entertainment
YouTube TV vs Hulu Live TV 2026 Comparison
YouTube TV offers more channels (100+) and cloud DVR storage (unlimited) at a lower base price ($73/month), while Hulu + Live TV provides integrated access to on-demand Hulu content and a broader entertainment ecosystem at $76.99/month with limited DVR (50 hours).
YT
YouTube TV
Live TV streaming service with 100+ channels, unlimited cloud DVR, and multi-account support.
Cord-cutters who record heavily, need multiple simultaneous streams, and want lower baseline costs
Score71%
VS
Hulu + Live TV
Live TV streaming bundled with Disney's on-demand Hulu library of 70,000+ titles.
Viewers who want live TV plus extensive on-demand content in one service, and Disney+ subscribers seeking bundle value
Score63%
Quick Answer
AI SummaryYouTube TV offers more channels (100+) and cloud DVR storage (unlimited) at a lower base price ($73/month), while Hulu + Live TV provides integrated access to on-demand Hulu content and a broader entertainment ecosystem at $76.99/month with limited DVR (50 hours).
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose YouTube TV if you prioritize unlimited cloud DVR storage, lower pricing, and more simultaneous streams for a household of 3+ people. Choose Hulu + Live TV if you want seamless integration with extensive on-demand Hulu content and don't need extensive DVR capabilities.
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Y
YouTube TV
8.4/10
Hulu + Live TV
6.6/10
Y
Choose YouTube TV if
Best pickCord-cutters who record heavily, need multiple simultaneous streams, and want lower baseline costs
Choose Hulu + Live TV if
Viewers who want live TV plus extensive on-demand content in one service, and Disney+ subscribers seeking bundle value
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Base Monthly Price:✓ YouTube TV wins($73.99 vs $76.99)
- Cloud DVR Storage:✓ YouTube TV wins(Unlimited vs 50 hours)
- Live TV Channels:✓ YouTube TV wins(100+ vs 95+)
Key Facts & Figures
119 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | YouTube TV | Hulu + Live TV | 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) | 7 days | 7 days | |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.86 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $82.99/month | $82.99/month | |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | 2,500+ | 10,000+ | |
| Simultaneous Cloud DVR Recordings(recordings) | 6 simultaneous | 50 simultaneous | |
| Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $95.99/month | $95.99/month | |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $73.99 | $85.99 | |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens) | 3 screens | 2 screens | |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | +$32.99 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Cost(USD) | $99.99 | $76.99 | |
| Total Live Channels(channels) | 100+ | — | — |
| Sports Networks Included(count) | 20+ networks | — | — |
| Price per Channel(USD per channel) | $1.04 per 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 | $54.99 | |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ | 90+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 6 | 2-3 | |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 | 3 | |
| 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) | — | — |
| Monthly Base Price(USD) | $72.99 | $76.99 | |
| Live Channels Included(channels) | 70+ | — | — |
| Annual Price (Base Plan)(USD) | $875.88 | — | — |
| Monthly Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 70+ | 90+ | |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) | 3 streams | — | — |
| DVR Storage Overage Cost(USD/month) | None (unlimited included) | — | — |
| Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) | Unlimited | 50 hours | — |
| DVR Content Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | 30 days | |
| Live TV Channels Included(channels) | 150+ | 90+ | |
| Annual Cost (12-month)(USD) | $875.88 | $923.88 | |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $72.99/month | $76.99/month | |
| Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) | $839.88 | — | — |
| Total Channels(channels) | 70+ | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens) | 6 | 2 devices | |
| Original Content Library(titles) | Limited (under 50) | — | — |
| Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours) | Unlimited | 50 hours | — |
| On-Demand Library Size(titles) | None included | 70,000+ (Hulu) | |
| DVR Recording Retention Period(months) | 9 months | 9 months | |
| Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD) | Not available | $14.99/month extra | — |
