Is Audible Free With Prime? Benefits, Costs, and How to Max Out Your Trial

Introduction to Audible and Amazon Prime

It’s a common question for millions of Amazon Prime members: is Audible free with Prime? Given that Amazon owns Audible, it seems like a natural assumption that your Prime membership might unlock unlimited audiobooks. The simple answer is no, a full Audible subscription is not automatically included with your Amazon Prime membership. However, the relationship between these two services is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Prime members receive special perks and exclusive trial offers that regular customers do not, making the connection between the two services valuable and worth exploring. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Audible and Amazon Prime relationship in 2025.

We will break down exactly what benefits Prime members get, how to claim your free audiobook credits, and what happens after the trial period ends. We’ll compare the different Audible membership tiers, like Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus, so you can decide which plan, if any, fits your listening habits. We’ll also explore the vast content library available, from bestsellers in the premium catalog to the thousands of included titles in the Audible Plus Catalog. Whether you’re a seasoned audiobook listener or a curious newcomer, you will find clear, actionable information to help you maximize the value of your Amazon Prime membership and make an informed decision about Audible.

The Straight Answer: Is Audible Included With Amazon Prime?

Let’s get the most important question out of the way first. A full, ongoing Audible Premium Plus membership is not a standard feature of your Amazon Prime subscription. It is a separate, standalone service that requires its own monthly payment. This is a frequent point of confusion, partly because Amazon does such an excellent job of integrating its services.

You use the same login for both, and the marketing often highlights the benefits for Prime members, which can create the impression that it’s all one package. Think of Audible’s relationship with Prime as a “preferred partner” arrangement rather than a fully included benefit like Prime Video or Prime Reading.

Understanding the Separation of Services

Amazon operates several distinct media subscription services under its umbrella. Prime Video offers a library of movies and TV shows as a core part of the Prime package. Prime Reading gives you access to a rotating selection of ebooks and magazines. Amazon Music provides a basic tier of music streaming with Prime, with an option to upgrade to Amazon Music Unlimited. Audible follows a similar model but with a clearer distinction. It has always been a premium, credit-based service, and that core structure remains. The key difference is that while other Prime services offer a substantial “free” tier, Audible’s primary offering for Prime members is a significantly enhanced free trial to entice you into a paid subscription.

Why Isn’t Audible Completely Free for Prime Members?

The business model for audiobooks is fundamentally different from that of streaming video or music. The production cost for a single high-quality audiobook, which involves studio time, professional narration, and sound engineering, is significant. Furthermore, licensing agreements with publishers and authors are often structured around a “per-unit” model, similar to selling a physical book. Offering the entire premium catalog for free to over 200 million Prime members would be financially unsustainable under current publishing agreements. Instead, Amazon uses Prime as a powerful channel to introduce users to the Audible ecosystem, offering just enough value to demonstrate the service’s worth and convert trial users into long-term subscribers.

Unpacking the Exclusive Audible Prime Benefits

While Audible isn’t free with Prime, being a Prime member gives you a distinct advantage, especially when you’re new to Audible. Amazon leverages Prime to give its loyal customers the best possible introduction to its audiobook service. These perks are designed to give you a real taste of the full Audible experience without any initial financial commitment.

The Enhanced Free Trial for Prime Members

The headline benefit for Amazon Prime members is a superior free trial offer. While a standard Audible free trial typically includes one free credit, Prime members are often invited to start their trial with two free credits.

• One Credit = One Premium Title: Each credit allows you to purchase any audiobook from Audible’s premium selection, regardless of its price. This includes brand-new releases, perennial bestsellers, and critically acclaimed titles.
• Yours to Keep Forever: The audiobooks you purchase with these credits are yours to keep, even if you cancel your membership after the trial. This is the single greatest value proposition of the trial offer. You could potentially get two popular audiobooks, which might retail for $25-$35 each, completely free.

Access to the Audible Plus Catalog

During your 30-day trial, and with any paid Audible membership, you get unlimited access to the Audible Plus Catalog. This is a vast, rotating library of thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals. While it doesn’t include the newest blockbusters (those require a credit), it’s a treasure trove of content. You can stream or download as many titles as you want from this catalog at no extra cost. This is a fantastic way to discover new authors, explore different genres, or listen to exclusive podcasts without using your precious credits. For many casual listeners, the Plus Catalog alone is worth the price of a subscription.

How to Claim Your Prime Trial Offer

Claiming your enhanced trial is straightforward.

