Audible Subscription Cost – How To Pick The Right Plan – [Nov 2023]

Before smartphones came along to steal the show, my bathroom breaks were all about mastering the art of balancing books and magazines without dropping them in awkward places.

And then, I discovered Audible – a game-changer. You’re probably here because you too love Audible (or may be just checking it out).

But, like trying to find matching socks, choosing the right Audible subscription plan can be a bit of a pickle.

Do you go for the $7.95 Audible Plus plan, which is like an all-you-can-eat buffet from the Plus catalog? Or do you upgrade to the $14.95 Premium Plus, which throws in some extra goodies like a free monthly audiobook and exclusive discounts? How much should you spend as your monthly or yearly Audible subscription cost?

Don’t stress, this blog post is here to help. We’ll guide you towards the perfect Audible plan that suits your needs and listening habits. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Audible Plans – comparison

Here’s a quick view of the various Audible plans.

Audible Plans - comparison

What’s the right Plan for Me?

Let’s walk through each of the plans in more detail.

Audible Plus

— $7.95/month, For Casual listeners

What’s included?

  • Unlimited streaming and listening from the Plus Catalog – Audible originals, podcasts, sleep tracks, meditation programs + other short form content

It is for you, if you

  • Like short form content – Audible Originals, Sleep tracks, Meditation programs, Podcasts
  • 400+ free Audiobooks
  • Want to discover new and exciting content
  • Listen to Audiobooks occasionally (not more than 1 audiobook every 2-3 months)
  • Want to have access to a large library of Audiobooks
  • Buy Audiobooks cheaper than the paperback version

Who is it NOT for?

  • Anyone who wants to regularly listen to complete audiobooks

Audible Premium Plus – 12 credits/year

— $14.95/monthly or $149.5/annually – For regular listeners

What’s included?

  • Unlimited streaming and listening from the Plus Catalog
  • 1 credit / month – buy any book of your choice from the premium library (& keep forever)
  • 30% discount on additional titles
  • Access to exclusive sales

It is for you, if you

  • Listen to audiobooks regularly (at least 8 to 10 per year)
  • Buy Audiobooks cheaper than the paperback version
  • Buy additional titles at 30% discount

Who is it NOT for?

  • Anyone who listens to more than 18 audiobooks in a year – you should switch to 24 credits/year
  • Anyone who listens to less than 8 audiobooks in a year – you should switch to Audible plus & only buy the books you intend to listen to. You’ll more likely burn credits if you choose this plan

Audible Premium Plus – 24 credits/year

— $22.95/monthly or $229.5/annually – For regular listeners

What’s included?

  • Unlimited streaming and listening from the Plus Catalog
  • 2 credits / month – buy any two books of your choice from the premium library (& keep forever)
  • 30% discount on additional titles
  • Access to exclusive sales

It is for you, if you

  • Listen to audiobooks regularly (at least 20 per year)
  • Buy Audiobooks cheaper than the paperback version
  • Buy additional titles at 30% discount

Who is it NOT for?

  • Anyone who listens to between 10 to 18 audiobooks in a year – you should switch to 12 credits/year
  • Anyone who listens to less than 8 audiobooks in a year – you should switch to Audible plus & only buy the books you intend to listen to. You’ll more likely burn the credits on this plan

Disclosure: This site is user supported. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can help me buy a coffee or two at no extra cost to you if you decide to purchase a paid plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most popular questions about Audible answered as their own blogs

How much does Audible Premium Plus subscription cost?

Audible Premium Plus subscription is priced at $14.95 per month. It offers benefits such as monthly credits, access to the Audible Plus Catalog, and exclusive deals on premium audiobooks.

What are Audible credits, and how do they work?

Audible credits are used to purchase audiobooks on the platform. With Audible Premium Plus, you receive one credit per month, which can be used to obtain any audiobook, including premium selection titles.

Can I get all the audiobooks with Audible Premium Plus?

With Audible Premium Plus, you have access to a vast collection of audiobooks, including the Audible Plus Catalog, which offers unlimited audiobooks. However, certain premium titles may require the use of credits.

What is the Audible Plus Catalog?

The Audible Plus Catalog is a collection of audiobooks, podcasts, sleep & meditation tracks and exclusive content available to Audible members at no extra cost. It provides unlimited listening to a wide range of titles.

How many monthly credits are included in Audible plans?

