With over 63% market share in the US audiobook industry (according to recent industry reports), Audible dominates the audiobook subscription space. But choosing between Audible Plus and Premium Plus can be challenging. This comprehensive 1500+ word guide breaks down every aspect to help you make the perfect choice for your listening habits.
- Cost Analysis: Audible Plus starts at $7.95/month while Premium Plus begins at $14.95/month – we’ll show you exactly what you get for each dollar
- Content Access: Premium Plus includes 11,000+ titles in the Plus Catalog plus monthly credits for premium selections
- Ownership Differences: Learn which plan lets you keep audiobooks forever versus temporary access
- Annual Savings: Discover how annual plans can save you up to 40% compared to monthly subscriptions
- Listener Profiles: We’ve identified exactly which plan works best for different types of audiobook consumers
- Market Dominance: 63% of US audiobook market controlled by Audible (Amazon)
- Average Savings: $25 per audiobook compared to retail prices when using credits
- Content Library: 500,000+ titles available including 11,000+ in Plus Catalog
- Genre Variety: 130+ audiobook genres and microgenres available
Understanding Audible’s Core Subscription Models
Audible offers two primary membership tiers, each designed for different listening preferences and budgets. Let’s examine them in detail:
Audible Plus: The Budget-Friendly Streaming Option
At $7.95/month, Audible Plus provides unlimited access to the Plus Catalog which includes:
- 11,000+ audiobooks, podcasts and Audible Originals
- New titles added monthly (with 30-day removal notices)
- Unlimited streaming and offline downloads
- No credits or book ownership – access ends if you cancel
Audible Premium Plus: The Complete Audiobook Experience
Starting at $14.95/month, Premium Plus includes everything in Plus plus:
- 1 credit monthly (redeemable for any premium title to keep forever)
- 30% discount on additional purchases
- Exclusive member sales and deals
- Access to Daily Deals (discounted titles)
Premium Plus also offers annual plans with significant savings:
- 12 Credits Annual: $149.50/year ($12.45/month equivalent)
- 24 Credits Annual: $229.50/year ($19.10/month equivalent)
Detailed Plan Comparison: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?
To help you decide, we’ve created this comprehensive comparison table based on 2024 pricing and features:
| Feature | Audible Plus | Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $7.95 | $14.95 |
| Plus Catalog Access | ✓ (11,000+ titles) | ✓ (11,000+ titles) |
| Monthly Credits | × | ✓ (1 credit/month) |
| Keep Books Forever | × | ✓ (credit-redeemed titles) |
| Member Discounts | × | ✓ (30% off) |
| Annual Plan Options | × | ✓ (12 or 24 credits upfront) |
Real-World Scenarios: Which Plan Should You Choose?
Profile: Listens to 2-3 audiobooks monthly, enjoys discovering new content, doesn’t need specific titles
Savings Example: At $7.95/month, listening to 3 Plus Catalog books = $2.65 per book
Best Features: Low cost, unlimited streaming, no commitment
Profile: Wants 1-2 specific new releases monthly, enjoys member discounts
Savings Example: Using 1 credit on a $35 audiobook = $14.95 instead of $35 (57% savings)
Best Features: Credit system, ownership of premium titles, exclusive deals
Profile: Listens to 2+ books monthly, wants maximum savings
Savings Example: 24-credit annual plan = $9.56 per credit (vs $14.95 monthly)
Best Features: Lowest per-credit cost, all Premium Plus benefits
Advanced Tips and Hidden Features
Beyond the basic plans, Audible offers several valuable features many users don’t know about:
Credit Management Strategies
- Credits expire after 12 months – use them before they disappear
- You can purchase extra credit bundles (3 credits for $35.88 when eligible)
- Unused credits roll over for up to a year with active membership
Maximizing the Plus Catalog
- Check the “Last Chance” section for titles leaving soon
- Create custom collections to organize your Plus Catalog titles
- Download for offline listening before traveling
Special Member Benefits
- Daily Deal offers (up to 80% off select titles)
- 2-for-1 credit sales (redeem 1 credit for 2 books)
- Exclusive member-only discounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I switch between Audible Plus and Premium Plus?
A: Yes! You can change your plan anytime through your account settings. Any unused credits will remain available if you downgrade from Premium Plus to Plus.
Q: Do Audible credits work for expensive audiobooks?
A: Absolutely. One credit redeems any single title regardless of retail price. This makes credits especially valuable for longer or more expensive audiobooks.
Q: Is Audible included with Amazon Prime?
A: No, Audible is a separate service. However, Prime members do get exclusive benefits like 2 free audiobooks during their trial instead of 1.
Q: What happens to my purchased books if I cancel?
A: Any titles purchased with credits or cash remain yours forever. Only Plus Catalog access ends upon cancellation.
Final Recommendation
After analyzing all factors, here’s our expert recommendation