Hulu Review: $10.99-$99.99/mo On-Demand + Live TV Tested

Trying to decide if Hulu is worth your money in 2026? With streaming prices climbing across the board and Disney’s plans to merge Hulu into Disney+ later this year, you’re right to be cautious about committing to another subscription.

After extensive testing and research, we’ve evaluated Hulu’s entire ecosystem—from its $10.99/month ad-supported tier to its $99.99/month premium Live TV package. This review cuts through the marketing to help you understand exactly what you’re getting, what you’re paying for, and whether Hulu fits your streaming needs.

Quick Verdict: Is Hulu Worth It in 2026?

Hulu is worth it if you:

• Watch current network TV shows and want them the next day
• Love FX content (The Bear, American Horror Story, Reservation Dogs)
• Need live sports and news but want to cut cable
• Can benefit from the Disney+ bundle (substantial savings)
• Prefer hybrid viewing (live TV + on-demand in one app)

Skip Hulu if you:

• Only watch older catalog content (Netflix is better)
• Want premium HBO/prestige dramas (Max is superior)
• Can’t tolerate ads and find $18.99/month too expensive
• Only need live TV (YouTube TV might be better value)
• Are waiting for the Disney+ merger (coming later in 2026)

Hulu Pricing: Plans and Bundles Explained

Hulu’s pricing structure is more complex than most streaming services because it offers both on-demand and live TV options, plus multiple bundle configurations with Disney+ and ESPN+.

On-Demand Only Plans

Plan	Price	What You Get
Hulu (With Ads)	$10.99/month or $99.99/year	Full on-demand library with commercial breaks
Hulu (No Ads)	$18.99/month	Ad-free on-demand streaming (some exceptions apply)
Hulu Student	$1.99/month	With Ads plan for eligible college students

The basic Hulu plan increased from $9.99 to $10.99 in October 2025, while the No Ads tier jumped from $17.99 to $18.99. These prices align with industry trends but make Hulu slightly more expensive than competitors like Peacock ($7.99 with ads) and Paramount+ ($7.99 with ads).

Hulu + Live TV Plans

Plan	Price	Includes
Hulu + Live TV (With Ads)	$89.99/month	95+ live channels, unlimited DVR, on-demand library with ads
Hulu + Live TV (No Ads)	$99.99/month	95+ live channels, unlimited DVR, ad-free on-demand

Both Live TV plans automatically include Disney+ (with ads) and ESPN+ at no additional cost. That’s significant value considering Disney+ alone costs $11.99/month.

Disney Bundle Options (Best Value)

This is where Hulu pricing gets interesting—and potentially much more affordable:

Bundle	Price	Services Included
Duo Basic	$10.99/month	Hulu (With Ads) + Disney+ (With Ads)
Duo Premium	$19.99/month	Hulu (No Ads) + Disney+ (No Ads)
Trio Basic	$16.99/month	Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN+ (all with ads)
Trio Premium	$26.99/month	Hulu (No Ads) + Disney+ (No Ads) + ESPN+

Our take: The Duo Basic bundle at $10.99/month is exceptional value. You get both Hulu and Disney+ for the same price as standalone Hulu, effectively making Disney+ free. Even if you only occasionally watch Disney+ content, this bundle makes financial sense.

Add-Ons and Extras

• Unlimited Screens: $9.99/month (unlimited streams at home, 3 mobile devices outside home)
• Sports Add-on: $10/month (additional sports channels)
• Entertainment Add-on: $8/month (extra cable channels)
• Español Add-on: $5/month (Spanish-language channels)
• HBO Max: $10.99/month (increasing to $10.99 on Jan 15, 2026)
• Paramount+ with SHOWTIME: $13.99/month (increasing on Jan 15, 2026)
• Enhanced Cloud DVR: Free unlimited storage with Live TV plans

What’s the Catch with “No Ads”?

Important clarification: Even the $18.99/month “No Ads” plan isn’t completely ad-free. A small number of shows (like Grey’s Anatomy and Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) will still show one pre-roll ad due to streaming rights agreements. Additionally, live TV content always includes the original broadcast commercials—there’s no way around that.

Content Library: What Can You Actually Watch?

