If you’re trying to enjoy Netflix without breaking the bank, you’ve likely wondered how much it will cost you and which plan offers the most value. Netflix has evolved from its humble DVD-delivery service to a leading streaming giant, delivering high-quality content. But, with this evolution has come higher prices. The top-tier Netflix plan now costs $23 a month, while the lowest option, priced at $7, includes ads. Additionally, Netflix has cracked down on password sharing, so it’s more important than ever to pick the right plan for your needs and budget.
Netflix Plans in 2024: A Breakdown
In 2024, Netflix offers three main subscription plans: Standard with Ads, Standard, and Premium. Each has distinct features, from streaming quality and the number of screens to whether or not you have to endure ads. Here’s a detailed look at each plan and what it brings to the table.
1. Standard with Ads – $7/month
This is Netflix’s most affordable option, but it comes with trade-offs. You’ll have to watch between four and five 15-30 second ads per hour, which can be disruptive if you’re binging a series. The video quality is set at Full HD (1080p), which is still decent for most viewers. However, you’ll only be able to stream on two devices at once.
Another downside of this plan is the limited content availability. Some shows and movies will not be accessible under the Standard with Ads plan, and you won’t be able to download content for offline viewing. Despite these limitations, this plan offers solid value for those who don’t mind a few ads and just want to watch on a couple of screens at a time.
- Best for: Budget-conscious viewers who don’t mind ads and want to save the most money while enjoying Netflix.
- Drawback: Ads, missing content, and no offline downloads.
2. Standard – $15.50/month
If you’re looking for an ad-free experience, the Standard plan is a solid middle-ground option. You’ll still get Full HD (1080p) streaming, and you can watch on two devices at once, making it great for couples or small households. Additionally, this plan allows for one extra member at $8/month, so you can share the account with someone outside your household, like a college student or a relative.
What’s more, you can download content for offline viewing—ideal for those who like to watch shows on the go. This plan offers a good balance of features for those willing to pay a bit more to avoid ads and access more content.
- Best for: Viewers who want an ad-free experience and the option to share their account with one extra member.
- Drawback: It’s more expensive, but still doesn’t offer 4K Ultra HD.
3. Premium – $23/month
For those who want the best Netflix experience, the Premium plan is the top-tier option. It offers 4K Ultra HD streaming, which is four times the resolution of Full HD. This is a big deal if you have a 4K TV or other high-resolution devices. Additionally, you can watch Netflix on four screens simultaneously, making this plan perfect for larger families or groups of friends who want to share the account.
The Premium plan also allows you to add up to two extra members at $8 each, making it easier to split costs while still enjoying the full Netflix experience. And of course, this plan is ad-free, offers the best video quality, and includes all available Netflix content.
- Best for: Large households, 4K TV owners, or those who want to share their account with multiple people.
- Drawback: The most expensive plan, but worth it if you value top-tier video quality and shared usage.
Which Netflix Subscription is Best?
Choosing the best Netflix plan depends on your needs and budget. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- If you’re looking for the cheapest option and don’t mind ads, the Standard with Ads plan is your go-to. You still get Full HD streaming, but you’ll miss out on some content and offline viewing.
- If you prefer an ad-free experience and plan to share your account with one extra person, Standard is a great middle-ground. You’ll enjoy Full HD streaming on two screens and can even download content for offline viewing.
- For the best Netflix experience, especially if you have a 4K TV or need to stream on multiple screens, the Premium plan is worth the higher price. It’s also a good choice if you want to add extra members and split the cost.
How to Save Money on a Netflix Subscription
While Netflix prices have gone up, there are still ways to save money:
- Share your account: One of the easiest ways to save is by sharing your Netflix account with family or friends. With the Premium plan, you can stream on four screens, so you can split the $23 cost four ways, bringing your monthly price down to about $6.
- Look for bundle deals: Some internet and mobile service providers offer Netflix as part of their bundle deals. For example, T-Mobile has a Netflix on Us promotion that can get you Netflix for free with certain plans. Be on the lookout for these offers from your provider.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re on a tight budget or willing to splurge for the best experience, Netflix offers a range of plans to suit your needs. The key is to choose wisely based on how you watch, how many people are sharing the account, and whether you care about ads and video quality.
For the best value, consider the Standard plan if you want to avoid ads without paying for 4K, or Premium if you have a large household and want to make the most out of your 4K TV. By splitting costs or taking advantage of bundle deals, you can enjoy all that Netflix has to offer without overspending.
