For those contemplating a subscription to a new streaming service, evaluating whether Netflix Premium justifies its price tag compared to the platform’s other subscription options is essential. Netflix has long held its position as one of the leading streaming services worldwide. The reasons behind its popularity—ranging from an extensive library of TV shows and movies to its pioneering role during the onset of the streaming era—remain a matter of discussion. Regardless, it is clear that Netflix has established itself as a trustworthy platform, likely available to most streaming enthusiasts.
However, Netflix’s journey has not been without its challenges. Over the years, the company has revamped its subscription structure repeatedly, often increasing prices. For instance, the original Basic package saw its price rise from $7.99 in 2011 to $9.99 in 2022. As it transitioned to the Standard with Ads option, the price was lowered to $6.99—a change that stirred controversy despite the reduced cost. The Standard plan has also seen a gradual increase, rising from $9.99 in 2013 to $15.49 in 2024. Meanwhile, the Premium subscription has surged from $11.99 to $22.99, prompting queries regarding the value of this latest increment.
What Netflix Premium Offers Subscribers
Premium Costs $22.99/Month
Currently priced at $22.99/month, Netflix Premium has consistently seen annual increases since its inception in 2013. Subscribers to this plan enjoy numerous benefits, including access to the comprehensive ad-free library of TV shows, films, and mobile games. Notably, Premium supports simultaneous viewing across four devices within a single household, alongside 4K (Ultra HD) and HDR content. Users can download content on up to six devices, enhancing the mobile viewing experience.
Furthermore, Netflix Premium features spatial audio, delivering an enhanced auditory experience without necessitating a full surround sound setup. An additional feature allows users to include two extra members from outside their households as part of their plan, although this incurs an extra charge of $7.99 per month per user.
How Does Netflix Premium Compare to Other Netflix Plans?
Premium is By Far The Most Expensive Plan
When evaluating costs, Premium is significantly pricier than both Standard with Ads ($6.99/month) and Standard ($15.49/month). Customers opting for Standard with Ads gain access to a vast library, albeit with certain titles unavailable. This option supports only two devices and limits streaming quality to 1080p (Full HD) while permitting downloads on two devices concurrently.
|
Netflix Subscription Plans |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Feature |
Standard W/ Ads |
Standard |
Premium |
|
Ads |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Supported Devices |
2 |
2 |
4 |
|
Quality |
1080p (Full HD) |
1080p (Full HD) |
4K (Ultra HD) + HDR |
|
Download Devices |
2 |
2 |
4 |
|
Extra Member Slots |
0 |
1 |
2 |
|
Netflix Spatial Audio |
No |
No |
Yes |
The Standard subscription covers all the features of Standard with Ads except for the presence of commercials and allows for a single additional member. This makes it a more appealing choice for many users.
Is Netflix Premium Worth It?
Standard Meets Most Users’ Needs
While Netflix Premium may appear to offer a wealth of features, the key differentiator for most users lies in the presence of ads. Since both Standard and Premium plans are ad-free, the Premium features might not hold the same appeal for many subscribers. While families and large groups with several televisions may find Premium beneficial, the four-device policy can often be excessive, particularly in typical household settings.
Features like Netflix spatial audio and 4K quality can enhance the viewing experience, but their appeal may be limited to newer and more sophisticated titles. For most viewers, especially those watching reality shows or older content, the enhancements offered by Premium may not be fully leveraged. Hence, the Standard plan typically fulfills the majority of streaming needs without unnecessary expenditures.
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