Choosing the right streaming service can be a game-changer for those looking to cut the cable cord. Two major players in the live TV streaming market are Hulu and YouTube TV. Both platforms offer a wide array of live channels, on-demand content, and unique features, but they differ in ways that can make one a better fit, depending on your viewing preferences.
In this post, we’ll break down Hulu vs. YouTube TV on pricing, channels, DVR, streaming quality, and more to help viewers decide which is better for them.
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Pricing: Hulu + Live TV vs. YouTube TV
Hulu + Live TV costs $82.99 per month and includes both Hulu’s vast library of on-demand shows, movies, and live TV channels. Hulu + Live TV offers a plan with no ads on on-demand content for $95.99 per month.
YouTube TV, on the other hand, is priced at $72.99 per month. While there’s no on-demand library like Hulu’s, YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR, which appeals to those who like to record live shows.
Winner in Pricing: YouTube TV. It’s slightly cheaper, and the unlimited DVR adds considerable value.
Channel Selection: Which Has More Variety?
Both Hulu and YouTube TV offer an impressive lineup of channels, but the availability and exact selection may vary by location. Let’s compare the basics:
Hulu + Live TV: Offers around 85+ channels, including popular options like ESPN, ABC, NBC, FX, and Fox. Hulu has a slight advantage in terms of lifestyle and entertainment channels.
YouTube TV: Offers around 100+ channels, including sports, news, and entertainment options. Additionally, YouTube TV offers local channels, which are ideal for staying updated with regional news.
Winner in Channels: YouTube TV, by a small margin. With more total channels and local options, YouTube TV might have a slight edge, though Hulu may appeal more to entertainment-focused viewers.
User Interface and Ease of Use
Hulu and YouTube TV provide user-friendly experiences, but some differences exist.
Hulu + Live TV: Hulu’s interface is highly customizable, allowing users to navigate on-demand and live content easily. The interface is intuitive, but some users find switching between live TV and on-demand content challenging.
YouTube TV: Known for its clean and straightforward design, YouTube TV makes it easy to access channels, DVR recordings, and recommended shows. The interface closely mirrors that of traditional cable guides.
Winner in Interface: YouTube TV. The easy-to-navigate interface and smooth DVR access make YouTube TV more accessible.
DVR and Recording Capabilities
When it comes to DVR, YouTube TV’s offering is unbeatable:
Hulu + Live TV: Offers a DVR with 50 hours of storage (upgradeable to 200 hours with the Enhanced Cloud DVR add-on for $9.99/month).
YouTube TV: Provides unlimited DVR storage without any additional cost. Users can record and store as many shows and movies as they want, with recordings saved for up to nine months.
Winner in DVR: YouTube TV. With unlimited DVR storage at no extra cost, YouTube TV is ideal for those who record shows frequently.
Streaming Quality and Reliability
Both platforms perform well in terms of streaming quality and reliability, with minor distinctions.
Hulu + Live TV: Hulu streams in 720p or 1080p resolution on most devices, with select content available in 4K UHD on compatible devices.
YouTube TV: Streams in full HD (1080p) for most live and on-demand content. YouTube TV offers a 4K Plus add-on for those wanting an upgrade, allowing select shows to be viewed in 4K.
Winner in Streaming Quality: YouTube TV. It has more 1080p availability and the option for 4K content, giving it a slight edge.
Device Compatibility and Simultaneous Streams
Compatibility and simultaneous streaming may be critical if you have multiple family members or devices.
Hulu: Supports two simultaneous streams by default, with an option to add unlimited streams at home (and three on the go) for an extra $9.99/month.
YouTube TV: Allows up to three simultaneous streams without any additional cost. This makes it more economical for families or households with multiple viewers.
Winner in Device Compatibility: YouTube TV. It allows more simultaneous streams without any added fee.
Original Content and On-Demand Libraries
Here’s where Hulu shines—its on-demand library and originals are extensive.
Hulu: Includes access to Hulu’s vast library of original shows, movies, and popular on-demand TV series.
YouTube TV: Lacks a dedicated on-demand library, although it does offer some on-demand options from specific networks.
Winner in Content: Hulu’s impressive library of on-demand and original content gives it a significant advantage.
Sports and News Channels: Hulu vs. YouTube TV
For fans of live sports and news, both platforms have solid options.
Hulu + Live TV: Includes significant sports networks like ESPN, FS1, NBCSN, and regional sports networks, along with popular news channels like CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC.
YouTube TV: Also covers ESPN, FS1, NBCSN, and many regional sports networks, along with dedicated sports packages.
Winner in Sports and News: Tie. Both services offer comparable sports and news channels, though specific regional sports channels may vary.
Customer Support and User Feedback
Customer support and user reviews provide insight into the overall experience.
Hulu: Hulu offers 24/7 phone, chat, and email support. However, some users report issues with buffering during live TV streaming.
Thanks to Google’s infrastructure, YouTube TV Provides a reliable user experience with fewer complaints about buffering. Support is available through chat and email, with no 24/7 phone support.
Winner in Support: Hulu. Although buffering is reported, 24/7 support can be helpful for immediate issues.
Which is Better? Final Verdict
While both Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer unique benefits, YouTube TV edges out as the better option for live TV streaming for most users. Its advantages in DVR storage, streaming quality, and multi-device compatibility make it appealing to families and sports fans.
Hulu, however, is ideal for viewers who want a blend of live TV and a robust on-demand library, particularly for original shows.
Overall Recommendation
Choose YouTube TV for an affordable, easy-to-navigate live TV experience with unlimited DVR.
Choose Hulu + Live TV if you enjoy a mix of live TV and an expansive on-demand library with popular originals.
