Discover the truth about audible premium plus vs amazon prime which includes free audiobooks with our unbiased, research-backed analysis that cuts through the confusion and helps you make the right choice for your listening needs.
- Amazon Prime does NOT include free Audible membership – they are separate services
- Audible Premium Plus costs $14.95/month and includes 1 credit + Plus Catalog access
- Audible Plus ($7.95/month) offers unlimited streaming from 11,000+ titles
- Amazon Prime members can access some audiobooks through Amazon Music at no extra cost
- Credits from Audible Premium Plus let you own audiobooks permanently
- Market Share: 63% – Amazon Audible controls the US audiobook publishing market according to industry analysis
- Cost Savings: 55% – Average savings compared to buying audiobooks individually at retail price of $33
- Content Library: 130+ – Audiobook genres and microgenres available on Audible
- Plus Catalog: 11,000+ – Titles available for unlimited streaming with Audible Plus and Premium Plus memberships
The Fundamental Difference: Separate Services, Different Benefits
Many consumers mistakenly believe that Amazon Prime includes free access to Audible, but this is one of the most common misconceptions in the audiobook space. While both are Amazon-owned services, they operate independently with distinct membership structures and benefits.
Amazon Prime primarily focuses on shipping benefits, video streaming, and music access, while Audible specializes exclusively in audiobooks. The confusion often arises because Amazon Prime members do get access to some audiobook content through Amazon Music, but this is limited compared to a dedicated Audible subscription.
Audible Membership Plans: Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the specific Audible plans is crucial for making an informed decision. Here’s what each tier actually offers:
| Plan | Monthly Cost | Credits | Plus Catalog | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audible Plus | $7.95 | 0 credits | Unlimited access to 11,000+ titles | Casual listeners who don’t need specific titles |
| Audible Premium Plus | $14.95 | 1 credit monthly | Full Plus Catalog access | Regular listeners who want to own specific books |
| Audible Premium Plus 2 | $22.95 | 2 credits monthly | Full Plus Catalog access | Avid listeners who consume 2+ books monthly |
| Annual Premium Plus | $149.50/year | 12 credits upfront | Full Plus Catalog access | Planned listeners who want bulk savings |
What “Credits” Really Mean for Listeners
The credit system is where Audible Premium Plus delivers exceptional value. Each credit can be redeemed for any audiobook in their catalog, regardless of the retail price. Considering the average audiobook costs $33, the $14.95 monthly membership represents significant savings if you regularly purchase audiobooks.
More importantly, books purchased with credits are yours to keep forever, even if you cancel your membership. This permanent ownership differs significantly from the streaming-only access provided by the Plus Catalog or Amazon Music’s limited audiobook offerings.
- Daily Deals: Exclusive member-only discounts on featured titles
- 2-for-1 Sales: Special promotions where two books cost one credit
- Member Discounts: 30% off additional audiobook purchases beyond credits
- Exclusive Content: Access to Audible Originals not available elsewhere
- Unlimited Rewinds: Never lose your place, perfect for distracted listening
Amazon Prime’s Audiobook Offerings: The Reality
While Amazon Prime doesn’t include a full Audible membership, Prime members do have some audiobook access through Amazon Music. This typically includes:
- Limited selection of popular audiobooks rotated regularly
- Access to Amazon Classics and some original content
- One free audiobook per month for Prime members (specific titles only)
- No permanent ownership – access ends if Prime membership cancels
The key limitation is selection. While Audible offers over 130 genres and hundreds of thousands of titles, Amazon Prime’s audiobook selection through Music is significantly more limited and doesn’t include new releases or bestsellers.
Cost Analysis: When Each Service Makes Financial Sense
Let’s break down the financial considerations to help you determine which service provides better value for your specific situation:
- You’re already a Prime member for other benefits
- You listen to fewer than 2 audiobooks per month
- You’re not particular about specific titles or new releases
- Your audiobook budget is limited to $0-8 monthly
- You listen to 1+ specific audiobooks monthly
- You want permanent ownership of your audiobooks
- You enjoy new releases and bestsellers
- You value exclusive sales and member discounts
- You want the largest possible selection across all genres
According to industry analysis from A Well Read Wanderer, “The appeal of Audible membership is the ability to choose audiobooks that might otherwise cost much more. The addition of the Plus Catalog with 11,000+ titles has significantly increased the value proposition for members.”
Advanced Strategies for Maximum Value
Seasoned Audible users have developed strategies to maximize their membership value:
Credit Management Strategy
Credits expire one year after issue, so it’s important to use them strategically. Many users save credits for expensive titles (typically $20-35 if purchased outright) and use member discounts for cheaper books.
Sale Timing
Audible frequently runs 2-for-1 credit sales and cash sales. Following these patterns can double your credit value. The Daily Deal also offers one title at significant discount each day.
Annual vs Monthly Planning
If you know you’ll use 12+ credits annually, the $149.50 annual plan saves nearly $30 compared to monthly billing. The 24-credit annual plan at $229.50 offers even greater per-credit savings.
Q: Can I keep my audiobooks if I cancel Audible?
A: Yes! Any books purchased with credits are yours to keep forever, even after cancellation. Only Plus Catalog streaming access is lost. For detailed information, see our guide on keeping audiobooks after cancellation.
Q: Is there a free trial available?
A: Yes, both Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus offer 30-day free trials for new members, including 1 free credit for Premium Plus trial users.
Q: Can I share Audible books with family?
A: Through Amazon Household, you can share Audible benefits with one other adult. However, there are limitations on simultaneous listening and library sharing.