Prime Video: The One-Stop Entertainment Streaming Platform (2023)

Out of all the leading streaming platforms today, there is no doubt that Amazon has the most services to offer. From e-commerce shopping to music streaming, an ebook library, and even shipping discounts, Amazon has proven itself to be a reliable one-stop go-to platform for all your needs.

In 2006, Amazon ventured into the media streaming and video-on-demand business, pre-dating today’s most subscribed platform, Netflix. By 2016, Amazon’s streaming services had branched out in many parts of the globe, including Canada. Since then, Prime Video’s launch has given Canadians more access to an unlimited number of media entertainment options. 

Throughout the years, Prime Video has collected nearly 30,000 pieces of content. If you’re looking for blockbuster films, popular TV shows, live sports, premium channels, and exclusive programming, Prime Video ensures that you will never run out of content to indulge in. Prime Video is home to some of the most unmissable shows these past few years, like “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” “Fleabag,” and “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan,” to name a few. 

Prime Video’s defining features include the customers’ hassle-free access to Amazon’s e-commerce perks, video-on-demand services, exclusive streaming content, and a newly improved user interface.

In this detailed review of Prime Video Canada, we will take a look at its features, content, and other exclusive benefits to help you continue to understand and decide if it’s the right streaming platform for you.

What Is Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video Review

• Prime Video is affordable. Clocking in at CAD$9.99 per month and CAD$99.99 per year.
• Prime Video holds the biggest content library, with 26,000+ movies and 2,000+ TV shows.
• Prime Video works with any device that connects to the Internet. It is also compatible with Amazon devices.

Product Specs

• Access to all content
• Multiple personalized profiles
• Convenient integration with other Amazon devices and services
• Offline streaming
• HDR to 4K video resolution
• Compatibility with many devices
• Simultaneous streaming
• Video-on-demand feature
• Live TV broadcasts

Why Should You Get an Amazon Prime Video Canada Subscription

If you’re looking for an affordable platform that delivers more than just streaming, then Prime Video might just be the perfect app for you. Read on to learn about the many benefits you can get with a Prime Video membership that’s worth every penny.

Streaming library

Prime Video has nearly 30,000 shows and movies under its belt and holds the record for the biggest streaming library. From classic TV shows to the highest-grossing films, Prime Video has you covered. Over the years, it has also produced its own original programming that has gained widespread acclaim and recognition. TV series like “Fleabag,” “The Boys,” and “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” are some of the prime examples of the success and quality of Prime Video’s exclusive content. You can also enjoy bonus content from your favorite shows, such as behind-the-scenes clips, extra scenes, and exclusive photos. It is also known for its extensive video-on-demand library, which lets subscribers rent or purchase a show or movie that is not included in their Prime Video membership.

It also provides access to various channels, like AMC, STARZ, Stack TV, Paramount, PBS, Hollywood Suite, and more, which enables users to stream original programming from these networks for an additional fee. This feature also comes with live TV broadcasts from these networks.

Simultaneous screens

Prime Video only allows up to three simultaneous screens, which is not a lot compared to its competitors. Still, this allows different users to watch the stream on various devices at the same time.

Device compatibility

Prime Video supports almost every device out there, such as smartphones, PCs, laptops, smart TVs, and game consoles like the Nintendo Switch and Xbox. It even has its own media player, the Amazon Fire TV Stick.

Parental controls

Prime Video’s parental control settings let parents set up a PIN to restrict children and younger audiences from accessing content that may contain inappropriate themes.

Offline streaming

Users can download shows and movies to their preferred devices when they want to stream offline. This feature is perfect for subscribers who are always on the go with limited internet connections.

Video resolution

You can enjoy and watch your favorite shows at various video quality settings on Prime Video. The platform offers video in UHD, HDR, and 4K.

Enhanced interface

Prime Video was notorious for its substandard, unorganized interface, where its content was all dumped into one horizontal list. This made it difficult for users to locate the titles they wanted to watch and left them with an underwhelming streaming experience. But the platform has recently redesigned its interface into a much more advanced and sleek layout that is quite similar to Netflix’s. Shows are now properly sorted into their respective genres and categories, while a top 10 list of the current most-watched shows is also on display. A “Continue Watching” tab is also available now, which lets you pick up where you left off in a show. However, the platform’s frequent buffering and delayed audio issues still need improvement.

One of Prime Video’s standout features is its X-ray tab. The X-ray option is an interactive feature that gives viewers an in-depth overview of a certain show’s cast, soundtrack, and other production details. To experience Prime Video’s X-ray feature, simply hit pause on the content you’re watching, and a pop-up will appear containing comprehensive information about the current show on your screen.

