If you’re not an Amazon Prime member already, you should consider signing up before Prime Day — the retailer’s biggest sale of the year — so you can take advantage of the impressive deals to come. That’s not all Prime membership has to offer, though. Besides early access and exclusive deals, you’ll also enjoy fast deliveries, Prime Video, Lightning Deals, and more.
When you’re signing up for Amazon Prime for the first time, you’re probably wondering where to begin. Although it’s a quick process that doesn’t take more than a few minutes, it’s important to brush up on Prime 101 before setting up your account.
Amazon Prime comes with a broad range of perks, including exclusive deals, free two-day shipping on millions of items, and access to Prime Video and Prime Music. Prime members also enjoy account sharing within their Amazon Household, which includes two adults and up to four teens and four children.
As far as Prime Day is concerned, you’ll need to be a member to enjoy exclusive and early access to deals, including saving up to 50% off or more on top products, such as robotic vacuums, tablets, and massage guns.
Amazon Prime costs $139 annually or $14.99 per month. Prime Student, the plan used by college students, costs $7.49 per month. Qualified government assistance recipients are eligible for Prime membership for $6.99 per month.
If you haven’t received a free Amazon Prime trial in 12 months, you can sign up for a new one. The trial lasts for 30 days, and you’ll receive all the perks of a paid Prime membership. Many non-Prime members save their free trials for Prime month. That way, they can take advantage of benefits during Prime Day sales without committing to annual or monthly memberships.
Millions of products go on sale for Prime Day, and this year, that includes everything from stand mixers to smartwatches. Many Amazon-branded products, including the retailer’s newest models, are deeply discounted. They’re worth watching ahead of Prime Day, so be sure to add them to your Amazon Cart or Wish List.
Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet with Alexa
The updated tablet, now available in four colors, is feature-rich with a 12-hour battery life, lightning-fast octa-core processor, and vivid display.
The newest Echo device is a top choice for a kitchen counter companion, considering it streams music and gives access to interactive recipes from Food Network Kitchen, Allrecipes, and more.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K With Alexa
Besides delivering top-notch cinematic experiences, this newer Fire TV stick lets you navigate your favorite streaming services hands-free with Alexa.
This best-selling Kindle is a favorite for traveling and commuting with its ultra-long battery life that lasts several weeks on a full charge.
Blink Outdoor Wireless HD Security Camera
Boost your outdoor security with Blink cameras, which hold up to extreme weather and integrate seamlessly with Alexa.
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.