When it comes to on-demand streaming services, or OTT platforms, Netflix and Amazon Prime Video stand as two of the biggest and most popular options. With vast libraries and constant additions of new original series and movies, both services aim to be the definitive streaming destination.
But should you choose Netflix or Amazon Prime Video for your streaming needs? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll analyze the content libraries, pricing, streaming quality, and other features to help you decide which OTT platform is superior.
Comparing Content Libraries: Netflix vs. Amazon
The most important factor in choosing an OTT is the content selection. Let’s see how Netflix and Prime Video stack up when it comes to titles.
Library Size
Netflix currently offers over 3,500 movies and 2,000+ TV series to stream on demand. Meanwhile, Amazon Prime Video has around 18,000 movies and 2,000 series in its catalogue. In terms of sheer volume, Prime Video edges out Netflix slightly.
Both platforms now focus heavily on exclusive original programming. Netflix has pioneered hit original series like Stranger Things, The Crown, and Partner Movie. Stand-out Prime Originals include The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel, Jack Ryan and The Boys. Both offer acclaimed original movies as well, though Netflix invests more heavily on this front. Overall, Netflix likely still has the edge in signature originals, but Prime is catching up. Due to licensing deals, Netflix offers a deeper catalogue of classic shows like Breaking Bad, The Office, and retro cartoons. For movies, Prime Video beats Netflix when it comes to newer theatrical films thanks to Amazon Studio’s relationships. But Netflix has a stronger library of older classic movies. Netflix and Prime Video both provide content tailored to local markets. This includes foreign language series and regional movies unavailable elsewhere. Netflix in particular has invested in international content, producing over 100 non-English originals so far. Both are improving in this area.Based on these factors, Netflix currently maintains an advantage in the breadth, depth and quality of its overall content catalogue, though Prime Video also offers impressive variety.Originals and Exclusives
Classic Shows and Movies
Regional and International Content
Comparing Streaming Quality and Features
In addition to content, the technical streaming quality and special features differentiate the services.
Streaming Quality
Netflix and Prime Video now both support up to 4K Ultra HD resolution with High Dynamic Range (HDR) for premium picture quality. Initial issues with compression have improved. Both also provide 5.1 Dolby Digital surround soundtracks on supported movies and series. For basic quality streaming, Prime Video is more consistent at holding HD across changing network conditions. But they are comparable in top-end 4K HDR quality when conditions are ideal.
Offline Viewing
The ability to download movies and shows for offline viewing is invaluable for flights, commutes or areas with limited Wi-Fi. Both Netflix and Prime Video allow this on mobile apps, with some limitations on certain titles. Netflix allows downloading slightly more content.
Multiple Profiles
Netflix allows separate profiles for up to 5 users under one account. Amazon recently improved to allow 6 profiles per account. Profiles keep viewing history and recommendations personalised for each user.
Streaming Limits
Netflix restricts simultaneous streams to 1-4 devices depending on the subscription plan. Prime Video allows streaming on up to 3 devices simultaneously. For large households, Prime Video’s 3 streams may feel more limiting.
Overall, while Prime Video holds a technical edge for consistent HD quality, the services are generally comparable in streaming capabilities. Netflix has a slight advantage in special features like broader offline downloading.
Comparing Pricing: Which Offers More Value?
Pricing is another major point of comparison.
Netflix starts at $9.99 per month for the basic plan (1 non-HD stream allowed), goes up to $15.49 for the premium plan (4 streams in Ultra HD). Prime Video is cheaper at just $8.99 per month. However, most Prime Video subscribers opt for the full Amazon Prime membership at $14.99 per month, which bundles the video service with free shipping, music streaming, and other Amazon perks.
Comparing the top tiers, both Netflix and Amazon Prime clock in around $15 monthly if you want 4K streaming on multiple devices. But Prime provides more bundled benefits rather than a pure focus on video. Overall, costs are comparable depending on your needs.
In terms of pure value for the video streaming service alone, Netflix likely still justifies its price better with its content advantages. But Prime certainly provides the better overall deal for shoppers and music lovers wanting a more rounded service.
The Verdict: Is Netflix or Prime Video the Superior OTT?
When looking comprehensively at all factors – content selection, streaming quality, price, and features – Netflix still rates as the superior pure video streaming service overall. Though Amazon Prime is gaining ground with its Originals, Netflix has a better mix of high-quality library content and more acclaimed originals. Its broader offline access and multiple profiles also give it a slight edge in features.
However, Prime Video may be the better option for those who will make extensive use of the full Amazon Prime bundle. The shopping and music benefits provide nice compliments to the video, and exclusive Originals like Mangalavaram Movie help enhance the content selection.
So in summary, while Netflix remains the front-runner as the ideal OTT app for movies and series, Amazon Prime takes the crown for the most complete overall package. Considering your personal priorities for streaming, shopping and music will determine which service is the better fit. Both continue pushing the limits of what an on-demand video platform can offer.
Which has the faster streaming speeds and quality?
Netflix leads for maximum streaming quality when conditions are ideal. But Prime Video has better consistency at holding HD quality across changing network conditions.
Can you switch plans monthly on Netflix or Prime Video?
Yes, you can adjust your subscription tier monthly on both services if you want to scale up or down at different times.
Does Netflix or Prime Video have ads on their streaming services?
Currently, neither service includes advertising on their standard streaming tiers. A future ad-supported Netflix tier is planned.
Do Prime Video and Netflix remove movies and shows monthly?
Yes, content rotates regularly as licensing deals expire. But both are investing heavily in originals to strengthen libraries long-term.
Which offers the better selection for kids and families?
Netflix offers the largest dedicated collection of kids shows and family movies like Boss Baby and Cocomelon.
Can you download your full Prime Video or Netflix watch history?
Prime Video allows exporting your full viewing history. Netflix only shows the last 90 days, without a full history download option currently.
In the streaming space, consumers have an embarrassment of options when it comes to entertainment. Both Prime Video and Netflix offer outstanding on-demand libraries. Looking at their strengths as standalone video services or as part of broader bundles can help viewers match their individual needs. With such high-quality choices, viewers can happily binge on either platform.