Over-the-top (OTT) streaming services are revolutionizing entertainment, letting you ditch traditional cable and satellite for flexible home and mobile viewing. Among the leaders is Hulu + Live TV, a powerhouse for live programming.
Launched in May 2017, Hulu + Live TV delivers live channels from major networks alongside Hulu's vast on-demand library of current and classic TV series. As seasoned streaming experts, we've tested it extensively to bring you this reliable guide on getting started and making the most of it.
Unlike customizable packages from Sling TV, DirecTV Now (now DirecTV Stream), or PlayStation Vue, Hulu + Live TV offers a single base package for $39.99 per month, unlocking 50+ channels. Add-ons include premium networks like HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz, plus extra bundles. It's ideal for cord-cutters, much like YouTube TV's base-plus-premium model.
Availability varies by location, with live local, regional, and national channels. Some may offer only on-demand content, and not all are accessible everywhere or on every device.
Most subscribers get access to:
Premium add-ons vary in price with promotions, often including a free week. For instance, Showtime was $10.99/month but available for $4.99/month for three months at the time of writing.
Hulu + Live TV also added bundles: an entertainment package for $7.99/month (DYI, FYI, etc.) and a $4.99/month Spanish-language option (CNN en Español, ESPN Deportes, and more).
Beyond channels, enjoy unlimited access to Hulu's streaming library, 50 hours of cloud DVR, and simultaneous viewing on two screens. For larger households, unlimited screens cost $14.99/month extra.
Upgrade cloud DVR to 200 hours for another $14.99/month—fast-forward ads and watch anywhere on supported devices (offline downloads coming soon).
For ad-free on-demand streaming, bump the base plan to $43.99/month.
For a five-person household wanting HBO, unlimited screens, and ad-free Hulu library:
Weigh if it covers your must-haves versus sticking with cable.
Subscribe via the Hulu website:
Supports Mac/PC, iOS, Apple TV, Xbox, Chromecast, and more.
Navigation varies by device, but access live TV via the Live icon on the home screen, alongside Home, Search, My Stuff.
Default view shows recent channels with a preview window. Click the window to play/pause or enlarge; switch channels easily.
Tap Recent Channels for All Channels, News, Sports, Kids, or Movies. Scroll for schedules—hit Record for future shows.
Sort the guide alphabetically or by category, even during live viewing.
Confirm your home internet within 30 days for local programming. Must be residential (not mobile)—invest in a solid router/modem.
Mobile users: Connect to home Wi-Fi every 30 days. Set/update via a supported living room device or Hulu.com's Set or Change Home.
Create up to six profiles per account for personalized recommendations based on viewing history. Kids' profiles restrict to family content.
Manage via Hulu.com under Profiles.
Hulu + Live TV offers fewer channels than some rivals but excels for OTT newcomers and existing Hulu fans. It's a smart step toward ditching cable.
Compare prices with alternatives before committing. Curious about savings? Check our analysis on the true cost of cutting the cord.
