: go full Amazon Prime with perks, or keep it lean with Prime Video only. Same shows, very different universe.

Feature
Amazon Prime
Prime Video Only
Price (monthly)
$14.99
$8.99
Free Shipping
✅ Yes
❌ No
Prime Video Access
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Amazon Music (basic)
✅ Yes
❌ No
Prime Reading & Kindle books
✅ Yes
❌ No
Exclusive Deals (Prime Day, etc.)
✅ Yes
❌ No
Free Games (Prime Gaming)
✅ Yes
❌ No
Ad-free streaming (extra $2.99/mo)
❌ Not included
❌ Not included

Why Amazon Prime Is More Than “Free Shipping”

$14.99/month typically covers fast shipping, the entire Prime Video catalog, basic Music, Prime Reading, Prime Gaming, and the big sales. If you order a few times a month, it pays for itself fast.

Just Here To Stream?

Prime Video Only at $8.99/month gets you the same originals and catalog. You’ll still need +$2.99 for ad-free. If packages, ebooks, and music don’t matter to you, this is the lean option.

Fest-Mode Hacks

Max The Trial

  • Stack your free 30 days with Prime Day or Black Friday.
  • Binge first, bulk-order second.

Read Smarter

  • Prime Reading has rotating ebooks and magazines.
  • Add Kindle Unlimited trial for the full library.

You can sign up for a 30-day free trial of Kindle Unlimited. After the trial, it renews at $11.99/month plus taxes unless you cancel in your Amazon account settings.

FAQ

Is Prime Video included with Prime?

Yes. Full Amazon Prime includes Prime Video access.

Can I get Prime Video without Prime?

Yes. Prime Video is available as a standalone monthly plan.

Is ad-free included?

No. Ad-free costs an extra $2.99/month even with full Prime.

Student discount?

Amazon Prime Student is typically half-price. Check eligibility on Amazon.

What’s trending now?

We keep fresh lists of top series, films, miniseries, and Kindle ebooks below.

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