Hulu vs Netflix has been a debate since the late 2000’s, when Hulu was released and Netflix revamped its business model to offer online streaming rather than DVDs by mail. To answer the question of which is better Hulu or Netflix, the two video streaming websites need to be compared in their content, quality of content, and versatility. Because Netflix is more focused on movies and Hulu on television, some users that can afford it prefer both. Users should note that Hulu is only available in the US, so international users will have to look to Netflix or other providers to stream content.
Content and Quality
Probably the single most important factor to consider in the Hulu vs Netflix debate is which service has better content. There is not a lot of overlap between the two services. If you want to watch South Park or Fargo, you’ll have to subscribe to Hulu. Interested in Friends and Orange is the New Black? Netflix is where you’ll find them. Overall, Netflix claims they have over 100,000 movies and show episodes, while Hulu notes they offer about 50,000 episodes and movies.
Both services have invested money into creating movies and shows that are unique to their own companies. Hulu has created a few shows like The Handmaid’s Tale and The Mindy Project (picked up after Fox canceled), and has more in the pipeline like Castle Rock and Dawn. While Hulu has been slow to create their own programs, Netflix has invested billions of dollars to create original movies and shows. These include the popular shows House of Cards and Master of None, and movies like The Fundamentals of Caring and Okja. Not all shows and movies are great, and the special effects can sometimes be shaky compared to a better studio production.
So, regarding content, which is better Hulu or Netflix? Most users would argue Netflix takes the cake, although there are definitely unique shows and movies that you will find on Hulu but not Netflix. Both have some great shows and movies, but Netflix offers more and has invested more money to bring quality shows to viewers.
Hulu v Netflix Cost
The cost of streaming content is often another important factor when answering, which is better Hulu or Netflix? Pricing is slightly complicated for both services and the price will depend on what users want. Hulu has a base fee of $5.99 per month for a year and then $7.99 per month after that, but charges customers to remove ads and for add-ons like HBO and Showtime. Users can stream live TV through Hulu, but will pay $39.99 per month. Although that sounds like a lot, many users pay more through other services like DIRECTV. The base package on Netflix starts at $7.99 per month for unlimited streaming on one device. This package doesn’t include HD or Ultra HD. The premium package (best for multiple users) is $13.99 a month and allows up to four devices with HD and Ultra HD.
How To Watch
Many tech companies have released media streaming devices that plug into a consumer’s existing television. The devices (like Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire) vary in the content they provide, but most allow users to access Netflix and Hulu since they are third party streaming sites. There are guides on how to get Netflix on Amazon Fire and how to stream Hulu on Apple TV. Users can also access Hulu and Netflix from a variety of different devices and consoles like video game consoles or cable boxes. Netflix technically has more compatible devices it can work with, but this is because Netflix is available in areas outside the US. Hulu is not available outside the US, so it seems generally more limited. Both Netflix and Hulu seem similar in their performance. For example, both can be streamed from the handheld Wii U, but users won’t get High Definition support.
Which is Better: Hulu or Netflix?
The ultimate answer to which is better depends on viewers desires, location, and streaming needs. Obviously viewers outside of the US will want to use Netflix since Hulu is not available. Users that hate ads will want to use Netflix or pay more on Hulu. One benefit of Hulu not yet mentioned is that content is usually available immediately after it airs on TV, whereas Netflix may not show content until months or years later. Both sites offer a free trial period, so it is likely best for viewers to subscribe to both to search content and figure out which they prefer.