Hulu has been around since 2007, originally a joint venture between major TV networks as a way to bring their shows online. Now it’s majority owned by Disney, and it’s carved out a reputation as the go-to streaming service for current-season TV. Its sweet spot is cord-cutters who still want next-day access to network shows, plus families who like a mix of originals and licensed content. What sets Hulu apart is its hybrid model, which gets a mix of on-demand TV shows, movies, and original series, plus an option to upgrade to Hulu + Live TV for a complete cable replacement. It’s available only in the U.S. (and Japan with a separate version), which makes it more limited globally compared to Netflix or Prime.
Pros
- Next-day access to shows from major networks (ABC, NBC, Fox, FX, Freeform)
- Strong originals like The Handmaid’s Tale, Only Murders in the Building, and The Bear
- Option to upgrade to Hulu + Live TV as a complete cable replacement (90+ channels)
- Excellent bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+
- Frequent promotions (like Black Friday deals under $2/month)
Broad device compatibility and solid add-on options (Max, Showtime, Starz)
Cons
- Prices have climbed steadily across tiers, especially the Live TV bundles
The interface can feel cluttered and less polished compared to Netflix or Disney+ - Limited global availability (U.S.-only, with a separate version in Japan)
- Offline downloads are restricted to the ad-free plan
- Live TV users sometimes report buffering during peak hours
Channel Lineup & Content
If you’re sticking with on-demand Hulu, the “channel lineup” isn’t live channels, but a deep library of shows from ABC, NBC, Fox, FX, Freeform, and more, often available the day after they air. Popular shows like The Handmaid’s Tale, Only Murders in the Building, and The Bear are Hulu originals that have become cultural hits. The movie selection rotates monthly, with a mix of new releases and classics. If you upgrade to Hulu + Live TV (currently over 90 channels), you’ll get live access to ESPN, CNN, Disney Channel, ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, FX, and local broadcasts depending on your market. Premium add-ons like HBO Max, Showtime, Starz, and Cinemax are available too.
Package Tiers & Pricing
Hulu’s basic ad-supported plan starts at $9.99/month. If you want no ads, it’s $18.99/month. Hulu + Live TV with Disney+ and ESPN+ bundled in runs $82.99/month with ads or $95.99/month for the ad-free upgrade. That makes it one of the pricier live TV options, but you’re also getting three services rolled into one. Annual pricing is available for the on-demand ad-supported plan at $81.99/year. Hulu doesn’t currently offer dedicated student discounts for its streaming-only plans, but some colleges partner with Spotify to offer bundled deals.
Bundling Opportunities
This is where Hulu shines, thanks to Disney ownership. The Disney Bundle (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+) is one of the most popular streaming packages, starting at $16.99/month with ads or $26.99/month for ad-free access across all three. Wireless carriers like Verizon have also offered Hulu as part of their premium unlimited phone plans. Add-ons like Showtime, Starz, Max, and others can be managed directly through Hulu, making it easy to centralize your billing.
Historical Pricing & Deal Analysis
Hulu has had one of the steadiest pricing climbs in streaming. A few years ago, its ad-supported plan was $5.99/month; now it’s $9.99. The ad-free tier jumped from $11.99 to $18.99. Hulu + Live TV has seen the steepest increases, especially as channel licensing costs rise. Live TV packages are quickly approaching $100/month. The best time to sign up is during Black Friday, when Hulu has historically offered its ad-supported plan for as low as $0.99 to $1.99/month for a year, one of the best streaming deals out there. Free trials are typically one week.
Device Compatibility & Features
Hulu works on almost every streaming device: smart TVs, Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, game consoles, and mobile apps. Downloads for offline viewing are supported only on the ad-free plan. You can stream on two devices at once with the standard plan, or upgrade for unlimited screens at home (plus three mobile devices). Hulu supports up to 4K Ultra HD on most content, though not everything streams in 4K. Cloud DVR is included with Hulu + Live TV and offers unlimited storage (but recordings expire after nine months).
User Experience
The Hulu interface is functional, but not everyone’s favorite. The home screen leans heavily on recommendations and can sometimes feel cluttered. The search function is solid, and Hulu’s “My Stuff” feature makes it easy to track shows you’re watching. Streaming quality is generally good, though some live TV users complain about occasional buffering during peak hours. Customer service is available via live chat, phone, or a fairly detailed online help center. Setup is simple, with no equipment required unless you’re using it through a smart TV or streaming stick.
Additional Costs & Fees
If you stick with on-demand, the only extra costs come from add-on channels or bundles. Hulu + Live TV can add up quickly with premium add-ons. There are no installation fees, equipment rentals, or hidden charges, though taxes may apply depending on your state.
Pros & Cons Summary
Hulu is best for TV lovers who want next-day access to current network shows, plus people who like the mix of originals, movies, and the option of live TV. Its biggest strengths are its bundle options, strong original series, and consistent promotions. Downsides include rising prices, a sometimes clunky interface, and limited global availability. Compared to Netflix, Hulu has more network TV but less original content firepower. Compared to cable, Hulu + Live TV is cheaper and more flexible, though it’s still one of the pricier streaming bundles once add-ons are factored in.
Current Promotions
Some wireless carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon offer free or discounted Hulu as part of premium unlimited plans. Students are also eligible for a $1.99 a month plan for as long as they are students.
Final Verdict
Hulu is the best option if you care about staying up to date with network TV without cable. Pair it with Disney+ and ESPN+ in the bundle, and it’s one of the strongest all-around streaming packages available.
