Hulu and Netflix are two of the most popular streaming services, but which one offers the best value? This article breaks down the costs of each platform, comparing plans, features, and bundles to help you decide which service is right for you.
Hulu Subscription Plans and Pricing
Hulu offers several subscription tiers, with prices varying depending on whether you want ads and if you include live TV:
| Plan | Price | Ads? | Free Trial? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu with ads | $9.99/month | Yes | 30 days |
| Hulu (No Ads) | $18.99/month | No | 30 days |
| Hulu + Live TV (with ads) | $82.99/month | Yes* | 3 days |
| Hulu + Live TV (No Ads) | $95.99/month | No* | 3 days |
* Live TV broadcasts will still have ads, and some on-demand shows have ads due to rights issues.
Hulu also offers add-ons like unlimited screens, enhanced cloud DVR, and premium channels like HBO Max, Showtime, and Starz for additional monthly fees.
The Bear, a critically acclaimed Hulu Original series. (Image credit: FX/Hulu)
Hulu vs. Netflix: A Direct Price Comparison
Netflix’s pricing structure is simpler than Hulu’s:
| Plan | Price | Ads? | Simultaneous Streams | Video Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard with ads | $6.99/month | Yes | 2 | Full HD |
| Standard | $15.49/month | No | 2 | Full HD |
| Premium | $22.99/month | No | 4 | Ultra HD |
While Netflix’s ad-supported plan is cheaper than Hulu’s, its ad-free Standard plan is less expensive than Hulu’s (No Ads) option. However, Hulu’s bundle options with Disney+ and ESPN+ offer significant value.
Squid Game, a global phenomenon on Netflix. (Image credit: Netflix)
Hulu vs. Other Streaming Services: Price Comparison
Here’s how Hulu’s ad-free plan compares to other popular streaming services:
| Streaming Service | Ad-Free Price |
|---|---|
| Hulu | $18.99/month |
| Netflix | $15.49-$22.99/month |
| Disney+ | $15.99/month |
| Max | $16.99-$20.99/month |
| Paramount+ | $12.99/month |
| Apple TV+ | $9.99/month |
| Peacock | $11.99/month |
Alien: Romulus, a recent sci-fi release available on Hulu. (Image credit: 20th Century Studios)
Hulu Bundles: Disney+ and ESPN+
Hulu offers attractive bundles that combine its service with Disney+ and ESPN+, providing substantial savings compared to subscribing to each service individually:
| Bundle | Includes | Price | Ads? (Hulu) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duo Basic | Disney+ and Hulu | $10.99/month | Yes |
| Duo Premium | Disney+ and Hulu | $19.99/month | No |
| Trio Basic | Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ | $16.99/month | Yes |
| Trio Premium | Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+ | $26.99/month | No |
Agatha: Coven of Chaos, a popular series on Disney+. (Image credit: Marvel Studios)
Conclusion: Choosing Between Hulu and Netflix (and Others)
The best streaming service for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for the most affordable ad-free experience, Netflix’s Standard plan offers a slight edge over Hulu. However, Hulu’s bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+ offer exceptional value for those seeking a wider variety of content, including live sports and family-friendly programming. Consider your viewing habits, budget, and desired features when making your decision.
