HBO Max vs Hulu
type: Article
description: HBO Max excels with premium HBO/Warner Bros. content and 4K streaming on all plans, while Hulu offers more diverse general entertainment with the cheapest ad-supported tier at $7.99/month and superior live TV integration.
language: en-US
date published: 2026-07-06T05:25:56.915Z
date created: 2026-07-06T05:25:56.915Z
date modified: 2026-07-06T05:25:56.950Z
content reference time: 2026-07-06T05:25:56.950Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
about: HBO Max
about: Hulu
abstract: HBO Max excels with premium HBO/Warner Bros. content and 4K streaming on all plans, while Hulu offers more diverse general entertainment with the cheapest ad-supported tier at $7.99/month and superior live TV integration.
text: Starting Price (Ad-Supported). 4K Streaming Availability. Live TV Channels. Original Series (2024-2025). Movie Library Size. Simultaneous Streams. Ad-Free Monthly Cost
conclusion text: Choose HBO Max if you prioritize premium cinema-quality content, prestige dramas, and 4K streaming on your budget plan—it's ideal for cinephiles and HBO devotees. Choose Hulu if you want affordable entry-level streaming with live TV access, diverse general entertainment, and access to next-day network TV episodes from ABC, Fox, and NBC.
additional property: Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Premium)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $19.99 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Monthly Cost (With Ads)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $9.99 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Free Tier Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: No | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Total Content Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 10,000+ | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Total Titles Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: ~10,000 titles | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Original Productions Per Year
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 200+ originals | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Basic Plan Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $9.99/month | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Premium Ad-Free Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $19.99/month | Hulu: N/A
additional property: 4K Content Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: ~800 titles | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Password Sharing Outside Household
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Allowed with flexibility | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Gaming Features Integrated
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Limited | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Download Availability (Offline)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Available on premium plans | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Simultaneous Streams (Premium)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 4 screens | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Day-and-Date Theatrical Releases
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Yes (Warner Bros. films) | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Live Sports Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Yes (via Max Sports add-on) | Hulu: N/A
additional property: International Original Series
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Strong European focus | Hulu: N/A
additional property: 2024 Emmy Award Wins
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 35 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Maximum Video Quality
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 4K HDR + Dolby Atmos | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Maximum Simultaneous Streams
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 4 streams | Hulu: 2
  value reference: HBO Max
additional property: Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $5.99 | Hulu: $7.99
  value reference: HBO Max
additional property: Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $19.99 | Hulu: $14.99
  value reference: Hulu
additional property: Live TV Channels Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 0 | Hulu: 75+
  value reference: Hulu
additional property: Bundle Inclusions
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Discovery+ integration only | Hulu: Disney+, ESPN+, FX content
additional property: 2026 Emmy-Contending Series
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Hacks S5, Euphoria S3 | Hulu: Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating)
  value reference: HBO Max
additional property: Sports Content Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: None | Hulu: ESPN+ with premium sports
additional property: Same-Day Theatrical Releases
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: All Warner Bros. theatrical | Hulu: Limited
additional property: Content Library Size (Estimated)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 12,000+ | Hulu: 15,000+
  value reference: Hulu
additional property: Total Subscribers
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Annual Revenue (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Basic Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: $7.99
  value reference: Hulu
additional property: Number of Subscription Tiers
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Original Series (Top Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: YoY Growth Rate (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Target Audience
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Download Installs (2026)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: HBO Max | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $9.99 | Hulu: $7.99
  value reference: Hulu
additional property: Monthly Price (Ad-Free Premium)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $19.99 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Original Series Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 450+ | Hulu: 450+
additional property: Total Movie Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 2,000+ | Hulu: N/A
additional property: 4K/HDR Content Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 450+ | Hulu: 72% of library
  value reference: HBO Max
additional property: Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 4 | Hulu: 2 screens
  value reference: HBO Max
additional property: Offline Download Window
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 30 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: User Satisfaction Score
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 75% | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Monthly Subscription (Ad-Free)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: $16.99 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Total Content Library Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 3,900+ | Hulu: ~10,000+
  value reference: Hulu
additional property: Original Series Emmy Nominations (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 38 | Hulu: N/A
additional property: 4K HDR Titles Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 850+ | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Maximum Video Resolution
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: 4K (2160p) with Dolby Vision | Hulu: N/A
additional property: Audio Quality (Maximum)
  type: PropertyValue
  value: HBO Max: Dolby Atmos (5.1.4 surround) | Hulu: N/A
interactivity type: active
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/hbo-max
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/hbo-max
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/entity/hulu
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/alternatives/hulu
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/answer/hbo-max-vs-hulu)
significant link: https://www.aversusb.net/api/v1/schema/hbo-max-vs-hulu)
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hbo-max-vs-hulu
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hbo-max-vs-netflix
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/disney-vs-hbo-max
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hulu-vs-peacock
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hulu-vs-youtube
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hulu-vs-amazon
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/disney-plus-vs-hbo-max
related link: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/apple-tv-plus-vs-hulu
teaches: How to choose between HBO Max and Hulu
genre: Entertainment

