Hulu is a better choice for users seeking a larger content library, live TV options, and bundling opportunities with Disney+ and ESPN+. Apple TV+ is more suitable for those who prioritize high-quality original content, ad-free viewing, seamless integration with Apple devices, and generous family sharing options.
| Attribute | Hulu | Apple TV+ |
|---|---|---|
| Content library size | 7,250 titles, over 70,000 TV episodes, films and specials | Smaller compared to competitors, focusing on quality over quantity with a library consisting solely of Apple Originals. |
| Original content quality | Critically acclaimed original series such as "The Handmaid's Tale," "Only Murders in the Building," and "The Bear." | Known for high-quality, critically acclaimed original series and movies with high production values and top Hollywood talent. |
| Subscription cost | Hulu (With Ads): Starts at $9.99/month; Hulu (No Ads): $18.99/month; Hulu + Live TV (With Ads): $82.99/month; Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV: $95.99/month; Student Plan (With Ads): $1.99/month (price increasing to $9.99/month on 10/17/2024) | $9.99 per month. An annual subscription is available for $99.99. |
| Ad-free option availability | Yes, Hulu offers ad-free plans for both its on-demand and Live TV services (though live TV still has ads). | Yes, all content is ad-free. |
| Offline viewing support | Offline viewing is available only with the Hulu (No Ads) plan. Downloads are supported on mobile devices (Android and iOS). | Yes, allows subscribers to download content for offline viewing. |
| Device compatibility | Compatible with a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming devices, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles. | Compatible with Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV 4K), smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony), streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV), gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), and via web browser at tv.apple.com. |
| User interface and experience | Hulu's interface integrates live TV and streaming, which some find hampers the live TV experience. | Sleek, minimalist interface designed for Apple users. |
| 4K and HDR streaming | Hulu offers 4K Ultra HD streaming and HDR on select content, including most Hulu Originals. | Yes, offers 4K HDR streaming with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. |
| Number of simultaneous streams | Hulu allows 2 simultaneous streams on most plans. | Allows streaming on up to six devices simultaneously. |
| Family sharing options | Hulu explicitly forbids sharing your account with someone outside your household. | Yes, a single subscription can be shared with up to five family members. |
| Live TV option (Hulu only) | Hulu + Live TV offers over 95 channels, including local networks, sports, and cable channels. | Not available |
| Bundling options with other services | Disney+ and ESPN+ bundles are available. Max can be added as a premium add-on. Other add-ons include Starz, Showtime and Cinemax. | Included in Apple One bundles, which combine up to five other Apple services (e.g., Apple Music, Apple Arcade, iCloud+) into a single monthly subscription starting at $19.95 per month. It is also available for free for students with an Apple Music Student Plan. |