| Total Channels Available(channels) | 70+ 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) | $73.99 | $76.99 | |
| On-Demand Content Library(titles) | ~3,000 | 250,000+ titles | |
| Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) | 6 | 6 | |
| Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) | $659.88 | $923.88 | |
| 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) | 150 channels | — | — |
| Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) | 5 | — | — |
| Base Monthly Price(USD) | $72.99/month | $76.99/month | |
| Annual Cost Difference(USD) | $995.88/year | — | — |
| Live Channels(channels) | 100+ channels | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams(devices) | 3 streams | 2 streams | |
| Bundle Customization Options(bundles) | 1 fixed lineup | — | — |
| Sports Channels(channels) | 40+ | — | — |
| Device Compatibility(supported devices) | 200+ devices | — | — |
| Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) | 25+ | — | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | None | 7 days | |
| 4K Channel Availability(channels) | 10+ channels | — | — |
| Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) | $82.99 | — | — |
| Sports Channel Count(channels) | 15+ channels | — | — |
| News Channel Count(channels) | 10+ channels | — | — |
| User Profiles Per Household(profiles) | 5 profiles | — | — |
| Live Channels Available(channels) | 150+ channels | 90+ channels | |
| Family Profiles(profiles) | 6 | — | — |
| Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps) | 3 Mbps (HD) | 8 Mbps minimum | |
| Sports Content Types(types) | All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) | — | — |
| Included On-Demand Library(titles) | 0 (separate subscription required) | 10,000+ (Hulu) | |
| Base Channel Count(channels) | 70+ | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams) | 3 (no upgrade needed) | — | — |
| Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month) | $10.99 | — | — |
| HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month) | $15.99 (separate sub) | — | — |
| Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD) | $72.99 | — | — |
| Original Content Production (Annual)(titles) | 5-10 | — | — |
| Global Availability(countries) | USA only | — | — |
| Subscriber Base (2026)(millions) | 8 | — | — |
| Included Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ channels | — | — |
| Default Simultaneous Streams(streams) | 3 streams | — | — |
| Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month) | $72.99 (included) | — | — |
| Concurrent Streams(streams) | 3 | 2 | |
| On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated)) | 0 (separate purchase) | 10000+ | |
| Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD) | $887.88 | $1031.88 | |
| Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month) | $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) | ESPN+ included in bundle ($99.99 for all three) | |
| Trial Period(days) | 3 months ($1/month) | 7 days | |
| Included Streaming Services(services) | YouTube Premium only (1) | Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN+ (3) | |
| Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets) | 95% coverage | 98% coverage | |
| Additional Stream Cost(USD/month) | No additional cost | $9.99 for 2 more | |
| Sports Channels Included(channels) | 12+ channels | — | — |
| Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served) | 150+ markets | — | — |
| Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens) | 6 screens | — | — |
| Annual Sports Events(events) | 5,000+ | — | — |
| Total Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | — | — |
| Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets) | 90% | — | — |
| Live TV Channels Available(count) | 100+ | 95+ | |
| Annual Commitment Option Savings(percent) | Up to 15% savings | Varies by bundle | — |
| Sports & News Channels(count) | 35+ channels | 32+ channels | |
| On-Demand Titles(titles) | 10,000+ | 10,000+ | |
| Channel Customization Options(package types) | 1 fixed package | 1 fixed package | |
| Cost Difference for Annual Service(USD per year) | $923.88/year | $923.88/year |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
YT
4YouTube TVYouTube TV leads2 ties
YouTube TV
Attribute
Hulu + Live TV
- $73.99(winner)Base Monthly Price$76.99
- Unlimited(winner)Cloud DVR Storage50 hours
- 100+(winner)Live TV Channels95+
- 3(winner)Simultaneous Streams2
- None (separate purchase)Included On-Demand LibraryHulu Streaming (70,000+ titles)(winner)
- Yes (premium channels)4K Streaming SupportYes (select content)
- 7 daysFree Trial Period7 days
