Prime Video vs Netflix vs Apple TV+: Which Is Cheapest? (Best Ways to Save)

Which Streaming Service Is Really Cheapest?

With streaming prices climbing across the board, many U.S. viewers are asking a simple question: Which major streaming service is actually the cheapest?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as comparing monthly prices. In 2026, Prime Video, Netflix, and Apple TV+ all use different pricing strategies, bundles, and discounts. The cheapest option depends on whether you accept ads, qualify for discounts, or are willing to rotate subscriptions.

This guide compares verified U.S. pricing, explains what you really get at each price point, and shows practical ways to save without breaking the rules.

Current U.S. Prices

1. Prime Video

Amazon offers multiple ways to access Prime Video:

• Prime Video standalone: $8.99/month

• Amazon Prime (includes Prime Video): $14.99/month or $139/year

• Prime Student: about $7.49/month or $69/year

• Prime Access (eligible government assistance): $6.99/month

• Free trial: Often 30 days (eligibility varies)

Key point: You do not need full Amazon Prime to watch Prime Video. The standalone plan is real and legal in the U.S.

Read more: 7 Legal Websites to Watch Prime Video in the U.S. (Free or Low-Cost Options Explained)

Top Websites to Watch Prime Video in the U.S. for Free or Low Cost

2. Netflix

Netflix pricing is simpler but less flexible:

• Standard with ads: $7.99/month

• Standard (no ads): $17.99/month

• Premium (4K, more screens): higher tier

• Free trial: ❌ Not offered in the U.S.

Netflix has the lowest entry price — but only if you accept ads, and there’s no way to test it for free.

3. Apple TV+

Apple TV+ uses a single-tier model:

• Monthly: $12.99/month

• Annual: $99.99/year (about $8.33/month)

• Free trial: 7 days

• Extended free access: 3 months with eligible new Apple devices

• Student access: Often included with Apple Music Student (promotion-based)

Apple TV+ is always ad-free.

Read more: How to Watch Apple TV+ for Free or Cheap? Without Apple Devices

Legal Websites to Watch Apple TV+ in the U.S.

Cheapest Plan at a Glance

On paper, Netflix is cheapest. In practice, the answer depends on how you watch.

What “Cheapest” Really Means in Real Life

If you want the lowest possible monthly bill

• Winner: Netflix Standard with ads ($7.99)

Trade-off:

• Ads

• No free trial

• Price increases are common

This works best if you don’t mind commercials and want a massive library.

If you want the cheapest ad-free streaming

• Winner: Apple TV+ annual plan ($99.99/year)

Why:

• No ads, ever

• Predictable cost

• High-quality originals

Best for viewers who prefer fewer but premium shows.

If you want the most flexibility and discounts

• Winner: Prime Video

Why:

• Standalone plan

• Student and low-income discounts

• Frequent free trials for eligible users

Prime Video is the easiest service to access free or cheap if you plan strategically.

Special Discounts That Change the Math

Students

• Prime Student: ~$7.49/month

• Apple Music Student: Often includes Apple TV+

For students, Prime Video or Apple TV+ can both be cheaper than Netflix.

Low-income households

• Prime Access: $6.99/month (Prime Video included)

This undercuts Netflix’s ad tier and includes shipping benefits.

Households & sharing

• Prime Video allows multiple profiles

• Apple TV+ supports Family Sharing (up to six people)

When shared, Apple TV+ can cost under $2 per person per month.

Free Viewing: What’s Actually Possible

If free access matters, Netflix loses this comparison outright.

Smart Money-Saving Strategies

1. Rotate subscriptions

Subscribe only when new seasons drop, then cancel.

Best for:

• Prime Video

• Apple TV+

2. Use annual plans selectively

Apple TV+’s annual plan is one of the best long-term values in streaming.

3. Don’t overpay for bundles

If you don’t use Amazon shipping, skip full Prime and choose the standalone video plan.

Which Service Is Cheapest for You?

• You want the lowest sticker price and don’t mind ads: Netflix

• You want ad-free and long-term value: Apple TV+

• You want flexibility, trials, and discounts: Prime Video

• You’re a student or sharing with family: Prime Video or Apple TV+

• You want to try before paying: Prime Video or Apple TV+

Final Verdict

There is no single cheapest streaming service for everyone in 2026.

• Netflix wins on lowest advertised price, but offers no trials and includes ads.

• Apple TV+ wins on ad-free value, especially with its annual plan and family sharing.

• Prime Video wins on flexibility, with multiple plans, discounts, and legitimate free access.

The smartest approach for most Americans isn’t loyalty — it’s intentional subscribing. Rotate services, use discounts, and only pay when there’s something you actually want to watch.