Hulu’s content strategy differs fundamentally from Netflix and Disney+. Instead of focusing solely on originals or licensed classics, Hulu positions itself as the bridge between traditional TV and streaming.

Current Network TV (Hulu’s Killer Feature)

This is Hulu’s primary differentiator: next-day streaming of current TV shows from ABC, Fox, and NBC. New episodes typically appear around 5-8 AM the morning after they air.

Popular shows available next-day in 2025-2026:

• Abbott Elementary (ABC) - Season 5
• 9-1-1 (ABC) - Season 9
• Grey’s Anatomy (ABC) - Still going strong
• The Rookie (ABC) - Season 7
• Will Trent (ABC) - Season 3
• The Masked Singer (Fox)
• Dancing with the Stars (ABC/Disney+, next-day on Hulu)

For people who follow network shows but refuse to deal with cable or antenna TV, this feature alone justifies Hulu’s cost. You’re essentially getting current TV on your schedule, without recording anything.

FX Content: The Prestige TV Advantage

Through Disney’s ownership, Hulu is the exclusive streaming home of all FX content. This is a massive content advantage that directly competes with HBO’s prestige programming on Max.

Notable FX shows on Hulu:

• The Bear - Emmy-winning culinary drama (Seasons 1-3)
• Reservation Dogs - Critically acclaimed comedy (Complete series)
• American Horror Story - All seasons and spin-offs
• What We Do in the Shadows - Comedy series (Complete series)
• Fargo - Anthology crime series (All seasons)
• The Americans - Spy thriller (Complete series)
• Atlanta - Donald Glover’s surreal comedy (Complete series)

Coming in 2026:

• Alien: Earth - Noah Hawley’s sci-fi thriller series
• The Beauty - Horror satire starring Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall
• Adults - Ensemble comedy about twenty-somethings in NYC

The FX library represents some of the best television of the past decade. If you’re an FX fan, Hulu is non-negotiable—there’s literally no other way to stream this content.

Hulu Originals: Quality Over Quantity

Hulu doesn’t flood its platform with originals like Netflix, but focuses on high-quality productions that generate buzz and critical acclaim.

Standout Hulu Originals:

• Only Murders in the Building - Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez comedy-mystery
• The Handmaid’s Tale - Dystopian drama (Emmy winner)
• The Great - Historical comedy-drama starring Elle Fanning
• Normal People - Romantic drama (Emmy-nominated, available in 4K)
• Dopesick - Michael Keaton’s opioid crisis miniseries
• The Dropout - Amanda Seyfried as Elizabeth Holmes
• Pam & Tommy - Lily James and Sebastian Stan limited series

Recent and upcoming originals in 2026:

• Tell Me Lies - Season 2 continuation
• Paradise - Drama set in an exclusive elite community
• Mid-Century Modern - Nathan Lane comedy (Golden Girls vibes)
• The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives - Season 2
• Nine Perfect Strangers - Season 2

Hulu Originals tend toward prestige dramas and limited series rather than the mass-market approach of Netflix. Quality is generally high, though release cadence is slower.

Movie Library: Solid But Not Spectacular

Hulu’s film library is respectable but not the platform’s main attraction. You’ll find a rotating selection of mainstream movies, independent films, and some 4K titles.

What works:

• Decent selection of recent theatrical releases (6-12 months after release)
• Strong independent film curation
• Some Hulu Original films like No One Will Save You (4K)
• Disney+ bundle provides access to all Disney/Pixar/Marvel/Star Wars films

What doesn’t:

• Smaller overall movie library than Netflix or Max
• Older catalog films rotate in and out frequently
• Limited classic film selection compared to Max

Content Gaps to Know About

Hulu doesn’t have:

• CBS shows (those go to Paramount+)
• Most Warner Bros./HBO content (that’s on Max)
• Classic sitcom libraries like Friends or The Office (Max and Peacock respectively)
• Extensive international content (Netflix dominates here)

Hulu + Live TV: Cable Replacement Analysis

Hulu’s Live TV option at $89.99-$99.99/month positions itself as a complete cable alternative. But is it actually worth the premium price?

Channel Lineup (95+ Channels)

Hulu + Live TV includes 95+ live channels, though the exact count varies by location based on local channel availability.

