Hulu Channels, Plans, and Cost

Streaming of television content and on-demand TV shows is experiencing rapid adoption, all thanks to the rapid development from big tech companies.

Netflix, HBO Go, YouTube TV, and Hulu are at the forefront of pioneering new streaming services and laying the groundwork for features to come.

Hulu has pioneered online TV streaming and is arguably the first to launch full scale when it comes to the streaming service platform.

Recently, there is an obvious attempt from Hulu to update their user interface. This is to make it more user-friendly and comfortable for use.

User personalization is also another interesting area where Hulu seems to be focusing on with their new update. These types of influential changes are some of the things that make Hulu stand out in the OTT platform space.

If you are just hearing about Hulu for the first time, this article will help you understand Hulu’s services. Specifically, what Hulu is all about, the cost of using Hulu services, and how it compares to other similar streaming platforms.

What is Hulu?

The Hulu platform is an on-demand video content streaming platform. For over a decade, it remains one of the largest streaming platforms in the United States.

Hulu boasts of having over 40 million users and active subscribers. Hulu is a great alternative available to people who want to do away with the hassle that comes with traditional cable television.

Aside from being a repository for more than 2,500 movies and thousands of TV shows episodes, Hulu also streams live TV via Hulu + Live TV program.

A controversial point you might get to know about Hulu is its use of ads. To keep the price low and provide all the great benefits for low-income earners, Hulu shows commercials for its cheapest bundle to offset the cost. However, it offers zero ads for a higher cost.

Hulu also provides premium add-on features that you can add to your base subscription to enjoy certain features. One of which includes unlimited simultaneous streams on your subscription account. You can also get more TV channels to stream television content, among other things.

How Much Does Hulu Cost?

Hulu provides one of the cheapest price points as a content streaming platform. In order not to get the pricing category confusing in any way, you can think of Hulu’s price tiers based on the following plans below.

1. Student

In the student category, you have the opportunity of catching your best show for as low as $1.99 monthly. This student price is available on the basic Hulu streaming plan. This account does not have any upgrade track to any other category of Hulu subscription.

2. Hulu Basic

The cheapest Hulu plan costs $5.99 per month. This, however, comes with commercials while streaming your favorite content.

3. Hulu (No Ads)

The next subscription costs $11.99 per month with zero ads. This provides the same movie content with zero commercials for twice the basic tier price.

4. Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV plan costs $64.99 per month. This is the base price for Hulu’s movie streaming service with Live TV content. This base subscription cost comes with commercials.

5. Hulu + Live TV (No Ads)

The Hulu + Live TV (No Ads) plan lets you enjoy TV streaming with zero ads and cost you $70.99 per month for this option.

Add-on packages combine specific channels and other services for a little extra cost. You can get more value from your subscription bundle by combining Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for an extra $12.99 per month.

There are other add-on options you can combine to watch specific channels on Hulu. You do not have to worry about penalties for canceling. You can cancel your whole subscription and all its add-on immediately if you choose to with zero hassle.

Hulu Channels

Hulu stands out from the other streaming platform providers because of its top-notch TV shows and blockbuster movie collection.

Hulu also has its collection of original Hulu movies that you can only get to watch on the Hulu platform. Hulu offers over 10,000 titles and TV shows, guaranteeing a great viewing experience from these channels.

For your movies and TV shows, Hulu also provides premium channels that you can add to your subscription. These add-on premium channels provide premium content and original movies as they premiere from their studio.

For a little extra cost, you could add to your viewing experience and expand your movie selection options. Some of these premium channels include HBO Max, SHOWTIME, Starz, among others.

Hulu Channels List

Hulu Plans

Hulu has about four different subscription options. These different subscription options offer their distinct channel list and features for your satisfaction.

On top of this, you can decide to add special add-on packages to complement your subscription. Below are the full Hulu plan options and their features

1. Hulu On-demand (With Ads):

For as low as $5.99 per month, this service provides access to all of Hulu’s on-demand content. It provides on-demand TV shows from networks. It also includes all of Hulu’s original movies.

