Hulu vs Hulu Plus Live TV

Hulu has been around for years as an on-demand streaming service. As more and more services began to offer live TV along with their on-demand streaming capabilities, Hulu followed suit and put together the Hulu Plus Live TV option. It offers all of the on-demand capabilities as the traditional Hulu service but includes live TV from both local channels as well as cable favorites. In addition to their main package, you also have the option to add premium sports and movie channels. There are no contracts and you can start and stop your service as desired. There are no hidden fees. Hulu and Hulu Plus Live TV can be viewed over most smart devices as well as over a downloaded app that can be added to mobile phones and tablets.

Similarities

Both Hulu and Hulu Plus Live TV offer on-demand streaming that includes their vast library of movies and television series. This also includes their original series/movie options, as well. Both services are completely mobile. You can watch them over most smart TVs and gaming consoles as long as the device is hooked up to the internet. The same is true for cellphones, tablets, and laptops. As long as you can download the convenient app and connect to the internet, you can live stream your favorite programs from almost any location. There are no hidden fees or lengthy contracts which means you can start and stop your service whenever you need to. There are no reconnect fees so turning your service back on is easy.

Differences

The primary differences between Hulu and Hulu Plus Live TV have to do with the programming options. Hulu basic offers only on-demand programming in addition to a few of popular original series and movies. With Hulu Plus Live TV, you get all of the on-demand perks as well as a large selection of cable and major network programs, including local channels. You can add premium sports and movie packages too. Another perk is that you can also opt for DVR cloud storage so you can watch your favorite live shows whenever you want. With the right add-on package, you can get up to 200 hours of DVR storage. While Hulu basic only offers two options, Hulu Plus Live TV offers a variety of add-ons so that you can customize your package the way you want it.

Costs

Hulu Basic offers you two options. For $5.99 a month, you can watch all of your favorite on-demand shows but you will have to put up with commercial interruptions. For $11.99 a month, you can watch all of your favorite on-demand shows without any commercials or ads. Both plans offer you access to the entire library of programs Hulu has to offer.

Hulu Plus Live TV costs $44.95 a month. You get over 50 channels with the choice to add a variety of smaller packages to your plan. Premium movie packages range in price from $8.99 to $14.99 a month. There is also an Entertainment Package and a Hispanic package. You have package options that include 50 hours of DVR storage or you can go for the full upgrade and receive the 200 hours of DVR storage. This also allows you to have an unlimited number of simultaneous live streams.

Summary: Hulu vs Hulu Plus Live TV

Hulu is a great choice if you don't really need or want live TV. You can watch all of your favorite series 24 hours after they air on cable so it isn't like you are really missing out. Hulu basic does have a few ads but overall the extensive library and ability to watch from any device at almost any location for less than $15 a month is a bonus.

Hulu Plus Live TV is a good choice for those who want to watch live TV for an affordable price. It's also a good choice if you want to customize your package to include your favorite premium movie and sports channels. The added storage space that comes with the DVR is also a plus.