entertainment
HBO Max vs Hulu 2026 | Full Comparison
HBO Max focuses on premium HBO content and blockbuster films with a $16/month ad-free tier, while Hulu offers broader general entertainment with next-day TV access and costs $8/month with ads. HBO Max wins for cinephiles; Hulu wins for TV binge-watchers.
HBO Max
Premium streaming service featuring HBO originals, Warner Bros films, and DC content.
Movie lovers, HBO prestige drama fans, DC Comics fans, and households wanting theatrical-quality content
Score63%
VS
Hulu
Broad-based streaming service with next-day TV episodes, live TV, and extensive entertainment variety.
TV series enthusiasts, sports fans, network TV watchers wanting next-day episodes, and families wanting bundled services
Score63%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryHBO Max focuses on premium HBO content and blockbuster films with a $16/month ad-free tier, while Hulu offers broader general entertainment with next-day TV access and costs $8/month with ads. HBO Max wins for cinephiles; Hulu wins for TV binge-watchers.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose HBO Max if you prioritize cinematic quality, premium HBO content, and Warner Bros theatrical releases—it's ideal for movie enthusiasts and prestige drama fans. Choose Hulu if you want comprehensive television coverage, next-day network TV episodes, live TV options, and broader entertainment variety at a lower cost.
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HBO Max
7.7/10
Hulu
7.3/10
Choose HBO Max if
Best pickMovie lovers, HBO prestige drama fans, DC Comics fans, and households wanting theatrical-quality content
Choose Hulu if
TV series enthusiasts, sports fans, network TV watchers wanting next-day episodes, and families wanting bundled services
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Tier):✓ Hulu wins($14.99/month vs $16.99/month)
- Original Series Count (2024):✓ HBO Max wins(68 originals annually vs 42 originals annually)
- 4K Content Library:✓ HBO Max wins(800+ titles vs 200+ titles)
Key Facts & Figures
157 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | HBO Max | Hulu | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Premium)(USD) | $19.99 | — | — |
| Monthly Cost (With Ads)(USD) | $9.99 | — | — |
| Total Titles Available(titles) | ~10,000 titles | — | — |
| Original Productions Per Year(productions) | 200+ originals | — | — |
| Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD) | $9.99/month | — | — |
| Premium Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $19.99/month | — | — |
| 4K Content Library(titles) | ~800 titles | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (Premium)(screens) | 4 screens | — | — |
| 2024 Emmy Award Wins(awards) | 35 | — | — |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens) | 4 (Premium) | 4 streams (standard) / 6 streams (premium) | |
| Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD/month) | $5.99 | $7.99 | |
| Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month) | $19.99 | $14.99 | |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 0 | 75+ | |
| 2026 Emmy-Contending Series(count) | Hacks S5, Euphoria S3 | Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating) | |
| Content Library Size (Estimated)(titles) | 12,000+ | 15,000+ | |
| Total Subscribers(millions) | HBO Max | — | — |
| Annual Revenue (2024)(billion USD) | HBO Max | — | — |
| Basic Plan Price(USD/month) | HBO Max | $7.99 | |
| Number of Subscription Tiers(tiers) | HBO Max | — | — |
| YoY Growth Rate (2024)(percent) | HBO Max | — | — |
| Download Installs (2026)(millions) | HBO Max | — | — |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) | $9.99 | $7.99 | |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Free Premium)(USD) | $19.99 | — | — |
| Original Series Library(series) | 450+ | 450+ | |
| Total Movie Library(titles) | 2,000+ | — | — |
| 4K HDR Content Available(titles) | 450+ | 72% of library | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)(streams) | 4 | 2 | |
| Offline Download Window(days) | 30 | — | — |
| User Satisfaction Score(out of 10) | 75% | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription (Ad-Free)(USD) | $16.99 | — | — |
| Total Content Library Size(titles) | 10,000+ | 9,000+ | |
| Original Series Emmy Nominations (2024)(nominations) | 38 | — | — |
| 4K HDR Titles Available(titles) | 850+ | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(devices) | 4 devices | — | — |
| Monthly Price (Lowest Tier)(USD) | $7.99/month | — | — |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Free Tier)(USD) | $19.99/month | — | — |
| Emmy Awards Won (2020-2024)(awards) | 47 Emmy wins | — | — |
| Original Series Released Per Year(series) | 60-80 series | — | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | — | — |
| Ad-Supported Base Price(USD/month) | $9.99 | $7.99 | |
| Ad-Free Premium Price(USD/month) | $19.99 | $24.99 | |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 0 channels | 500+ (Live TV tier) | |
| Total Title Library(titles) | ~4,500 titles | ~2,500 titles | |
| Original Series Per Year(series) | 40+ prestige originals | 25+ diverse originals | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)(USD) | $16.99/month | $14.99 | |