However, you will not be able to access any live channels on this plan. You should note that this plan is ad-supported. It shows commercials while you are streaming on-demand content on Hulu.

You can also pay an annual billing price of $59.99 per year and save about $12 off the cumulative month-to-month price for the one-year subscription amount.

2.  Hulu On-demand (Zero Ads):

This is similar to the first Hulu plan option with one big difference, No Commercials. This on-demand plan costs $11.99 per month and offers access to all of Hulu’s streaming libraries.

It provides on-demand content and TV shows commercial-free. Unfortunately, you do not get to watch live TV channels on this Hulu plan option.

3. Hulu and Hulu Live TV:

This Hulu plan provides both streaming service and Live TV channels for over 65 channels. These TV channels are your usual network and cable television channels.

For a $64.99 per month amount, you can watch your favorite shows and TV stations with this subscription plan. Concurrently, you can watch on two devices at the same time.

You also have access to 50 hours of Digital Video Recording (DVR) for your favorite shows. Unfortunately, you still have to deal with the commercials on this Hulu plan option

4. Hulu On-demand (No Commercials) + Live TV:

Similar to the Hulu plan above, this plan offers Hulu on-demand content and Live TV channels. The only difference is that you do not have to deal with the commercials while watching your favorite TV shows and television content.

In some cases, you will still have to deal with some commercials from the Live TV content providers. This plan costs $70.99 per month.

Add-on packages

If you have a Hulu on-demand + Live television subscription, you have the option of adding some features to your subscription. Below are some add-on options available

Hulu Featured Add-on Package

1. Unlimited Screen and Enhanced DVR

This provides both unlimited screen options and more storage space for your recording. It costs $14.99 per month more in addition to your Hulu on-demand + Live TV subscription.

2. Unlimited Screens

This provides the option to watch your favorite shows on multiple devices simultaneously. It does not restrict the number of devices from which you can stream your favorite content with your subscription. This cost an extra $9.99 per month

3. Enhanced DVR

This increases the storage capacity for your DVR feature from 50 hours to 200 hours. This extra storage capacity is useful for increasing the number of TV shows and other content you wish to save to your library. You can get this feature for an extra $14.99 per month.

Hulu Add-on Premium Channels

Hulu also allows you to include premium channels in your Hulu subscription. You can subscribe through Hulu to access premium channels and content via the Hulu app.

For a monthly price, you can enjoy various premium channels and have them as an addition to your initial Hulu plan. Below is a list of premium channels you can access via Hulu.

1. HBO

This costs an additional $14.99 per month. It provides HBO content, and you can binge-watch on-demand

2. Showtime

This costs an additional $10.99 per month. You can enjoy all of Showtime’s original content by adding this premium channel to your subscription plan.

3. Cinemax

This premium channel costs $9.99 per month. This premium channel streams hundreds of action movies and original series. The cost is an addition to your subscription plan.

4. Starz

for $8.99 per month, you can enjoy all the premium content from this premium channel

Hulu Network Add-on Package

1. Hulu Live TV Española Add-on

Espanola add-on channels provide Live TV subscribers with the best content, news, sports, and Spanish shows. This add-on option allows you to live-stream your favorite shows and on-demand content in Spanish.

CNN en Española, Discovery en Española, Discovery Familia, Fox Deportes and more are some of the channels Hulu provides in Spanish. For an additional $4.99 per month, Live TV subscribers can add Espanola add-on to their channel list.

2. Hulu Live TV Entertainment Add-on

To satisfy your entertainment itch, Hulu has a collection of well-put-together entertainment channel lists. Hulu Live TV subscribers can now get more premium content from their favorite entertainment channel and add the entertainment package to their channel list.

Some of the channels you can expect include BET Her, CNBC World, Crime + Investigation, Discovery Family, DIY, History, and so much more. For an additional $7.99 per month, you can stream some of your best shows and entertainment news from these channels.

3. Hulu Live TV Sports Add-On

Hulu Live TV is at the forefront to provide all sports content from around the country. With its newest sports add-on, it brings more live sporting action to your screen.

