As an avid reader and audiobook enthusiast, I‘ve long wondered about the relationship between Amazon Prime and Audible. It‘s a common assumption that if you‘re a Prime member, you must get free access to Audible‘s extensive library of audiobooks and podcasts. But is that really the case?
In this in-depth guide, I‘ll uncover the surprising truth about whether Amazon Prime includes Audible, and more importantly, reveal the insider tips and strategies that can help you save a bundle on Audible as a Prime member.
The Relationship Between Amazon Prime and Audible
Let‘s start by clarifying the connection between these two Amazon-owned services. Amazon Prime is the retail giant‘s premium subscription program, offering members a host of benefits like free two-day shipping, access to Prime Video, and exclusive deals and discounts.
Audible, on the other hand, is Amazon‘s standalone audiobook and podcast platform. It provides members with unlimited access to a vast digital library of audio content that can be streamed or downloaded to various devices.
While both Prime and Audible are part of the Amazon ecosystem, they are separate subscription services. Holding an Amazon Prime membership does not automatically grant you access to Audible‘s full suite of features and content.
Does Amazon Prime Include Audible?
The short answer is no, Amazon Prime does not include a free Audible subscription. If you want to enjoy Audible‘s audiobooks, podcasts, and other audio content, you‘ll need to sign up for a separate Audible membership.
However, that doesn‘t mean Amazon Prime members are left out in the cold when it comes to Audible. In fact, there are several valuable perks and benefits available to Prime subscribers that can help you save money on Audible:
Free Audible Trials for Prime Members
One of the most significant benefits for Prime members is the opportunity to try out Audible for free. Amazon often offers Prime subscribers a free trial of Audible, typically providing 3 free audiobook credits to new Audible customers.
This free trial allows you to explore the Audible platform and see if it‘s a good fit for your listening habits before committing to a paid subscription. And if you decide to cancel during the trial period, you get to keep any audiobooks you downloaded with those free credits.
Discounted Audible Memberships for Prime Members
Another perk of being an Amazon Prime member is access to discounted Audible subscription plans. According to industry reports, Prime members can save up to 75% on their Audible memberships compared to the regular pricing.
For example, the standard Audible Premium Plus plan typically costs $14.95 per month. But as a Prime member, you may be able to get the same plan for as little as $3.95 per month – a significant savings that can really add up over time.
Free Audiobooks for Prime Members
While Prime membership doesn‘t include a full Audible subscription, Amazon does provide a rotating selection of free audiobooks that Prime members can access and download. These free audiobook offerings change periodically, so it‘s worth checking back regularly to see what‘s available.
By taking advantage of these Prime member perks, you can enjoy the benefits of Audible without having to pay the full price. It‘s a win-win situation that allows you to save money while accessing high-quality audio content.
Audible Plus and Premium Plus Memberships
In 2020, Audible introduced two new membership tiers – Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus. These updated plans offer some additional features and benefits compared to the standard Audible subscription:
Audible Plus:
- Access to the Audible Plus Catalog, which includes over 11,000 audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals
- One credit per month to use on any audiobook
- No limits on listening to the Audible Plus Catalog
Audible Premium Plus:
- Everything included in Audible Plus
- Additional monthly credits to use on any audiobook
- The ability to purchase additional credits as needed
These new Audible membership options provide more flexibility and choice for listeners. However, it‘s important to note that these upgraded plans are still separate from an Amazon Prime membership – you‘ll need to subscribe to Audible separately to access the Plus or Premium Plus features.
Real-World Savings Examples for Prime Members
To give you a better idea of the potential savings, let‘s look at a few real-world examples of how Amazon Prime members can benefit from Audible discounts:
Example 1:
Sarah is an avid reader who loves listening to audiobooks during her daily commute. As an Amazon Prime member, she was able to sign up for a 3-month Audible Premium Plus trial for just $4.95 per month, compared to the regular price of $14.95 per month. That‘s a savings of over 65% for the first 3 months!
Example 2:
John is a busy professional who travels frequently for work. He decided to try out Audible to make the most of his time on the road. As an Amazon Prime member, John was able to get a 6-month Audible Premium Plus subscription for $7.95 per month, a 47% discount from the standard price.
Example 3:
Emily is a lifelong learner who loves listening to educational podcasts and audiobooks. When she signed up for Audible as an Amazon Prime member, she was able to take advantage of a special offer that gave her 3 free audiobook credits, a $45 value, to use on any titles in the Audible library.
These real-world examples illustrate the significant savings and perks that Amazon Prime members can unlock when it comes to Audible. By taking the time to explore the various Audible offers and promotions available to Prime subscribers, you can enjoy high-quality audio content at a fraction of the regular cost.
How to Subscribe to Audible as a Prime Member
If you‘re ready to start listening to audiobooks and podcasts through Audible, the process is relatively straightforward:
- Visit the Audible website (www.audible.com) or download the Audible app.
- Look for any Audible offers or promotions specifically for Amazon Prime members. These may include free trials, discounted subscription plans, or bonus credits.
- Choose the Audible membership plan that best suits your needs and budget, taking advantage of any Prime-exclusive discounts or perks.
- Provide your payment information and complete the signup process.
- Once your account is set up, you can start exploring the Audible library and downloading audiobooks or podcasts to your device.
It‘s worth noting that Audible often runs promotional deals and discounts, especially for new subscribers. As an Amazon Prime member, you may be eligible for additional savings or trial offers when signing up for Audible.
Additionally, Audible allows you to cancel your subscription at any time. If you decide to cancel during a free trial period, you‘ll be able to keep any audiobooks you‘ve downloaded using your trial credits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to have Amazon Prime to get Audible?
No, you do not need an Amazon Prime membership to subscribe to Audible. Audible is a separate service that can be purchased independently. However, Amazon Prime members can take advantage of special offers and discounts on Audible subscriptions.
Is Audible free with Amazon Prime?
No, Audible is not included for free with an Amazon Prime membership. However, Prime members may be eligible for exclusive Audible offers, such as free trials, discounted subscription rates, and access to a rotating selection of free audiobooks.
Can I cancel my Audible membership?
Yes, you can cancel your Audible subscription at any time. If you cancel during a free trial period, you‘ll be able to keep any audiobooks you downloaded using your trial credits.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Savings with Audible as a Prime Member
While Amazon Prime and Audible are separate subscription services, the two work hand-in-hand to provide tremendous value for Amazon customers. As an Amazon Prime member, you have access to a wealth of exclusive perks and discounts when it comes to Audible.
By taking advantage of free Audible trials, discounted subscription plans, and the rotating selection of free audiobooks, you can enjoy all the benefits of Audible without having to pay the full price. It‘s a savvy way to expand your reading and listening horizons while keeping more money in your pocket.
So, if you‘re an Amazon Prime member who loves audiobooks and podcasts, be sure to explore the Audible offers and promotions available to you. With the right strategies, you can unlock significant savings and elevate your audio entertainment experience to new heights.