| Film Catalog Size(titles) | 4,000+ | — | — |
| Original Series Critical Quality (Avg Rotten Tomatoes)(%) | 72% | — | — |
| 2024 Emmy Nominations for Originals(nominations) | 156 | — | — |
| Global Subscriber Base (2024)(millions) | 52 million | — | — |
| Annual Cost (Ad-Free)(USD) | $203.88 | — | — |
| Ad-Supported Monthly Price(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $15.99 | $7.99 | |
| Total Content Titles(titles) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ | |
| Original Series Released Annually(series/year) | 150+ | 40-50 | |
| 4K Ultra HD Titles(titles) | 500+ | — | — |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 60 million | — | — |
| Ad-Supported Monthly Price (US)(USD) | $5.99 | — | — |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price (US)(USD) | $19.99 | — | — |
| Original Series Count(shows) | 220+ originals | 80+ originals | |
| Film Library Size(titles) | 2,500+ films | — | — |
| 2024 Emmy Awards Won(awards) | 31 Emmys | 16 | |
| Simultaneous Screens (Standard)(screens) | 2 screens | — | — |
| Ad-Free Monthly Cost(USD) | $16.99 | $14.99 | |
| Original Series Produced Annually(series) | 68 originals | 42 originals | |
| 4K/Ultra HD Available Titles(titles) | 800+ titles | 200+ titles | |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 0 (not included) | 50+ channels | |
| Same/Next-Day Network TV Episodes(shows) | Limited HBO only | 500+ shows | — |
| Warner Bros Theatrical Films/Year(films) | 40-50 films | 0-5 films | |
| Max Simultaneous Streams(screens) | 4 screens | 2 screens | |
| Bundle Price (All Streaming Services)(USD/month) | $21+ (HBO only bundle) | $14.99 (Disney+/ESPN+ bundle) | |
| Base Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month) | $9.99 | — | — |
| Premium Tier Price (4K/Full Features)(USD/month) | $9.99 (4K included) | — | — |
| Total Content Library(titles) | 2,100+ | 8,500+ | |
| 2024 Emmy Awards Nominations(nominations) | 140+ nominations | — | — |
| Theatrical Release Window(days) | Same-day (0 days) | — | — |
| Ad-Tier Monthly Cost(USD/month) | $5.99 | — | — |
| Subscribers | 50M+ | 50M+ | |
| Content Budget(USD/year) | $2.5 Billion | $2.5 Billion | |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $17.99 | $17.99 | |
| Recommended Bundle Price (All Services, No Ads)(USD per month) | $44.99 (with ESPN Unlimited) | $44.99 (with ESPN Unlimited) | |
| Simultaneous Stream Devices(devices) | 2-4 devices | 2-4 devices | |
| Watch Party Maximum Participants(people) | 8 participants (Watch Party) | 8 participants (Watch Party) | |
| App Merger Timeline(year) | Early 2026 | Early 2026 | |
| Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD per month) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Premium Subscription Price (No Ads)(USD per month) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Original Series Count(active) | 60+ | 60+ | |
| Free Trial Period(days) | 7 days | 7 days | |
| Total Content Library Size(titles) | 20,000+ | 20,000+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams(count) | 4 simultaneous | 4 simultaneous | |
| Theatrical Release Window(months) | 120 days standard | 120 days standard | |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 50+ million | 50+ million | |
| Content Library Size(titles) | 4,000+ titles | 4,000+ titles | |
| Premium Ad-Free Plan(USD/month) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Original Content Awards(Emmy nominations) | 120+ nominations | 120+ nominations | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Standard)(screens) | 2 screens | 2 screens | |
| User Satisfaction Score(%) | 76% | 76% | |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) | $5.99 | $5.99 | |
| Monthly Price (Premium/Ad-Free)(USD) | $11.99 | $11.99 | |
| Paying Subscribers (2026)(millions) | 55+ million | 55+ million | |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 75+ channels | 75+ channels | |
| Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) | $11.99/month | $11.99/month | |
| Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $19.99/month | $19.99/month | |
| Bundle Price (Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+)(USD) | $19.99/month (included) | $19.99/month (included) | |
| Monthly Cost (Base Tier)(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Monthly Cost (Premium/Ad-Free Tier)(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Live TV Base Plan Cost(USD/month) | $46-$65 | $46-$65 | |
| Live TV Channels (Standard Plan)(channels) | 75+ | 75+ | |
| On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ | |
| User Profiles Per Account(profiles) | 6 | 6 | |
| Premium Tier Monthly Price(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Maximum User Profiles(profiles) | 6 | 6 | |
| TV Episode Next-Day Availability(hours after air) | Same-day/next-day (typically 8-24 hours) | Same-day/next-day (typically 8-24 hours) | |
| Hulu + Live TV / All-In Bundle Cost(USD/month) | $119.99 (with ads, includes Disney+ & ESPN+) | $119.99 (with ads, includes Disney+ & ESPN+) | |
| Annual Content Budget(USD billions) | $2.7B | $2.7B | |
