Netflix's plan with ads is the cheapest way to get Netflix — and millions of people have switched to it. But is it really worth it, or will the ads ruin your binge? Here's an honest look.
Plans and prices change. Check Netflix's website for the current plans and prices in your area.
What is Netflix with ads?
It's Netflix's lowest-priced plan. You get the Netflix app and its library, with short ad breaks before and during many shows and movies.
How many ads will you see?
Netflix keeps ad breaks short — typically a few minutes of ads per hour, often less than on cable TV. Ads usually play:
- Before a show or movie starts
- At natural breaks during episodes and films
You can't skip them, but they're short.
What's different from the ad-free plans?
Compared with Netflix's more expensive plans, the ad plan typically has:
- Ads (of course)
- Lower maximum picture quality than the top plan, which offers 4K
- Fewer screens at the same time than the top plan
- Some limits on features compared with premium plans — check the plan page
For most TVs under 55 inches, the picture difference is hard to notice.
Who should choose the ad plan?
- Budget-conscious families who want Netflix without paying top price
- Casual viewers who watch a few shows a month
- Kids' profiles that mainly watch cartoons and family movies
- People rotating services — see our money-saving streaming habits
Who should pay for ad-free?
- Binge-watchers who watch Netflix every day
- Movie lovers with a big 4K TV and good sound
- Big households that need many screens at the same time
Tips to make ads less annoying
- Start episodes back-to-back: ad breaks are shorter than the time you'd spend choosing what to watch next
- Use breaks for snacks — like the old days of TV
- Try it for one month — you can switch plans anytime
How it compares with other ad plans
Most major services — including Disney+, Hulu, Max, Peacock and Paramount+ — now have ad-supported plans too. Combining two ad plans can cost about the same as one ad-free plan. Our guide to streaming bundles shows even better deals.
The verdict
For most people, Netflix with ads is worth it: you get nearly the full experience for a lot less, and the ads are short. If you watch every day on a large 4K screen, the top plan may still be worth the upgrade.
Frequently asked questions
How many ads are on Netflix with ads?
Usually a few minutes per hour, placed before and during shows and movies. That's typically less than cable TV.
Can I switch from Netflix with ads to ad-free later?
Yes. You can change your plan anytime in your account settings.
Is the picture quality worse on Netflix with ads?
The ad plan has a lower maximum resolution than Netflix's top plan, which offers 4K. On most screens the difference is small.
Does Netflix with ads have all the same shows?
Nearly all of the library is available, but a small number of titles may be unavailable because of licensing. Netflix marks these in the app.
