Walmart Plus vs Amazon Prime: Get The The Best Offers

Did you know that over 200 million people are currently debating whether to stick with Amazon Prime or jump ship to Walmart Plus? I’ve been there myself – standing in my kitchen last year, calculator in hand, trying to figure out which membership would actually save me money. It’s honestly one of those decisions that can make or break your monthly budget!

Look, I get it. Subscription services are everywhere these days, and choosing between two giants like Amazon and Walmart feels overwhelming. But here’s the thing – I’ve actually used both services extensively, and I’m gonna break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your wallet and lifestyle.

Pricing Breakdown: What You’re Actually Paying For

Let’s start with the obvious stuff. Amazon Prime costs $139 annually or $14.99 monthly, while Walmart Plus runs $98 yearly or $12.95 per month. Simple math shows Walmart’s cheaper, but hold up – that’s not the whole story.

I remember when I first signed up for Amazon Prime back in 2018, thinking I was just paying for free shipping. Boy, was I wrong! The video streaming, music, and photo storage felt like bonus features I didn’t even know I needed. Meanwhile, Walmart Plus keeps things straightforward – it’s mainly about shopping perks and gas savings.

Here’s where it gets interesting though. If you’re already paying for Netflix or Spotify, Amazon Prime’s entertainment bundle might actually save you money overall. But if you’re like my neighbor who only cares about groceries and gas, Walmart Plus is the clear winner price-wise.

Shipping Speed and Availability

Amazon’s two-day shipping used to be revolutionary, but now it’s often same-day or even two-hour delivery in major cities. I’ve literally ordered toothpaste at 3 PM and had it by dinner – kinda ridiculous when you think about it!

Walmart Plus offers free shipping on orders over $35, which honestly caught me off guard at first. They’ve stepped up their game big time with same-day delivery from local stores. Last month, I ordered groceries at 8 AM and they were on my doorstep by noon. The selection isn’t as vast as Amazon’s, but for everyday essentials? It’s pretty solid.

One thing that drives me nuts about both services is when items randomly aren’t eligible for free shipping. Amazon’s gotten better about this, but Walmart still has some quirky restrictions that’ll make you scratch your head.

Grocery Shopping and Delivery Options

This is where things get real interesting. Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods delivery through Prime is convenient, but let’s be honest – Whole Foods prices can make your wallet cry. I’ve spent $80 on what felt like three bags of groceries more times than I care to admit.

Walmart Plus changed my grocery game completely. Free delivery from local Walmart stores means I’m getting the same prices I’d pay in-store, which is huge for families on a budget. Plus, their grocery pickup service is honestly smoother than Amazon’s in most areas I’ve tried.

The mobile scan-and-go feature at Walmart stores is a game-changer too. No more waiting in checkout lines – just scan as you shop and walk out. Amazon’s trying to compete with their cashier-less stores, but they’re not everywhere yet.

Gas Savings and Additional Perks

Here’s where Walmart Plus really shines. The gas discount of up to 10 cents per gallon at participating stations has saved me roughly $15-20 monthly. With gas prices being what they are, this alone almost pays for the membership.

Amazon Prime’s perks are more entertainment-focused. Prime Video has some solid original shows, and Prime Gaming gives you free games monthly. If you’re into streaming and gaming, these features add serious value. But if you’re purely budget-focused, they might feel like fluff.

One random perk I love about Walmart Plus is the mobile fuel payment feature. Sounds small, but not having to get out of your car to pay for gas during winter? Priceless.

Which Service Fits Your Lifestyle?

After using both services extensively, here’s my honest take. Choose Amazon Prime if you’re heavy into online shopping, love binge-watching shows, and don’t mind paying extra for convenience and entertainment. It’s basically a lifestyle subscription.

Go with Walmart Plus if you’re budget-conscious, do regular grocery shopping, and drive frequently. It’s more utilitarian but incredibly practical for everyday savings.

I actually kept both for about six months before realizing I was being ridiculous. Most families will get better value from one or the other, not both.

Making Your Final Decision

Your choice really depends on your shopping habits and priorities. Are you someone who orders random stuff online weekly? Amazon Prime’s probably your best bet. Do you focus mainly on groceries and household essentials? Walmart Plus will likely save you more money.

Consider doing a trial month of each service to see which one meshes better with your routine. Both companies offer free trials, so you can test-drive before committing. Just remember to cancel before the trial ends if you’re not sold!

The beauty of this decision is that neither choice is permanent. Your needs might change, and so can your membership. Take some time to really think about what matters most to your household budget and lifestyle.

The Bottom Line on Membership Value

Both services have their strengths, but the right choice depends entirely on your specific needs and spending habits. Don’t just go with the cheapest option – think about total value and how each service fits into your daily routine.

Remember, the best membership is the one you’ll actually use consistently. If you’re still on the fence, start with a free trial and track how much you save versus what you spend. Your wallet will thank you for doing the homework upfront!

Want more money-saving tips and honest reviews of budget-friendly services? Check out our other posts at Budget Hackers where we break down the best ways to stretch your dollar without sacrificing quality!