Audible Premium Plus provides one monthly credit that can be used to purchase any audiobook. Other Audible premium plus subscription plans may offer a different number of credits based on their specific terms.

Do Audible credits have an expiration date?

Yes, Audible credits typically have a one-year expiration period. It’s recommended to utilize your credits before they expire to make the most of your subscription. If you plan to cancel audible account, remember to buy books for any unused credits.

How do I cancel audible membership?

Login to Audible website (not on the mobile app), and click account details. From there, the account details page will give you the option to pause (up to three months) or cancel audible membership.

Does Audible offer any deals or promotions?

Audible frequently provides exclusive deals and promotions to its members, including discounts on premium audiobooks and limited-time offers. These deals can help you expand your audiobook collection at a lower cost.

Is there a way to enjoy Audible for free?

Audible offers a free trial for new members, allowing them to explore the platform and listen to audiobooks at no cost for a limited period. Additionally, Amazon Prime members may have access to free audiobooks as part of their membership benefits.

Are Audible books included in Kindle Unlimited?

No, Audible books are not included in Kindle Unlimited. Kindle Unlimited is a separate subscription service that offers access to a vast collection of ebooks, but it does not include audiobooks from Audible.

What are the different Audible plans available and their costs?

Audible offers various subscription plans, including Audible Plus, Audible Premium Plus, and Audible Premium Plus Annual. The costs vary depending on the plan, with prices starting at $7.95 per month for Audible Plus and $14.95 per month for Audible Premium Plus.

Can I turn my unused credits into a gift?

Yes, you can turn your unused credits into a gift. Simply choose the book->More Options->Give as a git. You can either email or physically print it out. It can also be a cool Christmas gift!

What if I don’t like an Audiobook, can I get a credit refund?

Yes, you can request for a credit refund on Audible. It is a simple click of a button: Go to purchase history->select title->Return this title->Confirm

Audible Premium Plus vs Plus

Once you have decided that Audible is for you, the next question is – what is the right audible plan for me? The table below outlines the differences between the two plans.

FeatureAudible PlusAudible Premium Plus
Access to Plus CatalogYesYes
Access to Premium SelectionNoYes, with credits
Credits to purchase titlesNoYes, depending on plan
# of Credits per monthNo1 or 2, depending on plan
Credit ExpirationN/A12 months from issue date
Discounts on additional purchasesNoYes, up to 30% off
Access to exclusive salesNoYes
Cost$7.95 per month$14.95 – $22.95 per month; $149.50 – $229.50 per year
Best ForCasual listeners of podcasts and limited selection of audiobooksIntense listeners who really listen to Audiobooks (at least 1 or more a month) + buy additional books on discounts
Audible Premium Plus vs Plus

Pricing

One of the key factors that differentiate Audible Plus from Premium Plus is pricing. Audible Plus costs $7.95 per month, while Premium Plus costs $14.95 per month. Both plans come with a 30-day free trial, so you can try them out before committing.

Credits

Another significant difference between these two plans is the credit system. With Premium Plus, you receive one credit per month that you can use to purchase any audiobook, regardless of its price. If you don’t use your credit in a given month, it rolls over to the next month. In contrast, Audible Plus doesn’t offer credits. Instead, you get access to a rotating selection of over 11,000 audiobooks and a range of Audible Originals.

Library Size

While Premium Plus offers access to Audible’s entire library of over 500,000 audiobooks, Audible Plus has a smaller selection of around 11,000 audiobooks. However, Audible Plus includes exclusive Audible Originals that Premium Plus does not offer.

Membership Benefits

Both Audible Plus and Premium Plus offer additional benefits to subscribers. For instance, both plans provide members with discounts on audiobooks and access to the Audible app, which allows you to listen to audiobooks on different devices. However, Premium Plus subscribers also get unlimited access to a selection of podcasts, exclusive sales, and complimentary digital subscriptions to The New York Times or The Wall Street Journal.

Which Plan Should You Choose?

Choosing between Audible Plus and Premium Plus comes down to your listening habits and budget. If you’re a casual listener who doesn’t want to spend too much money, Audible Plus is the ideal plan for you. It offers a good selection of audiobooks, including Audible Originals, at an affordable price.

On the other hand, if you’re a dedicated audiobook listener who wants access to a broad library and exclusive benefits, Premium Plus is the better option. With one credit per month, you’ll have access to any audiobook regardless of its price, and you’ll enjoy additional benefits, such as unlimited access to specific podcasts and exclusive sales.