Now, you can get NFL RedZone and five other live sports channels in addition to your Live TV channels. For an extra $9.99 per month, you can follow all your favorite sports teams for the whole season.

Hulu Bundle Deals

Bundling options are also available on Hulu. You can combine some add-on packages together with your Hulu base subscription. Bundling deals allows you to include the add-on package to your current Hulu plan.

This is possible via your Hulu account page. Navigate to the ‘Manage Subscription’ section of your account. Below are the bundling option you have for your Hulu account

1. Hulu on-demand, Disney+, and ESPN+ for $13.99 monthly cost

2. Hulu on-demand (no ads), Disney+, and ESPN+ for $19.99 monthly cost

3. Hulu on-demand, Live TV, Disney+, and ESPN+ for $72.99 monthly cost

4. Hulu on-demand (no ads), Live TV, Disney+, and ESPN+ for $78.99 monthly cost

Difference Between Hulu and Hulu + Live TV

Hulu on-demand provides subscribers with several on-demand video content. These video contents include Hulu original TV shows, movies, and other relevant video content.

There are some major differences between Hulu on-demand streaming service and Hulu + Live TV. Below are some of the key differences

1. Monthly Subscription Cost

Depending on the subscription option you select, there is a huge difference between the monthly subscription cost of Hulu and Hulu + Live TV. Hulu’s on-demand streaming service this service costs $5.99 per month. For Hulu + live TV, it costs $64.99 per month.

2. Live Streaming

Hulu + Live TV differentiates itself from Hulu on-demand as Live TV provides current happening and television programs from across the country.

The channels on Live TV are a careful selection of local channels and premium channels according to the subscribers viewing taste. Hulu on-demand has the movies and TV show content on-demand for streaming.

3. Channels and Movie Titles

Hulu + Live TV provides over 10,000 movies and TV show episodes alongside over 65+ live TV channels for your viewing. Hulu on-demand only provides movies and TV shows. It does not provide live streaming capabilities.

4. Cloud DVR Storage

Hulu + Live TV allows you to record your favorite TV shows and live events for when you are free to watch them. On your base subscription, you are eligible for at least 50 hours of DVR storage.

You do not need to record or have storage capability. However, Hulu on-demand has your video and movie content ready on demand.

5. Cost For Add-on Package

Hulu + Live TV charges $70.99 per month for its base add-on package to its normal subscription. However, it only cost $11.99 for Hulu on-demand to get the same add-on to this base subscription.

Hulu On-Demand Channels

Hulu on-demand channels are available with its Live TV subscription option. When you sign up initially, you can enjoy Hulu + Live TV services free for the first seven days.

This free trial provides full access to all Live TV services and on-demand TV channels. You can also access 50 hours of free DVR storage option. Of course, your Hulu on-demand also provides thousands of on-demand TV shows and your favorite Hulu original movies.

Hulu Watch Party

Watching your favorite movies and TV shows together is easier with Hulu Watch Party. As a Hulu subscriber, you and your family and friends can watch shows and movies together via the Hulu watch party feature. With some easy steps, you can be set up and ready to start enjoying the show.

The Hulu watch party feature is available to all Hulu subscribers. It allows the streaming of shows and movies with up to eight other people to watch together.

While watching, watchers can chat with one another in the chatbox. Hulu requires all the watchers in the watching group to have a Hulu account with an active subscription

You can set up a Hulu watch party for you and your friend group with the steps below –

1. Open and sign in to your Hulu account. Make sure you have an active Hulu subscription

2. Select a movie or show to watch. Click on the three dots next to the title and select the ‘Details’ option. You should see the Watch Party option on display. This should be an icon of three people with the description ‘Watch Party.’

3. Click on the Watch Party icon

4. Select ‘Start the Party’

5. Copy the link and send it to the participant you want to watch the movie with on Hulu. They can join the movie and be in sync with where other watchers are in the movie. Note, other watchers must have a Hulu account with an active subscription.

Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV is a combination of both worlds. This offers a combination of Hulu on-demand streaming services with the Live TV option.

This subscription option also offers the plan for zero commercials or the addition of commercials. This choice depends on your convenience during streaming and a little extra cost.

