Both Hulu and Paramount+ offer compelling streaming options with unique strengths. Hulu stands out with its established original programming and live TV option, while Paramount+ boasts a diverse content library from various networks and supports 4K UHD and Dolby Atmos on select content. The choice depends on individual preferences for content, live TV, and desired features like ad-free viewing and offline downloads.
| Attribute | Hulu | Paramount+ |
|---|---|---|
| Content library size and variety | Hulu offers a diverse library featuring everything from children's programming to mature, adult-themed shows. | Offers a wide selection of movies and TV shows from CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount Pictures, and the Smithsonian Channel. It has over 40,000 episodes and movies, offering content for all ages and tastes, including movies, shows, and documentaries. |
| Original programming quality and quantity | Hulu is known for its award-winning original programming. Fan favorites like *The Handmaid's Tale* and *Only Murders in the Building* are available in 4K. | Offers exclusive original content. |
| Live TV availability and channel selection | Hulu + Live TV offers over 90 popular channels from cable and broadcast TV. | Select live sports, including NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League, are available. Live CBS station access is available with the Paramount+ with Showtime plan. |
| Ad-free viewing option | Hulu provides an ad-free plan, though some shows may still have brief promotional content. Ads are typically shown at the beginning of the stream and throughout the video, similar to traditional TV. The ad-free option eliminates most commercials, but some shows may still have brief promotional content. | The Paramount+ with Showtime plan offers ad-free viewing, except for live TV and select shows. The Paramount+ Essential plan includes ads. |
| Offline downloads | With the Hulu (No Ads) plan, users can download content on supported mobile devices. You can store up to 25 downloads on up to five supported mobile devices at one time. Downloaded content is available for 30 days, and once you start watching, you have 48 hours to finish it. | Offline downloads are available with the Paramount+ with Showtime plan. You can have a maximum of 25 videos in your download library at one time. Downloaded content is available for 30 days from the download date or 48 hours after you start watching. Downloads can only be watched on mobile devices. |
| 4K UHD streaming support | Hulu offers 4K Ultra HD streaming for select content, mainly Hulu Originals. | Select shows and movies are available in 4K UHD, HDR10, or Dolby Vision with the Premium plan. A high-speed internet connection of 25 Mbps or higher is recommended for 4K UHD and HDR. |
| Dolby Atmos audio support | Hulu does not support Dolby Atmos, but it offers 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround Sound on select content. | Select content supports Dolby Atmos audio. A premium Paramount+ subscription and a Dolby Atmos-enabled device are required. |
| Number of simultaneous streams | Hulu allows streaming on two screens simultaneously. Some premium channels allow up to five screens. | Allows streaming on up to three devices simultaneously. In some countries, the Premium plan allows streaming on four devices. |
| User interface and navigation | Not available | Recommends content based on viewing history and allows for the creation of separate profiles. |
| Device compatibility | Hulu supports streaming on various devices, including web browsers, mobile devices, tablets, streaming sticks, gaming consoles, smart TVs, and set-top boxes. Streaming quality adapts based on available bandwidth. | Available on mobile devices, smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming players, game consoles, and computers. It supports Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV, iOS, LG Smart TVs, PlayStation, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, Vizio Smart TVs, Xbox, and more. |
| Parental control features | Hulu provides parental control features such as Kids Profiles, PIN Protection, and content restrictions based on age ratings. | Parental control features include age restrictions, content ratings, and content filtering options. You can set up a profile lock with a PIN to restrict access to certain content. |
| Price and subscription tiers | Hulu offers several subscription tiers, including ad-supported and ad-free plans, as well as options that include Live TV, Disney+, and ESPN+. | Paramount+ Essential: $7.99/month or $59.99/year. Paramount+ with Showtime: $12.99/month or $119.99/year. |