primaryImage
type: ImageObject
width: 1200
height: 630
caption: HBO Max vs Hulu — Side-by-side comparison on A Versus B

A Versus B
type: Organization

HBO Max
type: Thing
alternate name: HM
alternate name: Hbo Max
language: en-US
description: Warner Bros. Discovery's premium streaming service featuring HBO originals, blockbuster films, and DC content.
subject of: HBO Max vs Hulu

Hulu
type: Organization
language: en-US
description: Streaming platform with 10,000+ on-demand titles and limited live TV options.
image: ImageObject
  caption: Hulu
subject of: HBO Max vs Hulu
image: ImageObject
  caption: Hulu

HBO Max vs Hulu — Structured Comparison Data
type: Dataset
description: Machine-readable comparison dataset for HBO Max vs Hulu. Contains 155 attribute comparisons, 5 FAQ pairs.
language: en-US
license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
creator: A Versus B
distribution: JSON-LD knowledge graph
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json+ld
distribution: Raw comparison JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Structured FAQ pairs JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: AI Answer API (citation-ready)
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
distribution: Related comparisons JSON
  type: DataDownload
  encoding format: application/json
variable measured: Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Premium)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Cost (With Ads)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Free Tier Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Access
variable measured: Total Content Titles
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Library
variable measured: Total Titles Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Original Productions Per Year
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Basic Plan Monthly Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Premium Ad-Free Plan Cost
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: 4K Content Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Quality
variable measured: Password Sharing Outside Household
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Gaming Features Integrated
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Download Availability (Offline)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Simultaneous Streams (Premium)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Day-and-Date Theatrical Releases
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Strategy
variable measured: Live Sports Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: International Original Series
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: 2024 Emmy Award Wins
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Quality
variable measured: Maximum Video Quality
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Technical Specs
variable measured: Maximum Simultaneous Streams
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Live TV Channels Included
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Bundle Inclusions
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Value
variable measured: 2026 Emmy-Contending Series
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Quality
variable measured: Sports Content Availability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Same-Day Theatrical Releases
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Movies
variable measured: Content Library Size (Estimated)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Library
variable measured: Total Subscribers
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Base
variable measured: Annual Revenue (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Financial
variable measured: Basic Plan Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Number of Subscription Tiers
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Plans
variable measured: Original Series (Top Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: YoY Growth Rate (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Growth
variable measured: Target Audience
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Demographics
variable measured: Download Installs (2026)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Mobile
variable measured: Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Price (Ad-Free Premium)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Original Series Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Total Movie Library
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: 4K/HDR Content Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Quality
variable measured: Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Offline Download Window
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: User Satisfaction Score
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: User Experience
variable measured: Monthly Subscription (Ad-Free)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Total Content Library Size
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Original Series Emmy Nominations (2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Quality
variable measured: 4K HDR Titles Available
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Video Quality
variable measured: Maximum Video Resolution
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Video Quality
variable measured: Audio Quality (Maximum)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Audio Quality
variable measured: Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Streaming Quality
variable measured: Live Sports Content
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content Type
variable measured: Monthly Price (Lowest Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Monthly Price (Ad-Free Tier)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Emmy Awards Won (2020-2024)
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Quality
variable measured: Original Series Released Per Year
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Content
variable measured: Supported Devices
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Compatibility
variable measured: Offline Download Capability
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Features
variable measured: Free Trial Duration
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Trial
variable measured: Ad-Supported Base Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: Ad-Free Premium Price
  type: PropertyValue
  value reference: Pricing
variable measured: 4K Streaming Included
variable measured: Live TV Channels
variable measured: Total Title Library
variable measured: Original Series Per Year
variable measured: Next-Day Network TV Episodes
variable measured: Subscribers
variable measured: Content Budget
variable measured: Ad-Free Monthly Price
variable measured: Recommended Bundle Price (All Services, No Ads)
is based on: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hbo-max-vs-hulu)

HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary
type: DefinedTermSet
language: en-US
description: Taxonomy of attribute categories used to classify comparison data for HBO Max vs Hulu.
has defined term: Pricing
has defined term: Access
has defined term: Content Library
has defined term: Content
has defined term: Content Quality
has defined term: Features
has defined term: Content Strategy
has defined term: Technical Specs
has defined term: Value
has defined term: Movies
has defined term: Library
has defined term: User Base
has defined term: Financial
has defined term: Plans
has defined term: Growth
has defined term: Demographics
has defined term: Mobile
has defined term: Quality
has defined term: User Experience
has defined term: Video Quality
has defined term: Audio Quality
has defined term: Streaming Quality
has defined term: Content Type
has defined term: Compatibility
has defined term: Trial
has defined term: Content Production
has defined term: Adoption
has defined term: Investment
has defined term: Social Features
has defined term: Business
has defined term: Popularity
has defined term: Market Position
has defined term: Engagement
has defined term: Technology
has defined term: Future
has defined term: Live TV
has defined term: Account Features
has defined term: Content Features
has defined term: Content Freshness
has defined term: Ecosystem
has defined term: Critical Recognition
has defined term: Technical
has defined term: Content Distribution
has defined term: Advertising
has defined term: Market
has defined term: Offer

Pricing
type: DefinedTerm
term code: pricing
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Access
type: DefinedTerm
term code: access
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Library
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-library
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-quality
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: features
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Strategy
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-strategy
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical Specs
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical-specs
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Value
type: DefinedTerm
term code: value
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Movies
type: DefinedTerm
term code: movies
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Library
type: DefinedTerm
term code: library
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Base
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-base
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Financial
type: DefinedTerm
term code: financial
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Plans
type: DefinedTerm
term code: plans
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Growth
type: DefinedTerm
term code: growth
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Demographics
type: DefinedTerm
term code: demographics
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Mobile
type: DefinedTerm
term code: mobile
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: quality
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

User Experience
type: DefinedTerm
term code: user-experience
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Video Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: video-quality
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Audio Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: audio-quality
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Streaming Quality
type: DefinedTerm
term code: streaming-quality
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Type
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-type
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Compatibility
type: DefinedTerm
term code: compatibility
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Trial
type: DefinedTerm
term code: trial
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Production
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-production
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Adoption
type: DefinedTerm
term code: adoption
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Investment
type: DefinedTerm
term code: investment
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Social Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: social-features
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Business
type: DefinedTerm
term code: business
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Popularity
type: DefinedTerm
term code: popularity
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market Position
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market-position
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Engagement
type: DefinedTerm
term code: engagement
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technology
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technology
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Future
type: DefinedTerm
term code: future
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Live TV
type: DefinedTerm
term code: live-tv
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Account Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: account-features
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Features
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-features
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Freshness
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-freshness
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Ecosystem
type: DefinedTerm
term code: ecosystem
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Critical Recognition
type: DefinedTerm
term code: critical-recognition
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Technical
type: DefinedTerm
term code: technical
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Content Distribution
type: DefinedTerm
term code: content-distribution
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Advertising
type: DefinedTerm
term code: advertising
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Market
type: DefinedTerm
term code: market
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

