The transition from traditional cable TV to streaming services has introduced a new wave of options for consumers.
Two of the most popular choices in the live TV streaming space are Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV. Both platforms offer a range of live television channels, sports coverage, and cloud DVR options, but each has unique features that cater to different preferences and needs.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these services, from pricing and features to customer support and user experience, helping you determine which is the better choice for you.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV is an all-in-one package that combines live TV channels with Hulu’s on-demand streaming service.
Subscribers can watch live broadcasts of popular channels, including local news, sports, and entertainment, while also accessing Hulu’s vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content.
Hulu + Live TV typically bundles additional services like Disney+ and ESPN+ into the package, making it a strong contender for families and sports enthusiasts.
The integration of both live TV and streaming content within one platform makes Hulu + Live TV a convenient choice for those who want a mix of traditional cable and the flexibility of streaming.
The service includes features like unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing users to record shows and watch them later, as well as the option to stream on multiple devices.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV is a simpler, more straightforward live TV streaming service. It doesn’t offer an on-demand library of TV shows or movies like Hulu, but it focuses heavily on providing a high-quality live TV experience.
The service boasts a wide selection of live channels, including all major broadcast networks, sports channels, and cable favorites like AMC, FX, and CNN.
YouTube TV shines with its user-friendly interface, unlimited DVR storage, and the ability to stream on multiple devices at once.
The platform also supports features like Multiview, which allows users to watch multiple sports events at the same time. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a solid, no-frills live TV service, especially for sports fans.
Features Comparison
1. Channel Lineup
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV provides access to over 85–95 live channels, depending on the region. The service includes a mix of broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, as well as popular cable channels such as FX, AMC, and CNN.
Additionally, Hulu + Live TV includes sports channels like ESPN, NBC Sports, and regional sports networks, but its selection isn’t as vast as YouTube TV’s when it comes to niche sports networks.
One of the biggest advantages of Hulu + Live TV is its integration with Hulu’s on-demand library. Subscribers can easily switch between live broadcasts and Hulu’s vast streaming catalog, which includes popular Hulu Originals, movies, and TV shows.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers a more extensive channel lineup, with over 100 channels available on the base plan. This includes major broadcast networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX, along with cable staples such as AMC, HGTV, and FX.
YouTube TV’s strong point is its robust sports coverage, including channels like ESPN, NFL Network, NBA TV, and local sports networks.
The key advantage of YouTube TV in this category is the breadth of channels it offers, including more niche sports channels and local networks.
This makes YouTube TV a better option for viewers who want a larger selection of live TV programming.
2. DVR Functionality
Hulu + Live TV
Both Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing users to record as many shows, movies, or live events as they want. However, Hulu + Live TV has received mixed feedback in this area.
While it provides unlimited recording, some users have reported issues where recorded content comes with ads that can’t be skipped.
Additionally, there have been complaints that Hulu occasionally presents users with on-demand versions of recordings rather than the full DVR version, which can be frustrating.
The DVR feature on Hulu + Live TV does offer flexibility, but it’s not as reliable as YouTube TV in terms of user experience.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV offers an excellent DVR experience, providing unlimited cloud DVR storage with the added benefit of ad-free recorded content.
You can record as many shows as you want, and the platform will store them for up to nine months.
Users generally praise YouTube TV’s DVR functionality for its simplicity and efficiency, as well as the absence of commercial interruptions in recorded content.
The DVR system is incredibly user-friendly, making it easy to access, manage, and delete recordings. With its reliability and ease of use, YouTube TV’s DVR is one of the standout features of the service.
3. Sports Coverage
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV offers a solid selection of sports coverage, including major networks like ESPN, NFL Network, NBA TV, and regional sports networks.
It’s a decent option for sports fans, but it doesn’t have the same range of specialized sports channels that YouTube TV offers.
If you’re a casual sports viewer, Hulu + Live TV will likely meet your needs, but dedicated sports enthusiasts may feel limited by the available options.
In addition, while Hulu + Live TV includes access to ESPN+ with some plans, it lacks specific features like Multiview, which allows you to watch multiple sports events at once.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV excels in sports coverage, offering a broad selection of sports channels, including ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, NBA TV, and regional sports networks.
The service stands out with its Multiview feature, which allows users to watch multiple live sports events on one screen — a must-have feature for die-hard sports fans who want to track multiple games at once.
In addition to its core sports offerings, YouTube TV provides an optional add-on package called Sports Plus, which includes channels like NFL RedZone, NHL Network, and more.
This makes YouTube TV the clear winner for sports fans who want the most comprehensive sports coverage available.
4. User Interface and Experience
Hulu + Live TV
The user interface of Hulu + Live TV integrates both live TV and on-demand content, which can make it a bit cluttered for some users. While the platform is relatively easy to navigate, switching between live TV and Hulu’s extensive streaming library can sometimes feel cumbersome.
