Media subscription services: Disney+ vs. Hulu (No Ads)
Quick Verdict
Disney+ is a strong choice for fans of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, while Hulu (No Ads) provides a broader range of content and live TV options.
- Hulu (No Ads) offers a vast library and live TV, while Disney+ focuses on exclusive content from its major franchises.
- Disney+ Premium allows for more simultaneous streams (4) compared to Hulu (No Ads) (2).
- Hulu (No Ads) is more expensive than Disney+ Premium, but includes live TV.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Disney+ | Hulu (No Ads) |
|---|---|---|
| Content library size and variety | Offers a wide variety of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. Library size is smaller compared to competitors like Netflix. | Vast library of TV shows and movies. |
| Original content quality and quantity | Focus on original content within major franchises like Marvel and Star Wars. Critically acclaimed originals include *The Mandalorian*, *WandaVision*, and *Andor*. | Produces award-winning original programming such as "Only Murders in the Building," "The Bear," and "The Handmaid's Tale". |
| Ad-free viewing experience | Disney+ Premium offers an ad-free subscription. Disney+ Basic plan includes ads. | Most shows and movies are ad-free, but some may still include ads before and after the video. Live TV and on-demand content from Hulu's live TV partners may include ads. |
| Offline download availability | With Disney+ Premium, content can be downloaded on up to 10 devices. Downloads are only available on iOS and Android devices. | Available, letting you download and watch content without an internet connection. Exclusive to the Hulu (No Ads) plan. Downloads are supported on mobile devices (iOS and Android) and Amazon Fire tablets. |
| Streaming quality (4K, HDR) | Disney+ Premium offers streaming in 4K UHD and HDR. Available video formats include Full HD (1080p), 4K UHD & HDR, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and IMAX Enhanced. | Offers 4K streaming and HDR for some of its original content. |
| Number of simultaneous streams | Allows streaming on up to four devices simultaneously. | You can stream on two screens at the same time. |
| Price | Disney+ Basic (with ads): $9.99/month, Disney+ Premium (ad-free): $15.99/month or $159.99/year | $18.99 per month |
| Availability of live TV | Live TV is not directly available but can be accessed through bundling with Hulu + Live TV. | Offers a Live TV service with 90+ channels. |
Overall Comparison
Content: Hulu larger library; Streams: Disney+ 4 vs Hulu 2; Live TV: Hulu offers live TV; Price: Disney+ cheaper
Pros and Cons
Disney+
Pros:
- Wide variety of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic
- Exclusive original shows and movies like *The Mandalorian*, *WandaVision*, and *Andor*
- Ad-free premium subscription available
- Offline download availability
- Streaming in 4K UHD and HDR on compatible devices
- Parental control features
Cons:
- Smaller library size compared to Netflix
- Ads on Basic plan
- Live TV not directly available (requires bundling)
Hulu (No Ads)
Pros:
- Vast library of TV shows and movies
- Award-winning original programming
- Ad-free viewing experience for most content
- Offline download availability
- 4K streaming and HDR for some original content
- Parental control features
- Bundling options with Disney+ and ESPN+
- Simplified user interface
Cons:
- Some shows may still include ads before and after the video
- Live TV and on-demand content from Hulu's live TV partners may include ads
- Not all titles are available for download
User Experiences and Feedback
Disney+
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- Some users have found the UI to be unintuitive.
Value Perception
- Bundling Disney+ with Hulu and ESPN+ or HBO Max can provide cost savings compared to subscribing to each service separately.
Hulu (No Ads)
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.