- Base Monthly Price
YouTube TV
$73.99(winner)
Hulu + Live TV
$76.99
- Cloud DVR Storage
YouTube TV
Unlimited(winner)
Hulu + Live TV
50 hours
- Live TV Channels
YouTube TV
100+(winner)
Hulu + Live TV
95+
- Simultaneous Streams
YouTube TV
3(winner)
Hulu + Live TV
2
- Included On-Demand Library
YouTube TV
None (separate purchase)
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu Streaming (70,000+ titles)(winner)
- 4K Streaming Support
YouTube TV
Yes (premium channels)
Hulu + Live TV
Yes (select content)
- Free Trial Period
YouTube TV
7 days
Hulu + Live TV
7 days
Full Comparison
| Attribute | YouTube TV | Hulu + Live TV |
|---|---|---|
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $60 (intro) / $83 (standard) | — |
| Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD) | $82.99/month | $82.99/month |
| Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD) | $95.99/month | $95.99/month |
| Starting Monthly Price(USD) | $73.99(winner) | $85.99 |
| Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month) | +$32.99 | — |
Show 29 more attributesBase Monthly Cost(USD) $99.99 $76.99 Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD) $82.99 — Base Monthly Price(USD) $72.99 $54.99 Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD) $99.99 — Monthly Base Price(USD) $72.99 $76.99 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 $923.88 Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD) $839.88 — Free Trial Period(days) No free trial (5-day trial historically) No free trial offered Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD) Not available $14.99/month extra Monthly Subscription Price(USD) $73.99 $76.99 Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD) $659.88 $923.88 Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD) $72.99 — Ad-Free Plan Availability Yes ($79.99/month) — Base Monthly Price(USD) $72.99/month $76.99/month Annual Cost Difference(USD) $995.88/year — Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD) $72.99 — Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD) $82.99 — Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month) $10.99 — HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month) $15.99 (separate sub) — Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD) $72.99 — Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD) $887.88 $1031.88 Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month) $14.99 (Sports+ add-on) ESPN+ included in bundle ($99.99 for all three) Additional Stream Cost(USD/month) No additional cost $9.99 for 2 more Annual Commitment Option Savings(percent) Up to 15% savings Varies by bundle Cost Difference for Annual Service(USD per year) $923.88/year — | ||
| Content Library Size(titles) | 100+ live channels | — |
| Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | — |
| Original Content Focus (2026) | Moderate (licensed dominant) | — |
| Sports Networks Included(count) | 20+ networks | — |
| News Networks Included(major networks) | CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News | — |
Show 33 more attributesSports Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent) ~50% — Live TV Channel Count(channels) 150+ channels — Live Channels(channels) 100+ 90+ On-Demand Content Library Size(titles) Minimal (YouTube originals only) — Live Channels Included(channels) 70+ — Regional Sports Networks Standard coverage only — Live TV Channels(channels) 70+ 90+ Total Channels(channels) 70+ — Original Content Library(titles) Limited (under 50) — On-Demand Library Size(titles) None included 70,000+ (Hulu) Total Channels Available(channels) 70+ channels — On-Demand Content Library(titles) ~3,000 250,000+ titles Content Library Size(titles) 150 channels — Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations) 5 — Live Channels(channels) 100+ channels — Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels) 25+ — News Channel Count(channels) 10+ channels — Included On-Demand Streaming No (separate subscriptions needed) — Live Channels Available(channels) 150+ channels 90+ channels Sports Content Types(types) All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.) — Included On-Demand Library(titles) 0 (separate subscription required) 10,000+ (Hulu) Base Channel Count(channels) 70+ — Original Content Production (Annual)(titles) 5-10 — Included Live TV Channels(channels) 100+ channels — Major Sports Channel Inclusion(channels) Included (ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, MLB Network, Pac-12, others) — On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated)) 0 (separate purchase) 10000+ Included Streaming Services(services) YouTube Premium only (1) Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN+ (3) Sports Channels Included(channels) 12+ channels — Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served) 150+ markets — Live TV Channels Available(count) 100+ 95+ Sports & News Channels(count) 35+ channels 32+ channels On-Demand Titles(titles) 10,000+ — | ||