Offer
type: DefinedTerm
term code: offer
in defined term set: HBO Max vs Hulu — Attribute Category Vocabulary

faq
type: FAQPage
language: en-US
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
date modified: 2026-07-06T05:25:56.950Z
author: A Versus B
publisher: A Versus B
is part of: hbo-max-vs-hulu)
main entity: Can I watch in 4K on both services without paying premium prices?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: No. HBO Max includes 4K on all plans starting at $9.99/month, making it better for 4K content. Hulu only offers 4K on its $24.99/month Premium plan, so standard and ad-supported tiers are limited to 1080p resolution.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which service is better for live sports and news?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Hulu is the clear winner. It offers 90+ live TV channels (sports, news, entertainment) through its optional Live TV add-on ($90/month). HBO Max has zero live TV integration and focuses entirely on on-demand content.
    language: en-US
main entity: How do the original series compare?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: HBO Max produces approximately 40+ prestige original series annually with critical acclaim (The Last of Us, True Detective Season 4), while Hulu produces 25+ originals with more emphasis on broad appeal and comedy (The Bear, Only Murders in the Building). HBO Max wins on prestige; Hulu offers more variety.
    language: en-US
main entity: Which is cheapest for a family of 4?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: HBO Max's $19.99/month ad-free plan supports 4 simultaneous streams, making it ~$5 per person. Hulu's $24.99/month Premium plan also supports 4 streams (~$6.25 per person). However, if your family watches live TV, Hulu with Live TV ($90/month) replaces cable, becoming cost-effective compared to traditional TV.
    language: en-US
main entity: Can I watch network shows like Grey's Anatomy or The Bachelor?
  type: Question
  accepted answer: Answer
    text: Yes, but only on Hulu. Hulu offers next-day episodes of ABC, Fox, and NBC shows through its base plan. HBO Max does not have this feature. HBO Max focuses on HBO originals and Warner Bros. content instead.
    language: en-US

How to Choose Between HBO Max and Hulu
type: HowTo
description: HBO Max excels with premium HBO/Warner Bros. content and 4K streaming on all plans, while Hulu offers more diverse general entertainment with the cheapest ad-supported tier at $7.99/month and superior live TV integration.
language: en-US
total time: PT3M
step: Consider: Starting Price (Ad-Supported)
step: Consider: 4K Streaming Availability
step: Consider: Live TV Channels
step: Consider: Original Series (2024-2025)
step: Consider: Movie Library Size
step: Consider: Simultaneous Streams
step: Consider: Ad-Free Monthly Cost
tool: A Versus B Comparison Guide
tip: HowToTip
  text: Choose HBO Max if you prioritize premium cinema-quality content, prestige dramas, and 4K streaming on your budget plan—it's ideal for cinephiles and HBO devotees. Choose Hulu if you want affordable entry-level streaming with live TV access, diverse general entertainment, and access to next-day network TV episodes from ABC, Fox, and NBC.

Consider: Starting Price (Ad-Supported)
type: HowToStep
position: 1
text: Starting Price (Ad-Supported): HBO Max has $9.99/month, while Hulu has $7.99/month.

Consider: 4K Streaming Availability
type: HowToStep
position: 2
text: 4K Streaming Availability: HBO Max has All plans included, while Hulu has Premium plan only ($24.99/month).

Consider: Live TV Channels
type: HowToStep
position: 3
text: Live TV Channels: HBO Max has 0 channels, while Hulu has 90+ channels (with Live TV add-on).

Consider: Original Series (2024-2025)
type: HowToStep
position: 4
text: Original Series (2024-2025): HBO Max has 40+ prestige HBO originals annually, while Hulu has 25+ diverse originals annually.

Consider: Movie Library Size
type: HowToStep
position: 5
text: Movie Library Size: HBO Max has ~4,500 titles (premium films), while Hulu has ~2,500 titles (broader variety).

Consider: Simultaneous Streams
type: HowToStep
position: 6
text: Simultaneous Streams: HBO Max has 4 streams (ad-free plan), while Hulu has 2 streams (Standard), 4 (Premium).

Consider: Ad-Free Monthly Cost
type: HowToStep
position: 7
text: Ad-Free Monthly Cost: HBO Max has $19.99/month, while Hulu has $24.99/month.

claimreview
type: ClaimReview
is accessible for free: true
conditions of access: Free
claim reviewed: HBO Max vs Hulu
review body: HBO Max excels with premium HBO/Warner Bros. content and 4K streaming on all plans, while Hulu offers more diverse general entertainment with the cheapest ad-supported tier at $7.99/month and superior live TV integration.
review rating: Rating
  rating: 5
  worst rating: 1
  best rating: 5
  alternate name: Verified Comparison
author: A Versus B
item reviewed: HBO Max vs Hulu

Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 4 | Hulu: N/A

Live Sports Content
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: Minimal (occasional boxing/WWE) | Hulu: N/A