Exclusive Amazon perks

With a Prime Video subscription, you don’t just get to enjoy TV shows and movies. The Prime Video streaming app is seamlessly integrated with the Amazon online shopping platform. This gives users an opportunity to have exclusive access to Amazon’s e-commerce services and benefits, such as free shipping on selected orders, free same-day deliveries, discounted shopping deals, and many more. The merger between the two platforms creates a streamlined and convenient experience for users, which allows them to browse for and purchase merchandise while enjoying their favorite Prime Video content.

Apart from online shopping, Prime Video also comes with free music streaming through Amazon Prime Music. You can stream over one million songs and browse through thousands of playlists. While it’s no match for major music services like iTunes or Spotify, it’s still a cheaper and decent alternative. Lastly, all Prime Video members are eligible to access Amazon Prime Reading, which includes over 1,000 digital books and magazines that you members can borrow for 10 days.

Pros

• Integration with Amazon
• Video-on-demand feature
• Amazon Music and Ebook 
• Discounts on Amazon
• High-quality original programming
• Bonus content
• Long period trial
• Affordable membership plans
• Video-on-demand feature
• Up to 4K video resolution 
• Compatible with various devices

Cons

• Recurrent buffering and delayed audio issues
• Few simultaneous screens
• Regional restrictions
• Frequent content rotations

So, Should You Subscribe to Prime Video?

If you want a platform that offers more beyond thousands of movies and TV shows, then you should definitely get a Prime Video subscription. Though Prime Video provides a lot of services, the platform remains to have one of the fairest subscription costs compared to most streaming services today.

Amazon Prime Video Cheat Sheet

Price

Prime Video starts at a monthly plan of CAD$9.99 and an annual plan of CAD$99.99

Price increase

Prime Video hasn’t had any price adjustments recently.

Best deals

Monthly plan at CAD$9.99.

Supported devices

Prime Video is compatible with any device, as well as with exclusive Amazon devices.

What’s popular this season

“Fleabag,” “Yellowstone,” “Air,” “The Boys,” “Jury Duty,” “Rings of Power,” “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan”

Coming soon

“The Boys” spin-off “Gen V,” “Bottoms,” “Wheel of Time” Season 2

How Much Is Amazon Prime Video?

After your free trial expires, you can avail yourself of any of Prime Video’s annual or monthly subscription plans. A Prime Video plan comes with free access to thousands of entertainment options that you can stream on various devices at the highest video resolution. Subscribers also get exclusive perks on Amazon’s shopping platform. Keep reading to see how much Prime Video is in Canada.

Prime Video Plans and Pricing

Prime Video offers two membership tiers: annual and monthly, which entail the same benefits and features as prime membership.

Plan	Price	Free Trial	Simultaneous screens	Video Resolution
Monthly	CAD$9.99	30 days	3 devices	UHD to 4K
Annual	CAD$99.99	30 days	3 devices	UHD to 4K

Does Amazon Prime Video Have a Free Trial?

Residents of Canada, excluding those in Quebec, are eligible for Prime Video’s 30-day free trial service. The trial period gives new users a chance to navigate and understand the platform’s features before committing to a paid membership. It gives them access to all of Prime Video’s exclusive content and additional benefits on Amazon’s online shopping platform.

Does Amazon Prime Video Have an Ad-Supported Plan?

No, Prime Video does not offer customers any ad-supported plans. However, the platform does integrate skippable advertisements in between streaming sessions. These ads are usually for other Prime Video content, not third-party network ads.

Are There Amazon Prime Video Gift Cards? 

Yes, Prime Video offers gift cards that you can use as payment for your subscription. Gift cards are available for purchase in various retail stores and also on Amazon if you prefer a digital gift card.

How Do I Sign Up for Amazon Prime Video?

When you create a Prime Video account, you are automatically eligible for its 30-day free trial if you’re already a customer or new user. You can sign up for Prime Video’s free trial on your mobile phone or through a web browser. Here are the different ways to sign up on Prime Video.

On web browsers:

1. Visit the Prime Video website on your browser. www.primevideo.com
2. Click on the “Start Your Free Trial” tab.
3. Select “Create Your Amazon Account.”
4. Enter your name, email address, and password.
5. An OTP will be sent to your email address for verification.
6. Enter the OTP and click “Start Your Free Trial” to confirm your registration.