For this subscription plan, you get to enjoy on-demand content in association with more than 65 live channels. These channel options include local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. Other channels available on Hulu Live TV include HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime, among others.

Hulu Live TV also offers 50 Hours of complementary DVR cloud storage feature. This feature allows you to record all live TV shows. This way, you never have to miss your favorite shows. You can simply add it to your library and catch up with it later when you are less busy.

Regardless of which modern device you are using to stream, Hulu + Live TV allows up to six user profiles on your subscription. With your subscription, you can stream from two screens simultaneously.

How To Get Hulu + Live TV

To start enjoying all the content and Live TV channels on Hulu Live TV, you need to sign up on Hulu and get your Hulu account. From Hulu’s official website, you can create an account and start your free trial.

The free trial period provides you with the opportunity to try out all the services available on Hulu + Live TV. You also need to have a modern device and an internet connection to enjoy the content on Hulu + Live TV.

When you sign up on Hulu, you can link your account to the device you use for signing up on Hulu. For the convenience of payment, you can link your account to the payment option of your choice.

How To Get Hulu + Live TV if You Already Have Hulu

If you already have an account and want to add Live TV, you can achieve this with easy steps. Unfortunately, you need to sign up for Hulu Live TV from the official website. To continue with this sign up process, follow the steps below

1. From your web browser, navigate to signup.hulu.com

2. Login in to your account with your account email and password

3. From the menu option, navigate and select Manage Plan from your current subscription

4. Navigate to where you have Hulu + Live TV and switch it on. You can choose between Hulu (no ads) + Live TV if you want the option with zero commercials

5. There is also the option to select premium channels to add to your Hulu Live TV subscription. From this section, you can choose your favorite premium channel to add to your subscription at an extra cost.

6. You can also enable your cloud DVR+ if available from this option

Hulu + Live TV Channels

Hulu provides its television subscribers with local channels and other cable television channels available. The channel list you get to watch depends on the zip code of your location.

This helps Hulu determine which localization settings and channel list you belong to and what channels you will appreciate better.

Local channels like ABC, NBC, Fox, and CBS are some of the channels you can expect from Hulu. Aside from these local channels, you can expect over 60 cable channels for your viewing.

According to their category, below are some of the channels that are available on Hulu

1. Entertainment channels

These channels provide the best in entertainment and the latest happenings in and around entertainment. E!, USA, TNT, TBS, TruTV, and other entertainment channels are some of the channels available under this category.

2. Family channels

This collection of channels packs family content for you and your family. Disney, Cartoon Network, and others are part of this channel family.

3. Educational Channels

These channels display educational content for the benefit of your family and children. Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, History, Nat Geo channel are part of these channel packs.

4. National Sports Channels

You do not have to miss all the sports moments with Hulu channels. The national sports channels that Hulu TV provides takes care of your sports games and everything in between. ESPN, FS1, Big Ten Network, SEC Network, and more are some of the sports stations available on Hulu TV

 5. News Channels

For breaking news and updates on issues surrounding the United States and beyond, these news channels provide up-to-date information you will want to know about. Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and more are some of the channels in this category.

Hulu live TV also allows add-on packages that add more channels to your Hulu base subscription.

These add-on packages provide some extra channels you might find interest in at an extra cost. Depending on the add-on package you want, you may have to pay extra according to the associating cost.

Regional Sports Networks

Hulu Live TV provides an array of regional sports networks to view your favorite sports team’s game and follow up on the latest development.

As a subscriber, you have access to several national and local sports networks. Of course, this depends largely on your current home location. On Hulu, sports networks like ESPN, FS1, FS2, NBC, TBS, among others, are some of the available regional sports networks.

Unfortunately, some of the regional sports networks, like channels under the Sinclair broadcasting group, no longer exist under Hulu’s channel listing.

Hulu Partner Add-ons ( ESPN+ )

For all your sport shows and live game, ESPN+ is the premium channel you can trust. For as low as $6.99 per month, you can enjoy all the sports content on this premium channel.