| 2024 Emmy Nominations(nominations) | 32 nominations | 32 nominations | |
| Live TV Channels (with Live Bundle)(channels) | 90+ | 90+ | |
| Same-Day TV Episode Coverage(percent of shows) | 95% | 95% | |
| Live TV Channels (with Live TV Plan)(count) | 90+ channels | 90+ channels | |
| Original Series (2024-2025)(series) | 38+ | 38+ | |
| Free Trial Period(days) | 30 days (varies by plan) | 30 days (varies by plan) | |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Premium)(screens) | 2 | 2 | |
| Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)(minutes per hour) | 4-6 minutes | 4-6 minutes | |
| Current-Season TV Episodes Access(days after air date) | Next-day (24 hours) | Next-day (24 hours) | |
| Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Global Subscriber Base(millions) | 57 million | 57 million | |
| Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| On-Demand Content Library(titles) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ | |
| Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) | 50 hours | 50 hours | |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 days | 7 days | |
| Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Movie Library Size(films) | 4,000 | 4,000 | |
| Disney Bundle Cost(USD/month) | $14.99 (with Disney+, ESPN+) | $14.99 (with Disney+, ESPN+) | |
| TV Episode Release Schedule(days) | Same-day or next-day | Same-day or next-day | |
| Ad-Supported Monthly Cost(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| On-Demand Title Library(titles) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Premium Tier)(streams) | 2 | 2 | |
| Live TV Channels (with add-on/included)(channels) | 65+ (Hulu+Live TV $76.99/mo) | 65+ (Hulu+Live TV $76.99/mo) | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Tier)(EUR) | $7.99/month (with ads) | $7.99/month (with ads) | |
| Total Available Titles(titles) | ~10,000+ | ~10,000+ | |
| Original Emmy Nominations (All-Time)(nominations) | 120+ total | 120+ total | |
| Base Subscription Cost(USD/month) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Ad-Free Premium Tier Cost(USD/month) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| TV Show Episodes Available(episodes) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ | |
| Monthly Cost (Ad-Supported Tier)(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Tier)(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| TV Series Available(titles) | 8,000+ | 8,000+ | |
| Simultaneous Device Streams(devices) | 2 | 2 | |
| Base Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Movie Library(titles) | 1,800+ films | 1,800+ films | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Ad-Free Tier)(devices) | 4 devices | 4 devices | |
| NFL Game Availability(games/season) | 0 games (requires ESPN+ add-on) | 0 games (requires ESPN+ add-on) | |
| Same-Day TV Episodes(shows) | 200+ shows | 200+ shows | |
| Original Series (2025)(series) | 120+ | 120+ | |
| Ad-Supported Plan Price(USD/month) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Premium Ad-Free Plan Price(USD/month) | $14.99 | $14.99 |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
HBO Max leads
HBO Max
Attribute
Hulu
- $16.99/monthMonthly Cost (Ad-Free Tier)$14.99/month(winner)
- 68 originals annually(winner)Original Series Count (2024)42 originals annually
- 800+ titles(winner)4K Content Library200+ titles
- Not includedLive TV AccessIncluded in $8+ tiers(winner)
- Limited HBO shows onlySame-Day TV EpisodesNext-day access to 500+ shows(winner)
- 40-50 Warner Bros films(winner)Films Released Theatrically (Annual)0-5 theatrical films
- 4 screens (Premium tier)(winner)Simultaneous Streaming Accounts2 screens (standard)
- Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Tier)
HBO Max
$16.99/month
Hulu
$14.99/month(winner)
- Original Series Count (2024)
HBO Max
68 originals annually(winner)
Hulu
42 originals annually
- 4K Content Library
HBO Max
800+ titles(winner)
Hulu
200+ titles
- Live TV Access
HBO Max
Not included
Hulu
Included in $8+ tiers(winner)
- Same-Day TV Episodes
HBO Max
Limited HBO shows only
Hulu
Next-day access to 500+ shows(winner)
- Films Released Theatrically (Annual)
HBO Max
40-50 Warner Bros films(winner)
Hulu
0-5 theatrical films
- Simultaneous Streaming Accounts
HBO Max
4 screens (Premium tier)(winner)
Hulu
2 screens (standard)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | HBO Max | Hulu |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Premium)(USD) | $19.99 | — |
| Monthly Cost (With Ads)(USD) | $9.99 | — |
| Free Tier Available(null) | No | — |
| Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD) | $9.99/month | — |
| Premium Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $19.99/month | — |