Regardless, you can start with a free trial and identify what works best for you.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can help me buy a coffee or two if you decide to purchase a paid plan. These are products I’ve personally used and stand behind.

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Audible Subscription Options and Price

When considering to become an audible member with paid subscription, it’s important to understand the available options and their associated costs. Audible offers several membership plans, including monthly and annual subscriptions. The cost varies based on the plan you choose, but it provides great value considering the number of books you gain access to. In this section, we will explore the different subscription options and discuss the benefits of each.

Audible subscription cost – Monthly Subscription

Audible’s monthly subscription plan is a popular choice for many users. Priced at $14.95 per month, it offers one credit per month, which can be exchanged for any audiobook in the library, regardless of its price. Additionally, members receive a 30% discount on any additional audiobook purchases beyond the monthly credit. This plan is ideal for those who prefer a flexible commitment and want to explore a variety of titles without a long-term commitment.

The pricing may vary slightly depending on your region / currency. Check here for Audible pricing specific to your market.

Audible subscription cost- Annual Subscription

For users who are committed to enjoying audiobooks throughout the year, Audible offers an annual subscription plan. Priced at $149.50 per year (equivalent to $12.46 per month), this plan provides 12 audible credit upfront, which can be used at any time.

Similar to the monthly subscription, members also receive a 30% discount on additional audiobook purchases. The annual subscription offers a more cost-effective option for dedicated audiobook enthusiasts and allows for greater planning and flexibility in selecting and enjoying audiobooks.

Audible Plus

In addition to the credit-based subscription plans, Audible introduced Audible Plus, a new subscription option that provides unlimited access to a wide selection of premium audiobook /audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals.

Priced at $7.95 per month, Audible Plus is perfect for users who want to explore a vast collection of content without the need for credits. Although Audible Plus does not include credits for premium titles, it offers a budget-friendly option for discovering new authors, genres, and exclusive content.

When it comes to pricing, Audible offers competitive rates that make audiobooks more accessible to a broader audience. The subscription plans provide great value, considering the cost of individual audiobooks can range from $10 to $50 or more. Moreover, with any subscription plan, members can take advantage of frequent promotions, deals, and seasonal discounts offered by Audible, allowing for further savings and an even more rewarding listening experience.

Exploring the Extensive Audiobook Library

One of Audible’s greatest strengths is its extensive library of audible audiobooks. With over millions of titles across various genres, Audible ensures that there’s something for every reader. Whether you’re into fiction, self-help, business, or even educational content, Audible’s library has you covered. In this section, we’ll discuss how Audible’s library is structured, highlight popular titles, and share tips for discovering hidden gems.

Audible’s library is thoughtfully organized to make it easy for users to navigate and find their next great listen. The audiobooks are categorized by genres – fiction, mystery, romance, science fiction, self-help, business, biography, and many more. Each genre has subcategories, allowing you to narrow down your search based on your specific interests.

Additionally, Audible offers curated collections and recommendations based on your reading history, providing personalized suggestions to help you discover new titles.

Within the extensive library, there are several popular audiobooks that have captivated readers worldwide. One such example is “Becoming” by Michelle Obama, an inspiring memoir that chronicles her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House. Another highly acclaimed title is “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson, a self-help book that challenges conventional wisdom and offers a refreshing perspective on living a meaningful life.

To enhance your audiobook discovery experience, Audible offers various features and tools. The “Recommended for You” section suggests titles based on your past listening preferences, ensuring that you always have personalized recommendations at your fingertips. You can also browse through customer reviews and ratings to get insights from other readers before diving into a new audiobook. Additionally, Audible provides sample clips for most audiobooks, allowing you to listen to a preview and determine if the narrator’s voice and style resonate with you.

If you’re looking to explore beyond popular titles, Audible has a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. You can browse through the “New Releases” section to find the latest audiobooks across various genres. The “Audible Originals” category features exclusive content created by Audible, including podcasts, audio dramas, and performances. These Originals offer a unique listening experience and often feature renowned authors, celebrities, and talented narrators.

Audible’s library also caters to language learners, with a wide selection of audiobooks available in different languages. With such a vast and diverse library, Audible ensures that you’ll never run out of options or get bored with your audiobook choices. The combination of popular bestsellers, hidden gems, and personalized recommendations makes Audible a go-to platform for audiobook enthusiasts.