Number of Profiles Hulu Allows

Everyone in your home deserves to enjoy premium content on Hulu. Hulu allows six different profiles on your subscription.

It helps to suggest the best recommendation and personalizes the content streaming to these profiles. With the different profiles, you can keep track of your favorite shows and record your favorite shows.

The Hulu app does a great job of recommending the best TV shows and Hulu original movies that will match each watcher’s interest.

Creating these different profiles helps the personalization process for the individual watchers to get similar recommendations of their favorite shows on Hulu. This also helps to tailor the recommendations to fit the profile and not mix with other profiles on the account.

Hulu Supported Devices

Hulu appeals to people who want a cable-less television and the flexibility that comes with watching your favorite shows on any modern device of your choice.

As far as you have a steady internet connection, you can stream your favorite shows from the comfort of your home or on the go. You can use any of the devices that support Hulu services.

For Smart TVs, Hulu supports several Smart TV manufacturers to provide an operating system compatible Hulu application. Android TV, Apple TV, and Smart TVs from famous TV manufacturers like Samsung, Hisense, etc., are in this category.

For modern mobile phones, the Hulu app is compatible with Android and iOS operating systems. Android devices use the android app, while Apple’s iPhone uses the Hulu iOS app. Android tablets and the iPad are compatible with the Hulu app.

Chromecast is also an option for screen sharing Hulu. You can connect your device with the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast and share the screen with your display device.

Hulu also supports gaming consoles. You can play your favorite movies and TV shows from your console of choice. Favorite among this category of consoles that Hulu supports is Xbox, PlayStations among others.

These consoles must be the recent versions before you can use them to access your Hulu account. Login with your account details, and you are set to watch Hulu content on the go.

Pros of Using Hulu

Hulu provides all the comfort and flexibility in streaming your favorite movies and television content. Here are some of its top advantages;

1. On-demand Streaming

Hulu provides thousands of movies for you to stream at your own convenience. With every subscription type, you get access to all of the top TV shows and premium movie content from the comfort of your space.

2. Channel List

Hulu provides a good collection of entertainment, sports, news, and local content channels for your streaming needs.

3. DVR Storage

Recording and storing your live content while you are not there to watch it is a feature from Hulu that comes in handy. Hulu provides you with 50 Hours of DVR cloud storage for you to utilize as you wish. You can extend this storage capacity if you wish.

4. Package Plan

Hulu is considerate of the affordable amount different classes of people can afford. With its different package plans, Hulu is able to offer the lowest price for its basic package plan for everybody’s satisfaction.

5. Subscription Profiles

Hulu allows up to six profiles on a subscription. You can create up to six different viewers profiles on your subscription and get personalized content for these profiles.

Cons of Using Hulu

Here are the drawbacks of Hulu’s services you should be aware of when choosing Hulu. You can have the assurance that Hulu is working around the clock to provide the best service possible.

1. Cost

In comparison to other streaming services, the add-ons are expensive.

2. Simultaneous Access

Hulu only allows subscribers to stream on two devices concurrently. However, you can stream on multiple devices once you upgrade your plan.

3. Commercials

For a commercial-less subscription package, Hulu demands more payment to remove ads.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hulu

How Do I Watch Hulu Free?

Hulu has different subscription plans according to your pocket size. For a fee, you can enjoy all the benefits and streaming experiences that Hulu provides. Hulu comes at a cost. It does not come free

What is The Difference Between Hulu and Hulu Premium?

Hulu on-demand is an on-demand service that allows Hulu subscribers to stream thousands of movies and TV shows from its content catalog.

However, the Hulu premium service makes premium channels available for your viewing satisfaction. These premium add-on channels come at an extra cost.

How Do You Cancel Hulu?

You can cancel your Hulu subscription at any time. Hulu also allows you the grace period to review and renew your subscription if you choose to come back.

1. To cancel your subscription, navigate to your account page.

2. Under subscription, select Cancel. This action presents you with the option to pause your subscription.

3. You can choose the ‘Continue to Cancel’ option if you want to cancel. Confirm the on-screen prompt to complete the cancellation process. 

Why Does Hulu Have Commercials?