1. Visit the Audible Website: Navigate to the special landing page for Amazon Prime members on Audible.com.
2. Sign In: You’ll be prompted to sign in with your Amazon account credentials. Audible will automatically recognize your Prime status.
3. Start Your Trial: Follow the on-screen instructions to start your 30-day free trial. Your account will immediately be loaded with two credits.
   It’s important to note that this two-credit offer is typically for new Audible customers who are also Prime members. If you’ve had an Audible trial before, you may only be eligible for the standard one-credit trial.

A Deep Dive into Audible Membership Tiers

Once your 30-day free trial is over, you’ll need to decide if a paid Audible subscription is right for you. Audible has simplified its offerings into two main plans, each catering to different types of listeners. Understanding the distinction is key to choosing the right one and avoiding paying for features you don’t need.

Audible Plus: The All-You-Can-Listen Plan

The Audible Plus plan is the entry-level subscription. It’s designed for listeners who want variety and are happy to explore a vast library without needing to own the latest bestsellers.

• Cost: Around $7.95 per month.
• What You Get: Unlimited streaming and downloading from the Audible Plus Catalog. This includes thousands of audiobooks across many genres, guided wellness programs, and exclusive podcasts.
• What You Don’t Get: This plan does not include any monthly credits. If you want to listen to a title from the premium selection, you’ll have to purchase it separately at its retail price.
• Who It’s For: Audible Plus is perfect for the discovery-oriented listener, podcast lovers, and those who want a steady stream of audio content without the pressure of choosing one specific book each month. It’s an excellent value for someone who listens frequently but doesn’t need to keep up with the latest new releases.

Audible Premium Plus: The Best of Both Worlds

Audible Premium Plus is the flagship subscription and the one most people associate with Audible. It combines the all-you-can-listen aspect of the Plus plan with the ownership model of the classic credit system.

• Cost: Starts at $14.95 per month for the 1-credit plan. Annual plans are also available, which offer a discount.
• What You Get: Everything in Audible Plus, plus one monthly credit to purchase any title from the entire premium catalog. This book is yours to keep forever. You also get a 30% discount on any additional audiobooks you purchase with cash and access to exclusive members-only sales.
• Who It’s For: This plan is ideal for the avid reader who wants to own specific titles, listen to new bestsellers as soon as they’re released, or build a personal library of favorite audiobooks. The monthly credit system provides a structured way to grow your collection.

Choosing Between Monthly and Annual Plans

For the Audible Premium Plus tier, you can choose to pay monthly or annually. An annual subscription typically offers a significant saving over the monthly price. For example, a 12-credit annual plan gives you all your credits at once and usually costs the equivalent of 10 months, giving you two months free. This is a great option if you know you’ll stick with the service for the long haul and want the flexibility to use your credits whenever you like.

Maximizing Value: The Audible Plus Catalog Explained

The Audible Plus Catalog is one of the most misunderstood yet valuable parts of an Audible membership. It transforms the service from a simple “one book a month” club into a true streaming platform. It’s included with both the Audible Plus and Premium Plus plans, and it’s what you get to explore freely during your trial.

What Kind of Content is in the Plus Catalog?

The Plus Catalog is a curated, rotating collection of content that includes:

• Audiobooks: You’ll find thousands of titles from a wide range of genres. These are often slightly older books, indie publications, or classics, but many popular authors and hidden gems are included. The selection changes periodically, so there’s always something new to discover.
• Audible Originals: This is content produced exclusively by and for Audible. It includes high-production-value audio dramas with full casts, non-fiction deep dives, and unique series from well-known authors, journalists, and celebrities.
• Podcasts: While many podcasts are free everywhere, Audible offers a growing number of exclusive and ad-free podcasts within the Plus Catalog.
• Wellness & Sleep: This section includes guided meditations, sleep soundscapes, and programs designed for relaxation and focus.

How to Find and Listen to Plus Catalog Titles

Finding included content is easy within the Audible app or website.

1. Use the “Included” Filter: When you search for a genre or topic, you can filter the results to show only titles that are “Included in your membership.”
2. Look for the ‘INCLUDED’ Tag: Every title in the Plus Catalog is clearly marked with a banner.
3. Explore the “Plus Catalog” Section: The app has a dedicated tab where you can browse all the included content by category.
   To listen, you simply tap “Play” or “Add to Library.” You can stream them instantly or download them for offline listening, just like a purchased title. However, unlike a book bought with a credit, you will lose access to these titles if you cancel your membership.

Is the Plus Catalog a Good Value on Its Own?

For $7.95 per month, the Audible Plus plan offers access to a library that could keep you busy for years. If you listen to more than two or three audiobooks a month and aren’t particular about them being the latest releases, the Plus plan is an unbeatable deal. It’s a fantastic way to fill your commute, workout, or household chore time with engaging stories and informative content without breaking the bank.

