Netflix is the mother of all television streaming sites and it’s even one of the most popular phrases, “Netflix and Chill”. They’ve built up an empire. However, Hulu being on the scene has definitely created some competition. While Netflix prices are getting higher, Hulu is dropping theirs lower.
It might be the time to reconsider your streaming service. Yes, we get it. A lot of people are subscribed to both. But maybe this is a good time to cut down on monthly subscriptions and see what you can and cannot live without.
And if you don’t live in the United States, Hulu isn’t available to you. In that case, Netflix it is.
We’re here to compare and contrast some of the largest streaming sites: Netflix and Hulu.
Netflix Features
- Streams in 4K (this is a very good image quality)
- Supports HDR video (High Dynamic Range)
- Downloadable to watch offline on a mobile device while you’re traveling (helllloooo convenience!)
- Allows four simultaneous streams
- Large device support
- Offers original movies, and series
Hulu Features
- Able to stream to almost any device under your roof
- Many different packages to choose from
- Cheap at only $5.99/mo for basic plan
- Offers Live TV and next day uploads for aired television
Something you’ll have to come to terms with in this compare and contrast is, Netflix “offers” more. With 4K video, no ads, offline downloads and original movies/series – it’s a no brainer for a lot of people.
However, Hulu does have something good going for it when it comes to price and “comfort”. First off, the basic plan for Hulu is $5.99/mo and the “no commercials” is $11.99/mo. While Netflix basic is $8.99/mo, standard is $12.99/mo and premium is now $15.99/mo. So, there is a price difference.
Not only that, but when it comes to “comfort binging” – Hulu brings the heat. For the shows that are off the air, but still have a cult following – Hulu has em’.
The streaming service is co-owned by some of the biggest networks and studios, including Disney, NBCUniversal (Comcast), and Warner Bros. (AT&T). Hulu essentially licenses those networks’ series and distributes them to its subscriber base. Although Hulu is also working on its own original series — including the award-winning The Handmaid’s Tale — Hulu’s biggest draw is its extensive library of licensed programming. The Simpsons, 30 Rock, Futurama, ER, and Seinfeld are just a few examples of shows streaming on Hulu that Netflix subscribers don’t have. That’s why Hulu has become one of the best streaming services for licensed television.
Netflix offers many licensed shows, but has a bigger focus on it’s original work. You’ve probably heard of Bird Box, Tidying Up With Marie Condo, Black Mirror and Stranger Things. They truly outdo everyone when it comes to their own content.
The fact of the matter is, both are excellent streaming services. You just have to ask yourself what is important to you. While they are both different, both Netflix and Hulu remain the front runners in streaming services and that probably won’t change for a while.
