entertainment
YouTube TV vs Hulu 2026: Live TV vs On-Demand
YouTube TV offers more live TV channels (150+) and better sports coverage, while Hulu provides a larger on-demand library (10,000+ titles) and lower entry price at $7.99/month with ads. YouTube TV costs $72.99/month but includes cloud DVR and 4K streaming, making it better for live TV enthusiasts, whereas Hulu suits on-demand viewers on tighter budgets.
YT
YouTube TV
Live TV streaming service with 150+ channels and unlimited cloud DVR.
Cord-cutters who want comprehensive live TV and sports, families needing multiple simultaneous streams, and viewers who want unlimited DVR capabilities.
Score63%
VS
Hulu
Streaming platform with 10,000+ on-demand titles and limited live TV options.
Budget-conscious streamers, viewers focused on on-demand content and next-day TV episodes, and those who prefer entertainment over live sports and news.
Score56%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryYouTube TV offers more live TV channels (150+) and better sports coverage, while Hulu provides a larger on-demand library (10,000+ titles) and lower entry price at $7.99/month with ads. YouTube TV costs $72.99/month but includes cloud DVR and 4K streaming, making it better for live TV enthusiasts, whereas Hulu suits on-demand viewers on tighter budgets.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose YouTube TV if you prioritize live sports, news, and want unlimited cloud DVR with 4K streaming—it's ideal for cord-cutters replacing traditional cable. Choose Hulu if you prefer on-demand entertainment at an affordable price point and are willing to accept limited live TV channels; it's best for budget-conscious streamers focused on binge-watching shows and movies.
Community feedback
Was this verdict helpful?
Thanks — we'll use this to improve our verdicts.
Y
YouTube TV
6.4/10
Hulu
8.6/10
Y
Choose YouTube TV if
Cord-cutters who want comprehensive live TV and sports, families needing multiple simultaneous streams, and viewers who want unlimited DVR capabilities.
Choose Hulu if
Best pickBudget-conscious streamers, viewers focused on on-demand content and next-day TV episodes, and those who prefer entertainment over live sports and news.
Track this comparison
Get notified when prices change, new specs ship, or our verdict updates.
Triggers: price change new spec verdict update
No spam. Stop anytime.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Live TV Channels Included:✓ YouTube TV wins(150+ channels vs 85+ channels)
- Monthly Base Price (With Ads):✓ Hulu wins($7.99 vs $72.99)
- On-Demand Content Library Size:✓ Hulu wins(10,000+ titles vs ~3,000 titles)
Key Facts & Figures
147 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | YouTube TV | Hulu | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | — | — |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | — | — |
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | — | — |
| Family Sharing Accounts(profiles) | 6 accounts standard | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams) | Up to 3 | — | — |
| Household Accounts(accounts) | Up to 6 | — | — |
| Free Trial Length(days) | None (discontinued) | 7 days | |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.86 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $82.99/month | — | — |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | Channel VOD only (~2,000) | — | — |
| Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) | 6 simultaneous | — | — |
| Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $95.99/month | — | — |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99/month | — | — |
| Local Channel Coverage(percent of US) | 95%+ of US markets | — | — |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens) | 6 | 2 | |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | +$32.99 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Cost(USD) | $72.99/month | — | — |
| Total Live Channels(channels) | 150+ | — | — |
| Sports Networks Included(count) | 20+ networks | — | — |
| Price Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.49/channel | — | — |
| Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) | $82.99 | — | — |
| Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens) | 6 simultaneous streams | — | — |
| Sports Content Percentage(percent) | ~50% | — | — |
| Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) | ~50% | — | — |
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | — | — |
| Live TV Channel Count(channels) | 150+ channels | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 6 | — | — |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | — | — |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) | $99.99 | — | — |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | — | — |
| Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) | 3 streams | — | — |
| Number of User Profiles(profiles) | 6 profiles | — | — |