However, for users who enjoy the convenience of having both live TV and on-demand content in one place, Hulu + Live TV’s interface will likely suit their needs.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV features a simple and clean interface that is easy to navigate, especially if you are familiar with YouTube’s main platform. The service focuses mainly on live TV and offers a seamless viewing experience.
YouTube TV’s layout is similar to traditional cable TV, so users who are transitioning from cable will likely find it easier to use.
Overall, YouTube TV’s interface is considered more intuitive and user-friendly compared to Hulu + Live TV.
Pricing Comparison
Pricing is always a key factor when choosing a streaming service. Here’s a breakdown of the costs for Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV:
| Service | Base Price | Add-ons | Free Trial |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu + Live TV | $89.99 / month | No major add-ons, but bundling Disney+ and ESPN+ is available | 7-day trial |
| YouTube TV | $82.99 / month | Sports Plus ($10.99), 4K Upgrade ($19.99) | 7-day trial |
As we can see, YouTube TV is slightly cheaper than Hulu + Live TV by about $7 per month , when there is no discount or offer. However, Hulu + Live TV offers the added value of access to Hulu’s on-demand streaming library and, in some cases, bundled access to Disney+ and ESPN+.
If you already use or plan to use these platforms, Hulu + Live TV might be a better overall deal despite the higher price.
Customer Support Comparison
Both services offer standard customer support options like phone, email, and live chat. However, there are notable differences in how effective these support systems are.
Hulu + Live TV
Hulu offers a comprehensive customer support system that includes a help center, live chat, and phone support.
However, some users have expressed frustration with Hulu’s customer service due to long wait times, slow responses, and sometimes unhelpful solutions.
The service can be a bit tricky when dealing with technical issues or billing problems, as users often find the troubleshooting process to be time-consuming.
YouTube TV
YouTube TV has received more favorable reviews when it comes to customer service. The platform offers fast and efficient support, with easy access to live chat, email support, and social media contact.
YouTube TV’s customer support team is known for being responsive and providing effective solutions to issues in a timely manner, which makes it a more reliable option for users seeking help.
In terms of reliability and user satisfaction, YouTube TV generally provides a better customer support experience compared to Hulu + Live TV.
Pros and Cons
Hulu + Live TV
Pros:
- Access to Hulu’s vast on-demand streaming library, including movies, TV shows, and Hulu Originals.
- Bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+ provide great value.
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage.
- A wide selection of live channels.
Cons:
- More expensive than YouTube TV.
- Cluttered interface with both live TV and on-demand content.
- DVR recordings sometimes include unskippable ads.
- Limited to two streams at once, unless you pay for the unlimited screens add-on.
YouTube TV
Pros:
- Affordable base price compared to Hulu + Live TV.
- Offers over 100 live channels and a strong selection of sports programming.
- Unlimited cloud DVR with no ads in recorded content.
- Clean, easy-to-use interface.
- Features like Multiview and add-on sports packages make it ideal for sports fans.
Cons:
- No on-demand content like Hulu’s streaming library.
- Lacks bundled access to services like Disney+ or ESPN+.
- Some niche channels may be missing compared to Hulu.
Conclusion
When deciding between Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV, the right choice ultimately depends on what you value most in a streaming service.
If you want a comprehensive entertainment package with both live TV and on-demand streaming, Hulu + Live TV is the clear winner.
It provides access to Hulu’s vast library of movies, TV shows, and Originals, along with live TV channels. Bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+ also add extra value, making it perfect for families and those who enjoy diverse content.
However, it is slightly more expensive and can feel cluttered due to its combination of live TV and on-demand content.
On the other hand, YouTube TV is a simpler, more streamlined option that focuses primarily on live TV.
With over 100 channels, including an excellent selection of sports programming, and features like Multiview and unlimited DVR with no ads, it stands out for those who prioritize sports and a clean, easy-to-use interface.
The lower base price and superior customer support are additional perks, but it lacks the on-demand content that Hulu provides.
In conclusion, choose Hulu + Live TV for a mix of live TV and on-demand streaming, and YouTube TV for a straightforward, sports-heavy live TV experience.
FAQs
Which service has more channels?
YouTube TV offers over 100 channels, while Hulu + Live TV offers about 85–95.
Can I record unlimited shows on both services?
Yes, both services offer unlimited cloud DVR storage.
Which service is better for sports fans?
YouTube TV is better for sports fans due to its additional features like Multiview and a broader selection of sports channels.
Does Hulu + Live TV come with on-demand content?
Yes, Hulu + Live TV includes access to Hulu’s entire on-demand library, which is a significant advantage over YouTube TV.
Which service is easier to use?
YouTube TV has a cleaner, more intuitive interface, making it easier to navigate for most users.
