Paramount Plus is not included with a standard Prime Video membership

Paramount Plus is a separate streaming service owned by Paramount Global. It does not come with an Amazon Prime Video subscription. If you want to watch Paramount Plus content, you need to pay for it directly or add it as a channel through Prime Video.

Amazon Prime Video does let you add Paramount Plus as an add-on subscription, which means you can watch both services in one place without switching apps. The add-on costs the same as subscribing to Paramount Plus on its own — currently $5.99 per month with ads or $11.99 per month ad-free, though these prices vary by region and change over time.

Key Takeaways

  • Paramount Plus requires its own subscription and does not come free with Prime Video membership.
  • You can add Paramount Plus as a channel through Prime Video so you watch it without leaving the Prime app.
  • The price of Paramount Plus through Prime Video is the same as subscribing directly to Paramount Plus.
  • Some Paramount Plus content is exclusive to the service and will not appear on Prime Video's main catalog.
  • You can cancel Paramount Plus anytime through your Prime Video account settings without affecting your Prime membership.

How to add Paramount Plus through Prime Video

If you have a Prime Video account, you can add Paramount Plus directly from the Prime Video app or website. Open Prime Video, go to the menu or settings, and look for "Channels" or "Add-ons." Search for Paramount Plus, select it, and choose your subscription tier — with ads or ad-free.

Once you add it, Paramount Plus content appears in your Prime Video app alongside other shows and movies. You do not need a separate Paramount Plus account or app, though you can use either one to watch. Your billing goes through Amazon, and the charge appears on your Amazon account statement each month.

The process takes just a few minutes, and you can start watching when ready after you confirm your payment method. If you already have a Paramount Plus account from a direct subscription, you can link it to Prime Video instead of creating a new one.

Differences between Prime Video and Paramount Plus

Prime Video and Paramount Plus have different libraries. Prime Video includes movies and shows from many studios, plus original series like The Boys and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Paramount Plus focuses on content from Paramount Global, which owns CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and the Paramount film studio.

Paramount Plus has exclusive shows and movies you will not find on Prime Video — for example, Star Trek series, Yellowstone, and new Paramount theatrical films after their cinema run ends. If you want access to both libraries, you need both subscriptions. Adding Paramount Plus as a Prime channel gives you both without managing two separate apps.

The two services also differ in their original content strategy. Prime Video releases movies and series across many genres and from various production companies. Paramount Plus prioritizes content tied to Paramount's own studios and networks, which means its catalog reflects what those entities produce.

When to subscribe directly versus through Prime Video

Subscribing to Paramount Plus directly through the Paramount Plus app or website works the same way as adding it through Prime Video — the price and content are identical. The only difference is convenience. If you already use Prime Video regularly, adding Paramount Plus as a channel means one app instead of two.

If you do not have Prime Video or prefer to keep your subscriptions separate, you can subscribe to Paramount Plus on its own. You will get the same service and the same content either way. Some people find it easier to manage multiple apps; others prefer everything in one place. Neither choice affects what you can watch or how much you pay.

Direct subscription to Paramount Plus also works on devices where Prime Video may not be available, so if you use a specific streaming device or smart TV, check whether both apps are supported before deciding which route to take.

Checking what Paramount Plus content is available in your region

Paramount Plus libraries vary by country. In the United States, the service includes CBS shows, movies, and original series. In other regions, the content mix differs because of licensing agreements and local rights.

Before you subscribe, visit the Paramount Plus website or app for your region to see what shows and movies are currently available. This gives you a real picture of whether the service has content you want to watch. Availability also changes — shows get added and removed as licensing agreements expire or renew.

If you are traveling or moving to a different country, keep in mind that your Paramount Plus subscription may not work the same way outside your home region. Some content is geo-restricted, so check the service's terms for your location before committing to a subscription.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch Paramount Plus on Prime Video without paying extra?

No. Paramount Plus requires a separate subscription whether you watch it through the Paramount Plus app or add it as a channel in Prime Video. There is no free tier that comes with Prime Video membership.

Do I need both Prime Video and Paramount Plus?

Only if you want content from both services. Prime Video and Paramount Plus have different libraries. If you only want to watch one service's content, you only need that one subscription.

Is the Paramount Plus price different if I add it through Prime Video?

No. The monthly cost is the same whether you subscribe directly to Paramount Plus or add it as a Prime Video channel. Billing goes through Amazon instead of Paramount, but the price does not change.

Can I cancel Paramount Plus if I add it through Prime Video?

Yes. You can remove it from your Prime Video channels anytime, and your subscription ends at the end of your current billing cycle. Go to your Prime Video account settings and manage your channels to cancel.

What shows are exclusive to Paramount Plus?

Paramount Plus originals like Star Trek: Discovery, Yellowstone, and The Good Fight are exclusive to the service. New Paramount theatrical films also premiere on Paramount Plus before appearing elsewhere. Check the Paramount Plus app or website to see the full current list.