Hulu + Live TV offers a compelling package of live channels and on-demand content. COMPARE.EDU.VN provides a detailed comparison to help you find the best alternative for your needs. Consider factors like channel lineup, DVR, and price to determine the best fit. Let’s explore streaming options, content libraries, and channel packages!
1. Sling TV
Sling TV stands out as a customizable and affordable alternative to cable TV. Its flexible packages and lower price points are designed to align with the essence of cutting the cord.
Starting Price (per month): $46 | Channels (in entry-level package): 35-46 | DVR: 50 hours (unlimited for $5 per month) | On-Demand: Yes | Device Support: Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Roku | Simultaneous Streams: 1 (Orange), 3 (Blue), 4 (Orange + Blue)
What Makes Sling TV a Comparable Option?
Sling TV provides a wide variety of channel packages at a comparably inexpensive price, making it an attractive alternative to Hulu + Live TV for budget-conscious viewers. Its availability on a large number of devices ensures accessibility across various platforms.
Sling TV: Channels and Customization
Sling TV offers two primary packages: Orange and Blue. Orange includes ESPN, while Blue features local FOX, NBC, and ABC affiliates, depending on your market. Users in select areas may receive ABC for free, while others may need to pay an additional $5. Sling Orange & Blue can cost up to $66. Orange has 34 channels, while Blue provides 43.
Sling TV: Programming and DVR
From sports to comedy, Sling TV offers a diverse range of content. However, its limited cloud DVR storage contrasts with the unlimited options provided by YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV. Check out the Sling TV promo codes for more details on lineups and pricing.
Sling TV: Promotions
Currently, you can sign up for Sling and get your first month half off.
2. YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers a streamlined, user-friendly experience with a robust channel selection, making it a strong contender among cable TV alternatives. Its simple interface and comprehensive features provide a seamless viewing experience.
Starting Price (per month): $83 | Channels (in entry-level package): More than 100 | DVR: Yes (unlimited) | On-Demand: Yes | Device Support: Android, Chromecast, Computers, iOS | Simultaneous Streams: 3
Why is YouTube TV Comparable to Hulu Live TV?
YouTube TV matches Hulu + Live TV with its unlimited DVR storage, ensuring you never miss your favorite shows. Like Hulu, it includes all major broadcast networks for local news and sports, as well as sitcoms and dramas.
YouTube TV: Key Features
YouTube TV is known for having the shortest lag time behind cable TV, making it ideal for live sports and events. Its Key Plays feature allows users to watch highlights in minutes once a game is recorded on the DVR.
YouTube TV: Power User Features
YouTube TV’s multiview feature isn’t just for sports events; it has expanded to news and weather. These features make it a compelling choice for sports enthusiasts and news followers.
YouTube TV: Pricing and Value
YouTube TV has increased its price to $82.99 a month. While Hulu offers a bundle of Hulu, Disney Plus, and ESPN Plus for the same price, YouTube TV provides a discount on NFL Sunday Ticket.
3. Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV combines live television with a vast library of on-demand content, offering a comprehensive entertainment package.
Starting Price (per month): $83 | Channels (in entry-level package): More than 85 | DVR: Yes (unlimited) | On-Demand: Yes | Device Support: Android, Apple TV, Chromecast, iOS, Xbox One
What Makes Hulu + Live TV a Strong Choice?
Hulu + Live TV provides access to Hulu’s extensive catalog of shows and movies, plus over 85 live channels, including A&E, ESPN, and TNT. It also includes Disney Plus and ESPN Plus.
Hulu + Live TV: Bundling and Extras
Hulu’s entry-level package now includes PBS, PBS Kids, and the Magnolia Network. You can bundle Hulu, Disney Plus, and Max for just $17.
Hulu + Live TV: Value Proposition
Hulu’s value is primarily based on its bundled extras and unlimited cloud DVR. Its library of originals and on-demand programming, including FX on Hulu shows like “The Shield” and “Atlanta”, add significant appeal.
Hulu + Live TV: Recording and Menus
The recording menus can be convoluted, making it easy to miss recording content.
4. Fubo
Fubo is a streaming service tailored for sports enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of sports content and international channels.
Starting Price (per month): $85 | Channels (in entry-level package): 213 | DVR: Yes (unlimited) | On-Demand: Yes | Device Support: Amazon Fire TV, Android, Chromecast, Computers, iOS, Apple TV, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smartcast TVs | Simultaneous Streams: 10
What Makes Fubo a Comparable Sports Option?
Fubo is a top choice for sports fans, offering practically every sport you could ask for. NFL fans can watch every game on Fubo, which includes local broadcast channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC), ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3, and the NFL Network.
Fubo: International Sports and Channels
In addition to NFL, Fubo offers international sports with 8 beIN Sports channels, the Big Ten Network, the Golf Channel, and TUDN channels.
Fubo: Regional Sports Networks
Fubo has regional sports networks (RSNs) on its Pro and Elite packages but charges an additional $11+ in fees. It lacks TBS for MLB live streams and TNT for NBA Playoffs live streams.
Fubo: Pricing and Promotions
The entry-level Fubo Essential plan offers 213 channels for $84.99, with a first-month discount of $60 after a seven-day free trial.
5. DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream offers a live TV service, focusing on niche sports channels and local programming, though it comes at a higher price point.