| 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 | 50 simultaneous(winner) |
Show 36 more attributesMultiview Sports Feature Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026) No DVR Storage (Standard)(hours) Unlimited — 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 50 Simultaneous Streams(streams) 6 2-3 DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited 50 standard (200 with upgrade) Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams) 3 streams — Number of User Profiles(profiles) 6 profiles — Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams) 3 streams — Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited 50 hours DVR Content Retention Period(days) 270 days (9 months) 30 days Live TV Channels Included(channels) 150+ 90+ Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens) 6 2 devices Cloud DVR Storage(hours) Unlimited 50 hours Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours) Unlimited 50 hours DVR Recording Retention Period(months) 9 months 9 months Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts) 6 6 Offline Download Capability No — Simultaneous Streams(devices) 3 streams 2 streams Bundle Customization Options(bundles) 1 fixed lineup — DVR Storage Limit(hours or unlimited) Unlimited — Cloud DVR Retention(days) Unlimited days — 4K Channel Availability(channels) 10+ channels — User Profiles Per Household(profiles) 5 profiles — Family Profiles(profiles) 6 — Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams) 3 (no upgrade needed) — Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours) Unlimited — Default Simultaneous Streams(streams) 3 streams — Cloud DVR Storage Standard Tier(hours) Unlimited 50 Concurrent Streams(streams) 3 2 4K Live Streaming Available (select channels) Not available Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens) 6 screens — DVR Content Retention(months) 9 months standard (5 years select) Unlimited (Full retention) | ||
| Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions) | 11.1 | — |
| Ad-Free Viewing | Standard feature (no ads) | — |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7 days | 7 days |
| Free Trial Length(days) | 7(winner) | 3 |
| Trial Period(days) | 3 months ($1/month)(winner) | 7 days |
| Cost Per Channel(USD per channel) | $0.86 | — |
| Price per Channel(USD per channel) | $1.04 per channel | — |
| Bundled Premium Services(services) | None included | Disney+, ESPN+ included |
| 4K Streaming Available | Yes ($9.99/month add-on) | No |
| 4K Streaming Support | Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo) | Limited |
| 4K Content Available(yes/no) | Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on) | — |
| 4K Content Support(boolean) | No | Yes (select content) |
| 4K Streaming | Yes, included | No |
| On-Demand Content Titles(titles) | 2,500+ | 10,000+(winner) |
| Total Live Channels(channels) | 100+ | — |
| Sports Channel Count(channels) | 15+ channels | — |
| Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens) | 3 screens(winner) | 2 screens |
| AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year) | 2026 (multiview, interactive features) | — |
| Included Premium Services | YouTube Premium, YouTube Music | Hulu (ad-supported), Disney+, ESPN+ bundles |
| Mobile App Quality | Excellent with quick guide navigation | Good with Hulu integration |
| DVR Retention Period(days) | 270 days (9 months) | — |
| Contract Required | No | — |
| Monthly Subscription Cost(USD) | $72.99/month(winner) | $76.99/month |
| Live Events Per Year(events) | Varies (included in channels) | — |
| Live Sporting Events Per Year(events) | 3,000+ (sports only) | — |
| Annual Sports Events(events) | 5,000+ | — |
| 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 | — |
| Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets) | 90% | — |
| Original Content Hours Monthly(hours) | Minimal original content focus | — |
| Annual Cost (12 months)(USD) | $875.88 | — |
| Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams) | 6 (1 in 4K) | — |
| Original Sports Content Library(titles) | 0 | — |
| Sports Channels(channels) | 40+ | — |
| Major Sports Networks Included(networks) | Most major networks | ESPN, ABC, FOX Sports (enhanced) |
| Device Compatibility(supported devices) | 200+ devices | — |
