Choosing between Audible Plus and Premium Plus can be confusing for audiobook enthusiasts. With Audible controlling 63% of the US audiobook market, understanding these subscription tiers is crucial for getting the best value. This comprehensive guide breaks down every aspect of both plans to help you make an informed decision.
- Audible Plus costs $7.95/month for unlimited access to 11,000+ titles in the Plus Catalog
- Premium Plus starts at $14.95/month and includes monthly credits plus Plus Catalog access
- Premium Plus members save significantly compared to the average $33 retail audiobook price
- Annual Premium Plus plans offer additional savings with upfront credit access
- Both plans include a 30-day free trial for new members
- Market Dominance: 63% – Audible’s share of the US audiobook publishing market
- Cost Savings: 55% – Average savings compared to $33 retail audiobook prices
- Content Library: 11,000+ – Titles available in the Audible Plus Catalog
- Genre Variety: 130+ – Audiobook genres and microgenres available
Understanding Audible’s Subscription Ecosystem
Audible has evolved significantly from its original credit-based model to include multiple subscription tiers. The platform now offers two primary plans: Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus, each designed for different types of listeners with varying needs and budgets.
As an Amazon-owned platform, Audible has revolutionized how people consume literature and entertainment. The service caters to a broad audience, from book lovers and podcast enthusiasts to professionals seeking personal development resources. With over 300,000+ audiobooks in its complete library, Audible offers unparalleled selection across virtually all genres.
Audible Plus: The Budget-Friendly Streaming Option
Audible Plus represents the more affordable tier at $7.95 per month, functioning similarly to a streaming service for audiobooks. Subscribers get unlimited access to the Plus Catalog, which includes thousands of audiobooks, Audible Originals, and podcasts.
- Price: $7.95 per month (auto-renews after 30-day free trial)
- Content Access: Unlimited streaming and downloads from the Plus Catalog
- Library Size: 11,000+ titles including popular books and exclusive content
- Device Compatibility: Works with iOS, Android, Windows, Fire tablets, Kindles, and Sonos devices
- Flexibility: Switch plans or cancel anytime without long-term commitment
The Plus Catalog boasts an impressive selection of content, including popular titles like “Anne of Green Gables” performed by Rachel McAdams. You’ll find a wide array of podcasts across every genre, from spirituality and self-help to true crime. The catalog also features a substantial romance collection with titles by authors like Susan Mallery and Chanel Cleeton.
However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations. The Plus Catalog doesn’t include all of Audible’s titles, particularly the latest bestsellers and certain premium content. Additionally, you don’t actually “own” any audiobooks – access disappears if you cancel your subscription. This plan works best for listeners who enjoy exploring various content without specific title requirements.
Audible Premium Plus: The Complete Audiobook Experience
Audible Premium Plus builds upon the foundation of Audible Plus by adding the crucial credit system that made Audible famous. Starting at $14.95 per month, this plan includes everything in Audible Plus plus monthly credits redeemable for any title in Audible’s extensive catalog.
- Basic Premium Plus: $14.95/month – Plus Catalog + 1 credit monthly
- Premium Plus 2-Credit: $22.95/month – Plus Catalog + 2 credits monthly
- Annual Premium Plus (12 credits): $149.50/year – Save $30 annually
- Annual Premium Plus (24 credits): $229.50/year – Save $42 annually
The monthly credit system is where Premium Plus delivers exceptional value. Each credit can be used to purchase any audiobook in Audible’s catalog, regardless of its retail price. Considering the average audiobook costs $33, the $14.95 monthly fee represents significant savings for regular listeners.
Premium Plus members also enjoy exclusive benefits including:
- 30% discount on additional audiobook purchases
- Access to members-only sales and 2-for-1 deals
- The Audible Daily Deal featuring heavily discounted titles
- Permanent ownership of books purchased with credits
- Exclusive access to certain Audible Originals
Direct Comparison: Audible Plus vs Premium Plus
| Feature | Audible Plus | Audible Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $7.95 | $14.95 (1 credit) – $22.95 (2 credits) |
| Annual Cost | $95.40 | $149.50 (12 credits) – $229.50 (24 credits) |
| Plus Catalog Access | ✓ Unlimited | ✓ Unlimited |
| Monthly Credits | None | 1-2 credits (monthly) or 12-24 (annual) |
| Content Ownership | Access only while subscribed | Keep books purchased with credits forever |
| Member Discounts | None | 30% off additional purchases + exclusive sales |
| Free Trial | 30 days | 30 days (includes 1 free credit) |
| Best For | Casual listeners, genre explorers | Avid listeners, specific title seekers |
Which Plan Offers Better Audiobook Deals?
The answer depends entirely on your listening habits and preferences. Let’s break down which plan delivers better value in different scenarios:
Choose Audible Plus If:
- You listen to multiple audiobooks monthly and enjoy discovering new content
- You primarily listen to genres well-represented in the Plus Catalog (romance, classics, podcasts)
- Budget is a primary concern at under $8 monthly
- You don’t mind not owning the content permanently
- You have a good library system for specific titles not in the Plus Catalog
Choose Premium Plus If:
- You want specific new releases or bestsellers not in the Plus Catalog
- You value owning your audiobooks permanently
- You listen to at least one premium audiobook monthly (saves vs $33 retail)
- You want access to exclusive sales and member discounts
- You’re an avid listener who consumes 2+ audiobooks monthly
Advanced Strategies for Maximum Value
Seasoned Audible users have developed several strategies to maximize their subscription value:
Credit Management Strategy
Premium Plus credits expire one year after issuance. Strategic users often:
- Save credits for expensive titles (typically $20-35 value)
- Use credits for Audible Exclusives not available elsewhere
- Take advantage of 2-for-1 credit sales to double value
- Purchase additional credit packs during member sales
Plus Catalog Deep Dive
The Plus Catalog contains hidden gems including:
- Audible Originals from prominent authors like Rainbow Rowell and Roxane Gay
- Complete series and backlist titles from popular authors
- Professional development and educational content
- Exclusive podcasts and audio shows
Combination Approach
Many users start with Premium Plus to build their permanent library with credits, then downgrade to Plus for maintenance mode, using their accumulated library while enjoying new Plus Catalog content.