Step-by-Step Guide: Starting Your Audible Journey with Prime

Ready to take the plunge and claim your Prime benefits? Here is a simple, step-by-step walkthrough to get you from sign-up to listening in just a few minutes. This process assumes you are an active Amazon Prime member and new to Audible.

Step 1: Navigate to the Correct Offer Page

The key to getting the enhanced two-credit trial is starting from the right place. Don’t just go to the standard Audible homepage. Instead, search online for “Audible Prime member offer” or go directly to audible.com/ep/free-trial-amazon-prime. This page is specifically designed for Prime members and will display the exclusive trial promotion. It should clearly state that you will receive two free credits.

Step 2: Sign In and Confirm Your Trial

Click the button that says “Try 30 days for free.” You will be asked to sign in using your Amazon account email and password. This is how Audible verifies your Prime status. The system will then show you a confirmation screen detailing the offer: a 30-day free trial, two credits, and the date your trial will end. It will also show the renewal price ($14.95/month for Premium Plus) that you will be charged if you don’t cancel. Confirm that you want to start the trial.

Step 3: Find and Purchase Your First Two Audiobooks

Congratulations! You are now an Audible member with two credits in your account. The fun part begins. You can now browse the entire premium selection.

• Use the Search Bar: Look for a specific author or title you’ve been wanting to read.
• Browse Bestsellers: Check the New York Times bestseller lists or Audible’s own charts for inspiration.
• Explore Categories: Dive into genres like Sci-Fi, Mystery, Self-Development, or Biography.
  When you find a book you want, look for the purchase option that says “Buy with 1 Credit.” Click it, confirm your purchase, and the audiobook will be permanently added to your library. Repeat the process for your second credit.

Step 4: Download the App and Start Listening

The best way to listen is through the Audible app, available for free on iOS and Android. Download it from your device’s app store and sign in with your Amazon account. Your library will automatically sync, showing the two books you just purchased. You can also explore the Plus Catalog directly from the app. Download your titles over Wi-Fi to save mobile data, and you can listen anywhere, anytime.

Audible Plus vs. Premium Plus: A Detailed Comparison

The decision between Audible’s two main plans comes down to your personal listening habits and budget. Let’s break down the core differences in a head-to-head comparison to help you make the right choice when your free trial ends.

Feature Breakdown

Use Case: The Casual Explorer

Imagine you listen to audiobooks during your 30-minute commute and while doing chores. You’re not focused on specific new releases but enjoy discovering interesting stories and non-fiction. You get through about 2-3 books a month. For you, Audible Plus is a perfect fit. You have thousands of options in the Plus Catalog, enough to ensure you never run out of content, all for a low monthly price. Paying double for one extra book you may not even have time for doesn’t make sense.

Use Case: The Avid Reader & Collector

Now, consider a different scenario. You are a book lover who follows new releases from your favorite authors. You want to listen to the latest Stephen King or Brené Brown book the week it comes out. You also like re-listening to your favorite books and building a digital library that you own. For you, Audible Premium Plus is the clear winner. The monthly credit guarantees you can get that must-have new release. The 30% discount is great for times when you want to buy an extra book between credits, and the ability to keep your books forever aligns with your desire to build a personal collection.

Is an Audible Subscription Worth It in 2025?

With so many sources of entertainment competing for your attention, is a paid Audible subscription still a good value? The answer depends entirely on how you measure its worth against your lifestyle and budget. Let’s look at the financial and practical considerations.

The Financial Calculation

An Audible Premium Plus credit costs you, at most, $14.95. The retail price of a new-release audiobook on the platform is often between $25 and $35. From a purely financial standpoint, if you plan to listen to at least one new audiobook per month, the subscription saves you 40-60% on that purchase alone. Add in the unlimited access to the Plus Catalog, and the value proposition becomes even stronger. If you were to listen to just one Plus Catalog book in addition to your credit book, you’d be getting two audiobooks for $14.95. For a more casual listener, the Audible Plus plan at $7.95/month is cheaper than buying a single ebook and gives you access to thousands of titles.

Lifestyle and Convenience Benefits

The true value of Audible often lies beyond the raw numbers.

• Multitasking: Audiobooks allow you to “read” while doing other things: driving, exercising, cooking, cleaning, or gardening. This ability to consume books during otherwise unproductive time is a massive benefit for busy people.
• Accessibility: For individuals with visual impairments or reading disabilities like dyslexia, audiobooks are an essential tool for accessing literature and information.
• Screen Fatigue Reduction: In a world where we spend hours staring at screens for work and leisure, audiobooks provide a welcome break for your eyes, allowing you to relax and simply listen.
• The Power of Narration: A talented narrator can bring a story to life in a way that reading on a page cannot, adding layers of emotion and character that create a deeply immersive experience.