On your mobile phone:

1. Install the Amazon Prime Video app on your phone from the Google Play Store or App Store.
2. Open the app and tap “Create Your Amazon Account.”
3. Enter your name, email address, and password.
4. Wait for an OTP that will be sent to your email address. 
5. Enter the OTP and tap “Start Your Free Trial” to confirm your registration.

What Devices Does Amazon Prime Video Support?

The platform is compatible with any device that connects to the Internet. Check out the various types of devices where you can enjoy Prime Video.

Mobile devices

• Android Devices
• iOS Devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch)
• Amazon Prime Video for Windows (Windows 10/11)
• Android Automative

Computers

• Amazon Prime Video for Windows (Windows 10/11)
• Amazon Prime Video for Mac 

Web Browsers

• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• Microsoft Edge
• Safari
• Opera

Amazon devices

• Fire TV/Fire TV Stick
• Echo Devices with a Screen (Such as Echo Show, Echo Spot)
• Fire Tablet

Gaming consoles

• Sony PlayStation 3
• Sony PlayStation 4/Pro
• Sony PlayStation 5 (including Digital Edition)
• Microsoft Xbox Series X and Series S
• Microsoft Xbox One

Set top-boxes and media players

• Google Chromecast
• Nvidia Shiel
• Roku
• TiVo
• Apple TV
• Xiaomi
• Sky Q
• Now TV / NOW
• KPN
• Jio
• Elsys
• Bouygues
• SFR
• BCN
• Rogers
• Shaw
• Telstra
• Tatasky
• Airtel
• Iliad
• Masmovil
• Vodafone (Italy)
• Orange (France)
• Vodafone (Spain)
• Telefonica (Peru, Chile, Colombia, Brazil & Argentina)
• Totalplay
• Telecentro
• Telus
• Bell (Canada)
• Megacable
• Foxtel

Smart TV

• Sony
• Samsung
• Panasonic
• LG
• VIZIO
• Hisense
• Philips
• Sharp
• JVC
• Grundig
• TCL
• AOC
• Konka
• Xiaomi
• Skyworth
• Changhong
• Haier
• Vestel
• SKY Glass

Blu-ray players

• Sony
• Samsung
• LG
• Panasonic

Is there a Watch Party Mode?

Yes, Prime Video has a built-in Watch Party feature. This enables users to virtually stream any movie or show with their friends or family, without being together physically. Simply look for the Watch Party icon in any Prime Video content, send an invitation link to your friends, and you’re good to go. Watch Parties allow up to 100 participants. 

​​What Features and Formats Are Supported on Amazon Prime Video?

Unlike other streaming services, all of Prime Video’s subscription tiers offer the same features, except for their duration. Keep reading to see what you’ll get with a Prime Video membership.

Features Included In All Plans

• Users can enjoy their favorite shows and movies in UHD to 4K video resolutions. 
• Prime Video plans do not include ads.
• Access to channels like STRAZ, PBS, AMC Plus, Paramount Plus, City TV, and more, are included in both the monthly and annual plans.
• Each user is also entitled to rent or purchase titles on the platform’s video-on-demand store.
• Annual and monthly plan subscribers are automatically eligible for a 30-day free trial.
• All Prime Video subscribers have access to exclusive shopping perks and discounts on Amazon.

What Can I Watch In Amazon Prime Video?

Prime Video’s catalog showcases a diverse selection of original content, TV shows, and movies encompassing many genres, such as romance, drama, comedy, thrillers, horror, sci-fi, and more. Aside from a handful of original productions, it also boasts thousands of content from other networks like AMC Plus, HBO, STARZ, STACK TV, Paramount Plus, and more, making it the number one streaming platform with the biggest streaming library. Here are some of the best series and movies on Prime Video:

Best Shows

Widely acclaimed original titles like “Fleabag,” “The Boys,” “Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power,” “The Summer I Turned Pretty,”  “The Wheel of Time,” “Swarm,” “The Consultant,” “Jury Duty,” “Citadel,” “Good Omens,” “Sugar,” “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” and “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan,” are some of the notable Prime Video series that you can enjoy with your subscription.

Aside from Prime Video originals, the platform offers thousands of TV shows from networks like STARZ, STACK TV, Paramount, AMC, PBS, hayu, BritBox, Super Channel, Nick Plus, Hollywood Suite, and more. Some of the best series you can binge-watch through the Prime Video channels include, “One Tree Hill,” “Twisted Metal,” “Outlander,” “Sons of Anarchy,” “Chicago P.D.,” “Law & Order,” “What We Do in the Shadows,” “Rick and Morty,” “America’s Got Talent,” “The Bachelor,” “Adventure Time,” “Mad Men,” “Walking Dead: Dead City,” and “Killing Eve,” among others.

