If you want to cut the cord, Hulu + Live TV is a great live TV streaming service to check out. You get the huge on-demand library, plus free access to Disney Plus and ESPN Plus. If you’re not ready to part with your emotional support cable box, you can stick with Hulu’s basic package and just get the on-demand content. Even though Hulu doesn’t have different channel packages, there are still a surprising number of plan options to choose from. Read on to figure out which one makes the most sense for your needs and budget.
It’s a great choice for families and other cord-cutters who don’t want to sacrifice binge-worthy content or the most popular cable TV networks. Continue reading to see just what’s included with Hulu’s plans and all the extras you’ll be able to choose from.
Hulu’s plans and pricing compared
| Plan | Monthly Price | Channels | Simultaneous Streams |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu | $7.99 | 0 | 2 |
| Hulu (No Ads) | $17.99 | 0 | 2 |
| Live TV Only | $75.99 | 95+ | 2 |
| Hulu + Live TV, Disney Plus and ESPN Plus | $76.99 | 95+ | 2 |
| Hulu + Live TV, Disney Plus (No Ads) and ESPN Plus | $81.99 | 95+ | 2 |
| Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV, Disney Plus (No Ads), ESPN Plus | $89.99 | 95+ | 2 |
Hulu
This is the most affordable plan but lacks any live channels. It’s ideal for someone who wants to supplement their cable or another live streamer with original shows and next-day coverage for some cable networks. For instance, you can watch Fox shows the morning after they air live during prime time.
Hulu (No Ads)
This plan is the same as Hulu, but it eliminates ad breaks during content, which can last up to two minutes on the regular plan.
Live TV Only
This plan doesn’t have the Hulu on-demand library, ESPN Plus, or Disney Plus. You’ll only get the livestreaming lineup. Hulu + Live TV has local channels, including NBC, ABC, and Fox. Plus, you’ll get extended cable networks like CNN, Bravo, TLC, FX, Comedy Central, and USA. Sports channels include ESPN, NFL Network, FS1 and FS2. This package only saves $1 over the cheapest live plan with the on-demand library and Disney Bundle, so it’s not the most cost-effective.
Hulu + Live TV, Disney Plus and ESPN Plus
This plan has all the same channels as Live TV Only, but it also has the Hulu library. You also get Disney Plus and ESPN Plus using your Hulu login. You will see ads across all three apps. If you don’t mind ad breaks, this is the best and most affordable option.
Hulu + Live TV, Disney Plus (No Ads) and ESPN Plus
This plan has ads on Hulu and ESPN Plus, but it eliminates ads on Disney Plus. If you’re a customer who doesn’t mind ads but who plans on using a lot of Disney Plus for your kids, you may like the option to eliminate ads for that app.
Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV, Disney Plus (No Ads) and ESPN Plus
This is the most expensive plan because it eliminates ads on both the Hulu on-demand library and Disney Plus. It’s worth noting that ads will always appear on the Hulu + Live TV live stream
What add-ons does Hulu + Live TV offer?
Hulu doesn’t offer as many add-ons as some of its competitors, but there are a few choices available to subscribers.
| Add-on Channel or Package Name | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Entertainment | $7.99 |
| Sports | $9.99 |
| Español | $4.99 |
| Paramount Plus with SHOWTIME | $11.99 |
| Max | $15.99 |
| Cinemax | $9.99 |
| STARZ | $9.99 |
Hulu add-ons for all plans
Hulu add-ons for Live TV only
- Español Add-on: $4.99/mo.
- Entertainment Add-on: $7.99/mo.
- Sports Add-on: $9.99/mo.
- Unlimited Screens Add-on: $9.99/mo.
Hulu deals and free trial offers
Hulu still offers one of the best free trials in the business. If you’re new to the platform, you can try the basic Hulu or Hulu (No Ads) plan for free for 30 days. Hulu + Live TV plans now offer a free trial lasting 3-days giving new users access to everything a normal subscriber would have. College students can also qualify for Hulu’s student discount, which grants access to the basic plan for $1.99 a month. If you don’t opt for the live TV plan, you can still consider the Disney Bundle, which includes Disney Plus and ESPN Plus for up to 44% off the price of buying all three services separately.
How to Sign up for Hulu
It’s easy to get started with Hulu. You can sign up for Hulu’s basic plans or visit Hulu + Live TV to choose a live TV subscription. Once you create your account, you can watch Hulu on a range of supported devices, such as your computer web browser, iOS and Android mobile devices, Amazon Fire tablets and TVs, Apple TV, Chromecast, Roku, Xbox, PlayStation, and various smart TVs. What are you waiting for? Go check out Hulu now and get streaming.
Final Take
Hulu offers an impressive slate of streaming options for all kinds of cord-cutters. There are some who will find the Hulu library more than enough for their streaming needs. Others, like my family, will be drawn to the value of the Disney Bundle and its excellent mix of on-demand entertainment and live sports. And many will find that the whole package, with live TV thrown in, is well worth the price.
In short, there’s something here for nearly every kind of streamer. Still, if you want regional sports, prefer a wider set of channels, or want a different mix of on-demand entertainment, you may want to check out some of Hulu’s competitors.
FAQ
Does Hulu have an annual plan?
Hulu offers annual pricing for its basic ad-supported plan. You can get the annual plan for $79.99 a year, which amounts to 16% off the monthly price.
What is the difference between Hulu Basic and Hulu + Live TV?
Hulu’s basic plan includes full access to the Hulu library and two simultaneous streams, while Hulu + Live TV includes more than 95 live TV channels and unlimited DVR. Both services offer options for ad-free or ad-supported on-demand content.
Can I watch Hulu + Live TV for free?
Hulu + Live TV doesn’t currently offer a free trial. In order to explore the platform for yourself, you’ll need to pay for a month’s subscription, which starts at $76.99.
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