Making the Final Decision

Before your trial ends, ask yourself a few questions:

• How many audiobooks did I listen to during my trial?
• Did I enjoy the experience of listening?
• Is there content I want to listen to that requires credits?
• Does the monthly cost fit comfortably within my entertainment budget?
  Your answers will guide you toward the right decision. For many, once they integrate audiobooks into their daily routine, the value becomes self-evident.

Pros and Cons of Using Audible with a Prime Membership

Making an informed decision means weighing the good against the bad. Here’s a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of linking Audible with your Prime account.

Pros: The Clear Advantages

• Enhanced Free Trial: The biggest pro is the two-credit free trial for Prime members. This is a genuinely valuable offer that lets you acquire two premium audiobooks of your choice for free.
• Seamless Integration: Using your existing Amazon login is convenient. All your purchases are tied to one central account, simplifying account management.
• Access to the Plus Catalog: Even during the trial, Prime members get to experience the full breadth of the Plus Catalog, which is a massive library of included content.
• Exclusive Deals: While not guaranteed, Prime Day and other Amazon sale events often feature special discounts on Audible memberships or credits for Prime members.
• Building a Library: The credit system for Premium Plus members allows you to build a permanent digital library of audiobooks you own and can access forever.

Cons: The Potential Downsides

• It’s Not Free: The most significant “con” is that the service isn’t included with Prime. This is the primary source of confusion and can be a disappointment for those who expect it to be.
• Automatic Renewal: The free trial automatically converts to a paid subscription. If you forget to cancel, you will be charged $14.95. You need to be mindful of your trial end date.
• Credit Expiration: Monthly credits expire. While you have a year to use them, if you’re not a consistent listener, you can lose credits you’ve paid for.
• Value Depends on Usage: The service is only a good value if you use it. If you pay for a Premium Plus subscription but only listen to one book every three months, you’d be better off buying books individually.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much is Audible for Prime members after the free trial?

After the 30-day free trial, Audible costs the same for Prime and non-Prime members. The Audible Plus plan is about $7.95/month, and the Audible Premium Plus plan (with one credit) is $14.95/month. Prime membership does not provide an ongoing monthly discount.

2. Can I get the two free credits if I’ve used Audible before?

The two-credit trial offer is typically reserved for new Audible customers who are also Prime members. If you have subscribed or had a trial in the past, you will likely only be eligible for the standard one-credit trial offer when you sign up again.

3. What happens to my audiobooks if I cancel my Audible subscription?

Any audiobooks you purchased with a credit or with cash are yours to keep forever in your library. You can access and listen to them anytime, even after canceling your membership. You will, however, lose access to all titles from the Audible Plus Catalog.

4. Is the Audible Plus Catalog the same for everyone?

Yes, the content within the Audible Plus Catalog is the same for both Audible Plus and Audible Premium Plus members. The library is curated by Audible and rotates periodically, but your membership tier does not affect which included titles you can access.

5. Can my family members use my Audible account through Amazon Household?

While Amazon Household sharing works for many digital benefits, sharing paid Audible membership benefits is limited. Another adult in your Amazon Household cannot access your Plus Catalog content or use your credits. However, you can share the audiobooks you’ve purchased by playing them on an Amazon Echo device in your home.

6. Are there any other hidden Prime perks for Audible?

Occasionally, Amazon offers small, exclusive perks. For example, during some promotional periods, Prime members might be offered a selection of a few specific audiobooks to listen to for free, separate from the Plus Catalog. These offers are rare and time-sensitive, so it’s best to check the Audible or Amazon homepage regularly.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You

To circle back to our original question, is Audible free with Prime? No, it is not. A full Audible membership is a separate subscription service. However, the synergy between the two is undeniable. Amazon Prime membership acts as a key that unlocks the best possible entry point into the world of Audible: a generous free trial that gives you two free, premium audiobooks to keep forever and a month of unlimited access to the thousands of titles in the Audible Plus Catalog. This trial provides more than enough value and content to help you decide if the service fits into your life.

Your decision to continue with a paid plan should be based on your listening habits and budget. If you are a voracious listener who loves discovering new things, the Audible Plus plan offers incredible value. If you are an avid reader who wants to own the latest bestsellers and build a personal library, the Audible Premium Plus plan is tailored for you. By understanding the specific benefits, membership tiers, and vast content library, you can move past the initial confusion and make a strategic choice that enhances your entertainment and learning, turning idle time into an opportunity for growth and enjoyment.