Audible, the premier audiobook platform owned by Amazon, provides access to a vast library of audiobooks, podcasts, and original audio content. For book lovers, commuters, and anyone who enjoys storytelling, Audible offers a convenient and engaging way to consume literature. But before diving into the world of audiobooks, understanding Audible’s pricing structure is crucial. This comprehensive guide breaks down the various Audible subscription plans, their features, and how to determine the best option for your listening habits.
Understanding Audible’s Subscription Plans
Audible offers several subscription tiers designed to cater to different listening preferences and budgets. Each plan provides varying levels of access to Audible’s content, along with distinct benefits. Let’s explore each option in detail.
Audible Plus: The Entry-Level Option
The Audible Plus plan is the most basic and affordable subscription. It provides unlimited listening to the Audible Plus Catalog. This catalog features thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals. Think of it as a streaming service, where you can listen to as much content as you want from the designated Plus Catalog. This plan costs a certain amount per month.
This plan doesn’t include a monthly credit for purchasing individual titles outside of the Plus Catalog. However, you can still purchase audiobooks à la carte at member prices, which are often significantly lower than the regular retail price.
Audible Premium Plus: Credits and Exclusive Content
The Audible Premium Plus plan is the more popular option, offering a combination of unlimited listening from the Plus Catalog and monthly credits to purchase any audiobook you desire, regardless of price or length. This plan provides greater flexibility, allowing you to build a permanent library of your favorite titles.
The standard Premium Plus plan includes one credit per month. Each credit can be redeemed for any audiobook in the Audible library. This is particularly beneficial for acquiring longer or more expensive audiobooks that might not be available in the Plus Catalog. It will cost a certain amount per month.
Audible Premium Plus with 2 Credits: For Avid Listeners
For voracious audiobook consumers, Audible offers a Premium Plus plan with 2 credits per month. This plan doubles your credit allowance, allowing you to acquire two audiobooks per month in addition to unlimited access to the Plus Catalog. This is ideal for those who listen to multiple audiobooks regularly and want to expand their library quickly. The price will be higher than the one-credit plan.
Audible Annual Plans: Saving on a Yearly Basis
Audible also provides annual subscription options for both Premium Plus plans. Opting for an annual plan involves paying for a year upfront, often resulting in a significant cost savings compared to paying monthly.
The annual Premium Plus plan with 12 credits provides you with all 12 credits at the beginning of your subscription year. This allows you to redeem them at your own pace throughout the year. The annual Premium Plus plan with 24 credits works similarly, granting you 24 credits upfront.
Comparing Audible Subscription Plans
To provide a clearer overview, here’s a comparison of the key features of each Audible plan:
- Audible Plus: Unlimited listening from the Plus Catalog, member prices on individual purchases.
- Audible Premium Plus (1 Credit): Unlimited listening from the Plus Catalog, one credit per month for any audiobook.
- Audible Premium Plus (2 Credits): Unlimited listening from the Plus Catalog, two credits per month for any audiobook.
- Annual Premium Plus (12 Credits): Unlimited listening from the Plus Catalog, 12 credits upfront for any audiobook.
- Annual Premium Plus (24 Credits): Unlimited listening from the Plus Catalog, 24 credits upfront for any audiobook.
Factors Influencing the Best Audible Plan for You
Choosing the right Audible subscription plan depends on several factors related to your listening habits and preferences. Consider these points to determine which plan best suits your needs.
Frequency of Audiobook Consumption
How often do you listen to audiobooks? If you only listen occasionally, the Audible Plus plan might be sufficient, allowing you to enjoy the content available in the Plus Catalog. If you listen regularly and want to own specific titles, a Premium Plus plan with credits is a better option.
Content Preferences and Availability
Are you primarily interested in specific authors or genres? Check if your preferred titles are available in the Plus Catalog. If not, you’ll need a Premium Plus plan with credits to purchase them. The Plus Catalog changes frequently, so keeping an eye on new additions is always a good idea.
Budget Considerations
How much are you willing to spend on audiobooks each month? The Audible Plus plan is the most budget-friendly option, while the Premium Plus plans offer more flexibility but come at a higher cost. Evaluate your budget and determine which plan aligns with your financial constraints.