What’s included:

• Local networks: ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CW (in most markets)
• Sports: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, FS1, FS2, CBS Sports, NFL Network, NBA TV, TNT, TBS
• News: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, ABC News Live, CBSN
• Cable entertainment: FX, FXX, USA, Syfy, E!, Bravo, TLC, HGTV, Food Network
• Kids: Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Cartoon Network

What’s missing:

• Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in many markets—a dealbreaker for local team fans
• HBO (available as $10.99/month add-on)
• Many niche cable channels from smaller networks

The channel selection covers most major bases but isn’t as comprehensive as traditional cable. YouTube TV ($82.99/month) includes more RSNs and unlimited streams, making it stronger for sports fans.

Unlimited Cloud DVR

Both Live TV plans include unlimited cloud DVR storage with recordings kept for 9 months. This is a significant upgrade from competitors:

• YouTube TV: Unlimited DVR, 9-month storage ✓ (comparable)
• Sling TV: 50 hours free, 200 hours for $5/month ✗
• FuboTV: Unlimited DVR ✓

The DVR works well in practice. You can record as much as you want, fast-forward through commercials on recorded content (even on the With Ads plan), and access recordings across all devices.

Simultaneous Streams: The Big Limitation

Here’s where Hulu’s Live TV offering falls short: only 2 simultaneous streams by default, even at $99/month. That’s problematic for families.

Comparison:

• Hulu + Live TV: 2 streams ($9.99/month for unlimited at home)
• YouTube TV: 3 streams (6 with 4K Plus add-on)
• FuboTV: 10 streams
• Sling TV: 1-4 streams depending on package

If you have a family, budget an extra $9.99/month for the Unlimited Screens add-on. That gives you unlimited streams on your home network and 3 mobile streams outside your home.

Live TV Interface and Experience

Hulu’s 2025 redesign significantly improved the Live TV experience by integrating live channels and on-demand content into a unified navigation system. You can browse by genre, see upcoming live events alongside VOD recommendations, and switch between live and recorded content seamlessly.

Strengths:

• Clean integration of live and on-demand in single interface
• “My Stuff” hub organizes watchlists, recordings, and favorite channels
• Personalized recommendations for both live and VOD content
• Sports hub consolidates all sports content

Weaknesses:

• Still occasional confusion between live, recorded, and on-demand versions of shows
• Some users report the interface feels cluttered with too many content categories
• Navigation can feel slower than dedicated live TV apps like YouTube TV

Live TV Verdict: Good, But YouTube TV Might Be Better

Hulu + Live TV at $89.99-$99.99/month is a competent cable replacement, especially if you already want Hulu’s on-demand library and the bundled Disney+/ESPN+. However, YouTube TV at $82.99/month offers better value for pure live TV needs:

Choose Hulu + Live TV if:

• You want one app for live TV + Hulu’s on-demand library + Disney+
• You primarily watch national networks and don’t need RSNs
• The FX content library matters to you

Choose YouTube TV if:

• Local sports via RSNs are essential
• You need 3+ simultaneous streams without paying extra
• You prefer a cleaner, dedicated live TV interface

Streaming Quality and Technical Performance

Hulu supports modern streaming standards, though its 4K offering lags behind competitors.

Resolution and Quality

What Hulu offers:

• Standard streaming: 720p-1080p on most content
• 4K/Ultra HD: Available on select Hulu Originals only
• HDR support: HDR10 and Dolby Vision on compatible 4K content
• Live TV: Up to 1080p/60fps on select channels (most are 720p)

Internet speed requirements:

• Standard Definition (480p): 3 Mbps
• HD (720p-1080p): 8 Mbps
• 4K streaming: 16 Mbps minimum (25 Mbps recommended)

There’s no additional charge for 4K streaming—if content is available in 4K and your device supports it, you’ll get 4K automatically.

The 4K Problem

Hulu’s 4K library is disappointingly small. Only select Hulu Originals like Normal People, The Bear, and No One Will Save You offer 4K streaming. Most licensed content maxes out at 1080p, and live TV channels don’t broadcast in 4K at all—even major sporting events cap at 1080p/60fps.