Show 51 more attributesBase Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD/month) $5.99 $7.99 Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month) $19.99 $14.99 Basic Plan Price(USD/month) HBO Max $7.99 Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) $9.99 $7.99 Monthly Price (Ad-Free Premium)(USD) $19.99 — Monthly Subscription (Ad-Free)(USD) $16.99 — Monthly Price (Lowest Tier)(USD) $7.99/month — Monthly Price (Ad-Free Tier)(USD) $19.99/month — Ad-Supported Base Price(USD/month) $9.99 $7.99 Ad-Free Premium Price(USD/month) $19.99 $24.99 Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)(USD) $16.99/month $14.99 Annual Cost (Ad-Free)(USD) $203.88 — Ad-Supported Monthly Price(USD) $7.99 $7.99 Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) $15.99 $7.99 Ad-Supported Monthly Price (US)(USD) $5.99 — Ad-Free Monthly Price (US)(USD) $19.99 — Ad-Free Monthly Cost(USD) $16.99 $14.99 Bundle Price (All Streaming Services)(USD/month) $21+ (HBO only bundle) $14.99 (Disney+/ESPN+ bundle) Base Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month) $9.99 — Premium Tier Price (4K/Full Features)(USD/month) $9.99 (4K included) — Ad-Tier Monthly Cost(USD/month) $5.99 — Recommended Bundle Price (All Services, No Ads)(USD per month) $44.99 (with ESPN Unlimited) — Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD per month) $7.99 — Premium Subscription Price (No Ads)(USD per month) $14.99 — Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) $14.99 — Premium Ad-Free Plan(USD/month) $14.99 — Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) $5.99 — Monthly Price (Premium/Ad-Free)(USD) $11.99 — Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) $11.99/month — Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $19.99/month — Bundle Price (Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+)(USD) $19.99/month (included) — Monthly Cost (Base Tier)(USD) $7.99 — Monthly Cost (Premium/Ad-Free Tier)(USD) $14.99 — Live TV Base Plan Cost(USD/month) $46-$65 — Premium Tier Monthly Price(USD) $14.99 — Hulu + Live TV / All-In Bundle Cost(USD/month) $119.99 (with ads, includes Disney+ & ESPN+) — Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $14.99 — Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) $14.99 — Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) $7.99 — Free Trial Length(days) 7 days — Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $14.99 — Disney Bundle Cost(USD/month) $14.99 (with Disney+, ESPN+) — Ad-Supported Monthly Cost(USD) $7.99 — Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Tier)(EUR) $7.99/month (with ads) — Base Subscription Cost(USD/month) $7.99 — Ad-Free Premium Tier Cost(USD/month) $14.99 — Monthly Cost (Ad-Supported Tier)(USD) $7.99 — Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Tier)(USD) $14.99 — Base Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) $7.99 — Ad-Supported Plan Price(USD/month) $7.99 — Premium Ad-Free Plan Price(USD/month) $14.99 — | ||
| Total Titles Available(titles) | ~10,000 titles | — |
| Original Productions Per Year(productions) | 200+ originals | — |
| International Original Series(count) | Strong European focus | — |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 0 | 75+(winner) |
| Sports Content Availability | None | ESPN+ with premium sports |
Show 30 more attributesOriginal Series (Top Tier) HBO Max — Original Series Library(series) 450+ 450+ Total Movie Library(titles) 2,000+ — Total Content Library Size(titles) 10,000+ 9,000+ Original Series Released Per Year(series) 60-80 series — Live TV Channels(channels) 0 channels 500+ (Live TV tier) Film Catalog Size(titles) 4,000+ — Original Series Released Annually(series/year) 150+ 40-50 Original Series Produced Annually(series) 68 originals 42 originals Same/Next-Day Network TV Episodes(shows) Limited HBO only 500+ shows Warner Bros Theatrical Films/Year(films) 40-50 films 0-5 films Total Content Library(titles) 2,100+ 8,500+ Sports Content Coverage(categories) Limited (select events only) — Original Series Count(active) 60+ — Total Content Library Size(titles) 20,000+ — Theatrical Release Window(months) 120 days standard — Content Library Size(titles) 4,000+ titles — Exclusive Sports Rights Via ESPN+ partnership — Current TV Episode Availability Next-day episodes of current shows — On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) 10,000+ — Annual Content Budget(USD billions) $2.7B — Same-Day TV Episode Coverage(percent of shows) 95% — Original Series (2024-2025)(series) 38+ — On-Demand Content Library(titles) 10,000+ — On-Demand Title Library(titles) 10,000+ — Live Sports Access Limited (requires add-ons) — Movie Library(titles) 1,800+ films — Same-Day TV Episodes(shows) 200+ shows — Original Series (2025)(series) 120+ — Next-Day TV Show Access(availability) Full (most networks) — | ||
| 4K Content Library(titles) | ~800 titles | — |
| 2024 Emmy Award Wins(awards) | 35 | — |
| 2026 Emmy-Contending Series(count) | Hacks S5, Euphoria S3(winner) | Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating) |
| 4K HDR Content Available(titles) | 450+(winner) | 72% of library |
| Original Series Emmy Nominations (2024)(nominations) | 38 | — |
Show 3 more attributes2024 Emmy Awards Nominations(nominations) 140+ nominations — Original Content Awards(Emmy nominations) 120+ nominations — Original Emmy Nominations (All-Time)(nominations) 120+ total — | ||
| Password Sharing Outside Household | Allowed with flexibility | — |
| Gaming Features Integrated | Limited | — |
