Choosing between Walmart+ and Amazon Prime isn't just about picking a membership—it's about finding the one that actually puts money back in your pocket. With a $41 annual price difference and completely different perks, we're breaking down which membership delivers the best value for your lifestyle. Before you dive in, check out Groupon's latest Walmart discount codes and Amazon coupons to stack even more savings on top.
Both memberships promise convenience and savings, but they take different approaches to delivering value. The key is figuring out which perks you'll actually use—and which ones will save you the most cash.
Bottom line: start with the free trial, check which perks you actually use (delivery, fuel, pharmacy, streaming), and then pick annual Walmart+ for the upfront savings—or Prime Student if you qualify and want the broader ecosystem
Free Delivery That Actually Saves You Money
Delivery benefits are where these memberships start to show their true colors. Walmart+ members get free grocery delivery from Walmart stores on orders of $35 or more, plus free shipping with no order minimum on eligible items shipped by Walmart. This covers everything from household essentials to electronics, excluding oversized and freight items.
Amazon Prime offers similar free shipping benefits, but with a much larger product selection since it includes third-party sellers. However, Walmart's grocery delivery advantage is significant if you regularly shop for fresh food and household staples. With over 4,600 Walmart stores across the US, you're likely to have delivery coverage in your area.
Walmart+ focuses on grocery and everyday essentials, while Amazon Prime covers a broader range of products. If you're primarily looking to save on weekly grocery runs, Walmart's approach might align better with your needs. Learn more about your grocery delivery options to maximize your savings.
Fuel Savings: Up to 10¢ Per Gallon Adds Up Fast
Here's where Walmart+ pulls ahead with a unique benefit: fuel savings. Members can save up to 10¢ per gallon at over 14,000 participating gas stations, including Exxon, Mobil, Walmart, and Murphy locations. Amazon Prime doesn't offer any fuel discounts.
Let's put this in perspective: if you fill up a 15-gallon tank twice a month, you could save up to $36 annually just on gas. For families with longer commutes or multiple vehicles, these savings can quickly add up to cover a significant portion of the membership cost.
The fuel savings alone make Walmart+ compelling for drivers who frequently fill up at participating stations. With gas prices fluctuating, having a consistent discount provides predictable savings that you can count on month after month.
Streaming Entertainment: What You Get to Watch
Both memberships include streaming entertainment, but with different approaches. Walmart+ includes a free Paramount+ Essential Plan subscription, giving you access to over 40,000 TV episodes and movies. This includes content from CBS, Nickelodeon, and Paramount Pictures.
Amazon Prime Video offers a large library of movies and TV shows, including popular original series and films. Prime Video generally has more high-profile original content and a larger overall selection, though Paramount+ brings solid entertainment value as an included perk.
If streaming is a priority, Amazon Prime Video typically offers more content variety. However, if you're already paying for multiple streaming services, getting Paramount+ included with your Walmart+ membership could help you consolidate and save on entertainment costs.
Extra Perks That Make the Difference
Beyond the core benefits, each membership offers unique extras. Walmart+ includes the Scan & Go feature in the Walmart app, letting you scan and pay for items in-store to skip checkout lines. Members also get early access to special promotions and Black Friday deals.
Amazon Prime counters with Prime Reading (access to books and magazines), Amazon Music, Prime Gaming benefits, and Amazon Photos storage. These digital perks add value if you use Amazon's ecosystem regularly.
The choice often comes down to where you shop most frequently. If you're a regular Walmart shopper, the Scan & Go feature and early sale access provide practical, time-saving benefits. For tips on maximizing these promotional opportunities, explore our Black Friday savings tips.
Which Membership Fits Your Shopping Style?
Your shopping habits should drive your decision. Walmart operates over 4,600 stores across the US, while Amazon has fewer than 50 physical locations. If you prefer in-store shopping with occasional delivery, Walmart+ aligns better with that approach.
Amazon Prime's strength lies in its massive online marketplace and fast delivery network. With over 200 million subscribers compared to Walmart+'s 11.5 million, Amazon Prime has the scale and infrastructure for almost any product you need.
Consider these factors: Do you buy groceries regularly? Do you drive frequently and want fuel savings? Do you prefer shopping at physical stores? If you answered yes to these questions, Walmart+ likely offers better value. If you prioritize product selection, fast shipping on everything, and digital entertainment, Amazon Prime might be worth the extra cost.
FAQs
Which store has a better membership program?
It depends on your shopping habits. Walmart+ costs $41 less annually and offers fuel savings, making it better for grocery shoppers and drivers. Amazon Prime provides broader product selection and more digital perks, suiting online shoppers who want maximum convenience.
Is Walmart+ worth it compared to Amazon Prime?
Walmart+ can be worth it if you shop for groceries regularly, drive frequently, and want to save money on membership costs. The fuel savings and lower annual fee often make it a better value for families focused on everyday essentials rather than broad online shopping.
How much can you save with Walmart+ fuel discounts?
You can save up to 10¢ per gallon at over 14,000 participating stations. For a typical driver filling a 15-gallon tank twice monthly, this could mean up to $36 in annual fuel savings, helping offset the membership cost significantly.
Does Walmart+ include free streaming like Prime Video?
Yes, Walmart+ includes a free Paramount+ Essential Plan subscription with access to over 40,000 TV episodes and movies. While Amazon Prime Video generally offers more content variety, Paramount+ provides solid entertainment value as an included benefit.
What is the best grocery store membership?
For grocery-focused shopping, Walmart+ offers strong value with free delivery on orders over $35, fuel savings, and the lowest annual cost among major retail memberships. The combination of grocery delivery and gas discounts makes it particularly appealing for families.
Start Saving Today
Both memberships offer genuine value, but the best choice depends on your specific needs and shopping patterns. Start with the 30-day free trial of whichever service aligns better with your lifestyle. Before you make any purchases at Walmart, take a moment to explore Groupon's latest Walmart discount codes. It's an easy way to stretch your budget without extra effort, whether you're testing out Walmart+ or shopping as a regular customer.