Comparison:

• Netflix: Extensive 4K library across originals and licensed content
• Disney+: Most Disney/Pixar/Marvel content in 4K HDR
• Max: Growing 4K library including HBO shows and Warner Bros. films
• Apple TV+: All original content in 4K Dolby Vision
• Hulu: Small 4K selection, mostly originals only ✗

If 4K streaming matters to you, Hulu isn’t the platform to prioritize.

Simultaneous Streams and Device Limits

Standard limits:

• 2 simultaneous streams on any Hulu plan
• Unlimited Screens add-on ($9.99/month): Unlimited streams at home network + 3 mobile streams outside home
• Download limit: Up to 25 titles on up to 5 mobile devices for offline viewing
• Account sharing: Limited to people in your household (same IP address enforcement)

Premium content exceptions: HBO, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax add-ons allow streaming on up to 5 screens total (3 of which can be outside your home).

Performance and Reliability

In our testing across multiple devices and network conditions, Hulu performed reliably with occasional minor issues:

Strengths:

• Fast app load times following 2025 redesign
• Smooth playback at 1080p with 25+ Mbps connection
• Minimal buffering on stable connections
• Quick startup for live TV channels

Issues we encountered:

• Occasional sync issues between audio and video on Live TV
• Rare instances of playback freezing requiring app restart
• Some users report more frequent technical glitches compared to Netflix or Disney+

Overall streaming quality is good but not industry-leading. Netflix and Apple TV+ deliver more consistent performance.

Device Compatibility: Where Can You Watch?

Hulu supports virtually every modern streaming device and platform. Compatibility is comprehensive and rarely a concern.

Streaming Devices & Smart TVs

Fully supported:

• Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick (all models)
• Apple TV (4th generation and later)
• Roku devices and Roku TVs (most models)
• Google Chromecast (all generations)
• Android TV and Google TV
• Samsung Smart TVs (2016 models and newer)
• LG Smart TVs (webOS models)
• VIZIO Smart TVs
• Sony Smart TVs (Android TV models)

Mobile and Tablets

• iOS: iPhone and iPad (iOS 14 or later)
• Android: Phones and tablets (Android 8 or later)
• Amazon Fire Tablets
• Echo Show (for Live TV)

All mobile apps support offline downloads (up to 25 titles on 5 devices).

Gaming Consoles

• PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5
• Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S
• Nintendo Switch

Note: PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii are no longer supported.

Computers

Access Hulu through web browsers on Mac and Windows PCs at Hulu.com. All major browsers supported (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge).

Devices NOT Supported

• NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro
• Nintendo Wii and Wii U
• PlayStation 3
• Older smart TVs (pre-2016 models)

Bottom line: If you’ve purchased a streaming device or smart TV in the past 5-6 years, Hulu will work on it.

User Interface and Experience

Hulu redesigned its TV app interface in 2025, modernizing the experience and better integrating live TV with on-demand content.

2025 Redesign: What Changed

The new interface adopts side navigation (similar to Prime Video and Disney+) rather than the old top navigation bar. This creates more screen space for content discovery.

Key changes:

• Left sidebar with menu options: Home, Search, TV, Movies, Sports, News, My Stuff, Hubs, Settings
• Genre-based navigation integrates live and on-demand content
• AI-powered personalization surfaces relevant content
• Faster load times and cleaner visual design
• Live events and trending shows displayed alongside VOD content

Navigation and Content Discovery

What works well:

• My Stuff section: Centralized hub for watchlists, DVR recordings, and favorite channels
• Personalized home screen: Mix of recommendations, continue watching, and trending content
• Sports hub: Aggregates all live sports, upcoming games, and sports content in one place
• Search functionality: Fast and accurate, includes voice search on supported devices
• Up to 6 user profiles: Each with personalized recommendations and watch history

What’s frustrating:

• Content duplication: Same show sometimes appears multiple times (live version, recorded version, on-demand version)
• Too many content rows: Endless scrolling through categories can feel overwhelming
• Ad experience on With Ads plan: Frequent, repetitive ads that can’t be skipped (though this varies by content)
• Mixed reception on redesign: Some long-time users prefer the old interface

Mobile App Experience

The Hulu mobile app (iOS and Android) mirrors the TV app design and performs well:

Mobile-specific features:

• Offline downloads (up to 25 titles)
• Picture-in-picture support (iOS)
• Smooth casting to Chromecast and AirPlay devices
• “Watch outside home” functionality (3 mobile devices with Unlimited Screens add-on)

Account Sharing and Profiles

Hulu supports up to 6 profiles per account, each with:

• Individual watch history and recommendations
• Personalized “My Stuff” collections
• Separate continue watching queues
• Kids profile option with age-appropriate content filtering

However, Hulu now enforces household-only account sharing. All users must primarily stream from the same home network (same IP address). Attempting to share accounts with people outside your household will trigger verification prompts and eventual account restrictions.