| Download Availability (Offline) | Available on premium plans | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (Premium)(screens) | 4 screens | — |
| Live Sports Availability | Yes (via Max Sports add-on) | — |
Show 36 more attributesMaximum Simultaneous Streams(screens) 4 (Premium) 4 streams (standard) / 6 streams (premium) Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)(streams) 4 2 Offline Download Window(days) 30 — Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(devices) 4 devices — Offline Download Capability Limited to select titles only — Next-Day Network TV Episodes(null) Not available ABC, Fox, NBC shows included Simultaneous Screens (Standard)(screens) 2 screens — Live TV Channels Included(channels) 0 (not included) 50+ channels Max Simultaneous Streams(screens) 4 screens 2 screens Simultaneous Stream Devices(devices) 2-4 devices — Live TV Access(availability) Available with bundles — Free Trial Period(days) 7 days — Live TV Option(available) Yes (Hulu+Live TV) — Simultaneous Streams(count) 4 simultaneous — Mobile Download Feature(yes/no) Yes — Simultaneous Streams (Standard)(screens) 2 screens — Live TV Channels(channels) 75+ channels — Bundle Options Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu — Watch Party Co-Viewing Feature Included (Hulu Watch Party) — Maximum User Profiles(profiles) 6 — Live TV Option Available(yes/no) Yes (add-on: $14.99/mo) — Live TV Channels (with Live Bundle)(channels) 90+ — Offline Download Support Premium tier only — Live TV Channels (with Live TV Plan)(count) 90+ channels — Disney Bundle Compatibility Yes ($14.99/month with Disney+/ESPN+) — Simultaneous Streams (Premium)(screens) 2 — Current-Season TV Episodes Access(days after air date) Next-day (24 hours) — Next-Day TV Episode Access Available (600+ shows) — Live TV Option Available ($76.99/month add-on) — Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) 50 hours — Simultaneous Streams (Premium Tier)(streams) 2 — Live TV Channels (with add-on/included)(channels) 65+ (Hulu+Live TV $76.99/mo) — Live TV Availability(channels) 90+ channels (Live TV add-on) — Simultaneous Device Streams(devices) 2 — Simultaneous Streams (Ad-Free Tier)(devices) 4 devices — Live TV Bundle Available(yes/no) Yes (75+ channels) — | ||
| Day-and-Date Theatrical Releases | Yes (Warner Bros. films) | — |
| Maximum Video Quality(resolution) | 4K HDR + Dolby Atmos | — |
| Mobile-First Features | Standard mobile app | — |
| Bundle Inclusions | Discovery+ integration only | Disney+, ESPN+, FX content |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $17.99 | — |
| Bundle Monthly Savings(USD) | None | — |
| Same-Day Theatrical Releases | All Warner Bros. theatrical | Limited |
| Content Library Size (Estimated)(titles) | 12,000+ | 15,000+(winner) |
| Total Subscribers(millions) | HBO Max | — |
| Paying Subscribers (2026)(millions) | 55+ million | — |
| Annual Revenue (2024)(billion USD) | HBO Max | — |
| Number of Subscription Tiers(tiers) | HBO Max | — |
| YoY Growth Rate (2024)(percent) | HBO Max | — |
| Target Audience | HBO Max | — |
| Download Installs (2026)(millions) | HBO Max | — |
| User Satisfaction Score(out of 10) | 75% | — |
| Emmy Awards Won (2020-2024)(awards) | 47 Emmy wins | — |
| Original Series Critical Quality (Avg Rotten Tomatoes)(%) | 72% | — |
| 4K/Ultra HD Available Titles(titles) | 800+ titles(winner) | 200+ titles |
| 4K Content Availability(percent) | Limited, mostly HD | — |
Show 3 more attributes4K Content Available(yes/no) Yes (premium tier) — Dolby Atmos Support(yes/no) Yes — 2024 Emmy Nominations(nominations) 32 nominations — | ||
| 4K HDR Titles Available(titles) | 850+ | — |
| 4K Streaming Included(null) | All plans | Premium plan only |
| Maximum Video Resolution(pixels) | 4K UltraHD (2160p) on all tiers | 1080p Full HD (Premium) |
| 4K/HDR Support | Yes, on Premium | — |
| 4K Content Titles(% of library) | ~15% of library in 4K | — |
Show 1 more attributeMaximum Video Resolution (Ad-Supported)(pixels) 1080p Full HD — | ||
| Audio Quality (Maximum)(channels) | Dolby Atmos (5.1.4 surround) | — |
| Live Sports Content(text) | Minimal (occasional boxing/WWE) | — |
| Supported Devices(count) | 150+ devices including Fire, Roku, gaming consoles, smart TVs | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | 7 days | — |
| Free Trial Period(days) | 30 days (varies by plan) | — |
| Total Title Library(titles) | ~4,500 titles(winner) | ~2,500 titles |
| Original Series Count(shows) | 220+ originals(winner) | 80+ originals |
| Film Library Size(titles) | 2,500+ films | — |
| Movie Library Size(films) | 4,000 | — |
| Total Available Titles(titles) | ~10,000+ | — |
Show 2 more attributesTV Show Episodes Available(episodes) 10,000+ — TV Series Available(titles) 8,000+ — | ||
| Original Series Per Year(series) | 40+ prestige originals(winner) | 25+ diverse originals |
| 2024 Emmy Nominations for Originals(nominations) | 156 | — |
| Global Subscriber Base (2024)(millions) | 52 million | — |
| Nielsen Rankings (Jan 2026)(position) | Top 3 among streamers | — |
| Total Content Titles(titles) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ |
| 4K Ultra HD Titles(titles) | 500+ | — |
