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Netflix Standard vs. Premium: Which Netflix Plan Is Best for You

Quick Tips
  • Netflix Standard plan lets you stream full HD content on 2 supported devices at once for $15.49/month.
  • You can get the Netflix Premium plan for $22.99/month to simultaneously stream Ultra HD content on 4 devices at once.
  • The Standard with Ads plan allows you to stream limited titles, with ads, in Full HD on up to 2 devices for $6.99/month.

Netflix Subscription Plans At a Glance

While Netflix provides 3 plans in total, the Standard and Premium plans take the cake. Check out this table for more information as we list some key plan features for Netflix Standard and Premium plans. We have also included Netflix Standard with Ads plan for further clarity.

Netflix Standard with AdsNetflix StandardNetflix Premium
QualityFull HD streaming up to 1080pFull HD streaming up to 1080p Ultra HD 4K streaming with HDR support
Titles AvailableSelect fewAllAll
Spatial SoundNoNoYes
Device LimitUp to 2 devices at a timeUp to 2 devices at a timeUp to 4 devices at a time
Offline ViewingDownload available for 2 devices at a timeDownload available for 2 devices at a timeDownload available for 6 devices at a time
Devices AvailableAll supported devicesAll supported devicesAll supported devices
AdsWith adsNo adsNo ads
Extra MemberNoUp to 1 extra member for $7.99 each/monthUp to 2 extra members for $7.99 each/month
Price$6.99/month$15.49/month$22.99/month

Let us compare these features in detail to better understand the difference between Netflix Standard and Premium plans.

Netflix Standard vs. Premium: How Many Can Watch Netflix at Once

Netflix users can create up to 5 profiles and sign in to multiple devices for all plans. However, viewing restrictions will allow you to simultaneously stream on 2 devices at once for the Standard plan and 4 devices at once for the Premium plan. So, choose the relevant plan according to your viewing needs.

Netflix Standard vs. Premium: Offline Viewing Limits

Netflix allows you up to 100 downloads/device for all ad-free plans. However, you can only have them on a limited number of devices depending on your plan. So, Standard plan users can only download titles on 2 devices at a time. While the Premium plan allows you to download the titles on up to 6 devices at once.

While most Netflix content is available for download, some titles are licensed for streaming only and cannot be downloaded regardless of your Netflix subscription plan.

Note: Users with ad-supported plans can only download up to 15 downloads/device/month on 2 supported devices.

Netflix Standard vs. Premium: Is Netflix 4K Worth It

Before we answer the above question, there are three essential things to consider. Let’s start with them one by one.

1. Content Availability

Not all Netflix content is available in 4K. A vast majority of Netflix content is still only available in Full HD aka 1080p. This means that even if you have the required plan, you still can’t stream that title in Ultra HD. To check if the titles you want to watch are available or not, type 4K in the search bar and have a look.

Search for 4K content on Netflix

2. Internet Speed

You need a steady internet connection with speeds upwards of 25Mbps to stream UHD content in peace. Also, because 4K streaming requires a good amount of data, make sure your internet plan can support it. If you have adequate data speed and plan, you can go for the 4K plan.

3. Does Your Device Support 4K

The most important factor to stream Netflix in 4K is your device’s hardware. If your device does not support 4K streaming, your content will always stream in 1080p Full HD or below. Alternatively, you can use your 4K device’s upscale features while playing any Full HD title to get that 4K feel.

Stream video in High quality on Netflix

Is It Worth Going for Netflix 4K?

If your show is available in UHD and your internet connection and device support the 4K streaming, then yes, it is worth going for the Premium plan. However, if you mainly use small screens like mobile or tablets, or if your device does not support Ultra HD streaming, the Netflix Standard plan would suffice.

Also Read: How to sign out of all devices and what happens next/after

Netflix Standard vs. Premium: Pricing

Now, we come to the final point of comparison i.e. pricing. Jam-packed with every Netflix feature available, the Premium plan is priced at $22.99/month. One tier lower but still a good choice, the budget-friendly Netflix Standard plan is available for $15.49/month.

Basic With Ads Plan

You can subscribe to the Basic with Ads plan for only $6.99/month. But you will see ads in between. This plan allows you to watch on 2 supported devices in Full HD. However, only limited titles are available for streaming. You can consider going for this plan if you don’t mind the ads and other plan restrictions.

Netflix Standard vs. Premium: Is Netflix Premium Worth It

The final answer for this Netflix Standard versus Premium debate boils down to your usage. If you’re a big household with many screens running simultaneously or if you have the whole 4K setup available, the Netflix Premium plan will probably be a better option for you.

However, if you’re simply watching it on your mobile or laptop and wouldn’t miss the 2 extra screens, the Netflix Standard plan might just work for you.

FAQs for Using Netflix

1. Do you need to set up your Netflix household again when changing plans?

No. As per new Netflix rules, you will be prompted to set up your Netflix household only when you use your new account for the first time via a TV. Old accounts will see a similar prompt if you haven’t already set up your household. However, changing your plan will not affect your Netflix household settings.

2. Can you cancel your Netflix subscription whenever you want? 

Yes, you can cancel or change your Netflix subscription whenever you want. Please note your Netflix membership will end at the end of your current billing period, regardless of when it was originally canceled.

3. Can you check which devices are currently using your Netflix account?

Go to your account settings and click on Manage access and devices. This will open a list of devices currently using your Netflix account. If you find any unfamiliar device, click on Sign Out and immediately change your Netflix account password.

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Last updated on 03 June, 2024

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