Monthly Price (Lowest Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: $7.99/month | Hulu: N/A

Monthly Price (Ad-Free Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: $19.99/month | Hulu: N/A

Emmy Awards Won (2020-2024)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 47 Emmy wins | Hulu: N/A

Original Series Released Per Year
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 60-80 series | Hulu: N/A

Supported Devices
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 150+ devices including Fire, Roku, gaming consoles, smart TVs | Hulu: N/A

Offline Download Capability
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: Limited to select titles only | Hulu: N/A

Free Trial Duration
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 7 days (with eligible payment method) | Hulu: N/A

Ad-Supported Base Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: $9.99 | Hulu: $7.99
value reference: Hulu

Ad-Free Premium Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: $19.99 | Hulu: $24.99
value reference: HBO Max

4K Streaming Included
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: All plans | Hulu: Premium plan only

Live TV Channels
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 0 channels | Hulu: 85+
value reference: Hulu

Total Title Library
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: ~4,500 titles | Hulu: ~2,500 titles
value reference: HBO Max

Original Series Per Year
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: 40+ prestige originals | Hulu: 25+ diverse originals
value reference: HBO Max

Next-Day Network TV Episodes
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: Not available | Hulu: ABC, Fox, NBC shows included

Subscribers
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 50M+

Content Budget
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $2.5 Billion

Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $17.99

Recommended Bundle Price (All Services, No Ads)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $44.99 (with ESPN Unlimited)

Simultaneous Stream Devices
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 2-4 devices

4K Content Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Limited, mostly HD

Watch Party Maximum Participants
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 8 participants (Watch Party)

Live TV Access
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Available with bundles

App Merger Timeline
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Early 2026

Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $7.99

Premium Subscription Price (No Ads)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Sports Content Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Limited (select events only)

Nielsen Rankings (Jan 2026)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Top 3 among streamers

Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Original Series Count
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 60+

Free Trial Period
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 7 days

Total Content Library Size
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 20,000+

Live TV Option
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes (Hulu+Live TV)

Simultaneous Streams
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 4 simultaneous

4K Content Available
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes (premium tier)

Dolby Atmos Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes

Theatrical Release Window
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 120 days standard

Mobile Download Feature
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes

Global Subscribers
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 50+ million

Content Library Size
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 4,000+ titles

Premium Ad-Free Plan
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Original Content Awards
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 120+ nominations

Simultaneous Streams (Standard)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 2 screens

User Satisfaction Score
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 76%

Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $5.99

Monthly Price (Premium/Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $11.99

Paying Subscribers (2026)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 55+ million

Live TV Channels
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 75+ channels

Content Engagement vs Traditional
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Industry standard

Bundle Options
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu

Exclusive Sports Rights
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Via ESPN+ partnership

Mobile-First Features
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Standard mobile app

Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $11.99/month

Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $19.99/month

Watch Party Co-Viewing Feature
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Included (Hulu Watch Party)

Content Discovery Usability
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Easier to browse and find content

Bundle Price (Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $19.99/month (included)

Current TV Episode Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Next-day episodes of current shows

Merger/Platform Status (2026)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Standalone app ending, merging into Disney+

Monthly Cost (Base Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $7.99

Monthly Cost (Premium/Ad-Free Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Live TV Base Plan Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $46-$65

Live TV Channels (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 75+

Cloud DVR Storage (Live TV)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Unlimited

On-Demand Content Library Size
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 10,000+

User Profiles Per Account
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 6

Same-Day TV Episode Releases
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes (ABC, NBC, Fox, FX)

Premium Tier Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Maximum User Profiles
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 6

TV Episode Next-Day Availability
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Same-day/next-day (typically 8-24 hours)

Hulu + Live TV / All-In Bundle Cost
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $119.99 (with ads, includes Disney+ & ESPN+)

Integrated Non-Streaming Benefits
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: None

Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Annual Content Budget
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $2.7B

2024 Emmy Nominations
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 32 nominations

Video Quality Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos

Next-Day TV Show Episodes
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes (most series)

Live TV Option Available
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes (add-on: $14.99/mo)

Original Series Produced Annually
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 95+

Live TV Channels (with Live Bundle)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 90+

Same-Day TV Episode Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 95%

Offline Download Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Premium tier only

Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Live TV Channels (with Live TV Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 90+ channels