| Live Sports Available(null) | None | — |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 60 million | — |
| 2024 Emmy Awards Won(awards) | 31 Emmys(winner) | 16 |
| Primary Content Audience(demographic) | Adults ages 18+ | — |
| Theatrical Release Window(days) | Same-day (0 days) | — |
| Subscribers | 50M+ | — |
| Content Budget(USD/year) | $2.5 Billion | — |
| Watch Party Maximum Participants(people) | 8 participants (Watch Party) | — |
| App Merger Timeline(year) | Early 2026 | — |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 50+ million | — |
| User Satisfaction Score(%) | 76% | — |
| Content Discovery Usability | Easier to browse and find content | — |
| Content Engagement vs Traditional(%) | Industry standard | — |
| Merger/Platform Status (2026) | Standalone app ending, merging into Disney+ | — |
| Live TV Channels (Standard Plan)(channels) | 75+ | — |
| Cloud DVR Storage (Live TV)(storage) | Unlimited | — |
| User Profiles Per Account(profiles) | 6 | — |
| Same-Day TV Episode Releases(availability) | Yes (ABC, NBC, Fox, FX) | — |
| TV Episode Next-Day Availability(hours after air) | Same-day/next-day (typically 8-24 hours) | — |
| Current-Season TV Episode Access(hours after air) | ~24 hours (next day) | — |
| Integrated Non-Streaming Benefits | None | — |
| Video Quality Support(max resolution) | 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos | — |
| 4K Streaming Support(supported) | No | — |
| Next-Day TV Show Episodes(available) | Yes (most series) | — |
| Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)(minutes per hour) | 4-6 minutes | — |
| Global Subscriber Base(millions) | 57 million | — |
| TV Episode Release Schedule(days) | Same-day or next-day | — |
| Free Shipping Benefit | No | — |
| Free Tier Availability(boolean) | No free tier | — |
| NFL Game Availability(games/season) | 0 games (requires ESPN+ add-on) | — |
HBO MaxHuluMonthly Cost (Ad-Free Premium)(USD)
$19.99
—
Monthly Cost (With Ads)(USD)
$9.99
—
Free Tier Available(null)
No
—
Basic Plan Monthly Cost(USD)
$9.99/month
—
Premium Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD)
$19.99/month
—
Show 51 more attributes
Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD/month)
$5.99
$7.99
Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month)
$19.99
$14.99
Basic Plan Price(USD/month)
HBO Max
$7.99
Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD)
$9.99
$7.99
Monthly Price (Ad-Free Premium)(USD)
$19.99
—
Monthly Subscription (Ad-Free)(USD)
$16.99
—
Monthly Price (Lowest Tier)(USD)
$7.99/month
—
Monthly Price (Ad-Free Tier)(USD)
$19.99/month
—
Ad-Supported Base Price(USD/month)
$9.99
$7.99
Ad-Free Premium Price(USD/month)
$19.99
$24.99
Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)(USD)
$16.99/month
$14.99
Annual Cost (Ad-Free)(USD)
$203.88
—
Ad-Supported Monthly Price(USD)
$7.99
$7.99
Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$15.99
$7.99
Ad-Supported Monthly Price (US)(USD)
$5.99
—
Ad-Free Monthly Price (US)(USD)
$19.99
—
Ad-Free Monthly Cost(USD)
$16.99
$14.99
Bundle Price (All Streaming Services)(USD/month)
$21+ (HBO only bundle)
$14.99 (Disney+/ESPN+ bundle)
Base Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month)
$9.99
—
Premium Tier Price (4K/Full Features)(USD/month)
$9.99 (4K included)
—
Ad-Tier Monthly Cost(USD/month)
$5.99
—
Recommended Bundle Price (All Services, No Ads)(USD per month)
$44.99 (with ESPN Unlimited)
—
Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD per month)
$7.99
—
Premium Subscription Price (No Ads)(USD per month)
$14.99
—
Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$14.99
—
Premium Ad-Free Plan(USD/month)
$14.99
—
Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD)
$5.99
—
Monthly Price (Premium/Ad-Free)(USD)
$11.99
—
Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD)
$11.99/month
—
Standalone Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$19.99/month
—
Bundle Price (Disney+/Hulu/ESPN+)(USD)
$19.99/month (included)
—
Monthly Cost (Base Tier)(USD)
$7.99
—
Monthly Cost (Premium/Ad-Free Tier)(USD)
$14.99
—
Live TV Base Plan Cost(USD/month)
$46-$65
—
Premium Tier Monthly Price(USD)
$14.99
—
Hulu + Live TV / All-In Bundle Cost(USD/month)
$119.99 (with ads, includes Disney+ & ESPN+)
—
Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$14.99
—
Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$14.99
—
Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD)
$7.99
—
Free Trial Length(days)
7 days
—
Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$14.99
—
Disney Bundle Cost(USD/month)
$14.99 (with Disney+, ESPN+)
—
Ad-Supported Monthly Cost(USD)
$7.99
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Tier)(EUR)
$7.99/month (with ads)
—
Base Subscription Cost(USD/month)
$7.99
—
Ad-Free Premium Tier Cost(USD/month)
$14.99
—
Monthly Cost (Ad-Supported Tier)(USD)
$7.99
—
Monthly Cost (Ad-Free Tier)(USD)
$14.99
—
Base Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD)
$7.99
—
Ad-Supported Plan Price(USD/month)
$7.99
—
Premium Ad-Free Plan Price(USD/month)
$14.99
—
Total Titles Available(titles)
~10,000 titles
—
Original Productions Per Year(productions)
200+ originals
—
International Original Series(count)
Strong European focus