| Free Trial Duration(days) | None | 7 days(winner) |
| 4K Streaming Support(availability) | Available (select channels + $10.99/mo add-on) | — |
| 4K Content Availability(% of library) | Yes | — |
| Live Stream Video Quality(resolution/fps) | 1080p/60fps | — |
| Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps) | 3 Mbps (HD)(winner) | 8 Mbps minimum |
| Streaming Device Compatibility | All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile) | All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile) |
| Supported Devices(count) | 40+ devices | — |
| User Interface Rating(out of 5 stars) | 4.3 stars(winner) | 3.8 stars |
| Live Sports Coverage | All major (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS) | — |
| Global Availability(countries) | USA only | — |
| Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets) | 95% coverage | 98% coverage(winner) |
| Subscriber Base (2026)(millions) | 8 | — |
| Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month) | $72.99 (included) | — |
| Total Live TV Channels(channels) | 100+ | — |
| Sports League Coverage Breadth(primary leagues) | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports across ABC/Fox/ESPN | — |
| Sports & Local News Coverage(availability) | Full coverage (ESPN, ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, locals) | — |
| Channel Customization Options(package types) | 1 fixed package | — |
YYouTube TV
Hulu + Live TVBase Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$60 (intro) / $83 (standard)
—
Base Monthly Price (2026)(USD)
$82.99/month
$82.99/month
Ad-Free Plan Cost(USD)
$95.99/month
$95.99/month
Starting Monthly Price(USD)
$73.99
$85.99
Price Difference vs Cheapest Option(USD per month)
+$32.99
—
Show 29 more attributes
Base Monthly Cost(USD)
$99.99
$76.99
Monthly Base Subscription Cost(USD)
$82.99
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99
$54.99
Monthly Cost (Base Plan 2026)(USD)
$99.99
—
Monthly Base Price(USD)
$72.99
$76.99
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
$923.88
Annual Cost (if prepaid)(USD)
$839.88
—
Free Trial Period(days)
No free trial (5-day trial historically)
No free trial offered
Premium Tier Price (with Disney+ & ESPN+)(USD)
Not available
$14.99/month extra
Monthly Subscription Price(USD)
$73.99
$76.99
Annual Cost (Base Plan)(USD)
$659.88
$923.88
Monthly Subscription Cost (Standard Plan)(USD)
$72.99
—
Ad-Free Plan Availability
Yes ($79.99/month)
—
Base Monthly Price(USD)
$72.99/month
$76.99/month
Annual Cost Difference(USD)
$995.88/year
—
Monthly Price (Base Plan with Ads)(USD)
$72.99
—
Premium Plan Price (Ad-Free)(USD)
$82.99
—
Sports Plus Add-on Cost(USD/month)
$10.99
—
HBO Max Add-on Cost(USD/month)
$15.99 (separate sub)
—
Monthly Subscription Price (Base Tier)(USD)
$72.99
—
Annual Cost (No Add-ons)(USD)
$887.88
$1031.88
Premium Sports Tier Cost(USD/month)
$14.99 (Sports+ add-on)
ESPN+ included in bundle ($99.99 for all three)
Additional Stream Cost(USD/month)
No additional cost
$9.99 for 2 more
Annual Commitment Option Savings(percent)
Up to 15% savings
Varies by bundle
Cost Difference for Annual Service(USD per year)
$923.88/year
—
Content Library Size(titles)
100+ live channels
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
100+
—
Original Content Focus (2026)
Moderate (licensed dominant)
—
Sports Networks Included(count)
20+ networks
—
News Networks Included(major networks)
CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NBC News, ABC News
—
Show 33 more attributes
Sports Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Entertainment/News Content Percentage(percent)
~50%
—
Live TV Channel Count(channels)
150+ channels
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+
90+
On-Demand Content Library Size(titles)
Minimal (YouTube originals only)
—
Live Channels Included(channels)
70+
—
Regional Sports Networks
Standard coverage only
—
Live TV Channels(channels)
70+
90+
Total Channels(channels)
70+
—
Original Content Library(titles)
Limited (under 50)
—
On-Demand Library Size(titles)
None included
70,000+ (Hulu)
Total Channels Available(channels)
70+ channels
—
On-Demand Content Library(titles)
~3,000
250,000+ titles
Content Library Size(titles)
150 channels
—
Original Content Awards (2024)(Emmy nominations)
5
—
Live Channels(channels)
100+ channels
—
Sports-Dedicated Channels(channels)
25+
—
News Channel Count(channels)
10+ channels
—
Included On-Demand Streaming
No (separate subscriptions needed)
—
Live Channels Available(channels)
150+ channels
90+ channels
Sports Content Types(types)
All major sports (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, CFB, etc.)