Best Movies

When it comes to movies, Prime Video boasts the most extensive and diverse selection, from blockbuster hits to original productions, and everything in between. Titles like “Red, White and Royal Blue,” “Air,” “Creed,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” “Avatar: The Way of Water,” “My Fault,” “The Whale,” “Cocaine Bear,” “M3GAN,” “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” “John Wick,” “The Hunger Games,” “Scarface,” “Heat,” “Spider-Man No Way Home,” and “Legally Blonde” are some of the best movies on Prime Video.

Its video-on-demand library has an even bigger selection of movies that users can rent or purchase. This also gives users the opportunity to access even the latest theatrical releases like “Barbie,” “No Hard Feelings,” “Talk To Me,” “Meg 2,” “Elemental,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” “Insidious: The Red Door,” “The Flash,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “Joy Ride.” Thousands of award-winning films are also available on the digital library, such as “The Silence of the Lambs,” “Titanic,” “Catch Me If You Can,” “The Godfather,” “Truman Show,” “Apocalypse Now Redux,” “Marie Antoinette,” “Tár,” “Babylon,” “Harry Potter,” “The Dark Knight,” “Goodfellas,” “The Devil Wears Prada,” and more.

Best Documentaries

Prime Video has its fair share of captivating documentaries that cover a wide range of topics such as crime, science, the environment, famous personalities, and more. Some of the best documentaries on Prime Video include “Wildcat,” “Canada Untold,” “The Sound of 007,” “Moonage Daydream,” “Sex Slaves,” “One Child Nation,” “Flight/Risk,” and “The Secret Life of the Suite.”

Does It Offer Anything Else?

One of Prime Video’s distinct features is its swift integration with Amazon Prime, allowing users to access Amazon’s e-commerce store and platform seamlessly. This also provides Prime Video users and customers exclusive free access to Amazon’s shopping deals, discounted shipping offers, and other retail benefits.

Aside from TV shows, movies, and Amazon deals, the platform also has something for sports enthusiasts. Through Prime Video, fans can tune in to live sports events like the ONE Championships and the WNBA. There’s also an abundance of original sports-related content such as documentaries, movies, and TV shows. “All Or Nothing: Toronto Maple Leafs” and “FC Barcelona: A New Era” are some of the best sports shows on Prime Video.

What’s New On Amazon Prime Video

Prime Video’s new releases include the second seasons of “The Wheel of Time” and “Good Omens,” as well as the premiere of series like “Harlan Coben’s Shelter” and “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” There are also new movies on Prime Video, such as “Red, White and Royal Blue” and “My Fault.” You can also look forward to the streaming debut of “Bottoms,” which is set to arrive on Prime Video later this year. 

Who should sign up for Amazon Prime Video?

Viewers who are seeking a diverse and endless amount of entertainment options will surely enjoy a Prime Video membership. It is also perfect for those who wish to continue to get the best services with their subscriptions with Prime Video’s additional benefits from its e-commerce platform.

How to Cancel Amazon Prime Video

You can cancel Prime Video on various devices. It is also essential that you recognize how each device operates to initiate a cancellation process properly. You will still be able to stream on your account until the end of your billing date after you cancel. Read on to see how to cancel Prime Video in Canada on web browsers and mobile phones.

On web browsers

1. Visit the Prime Video website. www.primevideo.com
2. Hover over the profile icon and click “Account & Settings.”
3. Prime Video will ask you to enter your email and password credentials for verification purposes.
4. Select “End Subscription” to confirm your cancellation. 

On the mobile app

1. Open the Prime Video on your mobile device.
2. Look for the profile icon.
3. Tap “Manage Account.”
4. Select “End Subscription” to confirm your cancellation.

How does Amazon Prime Video compare to other streaming services?

While Prime Video may seem like it has everything you need, it’s still worth checking out other prominent streaming services that may suit your preferences better than Prime Video. Here’s how Prime Video compares to other streaming giants.

Netflix

The leading streaming giant has some of the best shows and movies out right now and is well known for spending a ton of resources on developing exclusive content. Its interface is also considered one of the best across all platforms. They offer three plans in Canada: Basic with ads, Standard, and Premium. The main difference between the plans is the number of devices that can stream all at once.

