Amazon Prime Instant Video Vs Amazon Instant Video: Which One Should You Choose?

Ever find yourself scrolling endlessly, wondering what to watch? We've all been there! Amazon has a couple of video options that can be a little confusing. Let's break down Amazon Prime Instant Video and Amazon Instant Video to help you pick your next binge-watching buddy.
Think of it this way: Amazon Prime Instant Video is like the super-duper, all-in-one entertainment package. It comes bundled with your Amazon Prime membership. Yep, the same membership that gets you speedy, free shipping on all sorts of goodies! So, if you're already a Prime member, you're probably already getting this treasure trove of movies and TV shows without even realizing it.
What makes Amazon Prime Instant Video so awesome? Well, for starters, it's packed with a huge library. We're talking thousands of movies, from the latest blockbusters that just left the theater (sometimes!) to timeless classics that make you feel all nostalgic. Plus, there are tons of TV shows. You've got your popular network shows, some hidden gems, and even binge-worthy series that Amazon itself has produced – these are often called Amazon Originals.
And oh, those Amazon Originals! They're really something special. Think critically acclaimed shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which is as witty as it is visually stunning, or the action-packed adventure of The Boys. Then there's Fleabag, a show that's so honest and funny, it'll make you laugh and cry at the same time. These shows are exclusive to Prime Video, meaning you can't find them anywhere else. It’s like having your own private movie premiere whenever you want!
But wait, there's more! Beyond the free stuff with Prime, Amazon Prime Instant Video also lets you rent or buy even more movies and TV shows. So, if there's a brand-new release you're dying to see, or a show that's not included in the Prime library, you can easily grab it. It’s like having a super-powered video store right at your fingertips, but without the late fees or the need to rewind!
Now, what about Amazon Instant Video? This is where things get a tiny bit simpler. In the past, there was a separate service called Amazon Instant Video. But here’s the cool part: Amazon has pretty much merged everything. So, when people talk about Amazon Instant Video nowadays, they are usually referring to the video content that you can rent or buy directly from Amazon, independent of a Prime membership. It’s the part of Amazon's video offerings that you pay for on a per-item basis.
So, if you're not a Prime member, or you're looking for something specific that's not included in the Prime library, you'll be looking at the "rent or buy" section. This is still a massive collection of entertainment. You can find almost any movie or TV show imaginable here. It's fantastic for catching up on things you missed or re-watching your all-time favorites. The selection is huge, and the convenience is undeniable.

Let's sum it up. If you have Amazon Prime, then Amazon Prime Instant Video is your golden ticket. It’s the ultimate deal because you get your shipping and a massive amount of entertainment included. You get the Amazon Originals, a huge library of free movies and shows, and the option to rent or buy even more. It's like a buffet of entertainment, and it's all yours!
If you don't have Prime, or you're just looking to rent or buy a specific title, then what you're looking at is essentially the "rent or buy" portion of Amazon's video service, which was formerly known as Amazon Instant Video. This is still a fantastic way to access a world of movies and shows, just on a pay-as-you-go basis.
So, which one should you choose? If you're already a Prime member, you're already there! Dive into Amazon Prime Instant Video and discover what amazing content awaits. If you're not a Prime member but love movies and shows, exploring the rent or buy options is still a brilliant way to fill your entertainment needs. Either way, Amazon has you covered for your next movie night, your next couch session, or your next epic binge-watch. Happy viewing!