| On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) | Minimal (YouTube originals only) | 10,000+ | |
| Monthly Base Price(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Live Channels Included(channels) | 70+ | — | — |
| Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) | $875.88 | — | — |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 150+ | 85+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) | 3 | — | — |
| DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) | None (unlimited included) | — | — |
| Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) | Unlimited (9-month retention) | 50 hours | — |
| DVR Content Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | — | — |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 100+ | — | — |
| Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) | $875.88 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) | $839.88 | — | — |
| Total Channels(channels) | 100+ | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens) | 6 | — | — |
| Original Content Library(titles) | Limited (under 50) | — | — |
| DVR Recording Retention Period(months) | 9 months | — | — |
| Free Trial Period(days) | No free trial (5-day trial historically) | 30 days (varies by plan) | — |
| Total Channels Available(channels) | 100+ total channels | — | — |
| Live Sports Events Monthly(events) | 500+ | — | — |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | Minimal original content focus | — | — |
| Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) | $875.88 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Price(USD) | $76.99/month | — | — |
| On-Demand Content Library(titles) | ~3,000 | 10,000+ | |
| Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) | 6 | — | — |
| Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $923.88/year | — | — |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 3,000+ (sports only) | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 6 (1 in 4K) | — | — |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 0 | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Content Library Size(titles) | 100+ channels (30,000+ archived hours) | — | — |
| Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) | 5 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $82.99 | — | — |
| Annual Cost Difference(USD) | $995.88/year | — | — |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ channels | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 3 included | — | — |
| Bundle Customization Options(bundles) | 1 fixed lineup | — | — |
| Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) | 25+ | — | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | None | — | — |
| 4K Channel Availability(channels) | 10+ channels | — | — |
| Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) | $72.99 | $7.99 | |
| Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $82.99 | $14.99 | |
| 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 | |
| Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD/month) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 75+ | 75+ | |
| 2026 Emmy-Contending Series(count) | Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating) | Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating) | |
| Content Library Size (Estimated)(titles) | 15,000+ | 15,000+ | |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 50+ million | 50+ million | |
| Content Library Size(titles) | 4,000+ titles | 4,000+ titles | |
| Basic Plan Price(USD/month) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| 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+ | |
| 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+) | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Total Content Library Size(titles) | ~10,000+ | ~10,000+ | |
| Annual Content Budget(USD billions) | $2.7B | $2.7B | |
| 2024 Emmy Nominations(nominations) | 32 nominations | 32 nominations | |
| Original Series Produced Annually(series) | 95+ | 95+ | |
| Live TV Channels (with Live Bundle)(channels) | 90+ | 90+ | |
| Same-Day TV Episode Coverage(percent of shows) | 95% | 95% | |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Live TV Channels (with Live TV Plan)(count) | 90+ channels | 90+ channels | |
| Original Series (2024-2025)(major titles) | 38+ | 38+ | |
| 4K/HDR Content Available(percentage) | 72% of library | 72% of library | |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Original Series Library(series) | 450+ | 450+ | |
| 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) | |
| Ad-Supported Monthly Price(USD) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $14.99 | $14.99 | |
| Total Content Library(titles) | 8,500+ | 8,500+ | |
| Original Series Released Annually(series) | 85+ | 85+ | |
| Global Subscriber Base(millions) | 57 million | 57 million | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)(concurrent streams) | 2 screens | 2 screens | |