If you want more credits / books, you might be interested in buying more. Here’s a brief of the additional plans.

Audible Subscription Options and Price

Features and Benefits of Audible Membership

Audible offers a range of features designed to enhance the audiobook listening experience and make it more convenient for members. Additionally, membership comes with various benefits that add value to the subscription. Let’s explore these features and benefits in detail.

One of the standout features of Audible is the ability to customize the narration speed. Whether you prefer a slower pace to savor the details or a faster tempo to consume books more quickly, Audible allows you to adjust the playback speed to your liking. This feature is particularly useful for language learners who may benefit from slower narration or for those who want to breeze through their reading list.

Another handy feature is the ability to bookmark favorite sections in an audiobook. With a simple tap, you can mark important passages, memorable quotes, or points you want to revisit later. This feature enables easy reference and makes it convenient to revisit specific parts of a book without the need for manual note-taking.

Syncing across devices is yet another valuable feature offered by Audible. Whether you’re listening on your smartphone during your commute, on a tablet while relaxing at home, or on a computer during work breaks, Audible ensures that your progress and bookmarks are synchronized across all your devices. This seamless syncing allows you to switch between devices without losing your place in the audiobook.

Audible membership also provides access to exclusive discounts on additional audiobooks. As a member, you’ll enjoy reduced prices on selected titles, allowing you to expand your library without breaking the bank. This benefit is especially advantageous for avid readers who go through multiple audiobooks each month.

Additionally, members have the opportunity to enjoy free Audible Originals. These are exclusive audio productions created by Audible, featuring a diverse range of content such as podcasts, audio dramas, and performances. Audible Originals offer unique and engaging listening experiences, often featuring renowned authors, celebrities, and talented narrators. These exclusive productions are a great way to discover new voices and explore different genres.

Members also gain access to members-only sales and promotions. Periodically, Audible offers discounts and special deals exclusively for its members, providing additional opportunities to save on audiobooks. These sales allow members to take advantage of significant savings and explore new titles or indulge in their favorite authors.

Furthermore, Audible offers a generous listening guarantee for its members. If you’re not satisfied with an audiobook, you can exchange it for another title within a specified time frame. This guarantee ensures that you can explore new genres or authors without the fear of wasting your credits on books that don’t resonate with you.

In addition to these features, membership includes other conveniences such as offline listening. This is particularly useful when traveling or in areas with limited network coverage.

Overall, Audible membership comes with a range of features and benefits that enhance the listening experience and add value to the subscription. The ability to customize narration speed, bookmark favorite sections, and sync across devices ensures a seamless and personalized audiobook journey. Exclusive discounts, free Audible Originals, members-only sales, and the listening guarantee further enhance the value of membership.

In the next section, we’ll explore the process of signing up for an Audible subscription, including the free trial period and the different membership plans available.

Audible Free Trial and Membership Options

If you’re new to Audible, you might be interested in exploring the platform before committing to a paid membership. Fortunately, Audible offers a free trial period that allows you to experience the service firsthand. Let’s walk you through the process of signing up for the trial and explain the different membership options available after the trial ends.

During the free trial period, which typically lasts 30 days, you’ll have access to the full range of Audible’s features and benefits. This includes the ability to browse and listen to audiobooks from the vast library, customize your listening experience, and take advantage of member-exclusive discounts and promotions. The free trial allows you to get a comprehensive understanding of the service and determine if it meets your expectations.

After the trial period ends, you have the option to continue your Audible membership by choosing one of the available subscription plans. Audible offers several membership options to cater to different preferences and reading habits. The most common plans include monthly and annual subscriptions.

The monthly subscription plan is ideal for those who want flexibility and prefer paying on a monthly basis. With this plan, you pay a fixed monthly fee and receive one credit per month, which can be used to purchase any audiobook from Audible’s library. Additionally, as a monthly subscriber, you’ll enjoy a 30% discount on all additional audiobook purchases.

If you’re a voracious listener or plan to use Audible extensively, the annual subscription plan might be a better fit for you. This plan offers a discounted rate when you pay for a full year upfront. With an annual subscription, you receive 12 credits at once, which can be used to redeem 12 audiobooks throughout the year. Similar to the monthly plan, you also benefit from a 30% discount on additional audiobook purchases.

