Audible is Amazon’s audiobook service, and with more than a million titles available, it is also the largest audiobook platform in the world.
Still, it can feel a little confusing at first to understand how it actually works.
Here’s the short answer:
Audible works through memberships. Depending on the plan you choose, you may get audiobook credits, access to Audible’s streaming catalog, or both.
Some memberships let you keep audiobooks forever, while others only give you access for as long as your membership is active.
That is the basic idea. But there are a few important details you should know before signing up.
In this guide, I will explain how Audible works, the membership options available today, the features it offers, and whether it is worth it for you.
Table of Contents:
- How Does an Audible Membership Work?
- Audible Membership Plans Explained
- Audible Credits: The Most Confusing Part
- Understanding Audible Basics
- What Happens If You Cancel Audible?
- Best Way to Try Audible for Beginners
- Frequently Asked Questions
How Does an Audible Membership Work?
Audible runs on a subscription model. You sign up with your Amazon account, choose a membership plan, and start listening on your preferred device.
The details depend on the plan you choose:
- With Audible Standard, you can select one audiobook each month from Audible’s collection of over a million titles. You can continue listening to your selected audiobooks for as long as your membership remains active.
- With Audible Premium Plus, you receive monthly credits that can be exchanged for audiobooks. 1 credit = 1 audiobook, regardless of audiobook’s regular price.
Audiobooks bought using credits remain in your library permanently, even if you cancel your membership later.
Premium Plus also includes access to the Audible Plus Catalog, a collection of thousands of audiobooks, podcasts, and Audible Originals that can be streamed while the membership remains active.
Audible Membership Plans Explained
Audible currently offers several membership plans. Here is a quick overview of what each plan costs and the benefits included.
| Plan | Price | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Audible Standard | $8.99/month | Select 1 audiobook per month from Audible’s catalog, plus access to eligible podcasts |
| Premium Plus (1 Credit) | $14.95/month | 1 credit per month, Plus Catalog and podcast access, member discounts |
| Premium Plus (2 Credits) | $22.95/month | 2 credits per month, Plus Catalog and podcast access, member discounts |
| Premium Plus Annual (12 Credits) | $149.50/year | 12 credits upfront, Plus Catalog and podcast access, member discounts |
| Premium Plus Annual (24 Credits) | $229.50/year | 24 credits upfront, Plus Catalog and podcast access, member discounts |
Not sure if Audible is right for you? Most monthly plans come with a free trial for new members, and Prime members sometimes receive additional offers.
If you are considering Audible, it is worth checking the current trial offer before signing up. Amazon occasionally runs special promotions that may give you additional listening time or other benefits.
Audible Standard
Price: $8.99/month
With Audible Standard, you can select one audiobook each month from Audible’s collection of over a million titles and listen to it for as long as your m