Which Netflix Plan Is Right For You?

Netflix remains the go-to streaming platform for many people, offering a mix of classic favorites like Friends and hit originals like Squid Game and Wednesday.

Netflix provides various plans to suit different budgets and preferences. To help you decide on the best plan for you, we’ve compared Netflix Standard with Ads, Netflix Standard, and Netflix Premium, categorizing them based on who they are best suited for. You can sign up for Netflix on their website.

Before delving into the details of the three plans, here are some factors to consider when signing up for Netflix. You can also explore the top TV shows and movies currently available on the platform. Additionally, we have similar guides for Disney+ tiers and Spotify Premium plans.

The lowdown on Netflix plans

One thing to note is that Netflix no longer offers a 30-day free trial. However, there may be opportunities for a free upgrade to a higher plan during your first month of signing up.

If you’re new to Netflix and uncertain about opting for a pricier plan, starting with a lower plan can allow you to take advantage of the upgrade without extra costs for the first 30 days. After the trial period, you can choose to remain on your current plan or switch to a higher one.

You can link only one payment method to your account. If you’re comfortable with it, you can share your email and password with household members so they can create their own profiles. Just ensure the information shared is not sensitive, such as using the same password for online banking.

It’s important to note that sharing passwords with non-household members is not allowed, but additional members can be added to your account for a fee.

If you wish to split the payment for your account, options include setting up a standing order, using PayPal to divide the cost, or utilizing services like Monzo. You can create up to five profiles across all plans, but the subscription type will impact factors like simultaneous streaming.

While cost is a major consideration, we’ve calculated the annual cost of a monthly subscription. Keep in mind that Netflix only offers monthly payment options, with the flexibility to cancel at any time.

Some TV packages from providers like Virgin and Sky offer Netflix as part of their bundles, allowing you to combine it with your TV bill for convenience.

Lastly, Netflix Basic is no longer available – details at the end of this article.

Is Netflix Standard with Ads for me?

Cost: £4.99/$6.99 per month (adds up to £59.88 or $83.88 per year)

Best for: Those looking for a budget-friendly option without sharing

Netflix Standard with Ads is the most affordable tier but comes with certain limitations. This plan includes some ads, mainly pre-roll and mid-roll ads of varying lengths. The content library may lack certain third-party shows and films depending on your region.

Streaming quality is limited to 1080p, with no simultaneous streams or downloads available. This plan is ideal for individual users due to these restrictions.

Is Netflix Standard for me?

Cost: £10.99/$15.49 per month (adds up to £131.88 or $185.88 per year)

Best for: Those seeking a balance of cost and benefits for small groups

Netflix Standard is the most popular plan offering 1080p streaming, two simultaneous streams, and two devices for downloads. It’s suitable for friends or family members who watch Netflix concurrently from different locations.

Consider the number of users you plan to share the account with and the monthly cost to determine if this plan is right for you.

Is Netflix Premium for me?

Cost: £17.99/$22.99 (adds up to £215.88 or $275.88 per year)

Best for: Large groups and tech enthusiasts

Netflix Premium is ideal for those unbothered by cost or sharing the account with multiple users. It offers Ultra High Definition (UHD) streaming for 4K devices, with four simultaneous streams and devices for downloads.

Ensure you have a fast broadband connection for seamless streaming on multiple 4K screens within the same household.

What happened to Netflix Basic?

Netflix Basic is no longer available for new customers. Existing members were given the option to switch to the Standard with Ads plan in June 2024.

So, which Netflix plan is the best?

The best plan depends on your viewing habits and preferences.

If you watch infrequently on a single device, consider the budget-friendly Standard with Ads. For those seeking a balance of cost and benefits, Standard is a good choice. Premium is ideal for those prioritizing picture quality and sharing the account with multiple users.

Consider the number of users, devices, and viewing preferences before selecting the plan that suits you best.