Netflix 2026 Pricing Guide: Plans, Deals & New Shows

Lisa Bakker · 2026-05-06

Netflix keeps changing its prices and plans, and it can be tough to keep up. Whether you're a longtime subscriber or thinking about joining, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about the latest Netflix plans, credit card deals, and the must-watch shows arriving in May 2026. Let's dive in. ### Current Netflix Plans (2026) Netflix now offers three main tiers in the US. The basic plan with ads is the cheapest at $6.99 per month, giving you most of the library with a few commercial breaks. The standard plan, at $15.49 per month, is ad-free and lets you stream on two devices at once in high definition. For the full experience, the premium plan costs $19.99 per month and includes ultra HD (4K) on up to four devices, plus spatial audio. One big change? Netflix no longer offers a free trial, so you'll need to pay from day one.  ### Best Credit Card Deals for Netflix You can save a bit on your monthly bill by using the right credit card. Here are some of the best options right now: - **Chase Freedom Flex**: This card offers 5% cash back on streaming services, including Netflix, for up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter. That's a solid $75 back per year if you max it out. - **American Express Blue Cash Preferred**: Get 6% cash back on select US streaming subscriptions, which covers Netflix. The annual fee is $95, but if you spend a lot on streaming and groceries, it pays for itself quickly. - **Capital One Savor**: This card gives you 4% cash back on entertainment, including streaming. No annual fee, so it's a simple way to earn rewards. - **Discover it Cash Back**: Streaming services are often a rotating 5% category. Check your quarterly calendar to see if Netflix qualifies. "Using a cash-back card for Netflix is like getting a free month or two every year, depending on your plan," says personal finance expert Sarah Kim. "It's a small habit that adds up." ### New Shows to Watch in May 2026 May is stacked with exciting releases. Here are the highlights: - **"The Last Horizon"** (May 5): A sci-fi thriller about a colony ship that discovers a planet with a dark secret. Early reviews call it "mind-bending." - **"Chef's Table: BBQ"** (May 12): The beloved docuseries returns, this time focusing on pitmasters from Texas, Kansas City, and the Carolinas. Expect mouth-watering footage. - **"Mystery at Blackwood Manor"** (May 19): A British whodunit with a twisty plot and a star-studded cast. Perfect for a rainy weekend. - **"The Great American Road Trip"** (May 26): A reality competition where teams drive classic cars across Route 66. It's part travel show, part game show, and all fun. ### Tips to Save on Netflix First, consider the ad-supported plan if you don't mind a few commercials. It's half the price of the standard plan. Second, share your account with family—Netflix now charges $7.99 per month for each extra member outside your household, but it's still cheaper than each person paying for their own subscription. Finally, check if your mobile carrier or internet provider offers a bundled deal. T-Mobile, for example, sometimes includes Netflix on its premium plans. Netflix isn't getting cheaper, but with a little planning, you can keep your monthly bill manageable while enjoying all the new content. Happy streaming!