Starting Price (per month): $70 | Channels (in entry-level package): 40+ | DVR: Yes (unlimited) | On-Demand: Yes | Device Support: Amazon Fire TV, Android, Chromecast, Computers, iOS, Apple TV, | Simultaneous Streams: Unlimited at home, 3 on the go
What Does DirecTV Stream Offer?
DirecTV Stream offers local channels, regional sports networks (at a price), and unlimited cloud DVR.
DirecTV Stream: Channel Packages
The base MySports beta package is $70 per month and includes sports and news programming. The Entertainment plan starts at $87 for 90+ channels.
DirecTV Stream: Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)
DirecTV Stream is often the only live TV streaming service that offers local regional sports networks. To get these RSNs, you’ll need to pay for the $115-a-month Choice plan, which includes 125+ channels.
DirecTV Stream: Recommendation
It’s hard to recommend DirecTV Stream wholeheartedly due to its cost, but it’s an option if you need your local sports fix.
How To Choose The Best Cable TV Alternative For You
Choosing the best cable TV alternative depends on your priorities. Price is a key factor. If you want to spend less than $50 per month, Sling TV is your only option, starting at $46 per month.
Local Broadcast Channels
If you need all available local broadcast channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC), your choices include YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV.
Original Programming
Hulu + Live TV offers buzzworthy originals like “The Bear”, “Normal People”, and “Little Fires Everywhere”.
Comparing the Alternatives: A Quick Glance
| Feature | Sling TV | YouTube TV | Hulu + Live TV | Fubo | DirecTV Stream |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $46 | $83 | $83 | $85 | $70 |
| Channels | 35-46 | 100+ | 85+ | 213 | 40+ |
| DVR | 50 hours | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Simultaneous Streams | 1-4 | 3 | 2 (upgradeable) | 10 | Unlimited (at home) |
| Key Features | Customizable | Easy to use | Bundled Extras | Sports Focused | Regional Sports |
Comparing Channel Lineups: A Detailed Look
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the channel lineups of these streaming services. The table below provides a detailed comparison of the key channels offered by each service.
| Channel | Sling TV (Orange) | Sling TV (Blue) | YouTube TV | Hulu + Live TV | Fubo | DirecTV Stream (Entertainment) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABC | Varies | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CBS | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| FOX | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| NBC | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ESPN | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ESPN2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TNT | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| TBS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| USA Network | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CNN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| MSNBC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fox News | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HGTV | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Food Network | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Disney Channel | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Nickelodeon | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cartoon Network | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AMC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| FX | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| History Channel | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Discovery Channel | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| TLC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bravo | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BBC America | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How We Test Cable TV Alternatives
To evaluate streaming services for cord-cutting, we test them across various devices, including streaming boxes, smart TVs, and mobile apps. This helps us determine which services stream smoothly and which ones don’t. We focus on services with true live TV, not just linear “live” TV on apps like Pluto TV.
Interface and Usability
We rate the interfaces of these streaming services, looking for clean menus and easy navigation for content discovery.
Channel Lineups
We compare channel lineups, considering the different packages offered by each service.
Price and Value
We assess the price and value of each service, weighing the features you get for the money versus the competition.
Unlock Your Ideal Streaming Experience at COMPARE.EDU.VN
Choosing the right live TV streaming service can be a daunting task. COMPARE.EDU.VN simplifies the decision-making process by providing comprehensive, side-by-side comparisons of top contenders like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream.
Comprehensive Comparison
Our detailed analysis covers everything from channel lineups and DVR capabilities to pricing and device compatibility, ensuring you have all the information you need in one place.
User-Focused Reviews
Benefit from user reviews and expert insights, offering real-world perspectives on each service’s strengths and weaknesses.
Personalized Recommendations
Answer a few simple questions about your viewing preferences and budget, and COMPARE.EDU.VN will generate a personalized recommendation tailored to your specific needs.
Ready to make the switch to a live TV streaming service? Visit COMPARE.EDU.VN today and discover the perfect alternative to cable. Make informed decisions, save time, and enjoy a seamless transition to a world of on-demand entertainment.
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FAQ: Live TV Streaming Services
1. What is the best alternative to Hulu Live TV for sports fans?
Fubo is often considered the best alternative for sports fans due to its wide range of sports channels, including international options.
2. Which live TV streaming service offers the most channels?
Fubo offers the most channels in its entry-level package, with over 200 channels.
3. Does YouTube TV still have unlimited DVR?
Yes, YouTube TV continues to offer unlimited DVR storage.
4. What is the cheapest live TV streaming service?
Sling TV is the cheapest option, with packages starting at $46 per month.
5. Which service offers the best original programming along with live TV?
Hulu + Live TV offers the best original programming due to its inclusion of Hulu originals, Disney Plus, and ESPN Plus.
6. Can I watch local channels on these streaming services?
Yes, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream offer local channels, depending on your location. Sling TV offers local channels in select markets with its Blue package.
7. Which streaming service is the easiest to use?
YouTube TV is generally considered the easiest to use due to its simple and intuitive interface.
8. How many simultaneous streams does Hulu + Live TV offer?
Hulu + Live TV offers two simultaneous streams, with an option to upgrade for more.
9. Do these services require a contract?
No, all of these live TV streaming services do not require long-term contracts. You can cancel at any time.
10. Which service is best for regional sports networks?
DirecTV Stream is often the only service that offers local regional sports networks, though Fubo also offers RSNs in select markets.
