Netflix boasts a larger content library and highly accurate recommendations, while Hulu offers a free trial and more affordable ad-supported plan. The best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities, such as content variety, budget, and the desire for a trial period.
| Attribute | Hulu | Netflix |
|---|---|---|
| Content library size | Over 1,200 movies and 1,300 TV shows | Over 15,000 titles, varies by region. Netflix US had 6,621 movies, series, and specials as of July 2023, excluding 60+ video games. |
| Original content quality | High-quality, award-winning original content (cutting-edge dramas, irreverent comedies, documentaries) | Critically acclaimed original series include *Stranger Things*, *The Crown*, and *Narcos*. |
| Subscription cost | Hulu (With Ads): $9.99/month or $99.99/year (eligible students $1.99/month); Hulu (No Ads): $18.99/month | Standard with ads: $7.99/month; Standard: $17.99/month; Premium: $24.99/month. |
| Ad-free option availability | Yes, Hulu offers an ad-free plan | Yes, the Standard and Premium plans are ad-free. |
| Offline viewing support | Available with Hulu (No Ads) or Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV plan on iPhones, iPads, and Android devices (not Windows or Mac); downloaded videos available for 30 days, 48 hours to finish watching once started | Yes, allows downloading content for offline viewing on devices like phones, tablets, and computers (some Chromebooks). |
| Number of simultaneous streams | Standard Hulu plans: 2 screens; Hulu + Live TV with Unlimited Screens add-on: unlimited at home, up to 3 mobile devices outside the home; Premium channels: up to 5 screens | Standard with Ads: 2 devices; Standard: 2 devices; Premium: 4 devices. |
| Video resolution (4K, HD) | 720p, 1080p, and 4K Ultra HD available; some Hulu originals and FX titles in 4K (crystal-clear images, vibrant colors, enhanced detail) | Standard with Ads: Up to Full HD (1080p); Standard: Up to Full HD (1080p); Premium: Up to 4K Ultra HD. |
| User interface and navigation | User-friendly, content organized by category, personalized recommendations | User-friendly, with personalized recommendations and curated categories. |
| Device compatibility | Smart TVs (LG, Samsung, Vizio), Streaming devices (Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast), Mobile devices (Android and Apple phones/tablets, Amazon Fire tablets), Game consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch), Web browsers | Compatible with smart TVs, streaming media players, mobile phones, tablets, computers, game consoles, and cable boxes. |
| Personalization and recommendation accuracy | Uses algorithms, user feedback, and human curation; users can 'like' or 'dislike' shows to refine recommendations | Highly accurate, with over 80% of content watched coming from personalized suggestions. |
| Trial period availability | 30-day free trial for basic ad-supported plan; 3-day free trial for Hulu + Live TV | Netflix does not typically offer a free trial. |
| Cancellation policy | Cancel anytime, access through end of billing period, no refunds for mid-month cancellation | You can cancel your Netflix subscription at any time. If you cancel during a billing period, you can continue using Netflix until the end of that period. |