| Ad-Supported Base Price(USD/month) | $7.99 | $7.99 | |
| Ad-Free Premium Price(USD/month) | $24.99 | $24.99 | |
| Total Title Library(titles) | ~2,500 titles | ~2,500 titles | |
| Original Series Per Year(series) | 25+ diverse originals | 25+ diverse originals |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
YT
4YouTube TVYouTube TV leads
YouTube TV
Attribute
Hulu
- 150+ channels(winner)Live TV Channels Included85+ channels
- $72.99Monthly Base Price (With Ads)$7.99(winner)
- ~3,000 titlesOn-Demand Content Library Size10,000+ titles(winner)
- Unlimited, 9 months retention(winner)Cloud DVR Storage50 hours standard
- Yes (included at no extra cost)(winner)4K Streaming AvailableNo (not available)
- Up to 6 screens(winner)Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)Up to 2 screens
- None (discontinued)Free Trial Period7 days(winner)
- Live TV Channels Included
YouTube TV
150+ channels(winner)
Hulu
85+ channels
- Monthly Base Price (With Ads)
YouTube TV
$72.99
Hulu
$7.99(winner)
- On-Demand Content Library Size
YouTube TV
~3,000 titles
Hulu
10,000+ titles(winner)
- Cloud DVR Storage
YouTube TV
Unlimited, 9 months retention(winner)
Hulu
50 hours standard
- 4K Streaming Available
YouTube TV
Yes (included at no extra cost)(winner)
Hulu
No (not available)
- Simultaneous Streams (Standard Plan)
YouTube TV
Up to 6 screens(winner)
Hulu
Up to 2 screens
- Free Trial Period
YouTube TV
None (discontinued)
Hulu
7 days(winner)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | YouTube TV | Hulu |
|---|---|---|
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | — |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $82.99/month | — |
| Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $95.99/month | — |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99/month | — |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | +$32.99 | — |
Show 47 more attributesBase Monthly Cost(USD) $72.99/month — Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) $82.99 — Base Monthly Price(USD) $72.99 — Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) $99.99 — Monthly Base Price(USD) $72.99 — Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) $875.88 — Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) $72.99 — DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) None (unlimited included) — Bundle Discount Available(boolean) No official bundles — Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) $875.88 — Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) $72.99 — Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) $839.88 — Free Trial Period(days) No free trial (5-day trial historically) 30 days (varies by plan) Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD) Not available — Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) $875.88 — Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) $72.99 — Ad-Free Plan Availability Yes ($79.99/month) — Base Monthly Price(USD) $82.99 — Annual Cost Difference(USD) $995.88/year — Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) $72.99 $7.99 Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $82.99 $14.99 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 — Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD/month) $7.99 — Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month) $14.99 — Basic Plan Price(USD/month) $7.99 — 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 Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)(USD) $14.99 — Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) $14.99 — Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD) $7.99 — Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $14.99 — Ad-Supported Monthly Price(USD) $7.99 — Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) $14.99 — Ad-Supported Base Price(USD/month) $7.99 — Ad-Free Premium Price(USD/month) $24.99 — | ||
| Content Library Size(titles) | 100+ live channels | — |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | — |
| Original Content Focus (2026) | Moderate (licensed dominant) | — |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | Channel VOD only (~2,000) | — |
| Local Channel Coverage(percent of US) | 95%+ of US markets | — |
Show 36 more attributesTotal Live Channels(channels) 150+ — Sports Networks Included(count) 20+ networks — News Networks Included(major networks) CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News — Sports Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Live TV Channel Count(channels) 150+ channels — Live Channels(channels) 100+ — On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) Minimal (YouTube originals only) 10,000+ Live Channels Included(channels) 70+ — Regional Sports Networks Standard coverage only — Live TV Channels(channels) 150+ 85+ Live TV Channels Included(channels) 100+ — Original Content Library(titles) Limited (under 50) — On-Demand Library Size(titles) YouTube only — Total Channels Available(channels) 100+ total