Commercials are necessary to reduce the monthly subscription cost of some of the services on Hulu. This helps to offset the expenses for licensing and provision of premium content. It also helps in compensating content partners for providing the content for subscribers.

What is Hulu Plus?

Hulu plus is an on-demand video streaming service. This provides all the movies and TV shows directly to your device.

Hulu Plus allows you to stream all your favorite on-demand movies and shows directly to your devices. It is an ideal option when you are on the road and need an option for entertainment on the go.

How Many Devices Can You Have on One Hulu Account?

Hulu allows you to stream on two devices simultaneously. You can have up to six profiles on Hulu but only two profiles can simultaneously watch at once. This restricts other devices from accessing Hulu on the same account after the second device.

How Many Channels Do You Get With Hulu?

Hulu Live TV offers a variety of local and other premium channels for your entertainment and viewing pleasure. Hulu gives you access to more than 65 channels and on-demand video content. You can also add premium package channels at an extra cost.

What Do You Get With Hulu $5.99 Plan?

The $5.99 subscription plan provides you with on-demand access to TV shows, premium movie selection, and Hulu original movies. This subscription also includes FX on Hulu. It shows exclusive shows that are airing on FX the next day.

Do You Get Hulu With Amazon Prime?

No, you do not get Hulu with Amazon prime. You can sign in to your Hulu account, but you get separate bills from Hulu and Amazon Prime account at the end of the month.

How Do I Get Free Hulu With Amazon Prime?

You can start your Hulu free trial on any of the supported Amazon devices. First, you have to open the Hulu app. Click on the ‘start free trial’ option. Select a plan that suits you and enter the other personal details. Review your information and enjoy your free trial.

Is Hulu Giving A Free Year?

Hulu is giving a one-month free trial period for those eligible.  This option is available with an annual subscription.

If you decide to cancel before your free trial ends, you will not have to pay the annual subscription fee. This depends on your eligibility for the one-month free trial. Be sure to check out the eligibility criteria before signing up.

How Many People Can Watch Hulu at Once?

The maximum number of people that can watch Hulu at once is two. You can download and activate your Hulu subscription on several compatible modern devices, as you want.

However, you can only watch and stream your favorite shows on two devices simultaneously. Any attempt to watch Hulu on additional devices will show an error message on the additional device.

Is Hulu Basic Worth it?

Hulu’s basic subscription plan offers an affordable on-demand streaming service that allows subscribers to access thousands of TV shows and Hulu original movies.

Subscribers can watch entire seasons of their favorite sitcoms. Sitcoms like Brooklyn Nine-nine, Grey’s Anatomy, and American Dad, among others, are some of the sitcoms you can expect.

Hulu’s original movies and sitcoms like the Handmaid’s Tale are also available via this subscription. Depending on what you are looking for, Hulu’s basic plan keeps getting better with Hulu’s content updates.

What is The Cheapest Way To Get Hulu?

The cheapest subscription plan on Hulu is the Basic plan. It is one of the most affordable streaming plans on any platform. For $5.99 monthly, this plan offers access to the entire on-demand catalog of Hulu’s movie and TV series library.

With the bundling plan, you can also add premium channels to this Hulu subscription plan. You can enjoy Disney plus and ESPN+ for an additional $8 every month.

Summary

Hulu provides an array of streaming options that fits any category and demography. Because of some contract agreement issues and distribution rights, some content and TV show might disappear from your Hulu profile.

In most cases, it is usually due to contract expiration and the inability to agree on the terms of a new contract. Hulu, however, is always committed to providing the best content for the streaming satisfaction of its subscribers.

Hulu has been one of the forerunners and cornerstones of online streaming for over a decade, Hulu is now a go-to stoic for hundreds of new joiners and online content distributors.

Hulu is an American household name best for being an excellent cable TV alternative for several families. Hulu is also a great source of older shows and TV series that you can watch many times over.

Hulu also supports a robust number of modern-day technology to deliver its content to subscribers at their convenience. Hulu continues to provide its best quality content and on-demand Hulu originals to millions of subscribers for a subscription fee every month.