Netflix's current pricing and plan tiers

Netflix offers four subscription tiers in the United States: Basic, Standard, Premium, and Basic with Ads. Each tier costs a different amount and includes different features — mainly the number of screens you can watch on simultaneously and video quality. As of now, Basic costs $6.99 per month, Basic with Ads costs $6.99 per month, Standard costs $15.49 per month, and Premium costs $22.99 per month. These prices change periodically, so check Netflix directly for the most current rates.

The main difference between tiers is how many people can watch at the same time and the resolution of the video. Basic and Basic with Ads let one person watch at a time in standard definition (SD). Standard allows two simultaneous streams in high definition (HD). Premium allows four simultaneous streams and supports 4K Ultra HD on compatible devices. Basic with Ads includes commercials; the other three do not.

Key Takeaways

  • Netflix has four tiers ranging from $6.99 to $22.99 per month, with the main differences being simultaneous viewers and video quality.
  • Basic with Ads is the cheapest option but includes advertisements; all other tiers are ad-free.
  • Standard and Premium are designed for households with multiple people watching, while Basic tiers work for single viewers.
  • You can change your plan at any time, and Netflix prorates charges if you upgrade or downgrade mid-month.

What each tier includes and who it's for

The Basic tier ($6.99/month) is the lowest-cost ad-free option. You get one screen at a time and standard definition video quality. This works if you live alone and watch on one device, or if you're willing to take turns with household members. You cannot share your account across multiple homes — Netflix has cracked down on password sharing and now charges extra for out-of-home viewing.

The Basic with Ads tier ($6.99/month) costs the same as Basic but includes advertisements before and during shows and movies. You still get one screen at a time and standard definition. The trade-off is lower cost in exchange for watching ads. The number and length of ads varies by title.

The Standard tier ($15.49/month) removes ads and lets two people watch simultaneously in HD quality. This is the most common choice for couples or small families who watch together sometimes but not always. HD is sharp enough for most TV screens and devices.

The Premium tier ($22.99/month) is the highest tier. It allows four simultaneous streams and supports 4K Ultra HD on compatible devices and internet connections. This tier makes sense for larger households, families with teenagers, or people who want the best possible picture quality on a large TV.

How to change your plan or cancel

You can change your Netflix plan at any time through your account settings. Log in, go to your account menu, select "Plan details," and choose a different tier. The change takes effect immediately, and Netflix adjusts your next billing date based on what you've already paid. If you upgrade mid-month, you'll pay a prorated amount for the remainder of that month, then the new full price the following month. If you downgrade, the new lower price applies to your next billing cycle.

To cancel, go to the same account menu, select "Membership and billing," and choose "Cancel membership." Netflix will ask why you're leaving but does not require a reason. Your access ends at the end of your current billing period — you can still watch until then. If you cancel and rejoin later, you can restore your profile and viewing history.

Shared accounts and extra member fees

Netflix now charges extra if you share your account with people outside your household. When you log in from a new location, Netflix may ask you to verify your account. If someone outside your home uses your account regularly, Netflix will prompt you to add them as an "extra member" for a fee.

The extra member fee varies by region and plan tier. In the United States, adding an extra member typically costs $7.99 per month per person on Standard and Premium plans. Basic and Basic with Ads do not support extra members — you must upgrade to Standard or Premium first. Each extra member gets their own profile, viewing history, and recommendations, but they count toward your simultaneous stream limit.

Comparing Netflix to other streaming services

Netflix's pricing sits in the middle range of major streaming services. Disney+ and Hulu cost less at their entry levels, while some specialty services cost more. The choice between Netflix and competitors often comes down to content — what shows and movies matter most to you. Many households subscribe to multiple services rather than choosing just one.

If you have a Disney Bundle subscription (Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+), the combined cost is often lower than Netflix Premium alone, though the content libraries are different. Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video have different pricing models and content catalogs. Consider which shows and movies you actually watch, then compare the cost of the services that have them.

Free trials and promotional offers

Netflix does not currently offer a free trial period for new subscribers in most regions. In the past, Netflix offered one-month free trials, but this changed several years ago. Some wireless carriers and internet providers occasionally bundle Netflix subscriptions with their plans — check with your provider to see if you have this benefit.

Netflix sometimes runs promotional offers for returning members or offers discounts through third-party platforms. These are not common, and Netflix does not advertise them widely. If you cancel and rejoin months later, you may see a limited-time discount offer, but this is not may provide.

How billing works and payment methods

Netflix charges your payment method on the same day each month. You can pay with a credit card, debit card, PayPal account, or gift card. If a payment fails, Netflix will retry it a few times before suspending your account. You can update your payment method in your account settings at any time.

If you pay with a gift card, the balance is applied to your account and used for monthly charges until it runs out. After that, you need to add another payment method. Netflix does not prorate refunds if you cancel mid-month — you keep access through the end of your billing period, but you do not receive money back for unused time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch Netflix on multiple devices at the same time?

It depends on your plan. Basic and Basic with Ads allow one screen at a time. Standard allows two simultaneous streams, and Premium allows four. If you exceed your plan's limit, Netflix will ask you to stop watching on one device before you can start on another.

What internet speed do I need for 4K on Netflix?

Netflix recommends at least 25 Mbps for 4K streaming. You also need a compatible device and a 4K TV or monitor. Not all Netflix content is available in 4K — check the title details to see what resolutions are offered.

If I downgrade my plan, do I lose my saved shows and watchlist?

No. Your profile, watchlist, viewing history, and recommendations stay the same regardless of which tier you're on. Downgrading only changes video quality and how many people can watch simultaneously.

Can I use the same Netflix account in two different homes?

Netflix allows you to use your account in different locations, but not simultaneously from different homes. If you regularly watch from a second location, Netflix will ask you to verify your account or add that person as an extra member, which requires a fee.

What happens if I don't pay my Netflix bill?

Netflix will retry your payment method several times over a few days. If all attempts fail, your account is suspended and you lose access to watch. Once you update your payment method and the charge goes through, your access is restored immediately.