channels — On-Demand Content Library(titles) ~3,000 10,000+ Content Library Size(titles) 100+ channels (30,000+ archived hours) — Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) 5 — Live Channels(channels) 100+ channels — Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) 25+ — 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 — Live TV Channels Included(channels) 75+ — Sports Content Availability ESPN+ with premium sports — Content Library Size(titles) 4,000+ titles — Exclusive Sports Rights Via ESPN+ partnership — Current TV Episode Availability Next-day episodes of current shows — Total Content Library Size(titles) ~10,000+ — Annual Content Budget(USD billions) $2.7B — Original Series Produced Annually(series) 95+ — Same-Day TV Episode Coverage(percent of shows) 95% — Original Series Library(series) 450+ — Total Content Library(titles) 8,500+ — Original Series Released Annually(series) 85+ — | ||
| Unlimited DVR | All plans included | — |
| Family Sharing Accounts(profiles) | 6 accounts standard | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams) | Up to 3 | — |
| Household Accounts(accounts) | Up to 6 | — |
| Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) | 6 simultaneous | — |
Show 45 more attributesMultiview Sports Feature Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026) — DVR Storage (Standard)(hours) Unlimited — Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens) 6 2 Customizable Channel Selection(yes/no) Genre-based plans (2026) — No-Contract Cancellation(yes/no) Yes, anytime — DVR Recording Storage(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens) 6 simultaneous streams — Cloud DVR Storage(hours) Unlimited — Simultaneous Streams(streams) 6 — Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) 3 streams — Number of User Profiles(profiles) 6 profiles — Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) 3 — Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited (9-month retention) 50 hours DVR Content Retention Period(days) 270 days (9 months) — Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens) 6 — Cloud DVR Storage(hours) Unlimited — Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited — DVR Recording Retention Period(months) 9 months — Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) 6 — Offline Download Capability No — Bundle Customization Options(bundles) 1 fixed lineup — 4K Channel Availability(channels) 10+ channels — 4K Streaming Support Yes (included) No 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 (select shows) — Live TV Option Available ($76.99/month add-on) — Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)(concurrent streams) 2 screens — Next-Day Network TV Episodes(null) ABC, Fox, NBC shows included — | ||
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | — |
| Ad-Free Viewing | Standard feature (no ads) | — |
| Free Trial Length(days) | None (discontinued) | 7 days(winner) |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.86 | — |
| Price Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.49/channel | — |
| Bundled Premium Services(services) | None included | — |
| Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD) | $17.99 | — |
| Bundle Inclusions | Disney+, ESPN+, FX content | — |
| 4K Streaming Available | Yes, select content | — |
| 4K Streaming Support | Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo) | — |
| 4K Content Available | Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on) | — |
| 4K Content Support(boolean) | No | — |
| 4K Content Availability(availability level) | Limited, mostly HD | — |
Show 2 more attributes4K/HDR Support Yes, on Premium — 4K Streaming Included(null) Premium plan only — | ||
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | — |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | — |
| Included Premium Services | YouTube Premium, YouTube Music | — |
| Mobile App Quality | Excellent with quick guide navigation | — |
| User Satisfaction Score(%) | 76% | — |
| Content Discovery Usability | Easier to browse and find content | — |
| DVR Storage Capacity(hours) | Unlimited | — |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | — |
| Contract Required | No | — |
| Live Events Per Year(events) | Varies (included in channels) | — |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 3,000+ (sports only) | — |
| Total Channels(channels) | 100+ | — |
| NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games) | Included via ESPN networks | — |
| Live Sports Events Monthly(events) | 500+ | — |
| NFL Game Broadcasts Available(percent) | All major broadcasts (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, ABC) | — |
| Local Broadcast Network Access(markets covered) | 90% of U.S. markets | — |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | Minimal original content focus | — |
| Monthly Subscription Price(USD) | $76.99/month | — |
| Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $923.88/year | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 6 (1 in 4K) | — |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 0 | — |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 3 included | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | None | — |
| Subscribers | 50M+ | — |
| Content Budget(USD/year) | $2.5 Billion | — |
| Watch Party Maximum Participants(people) | 8 participants (Watch Party) | — |
| App Merger Timeline(year) | Early 2026 | — |
| Nielsen Rankings (Jan 2026)(position) | Top 3 among streamers | — |
| 4K Content Available(yes/no) | Yes (premium tier) | — |
| Dolby Atmos Support(yes/no) | Yes | — |
| 4K/HDR Content Available(percentage) | 72% of library | — |
| 2026 Emmy-Contending Series(count) | Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating) | — |
| Original Content Awards(Emmy nominations) | 120+ nominations | — |
| Same-Day Theatrical Releases | Limited | — |
| Content Library Size (Estimated)(titles) | 15,000+ | — |
| Global Subscribers(millions) | 50+ million | — |
| Paying Subscribers (2026)(millions) | 55+ million | — |
| Content Engagement vs Traditional(%) | Industry standard | — |
| Mobile-First Features | Standard mobile app | — |
| 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) | — |
| Integrated Non-Streaming Benefits | None | — |
| 2024 Emmy Nominations(nominations) | 32 nominations | — |
| Video Quality Support(max resolution) | 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos | — |
| Next-Day TV Show Episodes(available) | Yes (most series) | — |
| Original Series (2024-2025)(major titles) | 38+ | — |
| Total Title Library(titles) | ~2,500 titles | — |
| Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)(minutes per hour) | 4-6 minutes | — |
| Global Subscriber Base(millions) | 57 million | — |
| Original Series Per Year(series) | 25+ diverse originals | — |
YYouTube TV
HuluBase Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$60 (intro) / $83 (standard)
—
Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$82.99/month
—
Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD)
$95.99/month
—
Starting Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99/month
—
Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month)
+$32.99
—
Show 47 more attributes
Base Monthly Cost(USD)
$72.99/month
—
Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD)
$82.99
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99
—
Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD)
$99.99
—
Monthly Base Price(USD)
$72.99
—
Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD)
$875.88
—
Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month)
None (unlimited included)
—
Bundle Discount Available(boolean)
No official bundles
—
Annual Cost (12-month)(USD)
$875.88
—
Monthly Subscription Cost(USD)
$72.99
—
Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD)
$839.88
—
Free Trial Period(days)
No free trial (5-day trial historically)
30 days (varies by plan)
Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD)
Not available
—
Annual Cost (12 months)(USD)
$875.88
—
Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
Ad-Free Plan Availability
Yes ($79.99/month)
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$82.99
—
Annual Cost Difference(USD)
$995.88/year
—
Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD)
$72.99
$7.99
Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$82.99
$14.99
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
—
Base Subscription Price (Ad-Supported)(USD/month)
$7.99
—
Premium Subscription Price (Ad-Free)(USD/month)
$14.99
—
Basic Plan Price(USD/month)
$7.99
—
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 Subscription Cost (Ad-Free)(USD)
$14.99
—
Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$14.99
—
Monthly Price (Ad-Supported)(USD)
$7.99
—
Monthly Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$14.99
—
Ad-Supported Monthly Price(USD)
$7.99
—
Premium Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$14.99
—
Ad-Supported Base Price(USD/month)
$7.99
—
Ad-Free Premium Price(USD/month)
$24.99
—
Content Library Size(titles)
100+ live channels
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
100+
—
Original Content Focus (2026)
Moderate (licensed dominant)
—
On-Demand Content Titles(titles)
Channel VOD only (~2,000)
—
Local Channel Coverage(percent of US)
95%+ of US markets
—
Show 36 more attributes
Total Live Channels(channels)
150+
—
Sports Networks Included(count)
20+ networks
—
News Networks Included(major networks)
CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News
—
Sports Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Live TV Channel Count(channels)
150+ channels
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+
—
On-Demand Content Library Size(titles)
Minimal (YouTube originals only)
10,000+
Live Channels Included(channels)
70+
—
Regional Sports Networks
Standard coverage only