Hulu 

A minor setback for Hulu is that it is not available in Canada, and you will need a VPN service to access the platform. It also offers Disney Plus and ESPN bundles to its subscribers. Hulu’s catalog includes original shows like “The Great,” “Abbott Elementary,” “The Handmaid’s Tale,” and The Bear.” Meanwhile, Hulu’s library is about to get bigger as the platform is set to merge into one app with Disney Plus later this year.

Disney Plus

If you’re a big fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, or Pixar films, then Disney Plus might be the platform you’re looking for. Almost every film and TV show from the aforementioned studios can be found at Disney Plus. Currently, Disney Plus’ catalog might not compare to Netflix’s in terms of quantity, but it will soon merge with Hulu, so its library is about to expand. It is relatively cheaper than Netflix, with a basic plan starting at $11.99. 

Max

Max is only available in the United States and select European countries. You will need a VPN service if you want to access its platform. However, its catalog is one of the most impressive, housing some of the best and top-rated titles of all time like “The Sopranos,” “The Last of Us,” and “Succession.” 

Peacock TV

Peacock TV is a video streaming service based in the United States, owned and operated by NBC Universal, offering popular shows like 30 Rock and having exclusive access to sports coverage like Premier League soccer matches. Sadly, for now, the service is only available in the US, but users outside of the US can still use a VPN.

Paramount Plus

Despite having a massive library of content, Paramount Plus still has one of the most affordable membership plans among its competitors. With a Paramount Plus subscription, you will get to access 30,000 original titles, blockbuster movies, on-demand programming, and live event streaming, which is undoubtedly worth your money. The streaming service also offers occasional discounts to users who subscribe to its annual plans.

Apple TV Plus

Apple TV Plus prioritizes the quality of its content, as seen in its widely acclaimed shows like “Ted Lasso” and “Severance.” Its plans are twice as much more affordable than Netflix’s and also offer Dolby features. However, Apple TV Plus does not offer third-party content and is compatible mostly with Apple devices. 

YouTube TV

YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service owned by Google that offers a good selection of local and international channels depending on your location. Unlike most other platforms, YouTube TV offers features such as the ability to record shows and watch them later. However, it is only available in the United States, though you can bypass this restriction by using some of the best VPN services.

Discovery Plus

Discovery Plus Canada is a great way to watch your favorite shows, movies, and documentaries, including channels like Discovery, TLC, Animal Planet, and many more. You can watch Discovery Plus in Canada by visiting their site and signing up for an account or by using a Canadian version of the app that was released in October. And if you want to watch the American version of Discovery Plus, you can use a VPN.   

SlingTV

Sling TV is a live streaming service that provides access to select channels for a monthly price fee. The service offers various packages such as ESPN, AMC, TNT, HGTV, HBO, and Cinemax. Sling TV can be watched outside of the US by using a VPN which will allow you to stream Sling TV content without any restrictions. 

ESPN Plus

ESPN+ gives you access to world-class sporting events and live streams across a variety of sports, while the main ESPN channel has the best coverage for NHL, MLB, and NBA. Also, ESPN Plus excels in its coverage of niche sports, such as MMA, Boxing, Lacrosse, Canadian Football, and many more. Sadly, ESPN+ is not currently available for Canadians.

Frequently Asked Questions About Amazon Prime Video

Why are there ads on Prime Video if all plans are ad-free?

The ads you see on Prime Video are not promotions from third-party brands; instead, they are personalized ads that are promotional messages for Prime Video’s original content. These ads usually pop up at the beginning of every streaming session and can be easily skipped, ensuring they do not interrupt the users’ viewing experience.

What’s the difference between Amazon Prime and Prime Video?

Amazon Prime and Prime Video are two related but distinct services from Amazon. Amazon Prime is an e-commerce platform that provides a wide range of services, such as online shopping, fast shipping, Prime Reading, Prime Music, exclusive shopping deals, as well as access to Prime Video, and more. Prime Video, on the other hand, is a standalone video streaming service that enables users to watch thousands of movies, TV shows, and other licensed content. 

Is the video-on-demand library included with the Prime Video subscription?

Yes, the video-on-demand library is included in your subscription. However, it’s important to note that its content requires additional payment not included in your standalone subscription. 

Your One-stop Platform For Entertainment

With its affordable plans that come with a massive library of content and various Amazon benefits, Prime Video is undoubtedly the ultimate destination for all your entertainment needs. Prime Video gives its users a subscription worth their money where they can enjoy thousands of content from blockbuster hits to the most popular movies and TV series, with its key features of high-quality video resolution, simultaneous screens, and the convenience of offline streaming, which creates a convenient and immersive viewing experience.