Original Series (2024-2025)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 38+

Disney Bundle Compatibility
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes ($14.99/month with Disney+/ESPN+)

Free Trial Period
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 30 days (varies by plan)

Monthly Price (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Simultaneous Streams (Premium)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 2

4K/HDR Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Yes, on Premium

Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 4-6 minutes

Current-Season TV Episodes Access
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Next-day (24 hours)

Ad-Supported Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $7.99

Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

Total Content Library
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 8,500+

Original Series Released Annually
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 85+

Next-Day TV Episode Access
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Available (select shows)

Live TV Option
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: Available ($76.99/month add-on)

Global Subscriber Base
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 57 million

Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $7.99

On-Demand Content Library
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 10,000+

Cloud DVR Storage Capacity
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 50 hours

4K Streaming Support
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: No

Free Trial Length
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: 7 days

Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value: HBO Max: N/A | Hulu: $14.99

SpeakableSpecification
css selector: #short-answer
css selector: #verdict
css selector: #key-differences
css selector: #faq
xpath: //*[@id='short-answer']
xpath: //*[@id='verdict']

HBO Max — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Hulu — Wikipedia
type: CreativeWork

Compare HBO Max vs Hulu
type: Action
additional type: CompareAction
target: https://www.aversusb.net/compare/hbo-max-vs-hulu)
object: HBO Max
object: Hulu

4K Streaming Included
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Video Quality

Live TV Channels
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Total Title Library
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Library

Original Series Per Year
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Production

Next-Day Network TV Episodes
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Subscribers
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Adoption

Content Budget
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Investment

Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Value

Recommended Bundle Price (All Services, No Ads)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Simultaneous Stream Devices
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

4K Content Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Video Quality

Watch Party Maximum Participants
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Social Features

Live TV Access
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

App Merger Timeline
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Business

Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Premium Subscription Price (No Ads)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Sports Content Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Nielsen Rankings (Jan 2026)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Popularity

Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Original Series Count
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Free Trial Period
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Total Content Library Size
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Live TV Option
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Simultaneous Streams
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

4K Content Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Quality

Dolby Atmos Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Quality

Theatrical Release Window
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Mobile Download Feature
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Global Subscribers
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market Position

Content Library Size
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Premium Ad-Free Plan
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Original Content Awards
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Quality

Simultaneous Streams (Standard)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

User Satisfaction Score
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Monthly Price (Premium/Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Paying Subscribers (2026)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Base

Live TV Channels
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Content Engagement vs Traditional
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Engagement

Bundle Options
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Exclusive Sports Rights
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Mobile-First Features
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Technology

Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Watch Party Co-Viewing Feature
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Content Discovery Usability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: User Experience

Bundle Price (Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Current TV Episode Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Merger/Platform Status (2026)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Future

Monthly Cost (Base Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Monthly Cost (Premium/Ad-Free Tier)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Live TV Base Plan Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Live TV Channels (Standard Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Live TV

Cloud DVR Storage (Live TV)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Live TV

On-Demand Content Library Size
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

User Profiles Per Account
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Account Features

Same-Day TV Episode Releases
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Features

Premium Tier Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Maximum User Profiles
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

TV Episode Next-Day Availability
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Freshness

Hulu + Live TV / All-In Bundle Cost
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Integrated Non-Streaming Benefits
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Ecosystem

Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Annual Content Budget
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

2024 Emmy Nominations
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Critical Recognition

Video Quality Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Technical

Next-Day TV Show Episodes
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Distribution

Live TV Option Available
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Original Series Produced Annually
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Live TV Channels (with Live Bundle)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Same-Day TV Episode Coverage
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Offline Download Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Live TV Channels (with Live TV Plan)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Original Series (2024-2025)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content Library

Disney Bundle Compatibility
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Free Trial Period
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Monthly Price (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Simultaneous Streams (Premium)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

4K/HDR Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Video Quality

Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Advertising

Current-Season TV Episodes Access
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Ad-Supported Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

Total Content Library
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Original Series Released Annually
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Next-Day TV Episode Access
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Live TV Option
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Global Subscriber Base
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Market

Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing

On-Demand Content Library
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Content

Cloud DVR Storage Capacity
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

4K Streaming Support
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Features

Free Trial Length
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Offer

Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)
type: PropertyValue
value reference: Pricing