Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Netflix | Prime Video |
|---|---|---|
| Core model | Subscription streaming catalogue | Included streaming plus rentals, purchases and add-ons |
| Ads | Ad-supported plan in supported markets; Standard and Premium are ad-free | Limited ads in many markets; optional Ad Free subscription where available |
| Simultaneous streams | 2 on Standard; 4 on Premium | Generally up to 3 titles at once; same title up to 2 devices |
| 4K / HDR | Premium supports 4K Ultra HD + HDR | Quality depends on the title, device and region |
| Offline downloads | Supported, with device limits based on plan | Supported on compatible apps for eligible titles |
| Rent or buy movies | No separate rental/purchase storefront | Yes, where available |
| Add-on subscriptions | No channel marketplace inside Netflix | Yes, in supported markets |
The biggest difference: Netflix is simpler, Prime Video is broader
Netflix is designed around one main idea: choose a Netflix plan and stream the titles included in that plan. Prime Video is more like a larger video storefront. Some titles are Included with Prime, while other movies and shows may be available to rent, buy, or access through separate add-on subscriptions.
That flexibility is useful, but it can also make Prime Video less simple because not every title you see is automatically included with the base membership.
Ads — the answer depends on the plan and country
Netflix offers an ad-supported experience in supported countries, while its Standard and Premium plans are ad-free. Prime Video includes limited ads in many markets and offers an optional Ad Free subscription in supported countries. Amazon notes that some content, including certain live TV, sports and free ad-supported programming, can still contain ads.
Watching on several devices
Netflix's simultaneous-stream limit is tied directly to your plan: Standard allows 2 supported devices at once and Premium allows 4. Amazon's general Prime Video usage rules allow up to 3 titles at the same time on one account, while the same title can generally be streamed to no more than 2 devices at once. Regional and third-party add-on restrictions can differ.
Downloads — both support offline viewing
Netflix supports downloads on compatible mobile devices, with the number of supported download devices depending on the plan. Prime Video also supports downloads for eligible titles through compatible apps including iOS, Android, Fire tablets, macOS and Windows. Not every title is necessarily downloadable on either service.
4K and premium picture quality
Netflix makes the plan difference very explicit: Premium includes 4K Ultra HD + HDR on supported titles and devices. With Prime Video, picture quality depends more on the specific title, device and regional offering, so check the title details and device support if 4K is one of your main reasons for subscribing.
Rentals, purchases and add-on channels — Prime Video wins
Prime Video can go beyond the content included with the base subscription. Amazon offers rentals and purchases for eligible movies and TV shows, and supported markets can also offer add-on subscriptions. Netflix does not operate the same kind of rent/buy marketplace inside its service.
Household rules and account use
Netflix defines a household around the devices connected to the internet at the main place where you watch Netflix. Standard and Premium can support paid extra-member options in eligible markets. Prime Video uses Amazon-account streaming limits rather than Netflix's exact household model, but its content, availability and usage rules can still vary by country.
Who should pick which?
- Pick Netflix if you want the simpler streaming experience, clear plan-based quality/device limits and Netflix's own catalogue.
- Pick Prime Video if you want one place that can combine subscription streaming, rentals, purchases and add-on channels.
- Compare the live plan before paying. Ads, available titles, pricing and features can vary by region and can change over time.
Already decided?
Check the current SubSplit page for live availability, duration and checkout details.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Netflix or Prime Video?
Netflix is the simpler streaming-first service. Prime Video is more flexible because it can combine included streaming with rentals, purchases and add-on subscriptions.
Which allows more simultaneous streams?
Netflix allows 2 simultaneous streams on Standard and 4 on Premium. Prime Video generally allows up to 3 titles at once on one Amazon account, with the same title usually limited to 2 devices.
Does Prime Video have ads?
In many markets it includes limited ads, with an optional Ad Free subscription where available. Some live or free ad-supported content can still contain ads.
Which is better for rentals and add-on channels?
Prime Video has the advantage because it supports rentals, purchases and add-on subscriptions in supported markets.
Official sources
- Netflix — Plans and Pricing
- Netflix — Devices and simultaneous streaming
- Prime Video — Usage Rules
- Prime Video — What can I watch?
- Prime Video — Ad Free
Plans, ads, catalogues and device rules vary by region and can change. Check the official provider pages and the live SubSplit product page before paying.