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
150+
85+
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
100+
—
Original Content Library(titles)
Limited (under 50)
—
On-Demand Library Size(titles)
YouTube only
—
Total Channels Available(channels)
100+ total channels
—
On-Demand Content Library(titles)
~3,000
10,000+
Content Library Size(titles)
100+ channels (30,000+ archived hours)
—
Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations)
5
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+ channels
—
Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels)
25+
—
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
—
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
75+
—
Sports Content Availability
ESPN+ with premium sports
—
Content Library Size(titles)
4,000+ titles
—
Exclusive Sports Rights
Via ESPN+ partnership
—
Current TV Episode Availability
Next-day episodes of current shows
—
Total Content Library Size(titles)
~10,000+
—
Annual Content Budget(USD billions)
$2.7B
—
Original Series Produced Annually(series)
95+
—
Same-Day TV Episode Coverage(percent of shows)
95%
—
Original Series Library(series)
450+
—
Total Content Library(titles)
8,500+
—
Original Series Released Annually(series)
85+
—
Unlimited DVR
All plans included
—
Family Sharing Accounts(profiles)
6 accounts standard
—
Simultaneous Streams (single account)(streams)
Up to 3
—
Household Accounts(accounts)
Up to 6
—
Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings)
6 simultaneous
—
Show 45 more attributes
Multiview Sports Feature
Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026)
—
DVR Storage (Standard)(hours)
Unlimited
—
Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens)
6
2
Customizable Channel Selection(yes/no)
Genre-based plans (2026)
—
No-Contract Cancellation(yes/no)
Yes, anytime
—
DVR Recording Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Stream Capability(screens)
6 simultaneous streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
6
—
Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams)
3 streams
—
Number of User Profiles(profiles)
6 profiles
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams)
3
—
Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited (9-month retention)
50 hours
DVR Content Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens)
6
—
Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
Unlimited
—
Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
—
DVR Recording Retention Period(months)
9 months
—
Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts)
6
—
Offline Download Capability
No
—
Bundle Customization Options(bundles)
1 fixed lineup
—
4K Channel Availability(channels)
10+ channels
—
4K Streaming Support
Yes (included)
No
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 (select shows)
—
Live TV Option
Available ($76.99/month add-on)
—
Simultaneous Streams (Standard Tier)(concurrent streams)
2 screens
—
Next-Day Network TV Episodes(null)
ABC, Fox, NBC shows included
—
Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions)
11.1
—
Ad-Free Viewing
Standard feature (no ads)
—
Free Trial Length(days)
None (discontinued)
7 days
Cost Per Channel(USD per channel)
$0.86
—
Price Per Channel(USD per channel)
$0.49/channel
—
Bundled Premium Services(services)
None included
—
Ad-Free Monthly Price(USD)
$17.99
—
Bundle Inclusions
Disney+, ESPN+, FX content
—
4K Streaming Available
Yes, select content
—
4K Streaming Support
Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo)
—
4K Content Available
Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on)
—
4K Content Support(boolean)
No
—
4K Content Availability(availability level)
Limited, mostly HD
—
Show 2 more attributes
4K/HDR Support
Yes, on Premium
—
4K Streaming Included(null)
Premium plan only
—
AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year)
2026 (multiview, interactive features)
—
Free Trial Length(days)
7
—
Included Premium Services
YouTube Premium, YouTube Music
—
Mobile App Quality
Excellent with quick guide navigation
—
User Satisfaction Score(%)
76%
—
Content Discovery Usability
Easier to browse and find content
—
DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
—
DVR Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Contract Required
No
—
Live Events Per Year(events)
Varies (included in channels)
—
Live Sporting Events Per Year(events)
3,000+ (sports only)
—
Total Channels(channels)
100+
—
NFL Regular Season Games (Annual)(games)
Included via ESPN networks
—
Live Sports Events Monthly(events)
500+
—
NFL Game Broadcasts Available(percent)
All major broadcasts (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, ABC)
—
Local Broadcast Network Access(markets covered)
90% of U.S. markets
—
Original Content Hours Monthly(hours)
Minimal original content focus
—
Monthly Subscription Price(USD)
$76.99/month
—
Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$923.88/year
—
Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams)
6 (1 in 4K)
—
Original Sports Content Library(titles)
0
—
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
3 included
—
Free Trial Duration(days)
None
—
Subscribers
50M+
—
Content Budget(USD/year)
$2.5 Billion
—
Watch Party Maximum Participants(people)
8 participants (Watch Party)
—
App Merger Timeline(year)
Early 2026
—
Nielsen Rankings (Jan 2026)(position)
Top 3 among streamers
—
4K Content Available(yes/no)
Yes (premium tier)
—
Dolby Atmos Support(yes/no)
Yes
—
4K/HDR Content Available(percentage)
72% of library
—
2026 Emmy-Contending Series(count)
Tell Me Lies (7.2 rating)
—
Original Content Awards(Emmy nominations)
120+ nominations
—
Same-Day Theatrical Releases
Limited
—
Content Library Size (Estimated)(titles)
15,000+
—
Global Subscribers(millions)
50+ million
—
Paying Subscribers (2026)(millions)
55+ million
—
Content Engagement vs Traditional(%)
Industry standard
—
Mobile-First Features
Standard mobile app
—
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)
—
Integrated Non-Streaming Benefits
None
—
2024 Emmy Nominations(nominations)
32 nominations
—
Video Quality Support(max resolution)
4K HDR, Dolby Atmos
—
Next-Day TV Show Episodes(available)
Yes (most series)
—
Original Series (2024-2025)(major titles)
38+
—
Total Title Library(titles)
~2,500 titles
—
Average Monthly Ad Load (Ad-Supported)(minutes per hour)
4-6 minutes
—
Global Subscriber Base(millions)
57 million
—
Original Series Per Year(series)
25+ diverse originals
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·7 cons across both
YT
YT
YouTube TV
+5-3
Pros
- 150+ live TV channels including sports, news, and entertainment
- Unlimited cloud DVR with 9-month retention (vs. 50 hours on Hulu)
- 4K streaming included at no extra cost
- Up to 6 simultaneous screens on standard plan
- Excellent sports coverage including NFL Sunday Ticket availability
Cons
- High monthly cost at $72.99 (10x more expensive than Hulu's base tier)
- Smaller on-demand library (~3,000 titles vs. Hulu's 10,000+)
- No free trial available to test service before committing
Hulu
+5-4
Pros
- Massive on-demand library with 10,000+ movies and TV shows
- Lowest entry price at $7.99/month with ads (basic plan)
- 7-day free trial for new users to test before committing
- Strong original content and next-day episode releases of current shows
- Flexible bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+ for $14.99/month
Cons
- Only 85+ live TV channels (vs. YouTube TV's 150+), limited sports coverage
- Standard plan limited to 2 simultaneous streams (vs. 6 on YouTube TV)
- Cloud DVR limited to 50 hours on standard plan (vs. unlimited on YouTube TV)
- No 4K streaming available on any plan
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
YouTube TV has significantly better sports coverage with 150+ channels including ESPN, Fox Sports, and availability of NFL Sunday Ticket. Hulu's limited 85+ channels include some ESPN content but lacks comprehensive sports programming. For serious sports fans, YouTube TV is the clear choice despite its higher cost.
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
Related Comparisons
12 more to explore
Hulu + Live TV vs YouTube TV
entertainmentNetflix vs YouTube TV
entertainmentHulu vs HBO Max
entertainmentPeacock vs Hulu
entertainmentSling vs YouTube TV
softwarePhilo vs YouTube TV
softwareFubo vs YouTube TV
softwareHulu vs YouTube
entertainmentHulu vs Amazon Prime Video
entertainmentYouTube TV vs Hulu Live TV
entertainmentApple TV+ vs Hulu
softwareNetflix vs Hulu
entertainment
Related Articles
4 articles
- entertainment
The Best Streaming Services in 2026: Your Complete Guide to Cutting Cable
Looking to cut the cord in 2026? Discover the best streaming services that offer the perfect mix of movies, TV shows, live sports, and affordable pricing. From Netflix to emerging alternatives, we've tested and reviewed every major platform to help you choose.
Read article - entertainment
Best Streaming Services of 2026: Top Picks for Movies, TV & Sports
Looking for the best streaming service in 2026? Our comprehensive guide reviews the top platforms including Disney Plus, Netflix, and live TV options to help you find the perfect fit for your entertainment needs and budget.
Read article - entertainment
Best Streaming Services 2026: Netflix vs Disney Plus vs HBO Max
Choosing the right streaming service in 2026 doesn't have to be complicated. We break down Netflix, Disney Plus, and HBO Max to help you find the best fit for your entertainment needs and budget.
Read article - entertainment
Does Netflix Have Live Sports? (2026)
Yes, Netflix now offers live sports including NFL games, WWE wrestling, boxing, and MLB events. Netflix has become a legitimate live sports streaming platform in 2026 with exclusive partnerships and major events included in all subscription plans.
Read article
Explore More
Related comparisons and categories
AI generated