Confused about audible plus vs premium plus which includes original podcast access? We break it down into simple, actionable information with comprehensive analysis and real-world examples to help you make the best choice for your listening needs.
- Audible Plus offers unlimited access to 11,000+ titles in the Plus Catalog for $7.95/month
- Premium Plus includes the Plus Catalog PLUS monthly credits for any audiobook at $14.95/month
- Both plans include original podcast access and Audible Originals
- Premium Plus members get 30% discount on additional purchases and exclusive sales
- Credits purchased through Premium Plus never expire and books are yours to keep forever
- Cost Savings: $33 average audiobook price vs $14.95/month for Premium Plus
- Content Library: 11,000+ titles in Plus Catalog vs 500,000+ titles in full Audible library
- User Satisfaction: 85% of Premium Plus users report excellent value
- Free Trial Success: 78% of trial users convert to paid memberships
Understanding Audible’s Two-Tier System
Amazon-owned Audible has strategically divided its service into two distinct subscription tiers to cater to different types of listeners. Understanding the core differences between Audible Plus and Premium Plus is essential for making an informed decision that aligns with your listening habits and budget.
According to Publishers Weekly, Audible introduced the Plus plan to compete directly with other audio services like Spotify and Luminary, while maintaining their premium credit-based system for serious audiobook enthusiasts. This dual approach allows them to capture both casual listeners and dedicated audiobook fans.
Detailed Plan Comparison: Features and Benefits
| Feature | Audible Plus | Audible Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $7.95 | $14.95 |
| Plus Catalog Access | ✓ Unlimited | ✓ Unlimited |
| Monthly Credits | None | 1 credit monthly |
| Original Podcast Access | ✓ Included | ✓ Included |
| Full Catalog Access | Limited to Plus Catalog | ✓ 500,000+ titles |
| Member Discounts | None | 30% off additional purchases |
| Keep Books Forever | No (access ends with subscription) | ✓ Books purchased with credits are permanent |
| Exclusive Sales | No | ✓ Members-only sales and 2-for-1 deals |
What Exactly is the Plus Catalog?
The Audible Plus Catalog represents the core of both subscription plans, containing over 11,000 titles and 68,000 hours of content. This curated collection includes:
- Audible Originals: Exclusive content produced by Audible, including scripted shows, celebrity-narrated stories, and original series
- Popular Audiobooks: Well-known titles across various genres, though the selection rotates monthly
- Podcasts: Both Audible-produced podcasts and content from major creators like NBC’s Dateline
- Romance Collection: Extensive romance titles that were previously part of Audible’s romance-only subscription
- Short Stories & Novellas: Exclusive content from prominent authors like Rainbow Rowell and Roxane Gay
It’s important to note that the Plus Catalog is dynamic – titles are added and removed regularly. However, Audible provides a one-month warning before content leaves the catalog, giving you time to finish listening to your favorite titles.
Premium Plus: The Complete Audiobook Experience
Audible Premium Plus builds upon the Plus foundation by adding the crucial credit system that has made Audible famous among audiobook enthusiasts. Here’s what makes Premium Plus stand out:
- Monthly Credits: Each credit can be redeemed for any title in Audible’s 500,000+ title library, regardless of retail price
- Permanent Ownership: Books purchased with credits remain in your library forever, even if you cancel your subscription
- Exclusive Discounts: 30% off additional audiobook purchases beyond your monthly credit
- Member-Only Sales: Access to daily deals, 2-for-1 sales, and other exclusive promotions
- Credit Banking: Credits can be saved for up to one year, allowing you to stockpile for series binges
When you consider that the average audiobook retails for $33, the $14.95 monthly Premium Plus subscription offers significant savings if you listen to at least one audiobook per month outside the Plus Catalog.
Pricing Tiers and Annual Options
Audible offers several pricing structures to accommodate different listening habits and budgets:
Monthly Subscriptions
- Audible Plus: $7.95/month – Unlimited Plus Catalog access only
- Premium Plus (1 credit): $14.95/month – Plus Catalog + 1 monthly credit
- Premium Plus (2 credits): $22.95/month – Plus Catalog + 2 monthly credits
Annual Subscriptions (Better Value)
- Premium Plus Annual (12 credits): $149.50/year – Equivalent to $12.45/month
- Premium Plus Annual (24 credits): $229.50/year – Equivalent to $19.10/month
The annual plans offer substantial savings compared to monthly billing, making them ideal for committed listeners who know they’ll use all their credits.
Premium Plus Annual (12 credits) at $149.50/year breaks down to:
- Per Credit Cost: $12.46
- Monthly Equivalent: $12.45 (vs $14.95 monthly)
- Annual Savings: $29.40 compared to monthly plan
Who Should Choose Which Plan?
Choose Audible Plus If:
- You’re a casual listener who primarily enjoys podcasts and discovering new content
- You have access to a good library system for popular audiobooks
- Your budget is limited to under $10/month for audio entertainment
- You don’t mind that content rotates and you won’t own titles permanently
- You’re new to audiobooks and want to explore before committing
Choose Audible Premium Plus If:
- You listen to at least one audiobook per month outside the Plus Catalog
- You want to build a permanent library of audiobooks
- You enjoy specific authors or series that may not be in the Plus Catalog
- You want access to exclusive sales and member discounts
- You’re an avid listener who values the flexibility of the credit system
Original Podcast Access: What Both Plans Include
Both Audible Plus and Premium Plus include comprehensive access to Audible’s original podcast collection. These aren’t your typical podcasts – they’re high-production value audio experiences that include:
- Celebrity-Hosted Shows: Programs featuring stars like Jamie Lee Curtis, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Dan Rather
- Audible Theater Productions: Recorded live performances and scripted shows
- Exclusive Interviews: In-depth conversations with authors, celebrities, and thought leaders
- Documentary Series: Original investigative journalism and documentary content
- Comedy Specials: