Hulu Live TV vs YouTube TV: Which Live TV Streaming Wins?
Tired of cable but still crave live TV? You’re not alone! The streaming world is booming with options, and two titans are vying for your attention: Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’re here to help.
This in-depth comparison breaks down everything you need to know about these popular services. We’ll explore channel lineups, pricing, features, and user experience, so you can make an informed decision and cut the cord with confidence.
Get ready to discover which service offers the best value and entertainment for your needs. Whether you’re a sports fanatic, a news junkie, or a binge-watching enthusiast, we’ll help you find the perfect live TV streaming solution between Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Hulu Live TV | YouTube TV |
|---|---|---|
| Live TV Channels | 100+ | 100+ |
| Cloud DVR | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Simultaneous Streams | Varies by plan | 3 |
| On-Demand Library | Yes | Yes |
| Supported Devices | Wide Range | Wide Range |
| Local Channels | Yes | Yes |
| Sports Add-ons | Yes | Yes |
| Premium Channels | Yes | Yes |
| User Profiles | Yes | Yes |
| Parental Controls | Yes | Yes |
| DVR Storage Time | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| 4K Content | Limited | Limited |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Channel Lineup
- Hulu Live TV: Offers a competitive channel lineup, including local channels, sports networks, and popular entertainment channels. The availability of specific channels can vary by location. Some users might find the channel selection slightly less comprehensive than YouTube TV.
- YouTube TV: Boasts a very strong and comprehensive channel lineup, including all major networks, local channels in most areas, and a wide array of sports and entertainment options. It generally offers more channels than Hulu Live TV.
- Winner: youtube tv
DVR Storage
- Hulu Live TV: Provides unlimited DVR storage, allowing users to record as many shows as they want. Recordings are typically stored for 9 months. This is a significant advantage.
- YouTube TV: Also offers unlimited DVR storage, with recordings kept for 9 months. This is a key selling point and a direct competitor to Hulu’s offering.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Hulu Live TV: Pricing is competitive, but can vary depending on add-ons and bundles. It often has promotional offers and bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+.
- YouTube TV: Has a straightforward, all-inclusive pricing model with no hidden fees, making it easy to understand the monthly cost.
- Winner: youtube tv
User Interface
- Hulu Live TV: The interface is generally user-friendly, integrated with the existing Hulu platform. Navigation is simple, but some users find the live TV guide less intuitive than YouTube TV.
- YouTube TV: The interface is highly praised for its clean design, ease of use, and intuitive navigation. The live TV guide is particularly well-designed and easy to browse.
- Winner: youtube tv
Simultaneous Streams
- Hulu Live TV: Allows users to stream on two screens simultaneously by default. Additional screens can be added with an upgrade.
- YouTube TV: Offers unlimited simultaneous streams on your home network and three streams outside your home, making it ideal for larger households.
- Winner: youtube tv
Sports Features
- Hulu Live TV: Provides access to a good selection of sports channels, including ESPN, FS1, and local sports networks. However, the depth of coverage might not be as extensive as YouTube TV for some sports fans.
- YouTube TV: Offers a robust sports package, including a wide variety of national and regional sports networks. Features like key plays and stats overlays enhance the viewing experience.
- Winner: youtube tv
Availability and Compatibility
- Hulu Live TV: Widely available across various devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, and mobile devices. Compatibility is generally excellent.
- YouTube TV: Works seamlessly across a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming sticks, gaming consoles, and mobile devices, ensuring broad accessibility.
- Winner: Tie
Add-on Options
- Hulu Live TV: Offers a variety of add-ons, including premium channels like HBO Max, Cinemax, and Showtime, as well as bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+.
- YouTube TV: Provides a selection of add-on channels, such as HBO Max, Showtime, and sports packages, allowing for customization.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Channel Selection | Tie |
| DVR Features | Tie |
| User Interface | YouTube TV |
| On-Demand Content | Hulu + Live TV |
| Bundling Options | Hulu + Live TV |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Live TV Channels: Both services offer a comprehensive selection of live TV channels, including local networks, sports channels, news, and entertainment.
- Cloud Dvr: Both Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV provide unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing users to record and watch their favorite shows and movies.
- On-Demand Library: Both platforms include a vast on-demand library of movies and TV shows for streaming.
- Supported Devices: Both services are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, smartphones, and tablets.
- User Profiles: Both Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV support multiple user profiles, allowing for personalized viewing experiences.
- Local Channels: Both services include local channels.
Hulu Live TV vs YouTube TV Buying Guide
Channel Lineup
Hulu Live TV offers a comprehensive channel lineup, including local channels, major networks, and a selection of sports, news, and entertainment channels. You’ll likely find most of your favorite channels within its basic plan, though premium add-ons are available. The channel availability may vary based on your location. YouTube TV also boasts a strong channel lineup, with a focus on local channels and popular networks. It frequently includes regional sports networks, appealing to sports fans. While both services offer a wide array, YouTube TV might have a slight edge in some markets due to its agreements with local broadcasters.
Price and Plans
Hulu Live TV provides several plans with different features and pricing tiers. The base plan includes a generous channel lineup, cloud DVR, and access to Hulu’s on-demand library. Bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+ are a popular choice. YouTube TV features a single base plan with all channels included, offering a straightforward pricing structure. Both services regularly adjust their pricing. Consider the overall value, including channel offerings, DVR capabilities, and any bundled services, when evaluating the cost.
DVR and Streaming Quality
Both Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV offer cloud DVR services, but they differ in their storage and features. Hulu Live TV’s basic plan typically includes a limited amount of DVR storage, while upgrades are available. YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage. Regarding streaming quality, both services generally provide excellent video quality, including HD streams for most channels. Your internet connection speed will influence the actual viewing experience. Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection for optimal performance.
User Experience and Interface
The user interface is a critical aspect of any streaming service. Both Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV have user-friendly interfaces, but their layouts differ. Hulu Live TV integrates seamlessly with Hulu’s on-demand library, providing a unified viewing experience. YouTube TV offers a clean and intuitive interface with easy navigation. Consider which interface design appeals to you the most. Test out both platforms if possible to determine which you find easier and more enjoyable to use.
Compatibility and Devices
Both services are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV), smartphones, tablets, and web browsers. Ensure the service you choose is compatible with your preferred devices before subscribing. Check the supported devices list on each platform’s website. The ability to watch on multiple devices simultaneously is also important, especially for households with multiple viewers. Both services usually allow multiple concurrent streams.
Add-ons and Extras
Both platforms offer add-ons to customize your viewing experience. Hulu Live TV offers add-ons such as premium channels (HBO, Cinemax, etc.) and enhanced DVR options. The availability of add-ons can significantly increase your monthly cost. YouTube TV also provides add-ons, including premium channels and features. Consider the channels and features you want before deciding on add-ons. Carefully evaluate the value of add-ons against their cost, to see whether they meet your entertainment needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Hulu + Live TV If…
- You want a streaming service that bundles live TV with a vast on-demand library of movies and TV shows.
- You prefer a more streamlined interface with a focus on both live and on-demand content.
- You are interested in the Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle.
Buy YouTube TV If…
- You prioritize a clean and intuitive user interface with strong search functionality.
- You want a service that integrates well with the YouTube ecosystem.
- You value the ability to stream on multiple devices simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV?
The main difference lies in their channel lineups, pricing structures, and DVR capabilities. Hulu Live TV offers a more comprehensive on-demand library integration due to its Hulu subscription. YouTube TV focuses on a streamlined interface and unlimited DVR. Both services deliver live TV streams, but cater to different user preferences. Consider which priorities, such as DVR needs or on-demand content, are most important to you.
Which service offers a better channel selection?
Both services have excellent channel lineups, but the specific channels available can vary by location. YouTube TV often includes more regional sports networks. Hulu Live TV has a strong lineup with a broad range of channels. Analyze the channel lineups in your area to see which one includes your must-have channels. Take note of any regional sports networks that are important to your viewing habits.
How does the DVR service compare?
YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage, allowing you to record as much content as you want. Hulu Live TV provides DVR storage, but the amount depends on the plan chosen. Hulu Live TV’s base plan has limited hours. If you record a lot of content, the unlimited DVR on YouTube TV might be more appealing. Consider your recording habits and choose the service that best meets your needs.
What devices are compatible with each service?
Both Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices (Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV), smartphones, tablets, and web browsers. Always check the official website of each service to ensure compatibility with your specific devices. Check for any device-specific limitations or features. Compatibility is rarely an issue for either service.
How much does each service cost?
Pricing varies, and both services have adjusted their prices over time. YouTube TV generally offers a single base plan. Hulu Live TV has multiple plans. Consider the channel offerings, DVR, and any bundled services when evaluating the cost. Check their current websites for current pricing. Factor in any add-on costs for premium channels.
Can I share my account with family members?
Both services allow for account sharing with family members, but they have different limitations. YouTube TV generally allows for more simultaneous streams and profiles within a household. Hulu Live TV also allows for multiple profiles, but may have limitations on concurrent streams. Review the terms of service of each service for specifics on family sharing and simultaneous streams.
Which service offers better on-demand content?
Hulu Live TV integrates with Hulu’s on-demand library, providing access to a vast selection of movies and TV shows. YouTube TV also offers some on-demand content from its channels, but it’s not as extensive as Hulu’s library. If you value a large on-demand library, Hulu Live TV has an advantage. Consider your viewing habits and which on-demand content is most important.
Final Verdict
Both Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV are excellent choices for cord-cutters, offering live TV streaming with different strengths. YouTube TV’s unlimited DVR and generally simpler interface appeal to many. Hulu Live TV’s integration with its on-demand library and bundling options provide additional value. Choosing the right service depends on individual needs.
Winner: YouTube TV