—
Included On-Demand Library(titles)
0 (separate subscription required)
10,000+ (Hulu)
Base Channel Count(channels)
70+
—
Original Content Production (Annual)(titles)
5-10
—
Included Live TV Channels(channels)
100+ channels
—
Major Sports Channel Inclusion(channels)
Included (ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, MLB Network, Pac-12, others)
—
On-Demand Library Included(titles (estimated))
0 (separate purchase)
10000+
Included Streaming Services(services)
YouTube Premium only (1)
Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN+ (3)
Sports Channels Included(channels)
12+ channels
—
Local Channels (ABC/NBC/CBS/FOX)(markets served)
150+ markets
—
Live TV Channels Available(count)
100+
95+
Sports & News Channels(count)
35+ channels
32+ channels
On-Demand Titles(titles)
10,000+
—
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
50 simultaneous
Show 36 more attributes
Multiview Sports Feature
Yes - Advanced customizable layouts (2026)
No
DVR Storage (Standard)(hours)
Unlimited
—
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
50
Simultaneous Streams(streams)
6
2-3
DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
50 standard (200 with upgrade)
Concurrent Streams Allowed(streams)
3 streams
—
Number of User Profiles(profiles)
6 profiles
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base Plan)(streams)
3 streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
50 hours
DVR Content Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
30 days
Live TV Channels Included(channels)
150+
90+
Simultaneous Streams Allowed(screens)
6
2 devices
Cloud DVR Storage(hours)
Unlimited
50 hours
Base DVR Storage Capacity(hours)
Unlimited
50 hours
DVR Recording Retention Period(months)
9 months
9 months
Family Accounts/Profiles(accounts)
6
6
Offline Download Capability
No
—
Simultaneous Streams(devices)
3 streams
2 streams
Bundle Customization Options(bundles)
1 fixed lineup
—
DVR Storage Limit(hours or unlimited)
Unlimited
—
Cloud DVR Retention(days)
Unlimited days
—
4K Channel Availability(channels)
10+ channels
—
User Profiles Per Household(profiles)
5 profiles
—
Family Profiles(profiles)
6
—
Simultaneous Streams (Base)(streams)
3 (no upgrade needed)
—
Cloud DVR Storage (Free Tier)(hours)
Unlimited
—
Default Simultaneous Streams(streams)
3 streams
—
Cloud DVR Storage Standard Tier(hours)
Unlimited
50
Concurrent Streams(streams)
3
2
4K Live Streaming
Available (select channels)
Not available
Simultaneous Streaming Screens(screens)
6 screens
—
DVR Content Retention(months)
9 months standard (5 years select)
Unlimited (Full retention)
Nightly TV Viewership Average (2026)(millions)
11.1
—
Ad-Free Viewing
Standard feature (no ads)
—
Free Trial Length(days)
7 days
7 days
Free Trial Length(days)
7
3
Trial Period(days)
3 months ($1/month)
7 days
Cost Per Channel(USD per channel)
$0.86
—
Price per Channel(USD per channel)
$1.04 per channel
—
Bundled Premium Services(services)
None included
Disney+, ESPN+ included
4K Streaming Available
Yes ($9.99/month add-on)
No
4K Streaming Support
Yes (with add-on $9.99/mo)
Limited
4K Content Available(yes/no)
Available with Premium tier ($13.99/month add-on)
—
4K Content Support(boolean)
No
Yes (select content)
4K Streaming
Yes, included
No
On-Demand Content Titles(titles)
2,500+
10,000+
Total Live Channels(channels)
100+
—
Sports Channel Count(channels)
15+ channels
—
Maximum Simultaneous Streams(screens)
3 screens
2 screens
AI-Powered Sports Features Launch(year)
2026 (multiview, interactive features)
—
Included Premium Services
YouTube Premium, YouTube Music
Hulu (ad-supported), Disney+, ESPN+ bundles
Mobile App Quality