Regardless of the membership plan you choose, it’s important to note that all Audible subscriptions come with the same set of features and benefits. These include the ability to customize narration speed, sync your progress across devices, access members-only sales, and enjoy free Audible Originals.

In addition to the standard membership options, Audible occasionally introduces promotional offers and special deals. These may include discounted rates for new members or limited-time promotions that provide additional credits or benefits. It’s worth keeping an eye out for such promotions, as they can offer even more value for your Audible subscription.

User Reviews and Feedback

To provide a comprehensive overview of Audible, it’s essential to include user reviews and feedback. Hearing from other Audible users can give valuable insights into their experiences with the service, allowing you to make an informed decision about whether Audible is the right audiobook service for you. Let’s explore what Audible users have to say, highlighting both positive and negative experiences.

Positive reviews of Audible often focus on the vast selection of audiobooks available in the library. Users appreciate the extensive range of genres and titles, allowing them to discover new authors, explore different genres, and enjoy their favorite books in a new format. Many users also highlight the high quality of narrators and production value, which adds to the overall listening experience.

Furthermore, users frequently praise the convenience and flexibility of Audible. The ability to listen to audiobooks on the go, whether during commutes, workouts, or household chores, is highly valued. The synchronization feature, which allows users to seamlessly switch between devices without losing their progress, is also frequently mentioned as a convenient feature.

Another aspect that receives positive feedback is the membership benefits, such as exclusive discounts and promotions, as well as the availability of free Audible Originals. Users appreciate the value for money that Audible provides, especially for avid audiobook listeners who can make the most of their credits and discounts.

On the other hand, negative reviews of Audible typically revolve around a few common concerns. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the subscription cost, particularly if they don’t utilize their monthly credits fully or find the price too high compared to other audiobook services. Others have encountered issues with customer support, reporting difficulties in resolving billing or technical problems.

Occasionally, users may find certain audiobooks to have subpar narration or production quality, impacting their overall experience. While the vast majority of Audible users are satisfied with the narrators and production value, occasional disappointments can occur due to personal preferences or variations in quality across different audiobooks.

It’s important to note that user experiences and opinions can vary greatly, as individual preferences and expectations differ. Therefore, it’s recommended to read multiple reviews and consider both positive and negative feedback to form a balanced understanding of Audible’s strengths and weaknesses.

Book Summary Apps: An Alternative to Audible

When it comes to expanding your knowledge through books, Audible has been a popular choice for audiobook enthusiasts. However, if you’re seeking a different approach to learning, book summary apps offer a compelling alternative. One such app is Blinkist, which provides concise summaries and key insights from a vast library of non-fiction titles.

Unlike Audible’s full-length audiobooks, Blinkist offers condensed versions of books, allowing you to grasp the main ideas and concepts in a fraction of the time. With Blinkist, you can explore a wide range of topics and authors, effortlessly absorbing valuable knowledge in bite-sized portions.

Whether you’re looking to explore new subjects or revisit classic works, book summary apps like Blinkist, Headway App, getAbstract etc., offer a convenient way to learn and stay informed. If you’re curious to experience the benefits of book summaries, try Blinkist for free today and embark on a journey of efficient and insightful learning.

Wrap Up

In conclusion, Audible proves to be an exceptional audiobook service for enthusiasts and avid readers alike. With its extensive library, user-friendly app, and valuable membership perks, Audible offers a premium experience that enhances the joy of reading in an entirely new way. By providing access to millions of titles across various genres, Audible ensures that there is something for everyone, from fiction lovers to self-help enthusiasts and business-minded individuals.

The convenience and flexibility of the Audible app make it easy to enjoy audiobooks on the go, transforming mundane activities like commuting, exercising, or doing household chores into enjoyable and educational experiences. The ability to customize narration speed, bookmark favorite sections, and seamlessly sync across devices further enhances the overall listening experience.

Moreover, Audible’s membership benefits, including exclusive discounts, free Audible Originals, and access to members-only sales, provide added value for subscribers. The option to start with a free trial allows newcomers to explore the service firsthand and understand its offerings before committing to a paid membership.

So why wait? Dive into the world of Audible today and embark on a new chapter of reading enjoyment. Whether you’re a long-time audiobook enthusiast or just beginning to explore this captivating medium, Audible is ready to accompany you on your literary adventures. Sign up for the free trial, browse the extensive library, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of audiobooks with Audible. Happy listening!

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