Is Amazon Prime Still Worth It? Here's the Math for Normal Households
Prime fees have crept up while free shipping is everywhere. I broke down shipping, streaming and extras to see who should keep it and who should cancel.
Check it at the store
Amazon Prime used to be an easy yes. Fast shipping, free streaming, done. But fees have increased over the years, and free shipping offers are everywhere now. Is it still worth it? Here's how I'd decide.
What you get
- Fast free shipping on eligible items
- Prime Video, now with ads unless you pay extra
- Music and reading libraries
- Prime-exclusive deals, including Prime Day
- Some grocery and pharmacy perks
The shipping math
Without Prime, Amazon generally offers free shipping above a minimum order amount, with slower delivery. If you order often and want items fast, Prime shipping is the main value.
Count your orders in the last year. If you placed fewer than one or two orders a month, you may not need Prime for shipping alone.
Streaming value
If you'd pay for another streaming service anyway, Prime Video adds value. But note that ads are now standard unless you pay for the ad-free upgrade.
Hidden value people forget
- Free returns on many items
- Photo storage
- Prime Day deals, though many are available to everyone through other retailers' competing sales
Alternatives
- **Walmart+** offers free shipping and grocery delivery, plus some fuel discounts.
- **Target Circle 360** offers same-day delivery on orders above a minimum.
- **Store pickup.** Free and often same day.
Ways to pay less
- Pay annually instead of monthly.
- Check for discounted plans for students or eligible government assistance recipients.
- Share benefits with a household member through Amazon Household.
- Cancel in slow months, rejoin before big sales.
Who should keep Prime
- Frequent online shoppers
- Households that use Prime Video regularly
- Rural shoppers with fewer local stores
Who should cancel
- Occasional shoppers who can wait a few days
- People who already pay for other streaming and shipping memberships
Where to compare
Amazon, Target, Costco and Sam's Club all have memberships with shipping or delivery perks. Compare which one fits how you shop.
Verdict
Count your orders and streaming hours. If you don't use Prime at least a couple of times a month, try canceling for a few months. You might not miss it.
Check it at the store
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