Excellent with quick guide navigation
Good with Hulu integration
DVR Retention Period(days)
270 days (9 months)
—
Contract Required
No
—
Monthly Subscription Cost(USD)
$72.99/month
$76.99/month
Live Events Per Year(events)
Varies (included in channels)
—
Live Sporting Events Per Year(events)
3,000+ (sports only)
—
Annual Sports Events(events)
5,000+
—
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
—
Local News & Channels Available(percent of markets)
90%
—
Original Content Hours Monthly(hours)
Minimal original content focus
—
Annual Cost (12 months)(USD)
$875.88
—
Simultaneous Streams Per Household(streams)
6 (1 in 4K)
—
Original Sports Content Library(titles)
0
—
Sports Channels(channels)
40+
—
Major Sports Networks Included(networks)
Most major networks
ESPN, ABC, FOX Sports (enhanced)
Device Compatibility(supported devices)
200+ devices
—
Free Trial Duration(days)
None
7 days
4K Streaming Support(availability)
Available (select channels + $10.99/mo add-on)
—
4K Content Availability(% of library)
Yes
—
Live Stream Video Quality(resolution/fps)
1080p/60fps
—
Minimum Internet Speed Required(Mbps)
3 Mbps (HD)
8 Mbps minimum
Streaming Device Compatibility
All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile)
All major platforms (Apple TV, Roku, Fire, web, mobile)
Supported Devices(count)
40+ devices
—
User Interface Rating(out of 5 stars)
4.3 stars
3.8 stars
Live Sports Coverage
All major (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS)
—
Global Availability(countries)
USA only
—
Local Channel Coverage(% of U.S. markets)
95% coverage
98% coverage
Subscriber Base (2026)(millions)
8
—
Cost for 3 Simultaneous Streams(USD/month)
$72.99 (included)
—
Total Live TV Channels(channels)
100+
—
Sports League Coverage Breadth(primary leagues)
NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports across ABC/Fox/ESPN
—
Sports & Local News Coverage(availability)
Full coverage (ESPN, ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, locals)
—
Channel Customization Options(package types)
1 fixed package
—
Pros & Cons
10 pros·5 cons across both
YT
YT
YouTube TV
+5-2
Pros
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage for recordings (no expiration)
- 100+ live channels including sports, news, and entertainment
- 3 simultaneous streams across different devices and locations
- Lower base price at $73.99/month (as of 2026)
- Integrated YouTube account management and family sharing options
Cons
- No included on-demand streaming library; Hulu/other services require separate subscriptions
- Higher cost with add-ons ($15-25 additional for premium channel packages)
Hulu + Live TV
+5-3
Pros
- Integrated access to 70,000+ on-demand Hulu titles (movies, series, originals)
- Includes Hulu ad-supported tier; removes ads for $14.99/month premium upgrade
- 95+ live TV channels covering sports, news, and entertainment
- Disney Bundle integration (Disney+, ESPN+ available at discounted rates)
- Better for streaming exclusive ABC, NBC, and other broadcast content
Cons
- Limited cloud DVR (50 hours vs. unlimited on YouTube TV)
- Only 2 simultaneous streams (vs. 3 on YouTube TV)
- Slightly higher base price at $76.99/month (ad-supported plan)
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
YouTube TV is superior for recording due to unlimited cloud DVR storage with no expiration dates. Hulu + Live TV's 50-hour limit means older recordings are automatically deleted, making it less suitable for building a personal library of sports events or series.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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