The Value of Owning vs. Streaming
Do you prefer owning your audiobooks or simply streaming them? The Audible Plus plan is essentially a streaming service, while the Premium Plus plans allow you to build a permanent library of purchased titles. Consider whether you value the ability to re-listen to audiobooks multiple times, even after your subscription ends.
Maximizing Your Audible Subscription
Once you’ve chosen an Audible plan, there are several ways to maximize its value and enhance your listening experience.
Utilizing Member Discounts
Audible members receive discounts on individual audiobook purchases, even without using credits. Take advantage of these discounts to expand your library without depleting your credit balance.
Exploring the Audible Plus Catalog
Don’t overlook the Audible Plus Catalog. It contains a wealth of audiobooks, podcasts, and original content. Explore the catalog regularly to discover new authors and genres. Many hidden gems are available for unlimited listening.
Taking Advantage of Audible Sales and Promotions
Audible frequently offers sales and promotions on audiobooks. Keep an eye out for these deals to purchase audiobooks at reduced prices. Sales often coincide with holidays or special events.
Using Your Credits Wisely
If you have a Premium Plus plan, use your credits strategically. Reserve them for longer or more expensive audiobooks that you truly want to own. Avoid using credits on titles that are frequently discounted or available in the Plus Catalog.
Borrowing from the Public Library
Consider supplementing your Audible subscription with free audiobook rentals from your local public library. Many libraries offer digital audiobook lending through apps like Libby or Hoopla. This can help you expand your listening options without increasing your Audible costs.
The Audible Free Trial and Cancellation Policy
Audible typically offers a free trial period to new users. This allows you to experience the platform and its features before committing to a paid subscription.
Free Trial Benefits
The Audible free trial usually includes one free credit, which you can use to purchase any audiobook. You also get access to the Audible Plus Catalog for unlimited listening during the trial period.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your Audible subscription at any time. If you cancel during the free trial, you won’t be charged. If you cancel a paid subscription, you’ll retain access to any audiobooks you purchased with credits. However, you’ll lose access to the Audible Plus Catalog.
Returning Audiobooks
Audible has a generous return policy that allows you to return audiobooks under certain circumstances. If you’re not satisfied with an audiobook, you can often return it for a refund or credit. However, excessive returns may result in limitations on your return privileges.
Audible and Amazon Integration
As an Amazon company, Audible seamlessly integrates with other Amazon services and devices.
Listening on Kindle Devices
You can listen to Audible audiobooks on Kindle devices that support audio playback. This allows you to switch seamlessly between reading and listening to the same book.
Alexa Integration
Audible integrates with Alexa, allowing you to control audiobook playback with voice commands. You can ask Alexa to play, pause, rewind, or fast forward audiobooks.
Whispersync for Voice
Whispersync for Voice allows you to seamlessly switch between reading a Kindle ebook and listening to the audiobook version. The device automatically synchronizes your progress, so you can pick up where you left off, regardless of whether you’re reading or listening.
Audible Alternatives
While Audible is the dominant player in the audiobook market, several alternatives offer similar services.
Libro.fm
Libro.fm is an audiobook platform that supports local bookstores. When you purchase audiobooks through Libro.fm, a portion of the proceeds goes to an independent bookstore of your choice.
Kobo Audiobooks
Kobo Audiobooks is another alternative, offering a wide selection of audiobooks and a subscription plan similar to Audible’s.
Google Play Books
Google Play Books also sells audiobooks, and you can listen to them on your Android devices or through the Google Play Books website.
Choosing the right audiobook platform depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider exploring these alternatives to see which one best fits your listening habits.
Is Audible Worth the Cost? A Final Assessment
Ultimately, the value of an Audible subscription depends on how frequently you listen to audiobooks and whether you value the benefits it offers. For avid listeners who enjoy a wide variety of content, Audible’s Premium Plus plans can be a cost-effective way to access a vast library of audiobooks. The Audible Plus catalog offers a wealth of content for unlimited listening. The ability to build a permanent library of your favorite titles is a significant advantage. Carefully consider your listening habits and budget to determine if Audible is the right choice for you.
