Regarding streaming TV, Sling TV and Hulu are two popular options in the U.S., but they cater to different needs and preferences. While both platforms offer abundant TV shows, movies, and original content, the way they deliver these offerings varies.
This post will break down the key differences between Sling TV and Hulu, helping you decide which service is better suited for your entertainment needs.
Table of Contents
Overview of Sling TV
Sling TV is an online TV streaming service that allows users to watch live TV channels over the internet. It provides a more traditional TV viewing experience with the option to stream live broadcasts from networks like ESPN, CNN, AMC, and more. Sling TV is designed as a cable TV alternative for cord-cutters, offering a selection of live channels in various packages.
Overview of Hulu
Hulu started as a platform for watching on-demand TV shows and movies from major networks like NBC, ABC, and Fox. Over the years, Hulu has expanded to include live TV options, original series, and movies, positioning itself as a competitor to traditional cable. Hulu offers both on-demand content and a live TV service, making it a versatile streaming platform.
Content and Channel Offerings
Sling TV
Sling TV offers two main packages: Sling Orange and Sling Blue, each featuring a different set of channels. Sling Orange is known for its focus on sports and entertainment, while Sling Blue includes more news, lifestyle, and entertainment channels.
Some of the most popular channels on Sling TV include ESPN, AMC, CNN, HGTV, and the Disney Channel.
Sling TV also provides a la carte channel add-ons like HBO, Showtime, and others, which let users customize their channel lineup for an extra fee.
Hulu
Hulu provides access to thousands of TV shows, movies, and original content. This includes past episodes of current TV shows from networks like NBC, ABC, and Fox, available to stream soon after airing.
Hulu’s on-demand library includes a wide variety of genres: drama, comedy, documentaries, children’s programming, and much more.
The Hulu + Live TV option includes a streaming library and live TV channels, including sports, entertainment, and news. Popular channels like ESPN, CNN, NBC, and ABC are included in the live TV package.
Pricing Comparison
Sling TV
Sling TV is often considered one of the most affordable live TV streaming options. It offers two core plans:
Sling Orange: $40/month
Sling Blue: $45/month
There’s also a combined plan called Sling Orange + Blue for $60/month.
Sling TV’s pricing structure is designed to allow flexibility, with add-ons for additional content like premium channels, sports, and entertainment options.
Sling TV has a 7-day free trial, letting new customers test the service before committing.
Hulu
Hulu has a variety of pricing tiers, including options for both on-demand content and live TV.
Hulu (Ad-supported) Streaming Library: $9.99/month or $99.99/year.
Hulu (No Ads): $18.99/month.
Hulu + Live TV: $82.99/month (includes ads).
Hulu + Live TV: $95.99/month without ads.
Hulu’s plans are less expensive compared to Sling TV. However, Hulu also provides a solid on-demand library at a competitive price point.
On-Demand Content
Sling TV:
Sling TV has an on-demand library, but it is more limited compared to Hulu. The platform allows users to access recent episodes of shows that have aired on channels in their package, but the content is primarily focused on what is available through live TV.
Sling TV’s on-demand offerings may require additional add-ons, and it does not have as extensive a back catalogue of content compared to Hulu.
Hulu:
Hulu excels in on-demand content. With its comprehensive library of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and exclusive Hulu Originals, Hulu offers a much wider selection of content to choose from.
Hulu’s Next-day access to TV episodes is a standout feature, as users can stream shows from major networks like NBC and ABC almost immediately after they air. This gives Hulu an edge for those who want to catch up on popular shows quickly.
Streaming Features
Sling TV
Sling TV allows streaming on multiple devices, including smart TVs, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
It supports up to 3 simultaneous streams with the Sling Orange + Blue plan, which is a plus for households with multiple viewers.
Sling TV’s interface is relatively simple and easy to navigate, though it might not be as polished as Hulu’s in terms of user experience.
Hulu
Hulu supports streaming on a variety of devices as well, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, mobile devices, and more.
Hulu offers 2 simultaneous streams on most plans, but it can be upgraded to unlimited streams for an additional fee with Hulu + Live TV.
Hulu’s interface is sleek and user-friendly, and its advanced features, like personalized recommendations and content curations, enhance the overall viewing experience.
Live TV and Sports
Sling TV
Sling TV is a strong contender for sports fans. It offers access to channels like ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network for those interested in watching live games.
Sling TV’s live TV options, however, may be limited when compared to Hulu’s extensive live TV service. Additionally, sports coverage may require purchasing add-ons like Sports Extra for additional channels.
Hulu:
Hulu + Live TV provides a wide range of sports channels, including ESPN, FS1, NBC Sports, and more.
Hulu offers a more complete live TV service compared to Sling TV, including coverage of news, entertainment, and sports, with fewer add-ons needed.
Hulu also includes cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record live TV for later viewing, which can be a huge advantage for sports fans who don’t want to miss important games.
User Experience and Interface
Sling TV
Sling TV’s interface is clean but somewhat basic compared to other streaming services.
It has a straightforward navigation system that allows you to easily find live channels, on-demand content, and personalized recommendations.
Sling TV’s DVR service is limited and requires an additional fee for more storage.
Hulu
Hulu provides a highly polished, intuitive user interface with easy-to-use navigation.
The service is designed to personalize content recommendations based on your viewing history, which makes discovering new shows and movies a seamless experience.
Hulu’s DVR feature, available with Hulu + Live TV, is robust, offering 50 hours of cloud DVR storage included in the base package, with an option to upgrade for more storage.
Geographic Availability
Sling TV is only available in the United States, though it can be accessed overseas with a VPN.
Hulu is also limited to the U.S. due to licensing restrictions. However, Hulu can be accessed from abroad with a VPN, as long as the user has a U.S. payment method and a U.S. address.
Conclusion: Sling TV vs. Hulu
When comparing Sling TV and Hulu, the decision ultimately depends on your viewing habits and what you’re looking for in a streaming service.
Sling TV is ideal for those who want to watch live TV, especially sports, with the flexibility to customize their channel lineup. Its affordable pricing and live TV-first approach make it a good option for cord-cutters.
Hulu, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive experience with its mix of on-demand content, live TV, and Hulu Originals. It’s the better choice for those who want access to a vast library of shows and movies, as well as an all-in-one streaming service that covers both live TV and on-demand content.
Both services have their strengths, so the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