This policy aligns with Netflix and Disney+‘s crackdown on password sharing, though enforcement seems less aggressive than Netflix’s approach so far.

Who Should Subscribe to Hulu?

After testing every aspect of Hulu’s service, here’s who benefits most from each plan type:

Hulu Basic ($10.99/month) is Perfect For:

• Network TV followers: You watch ABC, Fox, or NBC shows and want them the next day
• FX fans: You love The Bear, American Horror Story, or Reservation Dogs
• Budget-conscious streamers: You want quality content without the $18.99 premium
• Students: Eligible students get this for just $1.99/month
• Casual viewers: You can tolerate ads to save money

Who should skip it: People who hate ads and rarely watch current TV shows.

Hulu No Ads ($18.99/month) Makes Sense For:

• Ad intolerant viewers: Commercials genuinely bother you
• Binge watchers: You consume multiple episodes in one sitting
• Professionals with limited time: You value uninterrupted viewing

Who should skip it: Budget-focused viewers. The $8/month premium over the basic plan is steep for just removing ads.

Disney Bundle Duo Basic ($10.99/month) is Exceptional Value For:

• Families with kids: Disney+ content is essential
• Marvel/Star Wars fans: You want both universes covered
• Bargain hunters: Two services for the price of one

Who should skip it: People with zero interest in Disney content (rare, but possible).

Disney Bundle Trio Basic ($16.99/month) Ideal For:

• Sports fans: ESPN+ adds UFC, NHL, MLS, international soccer, and exclusive content
• Cord-cutters who still want sports: Combine with an antenna for comprehensive coverage
• Value maximizers: Three services for less than standalone Hulu No Ads

Who should skip it: Non-sports fans who won’t use ESPN+.

Hulu + Live TV ($89.99-$99.99/month) Best For:

• Complete cord-cutters: You want one app to replace cable entirely
• Live sports and news viewers: You need ESPN, FS1, and news channels
• DVR power users: You record everything and want unlimited storage
• Bundle enthusiasts: Getting Disney+ and ESPN+ included sweetens the deal

Who should skip it: Anyone who doesn’t regularly watch live TV. You’re paying $80-90 extra for channels you might rarely use. Consider YouTube TV or separate streaming services instead.

How Hulu Compares to Competitors

Hulu’s unique hybrid model (next-day TV + on-demand + optional live TV) makes direct comparisons tricky, but here’s how it stacks up:

Hulu vs. Netflix

Netflix wins for:

• Larger overall content library
• More extensive 4K/HDR content
• Better international and foreign language content
• More consistent original content releases
• Better performing app across all devices

Hulu wins for:

• Current network TV shows (next-day availability)
• FX prestige content
• Live TV option (Netflix doesn’t offer this)
• Lower starting price ($10.99 vs. Netflix’s $17.99 Standard plan)

Bottom line: Netflix for binge-watching catalog content and originals; Hulu for keeping up with current TV.

Hulu vs. Max

Max wins for:

• HBO prestige programming (The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, etc.)
• Warner Bros. film library
• More comprehensive 4K offering
• Better for classic films and franchises

Hulu wins for:

• Next-day network TV
• FX content (exclusive to Hulu)
• Live TV option
• Disney+ bundle value

Bottom line: Max for premium scripted dramas and films; Hulu for current TV and live programming.

Hulu vs. Disney+

If you’re considering both, just get the Disney Bundle ($10.99 for Duo Basic). You save money and get both services.

Disney+ has: All Disney/Pixar/Marvel/Star Wars content, more 4K content, better kids’ content

Hulu has: Current adult TV, FX content, broader content library beyond Disney IP

They’re complementary services that work better together than either alone.

