As an audiobook enthusiast with over a decade of experience using Audible, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the platform has evolved. With 63% market share in the US audiobook industry according to industry reports, Audible dominates the landscape. But for frequent listeners, the critical question remains: Is Audible Premium Plus truly the best investment?
- Audible Premium Plus costs $14.95/month and includes 1 credit + Plus Catalog access
- Frequent listeners save significantly compared to individual audiobook purchases averaging $33 each
- Premium Plus members keep purchased audiobooks forever, even after cancellation
- The Plus Catalog offers 11,000+ titles for unlimited listening without credits
- Annual plans provide the best value for dedicated audiobook enthusiasts
- Market Dominance: 63% – of US audiobook market controlled by Audible
- Cost Savings: 55% – average savings compared to individual audiobook purchases
- Library Size: 300,000+ – audiobooks available in Audible’s premium selection
- Plus Catalog: 11,000+ – titles available for unlimited streaming
- User Satisfaction: 85% – of Premium Plus subscribers report high satisfaction with the value
Understanding Audible’s Plan Structure
Audible has significantly evolved from its original credit-only model. Today, they offer multiple tiers designed to cater to different listening habits. As someone who’s been an “on-again, off-again” user for over twelve years, I’ve experienced nearly every iteration of their service.
Audible Plus
- Unlimited access to 11,000+ Plus Catalog titles
- Stream or download for offline listening
- No credits included
- Access ends when membership cancels
- Best for casual listeners exploring new content
Audible Premium Plus
- Everything in Audible Plus
- 1 credit monthly for any premium audiobook
- Keep purchased audiobooks forever
- Exclusive member discounts and sales
- 30% discount on additional purchases
- Daily Deal special offers
Why Premium Plus Excels for Frequent Listeners
As a paying subscriber for over twelve years, I can confidently state that Audible Premium Plus delivers exceptional value for dedicated audiobook enthusiasts. Here’s why it stands out:
- Permanent Ownership: Unlike streaming services where content disappears, audiobooks purchased with credits remain in your library indefinitely, even if you cancel your subscription.
- Massive Selection: With over 300,000 titles in their premium catalog, you’ll find virtually any book you want, from new releases to classics.
- Cost Efficiency: Considering the average audiobook retails for $33, your $14.95 monthly credit already represents significant savings, plus you get unlimited access to the Plus Catalog.
- Exclusive Content: Access to Audible Originals you can’t find anywhere else, often featuring celebrity narrators and unique productions.
- Seamless Experience: The Audible app ecosystem allows you to start listening on your phone, continue in your car, and finish on your computer without losing your place.
One of the most underrated features is the ability to share Audible books with family members through Amazon Household. This effectively doubles the value for households with multiple listeners.
Real-World Value Analysis
Let’s break down the actual value proposition for frequent listeners. If you listen to just one audiobook per month, Premium Plus already saves you money compared to individual purchases. But the real value emerges when you utilize the additional benefits:
- 1 Credit: Worth $15-35 (average audiobook price)
- Plus Catalog Access: Equivalent to $8/month (value of Plus-only plan)
- Member Discounts: 30% off additional purchases saves $5-10 per extra book
- Daily Deals: Regular $2-5 specials on premium titles
- Exclusive Sales: 2-for-1 credit sales and other member-only promotions
According to industry analysis, frequent listeners who maximize these benefits typically extract $40-60 worth of value from their $14.95 monthly subscription.
Who Should Choose Premium Plus?
Based on my extensive experience, Audible Premium Plus is ideal for:
- Avid Listeners: Those who consume 2+ audiobooks monthly
- Specific Tastes: Listeners with particular book preferences beyond the Plus Catalog
- Collectors: People who want to build a permanent audiobook library
- Commuters: Daily drivers who spend significant time in the car
- Multi-Device Users: Those who listen across phone, computer, and smart speakers
However, if you’re a casual listener who primarily explores new content rather than seeking specific titles, Audible Plus might better suit your needs at nearly half the price.
Q: What happens to my audiobooks if I cancel Premium Plus?
A: Any audiobooks purchased with credits remain permanently in your library. You lose access only to the Plus Catalog streaming titles.
Q: How long do Audible credits last?
A: Credits expire one year after they’re issued, so you have plenty of time to use them strategically.
Q: Can I listen to Audible offline?
A: Yes, you can download any audiobook in your library for offline listening, perfect for flights or areas with poor connectivity.
Q: Is there a free trial available?
A: Yes, new members can try Premium Plus with a 30-day free trial that includes one credit to keep forever, even if you cancel.
The Verdict: Is Premium Plus Worth It?
After twelve years as a subscriber through various plan changes, I can confidently say that Audible Premium Plus represents outstanding value for frequent audiobook listeners. The combination of permanent ownership, massive selection, and additional member benefits creates a package that’s difficult to match.
The key to maximizing your investment is utilizing all the features: not just your monthly credit, but also exploring the Plus Catalog, taking advantage of member sales, and leveraging the seamless multi-device experience. For listeners who consume multiple audiobooks monthly and appreciate building a permanent collection, Premium Plus is unequivocally worth the investment.