—
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
0
75+
Sports Content Availability
None
ESPN+ with premium sports
Show 30 more attributes
Original Series (Top Tier)
HBO Max
—
Original Series Library(series)
450+
450+
Total Movie Library(titles)
2,000+
—
Total Content Library Size(titles)
10,000+
9,000+
Original Series Released Per Year(series)
60-80 series
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
0 channels
500+ (Live TV tier)
Film Catalog Size(titles)
4,000+
—
Original Series Released Annually(series/year)
150+
40-50
Original Series Produced Annually(series)
68 originals
42 originals
Same/Next-Day Network TV Episodes(shows)
Limited HBO only
500+ shows
Warner Bros Theatrical Films/Year(films)
40-50 films
0-5 films
Total Content Library(titles)
2,100+
8,500+
Sports Content Coverage(categories)
Limited (select events only)
—
Original Series Count(active)
60+
—
Total Content Library Size(titles)
20,000+
—
Theatrical Release Window(months)
120 days standard
—
Content Library Size(titles)
4,000+ titles
—
Exclusive Sports Rights
Via ESPN+ partnership
—
Current TV Episode Availability
Next-day episodes of current shows
—
On-Demand Content Library Size(titles)
10,000+
—
Annual Content Budget(USD billions)
$2.7B
—
Same-Day TV Episode Coverage(percent of shows)
95%
—
Original Series (2024-2025)(series)
38+
—
On-Demand Content Library(titles)
10,000+
—
On-Demand Title Library(titles)
10,000+
—
Live Sports Access
Limited (requires add-ons)
—
Movie Library(titles)
1,800+ films
—
Same-Day TV Episodes(shows)
200+ shows
—
Original Series (2025)(series)
120+
—
Next-Day TV Show Access(availability)
Full (most networks)
—
4K Content Library(titles)
~800 titles
—
2024 Emmy Award Wins(awards)
35
—
2026 Emmy-Contending Series(count)
Hacks S5, Euphoria S3
Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating)
4K HDR Content Available(titles)
450+
72% of library
Original Series Emmy Nominations (2024)(nominations)
38
—
Show 3 more attributes
2024 Emmy Awards Nominations(nominations)
140+ nominations
—
Original Content Awards(Emmy nominations)
120+ nominations
—
Original Emmy Nominations (All-Time)(nominations)
120+ total
—
Password Sharing Outside Household
Allowed with flexibility
—
Gaming Features Integrated
Limited
—
Download Availability (Offline)
Available on premium plans
—
Simultaneous Streams (Premium)(screens)
4 screens
—
Live Sports Availability
Yes (via Max Sports add-on)
—
Show 36 more attributes
Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens)
4 (Premium)
4 streams (standard) / 6 streams (premium)
Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)(streams)
4
2
Offline Download Window(days)
30
—
Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)(devices)
4 devices
—
Offline Download Capability
Limited to select titles only
—
Next-Day Network TV Episodes(null)
Not available
ABC, Fox, NBC shows included
Simultaneous Screens (Standard)(screens)
2 screens
—
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
0 (not included)
50+ channels
Max Simultaneous Streams(screens)
4 screens
2 screens
Simultaneous Stream Devices(devices)
2-4 devices
—
Live TV Access(availability)
Available with bundles
—
Free Trial Period(days)
7 days
—
Live TV Option(available)
Yes (Hulu+Live TV)
—
Simultaneous Streams(count)
4 simultaneous
—
Mobile Download Feature(yes/no)
Yes
—
Simultaneous Streams (Standard)(screens)
2 screens
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
75+ channels
—
Bundle Options
Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu
—
Watch Party Co-Viewing Feature
Included (Hulu Watch Party)
—
Maximum User Profiles(profiles)
6
—
Live TV Option Available(yes/no)
Yes (add-on: $14.99/mo)
—
Live TV Channels (with Live Bundle)(channels)
90+
—
Offline Download Support
Premium tier only
—
Live TV Channels (with Live TV Plan)(count)
90+ channels
—
Disney Bundle Compatibility
Yes ($14.99/month with Disney+/ESPN+)
—
Simultaneous Streams (Premium)(screens)
2
—
Current-Season TV Episodes Access(days after air date)
Next-day (24 hours)
—
Next-Day TV Episode Access
Available (600+ shows)
—
Live TV Option
Available ($76.99/month add-on)
—
Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
50 hours
—
Simultaneous Streams (Premium Tier)(streams)
2
—
Live TV Channels (with add-on/included)(channels)
65+ (Hulu+Live TV $76.99/mo)
—
Live TV Availability(channels)
90+ channels (Live TV add-on)
—
Simultaneous Device Streams(devices)
2
—
Simultaneous Streams (Ad-Free Tier)(devices)
4 devices
—
Live TV Bundle Available(yes/no)
Yes (75+ channels)
—
Day-and-Date Theatrical Releases
Yes (Warner Bros. films)
—
Maximum Video Quality(resolution)
4K HDR + Dolby Atmos
—
Mobile-First Features
Standard mobile app
—
Bundle Inclusions
Discovery+ integration only
Disney+, ESPN+, FX content
Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$17.99
—
Bundle Monthly Savings(USD)
None
—
Same-Day Theatrical Releases
All Warner Bros. theatrical
Limited
Content Library Size (Estimated)(titles)
12,000+
15,000+
Total Subscribers(millions)
HBO Max
—
Paying Subscribers (2026)(millions)
55+ million
—
Annual Revenue (2024)(billion USD)
HBO Max
—
Number of Subscription Tiers(tiers)
HBO Max