Hulu vs. YouTube TV (for Live TV)

YouTube TV advantages:

• More regional sports networks (RSNs)
• 3 simultaneous streams standard (vs. Hulu’s 2)
• Cleaner live TV interface
• Lower price ($82.99 vs. $89.99-$99.99)

Hulu + Live TV advantages:

• Integrated on-demand library (extensive)
• Bundled Disney+ and ESPN+ included
• FX content library
• Unlimited screens at home for $9.99 (YouTube TV doesn’t offer this)

Verdict: YouTube TV for dedicated live TV viewers, Hulu + Live TV for those who want live + on-demand integration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hulu really getting absorbed into Disney+?

Yes. Disney has confirmed that Hulu will merge into Disney+ sometime in 2026, and the standalone Hulu app will eventually shut down. However, you’ll still be able to purchase Hulu content as a separate tier within Disney+. The exact timeline hasn’t been announced, and all current Hulu plans and pricing remain active for now.

For subscribers, this shouldn’t dramatically change the viewing experience—you’ll just access Hulu content through the Disney+ app instead of a separate Hulu app. Think of it like how HBO content is accessed through Max.

Can I share my Hulu account with family members?

Yes, but only if they live in your household. Hulu now enforces location-based sharing restrictions, requiring all users to primarily stream from the same home Wi-Fi network. You can create up to 6 profiles on one account.

If you try to regularly share with someone outside your home, Hulu will prompt for verification and may restrict account access. The enforcement is less aggressive than Netflix’s crackdown, but the policy is clear: household-only sharing.

The Unlimited Screens add-on ($9.99/month) allows 3 mobile devices to stream outside your home network, which works for family members traveling or at work/school temporarily.

How many ads are on the With Ads plan?

On the Hulu (With Ads) plan, expect commercial breaks similar to traditional TV—typically 90-120 seconds of ads per break. One-hour shows usually have 3-4 ad breaks; 30-minute shows have 2-3 breaks.

Total ad load per hour is roughly 5-7 minutes, which is less than traditional cable TV (typically 15-20 minutes per hour) but more than competitors like Peacock (around 4-5 minutes per hour).

The frustrating part: You’ll often see the same ads repeated across breaks, which can feel more intrusive than the volume of ads themselves. Live TV always includes the original broadcast commercials regardless of your plan.

Can I download shows to watch offline?

Yes. All Hulu plans allow offline downloads on mobile devices (iOS, Android, Fire Tablets). You can download up to 25 titles across up to 5 devices.

Important limitations:

• Downloads expire after 30 days or 48 hours after you start watching (whichever comes first)
• Not all content is downloadable due to licensing restrictions
• Live TV content cannot be downloaded (only DVR recordings, which also can’t be downloaded)
• Downloads only work on mobile—no desktop or TV downloads

For true offline viewing, download shows before your flight or road trip, as the 48-hour post-watching window is quite restrictive.

Does Hulu have a free trial?

Hulu occasionally offers 30-day free trials for new subscribers, but availability varies. As of January 2026, free trials are offered selectively rather than universally.

Check Hulu’s homepage for current promotions—they often run trials during major events (back to school, Black Friday, new show premieres). Disney Bundle subscriptions sometimes include trial periods as well.

If you’re a Spotify Premium student subscriber, you may be eligible for Hulu (With Ads) bundled with Spotify for $4.99/month.

Can I watch Hulu outside the United States?

No. Hulu is only available in the United States and U.S. territories. If you travel abroad, you won’t be able to access Hulu even with an active subscription.

Disney+ is available internationally in most countries, which makes the upcoming Hulu-Disney+ merger relevant for travelers—you’ll likely be able to access Hulu content through Disney+ while traveling internationally once the merger is complete.

Using a VPN to access Hulu from outside the U.S. violates Hulu’s terms of service and may result in account suspension.

Is the Unlimited Screens add-on worth $9.99?

Worth it if:

• You have 3+ people in your household who watch simultaneously
• Family members frequently watch on mobile devices outside home (work, school, travel)
• You hit the 2-stream limit regularly and it frustrates you

Not worth it if:

• You rarely exceed 2 simultaneous streams
• Everyone primarily watches at different times
• You’re on a tight budget

One strategy: Start without Unlimited Screens, and only add it if you consistently hit the stream limit. You can add or remove it month-to-month.

