Netflix is currently one of the biggest and most significant VOD platforms globally. Available in 190 out of 195 countries, the service offers content in 45 languages.
Its major advantage lies not only in its massive library of licensed movies, series, shows, and animations but also in the vast number of original productions, including globally popular titles like Stranger Things.
Are you considering joining Netflix? If you’re reading this article, you’re probably wondering how to sign up, whether there’s a free trial, and which of the available Netflix plans will be the best for you? Today, we’ll introduce you to all the available options and help you decide which one to choose!
How to Join Netflix?
- Joining Netflix is incredibly easy and can be done from your smartphone, tablet/iPad, computer, or directly on your smart TV.
- For smart TVs and Android devices, the first step is to download and install the Netflix app. Then, create an account by providing your email address or phone number and setting a password. After registering, select a subscription plan and make the required payment.
That’s it — you’re ready to enjoy a platform that features thousands of films, shows, programs, and even games!
For computers and Apple devices, signing up is done via the dedicated website: netflix.com/signup. The first step here is to select a plan, followed by entering the necessary registration details. Similar to the first method, you’ll need to pay the subscription fee to gain full access to the service.
Netflix Plans Differences
You might be wondering if it’s possible to test the service before committing to a new subscription. Unfortunately, Netflix has not offered a free trial for new users for several years. Even if you only want to try the platform, you’ll need to purchase at least the lowest, cheapest plan for a month.
So, why are there so many plans, and what sets them apart? Primarily, it’s the price, but the cost reflects the features and capabilities of each plan. The cheapest option has the most limitations (though it’s the least expensive, which is a significant advantage), while the most expensive plan offers the most features and possibilities. So, how do these plans differ exactly?
Netflix Standard with Ads
Netflix Standard with Ads replaced the Netflix Basic plan in the U.S. and many other countries in June 2024 (though in some European countries like Poland and Ukraine, the Basic plan is still available). This is the cheapest plan, costing just $6.99 per month.
The Netflix Standard with Ads plan offers access to all mobile games and most (though not all) video content, which, as the name suggests, includes short ads every hour. Additionally, this plan allows you to:
- Watch on 2 supported devices at a time,
- Watch in 1080p (Full HD),
- Download content on 2 supported devices at a time.
Netflix Standard
The Netflix Standard plan is a mid-tier option that provides access to the platform’s entire library of movies, series, shows, animations, and games without any ads. This plan costs $15.49 per month.
A notable advantage of this plan is the ability to share your account with one additional user who doesn’t live in your household. Adding such a user incurs an extra cost of $7.99 per month. This plan also allows you to:
- Watch on 2 supported devices at a time,
- Watch in 1080p (Full HD),
- Download content on 2 supported devices at a time.
Netflix Premium
Not satisfied with the previous options? In that case, you might consider the top-tier Netflix Premium plan. Priced at $22.99 per month, it’s the most expensive option but offers the most features — even ones that compensate for certain hardware limitations. How is that possible?
The Premium plan includes Netflix Spatial Audio, a feature that enhances sound without requiring surround sound speakers or home theater equipment.
Like the Standard plan, Netflix Premium provides access to the platform’s full library. What sets it apart, however, are these features:
- Watch on 4 supported devices at a time,
- Watch in 4K (Ultra HD) HDR,
- Download content on 6 supported devices at a time,
- Add up to 2 extra members who don’t live with you ($7.99 each per month)
Which One Is the Best?
So, which plan should you choose? The choice depends on your budget and preferences.
If you only need Netflix to watch a few programs or series occasionally, aren’t too concerned about video quality, and want to keep costs low, the With Ads option will suffice. If you watch a lot and find ads annoying, and you’re willing to pay a bit more, go for the Standard plan.
However, if you’re a cinephile who values excellent picture and sound quality and wants to share your account with multiple household members and friends, the Premium plan will be ideal for you!