Is There a Difference Between Amazon Video and Prime Video?
The short answer is no, there is no fundamental difference between Amazon Video and Prime Video. They are essentially two names for the same service. However, understanding how these terms are used and their relationship to the larger Amazon ecosystem is key to avoiding confusion. This article will explore the nuances, clarify any ambiguity, and answer frequently asked questions to give you a complete understanding of Amazon’s video offerings.
Understanding the Terminology: Amazon Video and Prime Video
The term Amazon Video is often used as a general descriptor for Amazon’s video content, encompassing both its subscription streaming service and its pay-per-view store. Prime Video, on the other hand, specifically refers to Amazon’s subscription-based streaming service, which is included as part of an Amazon Prime membership.
Think of it this way: Amazon Video is the umbrella term for all of Amazon’s video content, while Prime Video is a specific component of that umbrella, offering unlimited streaming access to a catalog of movies and TV shows for subscribers. The confusion arises because both the subscription service and the pay-per-view store are often referred to as “Amazon Prime Video” in daily conversation.
The Dual Nature of Amazon’s Video Offering
To further complicate things, Amazon’s video platform operates in two distinct ways:
- Prime Video (Subscription Service): This is the streaming service you get when you have an Amazon Prime membership, or subscribe to Prime Video as a stand alone service. It allows access to a vast library of movies and TV shows at no additional cost beyond your membership or monthly subscription fee. This is the all-you-can-stream portion of Amazon’s video offerings.
- Amazon Prime Video Store (Pay-Per-View): This is the section where you can buy or rent individual titles. This content can be accessed regardless of whether you have an Amazon Prime membership or Prime Video subscription. Purchases are automatically charged to your linked 1-Click payment method.
Prime Video as Part of Amazon Prime
Prime Video is a significant perk of an Amazon Prime membership. When you subscribe to Amazon Prime, you gain access to a host of benefits, with Prime Video being a key one. This includes not just access to the streaming library but also other perks like exclusive content, faster shipping, and other shopping discounts.
However, you don’t need an Amazon Prime membership to access Prime Video content. You can opt for a standalone Prime Video membership for a lower monthly fee, accessing just the streaming services. Additionally, you can also rent or purchase individual titles from the Amazon Prime Video store without any subscription at all.
Key Takeaway
The essential point is that when someone says “Amazon Video,” they could mean either the overall video platform or refer to the pay-per-view store. When they say “Prime Video,” they are generally referring to the subscription-based streaming service that is part of an Amazon Prime membership or as a standalone service. The service is the same regardless of the means you access it, the only difference is payment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 FAQs to provide further clarity about Amazon’s video services:
1. Do I Need Both Amazon Prime and Prime Video?
No, you do not need both. An Amazon Prime membership includes Prime Video. However, you can also subscribe to Prime Video as a standalone service without an Amazon Prime membership. Alternatively, you can purchase or rent content through the Prime Video Store without any kind of subscription.
2. How Much Does Amazon Prime Cost?
Currently, an Amazon Prime membership costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year.
3. How Much Does a Standalone Prime Video Subscription Cost?
A standalone Prime Video membership costs $8.99 per month.
4. What is the difference between a Prime Video subscription and a Prime membership?
A Prime membership gives you access to numerous benefits including Prime Video, free expedited shipping, shopping benefits and other discounts. A standalone Prime Video subscription gives you access only to the streaming content, without the other perks.
5. Why am I being charged for Prime Video when I have Amazon Prime?
This is likely due to Prime Video Channels. These are additional, paid subscriptions to third-party networks (like Paramount+, Showtime, etc) that are separate from your main Amazon Prime membership or standalone Prime Video subscription.
6. Is Paramount+ free with Amazon Prime?
No, Paramount+ is not free with Amazon Prime. It is an additional, paid channel you can subscribe to through Prime Video, typically through a bundle such as Paramount+ with SHOWTIME. You can also subscribe to it separately through the Paramount+ website.
7. How can I get a discount on Amazon Prime?
You may be eligible for a discount on Amazon Prime if you receive benefits from a qualifying government program like SSI or Medicaid. If eligible, you can subscribe at a monthly fee of $6.99. Additionally, you can sometimes find promotional offers or student discounts.
8. Is there a free trial for Prime Video?
Yes, eligible customers can typically get a 30-day free trial of Amazon Prime, which includes Prime Video. The trial is offered to new subscribers, and can be cancelled prior to payment.
9. Is Prime Video available on Roku?
Yes, the Prime Video app is available on Roku devices. However, you will need either a subscription or to purchase/rent content to watch most titles.
10. Is anything free on Prime Video without a subscription?
Yes, sometimes there is a rotating selection of titles that are available for free without a subscription. Also, if you have Prime, there are numerous programs you can stream at no extra cost, along with benefits like free delivery. Many movies and TV series, such as The Burial, Gen V, Invincible, Upload, Renfield, Totally Killer, Halloween Ends, and Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant, may be available.
11. What comes with an Amazon Prime membership besides Prime Video?
An Amazon Prime membership includes various perks, such as:
- Free and fast delivery.
- Exclusive shopping deals and discounts.
- Access to Prime Music and Prime Reading.
- Share your prime account with family members.
- And of course Prime Video.
12. Is Peacock free with Amazon Prime?
No, Peacock is not free with Amazon Prime, and unlike some other services, you cannot even subscribe to it as a Prime Channel through Prime Video.
13. Which has a larger library, Netflix or Prime Video?
Prime Video generally has a larger library of movies than Netflix. However, library size is not the only factor, quality and personal preference also matters.
14. What is the $4.99 Amazon charge on my bill?
A $4.99 Amazon digital charge is likely for a digital service or subscription purchased through Amazon. It may be for Prime Video, Kindle Unlimited, or Amazon Music. Check your Amazon account statements to confirm which service is being charged.
15. How do I watch Prime Video on my TV?
You can watch Prime Video on a variety of devices, including:
- Smart TVs.
- Amazon devices (Fire TV).
- Mobile devices.
- Blu-ray players.
- Gaming consoles.
- Streaming media devices.
Download the Prime Video app from your device’s app store and log in with your Amazon account.
Conclusion
In summary, Amazon Video and Prime Video are often used interchangeably, but it’s crucial to understand the context. Prime Video specifically refers to the subscription streaming service, either included with an Amazon Prime membership or as a standalone service. Amazon’s video platform also includes a pay-per-view store for buying or renting individual titles, and can be accessed without a subscription. Understanding these nuances will help you navigate Amazon’s offerings and make the best choices for your entertainment needs.