Usually, PlayStation Plus Essential is the tier to consider if you mainly want the Monthly Games. All three tiers include them, so Extra or Premium is worth the higher price only if you also use its game catalog or other added features. Whether Essential itself is worth paying for depends on how often you claim and play the offers—and whether you use online multiplayer or other included benefits.
Which PlayStation Plus tier includes Monthly Games?
Essential, Extra, and Premium all include Monthly Games. Essential is the lowest tier shown on PlayStation’s US plans page. PlayStation describes Monthly Games as available to download and play at no extra cost while your membership is active, with new games added each calendar month (PlayStation Support: How to access PlayStation Plus games).
Extra adds the Game Catalog, while Premium adds further benefits, including the Classics Catalog, game trials, and streaming features. If you use none of those additions, they do not make Monthly Games alone a reason to choose a more expensive tier. Catalog selections can change over time and vary by tier.
What does PlayStation Plus cost in the US?
PlayStation’s US plans page currently displays the following recurring subscription prices. Prices and offers can change, so check the page and renewal terms on your account before subscribing.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Tier | One month | Three months | Twelve months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | $10.99 | $27.99 | $79.99 |
| Extra | $16.99 | $43.99 | $134.99 |
| Premium | $19.99 | $54.99 | $159.99 |
At the displayed Essential rates, paying monthly for twelve months totals $131.88, versus $79.99 for the twelve-month option. PlayStation labels that annual option 39% off twelve months versus one month. The annual plan lowers the displayed yearly spend but costs more up front; choose it only if you expect to stay subscribed long enough to make that commitment worthwhile.
Do you keep Monthly Games after cancelling?
No. Games claimed as Monthly Games are playable while your membership is active; once it ends, access to those games ends too. Cancelling does not cut off benefits immediately: PlayStation says benefits continue until the end of the subscription period already paid for. Its cancellation guidance is a UK regional page, so use your local account settings for cancellation instructions elsewhere (PlayStation Support: How to cancel PlayStation Plus).
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
This is different from buying a game outright: claiming a Monthly Game does not make it yours to play independently of an active membership. PlayStation distinguishes these subscription games from redeemed packs, avatars, and discounted purchases in its cancellation guidance.
How to decide whether Essential is worth it for you
Do not count every offered game as money saved. A game only contributes meaningful value if you actually want to play it, and the membership’s other benefits matter only if you use them.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteRank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Claiming: Do you claim most months’ offers, or only occasionally?
- Playing: Do you play the games while your membership is active, rather than letting them sit in your library?
- Alternatives: Would you otherwise buy the games you enjoy, or are most offers titles you would not choose?
- Other benefits: Do you need online multiplayer for the games you play, or use cloud storage, Share Play, or discounts?
- Commitment: If you are unsure, would a monthly or three-month term suit you better than paying for a year up front? Compare the renewal terms and total cost shown in your own account.
If Monthly Games are the only benefit you use, Essential is the relevant tier, but the subscription is worthwhile only if its offers are worth the recurring cost to you. Online play and other Essential benefits can add value if they are part of your routine.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know about PS4 Monthly Games
PlayStation’s US plans page says that from January 2026, PS4 games will be added only intermittently. That note applies to future PS4 additions; it does not promise or describe a schedule for PS5 games.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