What’s included in the Disney+ that comes with Live TV?

Hulu + Live TV plans include Disney+ (With Ads) automatically at no extra charge. This includes the full Disney+ library:

• All Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content
• Disney+ Originals like The Mandalorian, Loki, Encanto
• Commercial breaks during streaming (ad-supported tier)

If you want Disney+ (No Ads), you’ll need to upgrade to a premium bundle configuration, which increases the monthly cost. Check Hulu’s bundle pricing to see current upgrade options.

Final Verdict: Should You Subscribe to Hulu?

Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Hulu earns a 4.3/5 rating for its unique combination of next-day network TV, deep FX library, quality originals, and flexible Live TV option. It’s not perfect—the ad experience is mediocre, 4K content is limited, and the impending Disney+ merger creates uncertainty—but Hulu delivers genuine value for specific use cases.

The Case FOR Hulu

Strong reasons to subscribe:

1. Next-day network TV is unmatched. If you follow current shows on ABC, Fox, or NBC, no competitor offers this. Netflix gets shows months or years later; Hulu gets them the next morning.

2. FX content is exclusive and exceptional. The Bear, Reservation Dogs, American Horror Story, Fargo—these shows alone justify a subscription for FX fans.

3. Disney Bundle value is outstanding. At $10.99/month for Hulu + Disney+, you’re getting two services for the price of one. It’s the best streaming bundle deal available.

4. Live TV integration works well. Hulu + Live TV successfully combines cable replacement with on-demand streaming in a single app, which is genuinely convenient for cord-cutters.

5. Unlimited DVR is a major plus. If you go the Live TV route, unlimited cloud storage for 9 months beats most competitors.

The Case AGAINST Hulu

Legitimate concerns:

1. Ads are intrusive and repetitive. The With Ads plan shows the same commercials multiple times per viewing session, which is more annoying than the ad volume itself.

2. 4K content is minimal. If streaming quality matters, Hulu’s tiny 4K library (limited to select originals) can’t compete with Netflix, Disney+, or Apple TV+.

3. Prices keep increasing. October 2025 saw price hikes across all plans, with more increases announced for late 2025. The trend isn’t encouraging.

4. Disney+ merger uncertainty. With Hulu being absorbed into Disney+ in 2026, there’s uncertainty about how pricing, bundles, and features will change.

5. Live TV is expensive. At $89.99-$99.99/month, Hulu + Live TV costs nearly as much as cable for fewer channels and RSN limitations. YouTube TV often offers better value.

Our Recommendations by Scenario

Get Hulu (With Ads) if:

• You watch 3+ current network TV shows weekly
• You can tolerate ads to save $8/month
• You’re on a budget but want quality content

Get the Disney Bundle Duo Basic if:

• You have any interest in Disney+ content
• You want maximum value for $10.99/month
• You have kids or enjoy Marvel/Star Wars

Get Hulu + Live TV if:

• You’re ready to completely cut cable
• You watch live sports and news regularly
• You want unlimited DVR and on-demand in one app

Skip Hulu if:

• You only watch older catalog content
• You hate ads and won’t pay $18.99/month
• You need extensive 4K content
• You’re waiting for the Disney+ merger to see final pricing

Bottom Line

Hulu is a strong streaming service with a clearly defined niche: current TV, FX prestige content, and optional live programming. It doesn’t try to be everything to everyone like Netflix. Instead, it excels at specific things and delivers real value through bundle deals.

At $10.99/month standalone (or $10.99 for the Disney Bundle Duo), Hulu represents good value despite its limitations. The ad experience could be better, and more 4K content would be welcome, but the core offering—next-day TV, FX exclusives, quality originals—is solid.

For households already subscribed to Disney+ or interested in both services, the bundle pricing makes Hulu essentially free. That’s exceptional value that’s hard to ignore.

Final recommendation: Subscribe to Hulu if you watch current network TV or love FX content. Get the Disney Bundle to maximize value. Skip the expensive Live TV plans unless you’re genuinely ready to cut cable completely—and even then, compare YouTube TV first.

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Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you subscribe to Hulu through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on extensive research and genuine evaluation of the service.