Once upon a time if you wanted to stream quality content on your television, your absolute best bet was obvious. Pay for Netflix and be done with it.
In 2023? It's a different game. The streaming market has splintered. Now there's so much choice it's almost overwhelming. We have Netflix, we have Prime Video, we have Disney Plus, we have Stan, we have Binge…
It's a lot.
That's why we've decided to spend a bit of time going through the big streaming services, to help you decide which one to choose.
In this article we're comparing the two most popular services: Netflix and Prime Video.
A quick note before we begin. This comparison is based on content and content alone. Because of this, there's going to be a fair amount of subjectivity involved.
For a comprehensive, objective review based on performance, stability and usability, CHOICE also has you covered. Read more on how each streaming service stacks up according to those metrics.
Now we've got that covered, let's begin.
If you like movies…
You should probably go with Prime Video.
While Netflix has a huge library of movies, Prime Video wins out here in terms of sheer volume. According to our quick check on streaming guide JustWatch, Prime Video has around 7900 movies available to watch, compared to Netflix with around 4300.
Movies, especially older, classic movies, are one of Prime Videos main strengths. It's worth mentioning though that Netflix has a fantastic, ever-growing back catalogue of original movies – some of which are Oscar winners.
At CHOICE we always say it's worth rotating services after a few months. While Prime Video is probably best overall for sheer volume of movies, Netflix has a few can't-miss flicks also.
If you like TV shows…
You should probably go with Netflix.
In terms of volume, Netflix edges out Prime Video. We'd also argue that it's superior in terms of quality, despite some poorly received original TV shows recently.
But Prime Video isn't miles behind. There are plenty of great TV shows on Amazon's streaming service, including critic favourite, Deadloch, an Australian murder mystery set in Tasmania.
If you like documentaries…You should probably go with Netflix.
According to the numbers, Prime Video has more documentary content than Netflix. But that includes a lot of fairly sub-par reality TV content. If you're looking for high quality documentaries – be it nature, true crime, or historical – Netflix is king.
Netflix has invested heavily in world-class documentaries, and it shows. Its documentary library is arguably reason enough to stay subscribed.
If you like sport…
You should probably go with Prime Video.
Neither Netflix nor Prime Video are really that good for sports fans. It's best to go with Kayo or Stan Sports if you're looking for live sport.
That said, Prime Video has a fantastic library of fly-on-the-wall documentaries about sport, particularly its All or Nothing series. So, if looking for sport-related shows, best to go with Prime Video.
You won't find much live sport on Netflix or Prime Video.
If you have kids…
We think it's worth going with Netflix here.
Netflix has one of the best libraries of children's content out there, with a great mix of original programming and licensed content. Maybe only Disney Plus can compete on quality.
If you like anime…
You should go with Netflix.
Netflix has been quietly accumulating a great library of anime. At the time of writing there are classics like 'One Piece' and 'Hajime no Ippo', alongside the legendary Studio Ghibli library.
But Netflix has also invested in original anime programming. This means you have access to cutting edge new anime shows like 'Cyberpunk Edgerunners' that you can't watch anywhere else.
Anime fans will find a lot to love on Netflix.
But ultimately…
The choice is yours.
It's always best to check what's available on each service to get an idea of what you prefer. Content aggregators such as JustWatch provide up-to-date summaries of what's available on all streaming platforms.
And it always makes sense to rotate. Don't be afraid to swap subscriptions, or suspend them in order to try another service for a few months.
It's also worth noting that there are many streaming services out there, like SBS On Demand and ABC iView, that are completely free.
We're on your side
In more than 60 years of making a difference for Australian consumers, we've never taken ads or sponsorship.
Instead we're funded by members who value expert reviews and independent product testing.
With no self-interest behind our advice, you don't just buy smarter, you get the answers that you need.
You know without hesitation what's safe for you and your family.
And you'll never be alone when something goes wrong or a business treats you unfairly.
Learn more about CHOICE membership today
Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.