What are the different Audible membership plans and what do they include?
Audible offers several membership plans to cater to different listening habits. The most common is Audible Premium Plus, which grants one credit per month that can be used to purchase any audiobook regardless of price. You also receive access to the Audible Plus Catalog, offering thousands of included audiobooks, podcasts, and original content that you can stream or download for free.
Other plans, like Audible Plus, offer unlimited access to the Plus Catalog but do not include monthly credits for purchasing individual audiobooks. There are also discounted student plans and options for heavier listeners who desire more credits per month. The exact offerings and price points vary based on promotions and regional availability, so it’s best to check the Audible website for the most up-to-date details on each plan’s features and cost.
How much does Audible Premium Plus cost, and is it worth the price?
The standard Audible Premium Plus membership typically costs around $14.99 per month. This price provides you with one credit to redeem for any audiobook you choose, regardless of its retail price. Additionally, you gain unlimited access to the Audible Plus Catalog, which contains a vast library of audiobooks, podcasts, and exclusive Audible Originals.
Whether Audible Premium Plus is worth the price depends on your listening habits. If you regularly purchase audiobooks, the monthly credit can save you significant money compared to buying titles individually. The added benefit of the Plus Catalog provides a vast amount of additional listening material, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent audiobook listeners.
What is the Audible Plus Catalog and what type of content does it offer?
The Audible Plus Catalog is a vast library of audio content that is included with Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus memberships. It offers unlimited listening to thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, guided wellness programs, and Audible Originals, all without requiring the use of credits.
The content within the Plus Catalog is diverse, ranging from bestsellers and classic literature to exclusive Audible productions and independent works. While the specific titles in the catalog change periodically, it consistently provides a wide array of genres and listening experiences, making it a valuable addition to any Audible subscription.
Can I cancel my Audible subscription and what happens to my audiobooks if I do?
Yes, you can cancel your Audible subscription at any time. The cancellation process is usually straightforward and can be completed through your Audible account settings on the Audible website or app. Be sure to follow the on-screen instructions carefully to confirm your cancellation.
If you cancel your Audible subscription, you will retain access to any audiobooks you purchased with credits or cash. These titles are yours to keep indefinitely. However, you will lose access to the content within the Audible Plus Catalog, as that content is only available to active members. It’s recommended to download any Plus Catalog content you want to listen to before canceling.
Are there any hidden fees or extra costs associated with an Audible membership?
Generally, there are no hidden fees associated with a standard Audible membership as long as you adhere to the terms of service. The monthly fee covers your credit(s) and access to the Plus Catalog. However, if you purchase additional audiobooks beyond your monthly credit, you will be charged the listed price for those titles.
It is worth noting that Audible occasionally offers promotional discounts or trials that may have specific terms and conditions. Be sure to carefully read the fine print of any promotional offer to understand any potential limitations or auto-renewal charges that may apply after the trial period ends. Familiarize yourself with the terms to avoid any unexpected charges.
Does Audible offer family plans or options for sharing my account?
Audible does not currently offer a dedicated family plan option in the same way that some other streaming services do. Each Audible account is intended for individual use by the registered user. Sharing your account credentials with others is generally against Audible’s terms of service.
While direct account sharing is not permitted, there are ways to gift audiobooks to others. You can purchase an audiobook as a gift for someone, and they will be able to download and listen to it using their own Audible account. This is a legal and acceptable way to share the joy of audiobooks with family and friends.
Are there ways to save money on Audible, such as discounts or promotions?
Yes, Audible frequently offers promotions and discounts to attract new members and reward existing subscribers. Keep an eye out for introductory offers, seasonal sales, and special deals on select audiobooks. Signing up for Audible’s email list can help you stay informed about upcoming promotions.
Another way to save money is to utilize Audible’s return policy. If you are unhappy with an audiobook, you can often return it for a refund or exchange. Additionally, consider the benefits of the Audible Plus Catalog, which provides a vast library of content that you can listen to without using credits, effectively maximizing the value of your subscription.