—
YoY Growth Rate (2024)(percent)
HBO Max
—
Target Audience
HBO Max
—
Download Installs (2026)(millions)
HBO Max
—
User Satisfaction Score(out of 10)
75%
—
Emmy Awards Won (2020-2024)(awards)
47 Emmy wins
—
Original Series Critical Quality (Avg Rotten Tomatoes)(%)
72%
—
4K/Ultra HD Available Titles(titles)
800+ titles
200+ titles
4K Content Availability(percent)
Limited, mostly HD
—
Show 3 more attributes
4K Content Available(yes/no)
Yes (premium tier)
—
Dolby Atmos Support(yes/no)
Yes
—
2024 Emmy Nominations(nominations)
32 nominations
—
4K HDR Titles Available(titles)
850+
—
4K Streaming Included(null)
All plans
Premium plan only
Maximum Video Resolution(pixels)
4K UltraHD (2160p) on all tiers
1080p Full HD (Premium)
4K/HDR Support
Yes, on Premium
—
4K Content Titles(% of library)
~15% of library in 4K
—
Show 1 more attribute
Maximum Video Resolution (Ad-Supported)(pixels)
1080p Full HD
—
Audio Quality (Maximum)(channels)
Dolby Atmos (5.1.4 surround)
—
Live Sports Content(text)
Minimal (occasional boxing/WWE)
—
Supported Devices(count)
150+ devices including Fire, Roku, gaming consoles, smart TVs
—
Free Trial Duration(days)
7 days
—
Free Trial Period(days)
30 days (varies by plan)
—
Total Title Library(titles)
~4,500 titles
~2,500 titles
Original Series Count(shows)
220+ originals
80+ originals
Film Library Size(titles)
2,500+ films
—
Movie Library Size(films)
4,000
—
Total Available Titles(titles)
~10,000+
—
Show 2 more attributes
TV Show Episodes Available(episodes)
10,000+
—
TV Series Available(titles)
8,000+
—
Original Series Per Year(series)
40+ prestige originals
25+ diverse originals
2024 Emmy Nominations for Originals(nominations)
156
—
Global Subscriber Base (2024)(millions)
52 million
—
Nielsen Rankings (Jan 2026)(position)
Top 3 among streamers
—
Total Content Titles(titles)
10,000+
10,000+
4K Ultra HD Titles(titles)
500+
—
Live Sports Available(null)
None
—
Global Subscribers(millions)
60 million
—
2024 Emmy Awards Won(awards)
31 Emmys
16
Primary Content Audience(demographic)
Adults ages 18+
—
Theatrical Release Window(days)
Same-day (0 days)
—
Subscribers
50M+
—
Content Budget(USD/year)
$2.5 Billion
—
Watch Party Maximum Participants(people)
8 participants (Watch Party)
—
App Merger Timeline(year)
Early 2026
—
Global Subscribers(millions)
50+ million
—
User Satisfaction Score(%)
76%
—
Content Discovery Usability
Easier to browse and find content
—
Content Engagement vs Traditional(%)
Industry standard
—
Merger/Platform Status (2026)
Standalone app ending, merging into Disney+
—
Live TV Channels (Standard Plan)(channels)
75+
—
Cloud DVR Storage (Live TV)(storage)
Unlimited
—
User Profiles Per Account(profiles)
6
—
Same-Day TV Episode Releases(availability)
Yes (ABC, NBC, Fox, FX)
—
TV Episode Next-Day Availability(hours after air)
Same-day/next-day (typically 8-24 hours)
—
Current-Season TV Episode Access(hours after air)
~24 hours (next day)
—
Integrated Non-Streaming Benefits
None
—
Video Quality Support(max resolution)
4K HDR, Dolby Atmos
—
4K Streaming Support(supported)
No
—
Next-Day TV Show Episodes(available)
Yes (most series)
—
Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)(minutes per hour)
4-6 minutes
—
Global Subscriber Base(millions)
57 million
—
TV Episode Release Schedule(days)
Same-day or next-day
—
Free Shipping Benefit
No
—
Free Tier Availability(boolean)
No free tier
—
NFL Game Availability(games/season)
0 games (requires ESPN+ add-on)
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·6 cons across both
HBO Max
+5-3
Pros
- Exclusive access to 40-50 Warner Bros theatrical films annually within months of release
- 68+ original series per year including Game of Thrones, Succession, The White Lotus
- 800+ 4K Ultra HD titles—3x more than Hulu
- Premium cable bundles with HBO starting at $21/month (vs standalone $16.99)
- Day-and-date theatrical releases (select films premiere same day as theaters)
Cons
- No live TV access compared to Hulu's 50+ live channels
- Limited next-day TV episodes—only HBO-owned shows, not network TV
- Higher base ad-free price at $16.99/month versus Hulu's $14.99/month
Hulu
+5-3
Pros
- Next-day access to 500+ shows across ABC, NBC, FOX, and cable networks—unmatched TV coverage
- Live TV included in $8+ plans with 50+ channels including ESPN, Disney Channel, FX
- Lower ad-free price at $14.99/month (vs HBO Max's $16.99)
- Bundles with Disney+ and ESPN+ starting at $14.99/month for all three services
- Deep Hulu Original catalog with 42+ originals annually (Handmaid's Tale, Only Murders in the Building)
Cons
- Only 200+ 4K titles vs HBO Max's 800+—significantly fewer premium-quality options
- No theatrical film releases or Warner Bros content
- Limited simultaneous streams (2 screens vs HBO Max's 4 screens on Premium)
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
Hulu offers next-day access to 500+ shows from ABC, NBC, FOX, and cable networks. HBO Max only provides same/next-day access to HBO-owned shows (like Game of Thrones spinoffs), not broadcast network TV.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more about our affiliate disclosure
Wikipedia
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