Hulu has become a leading name in the world of streaming, offering a wide array of entertainment options that include TV shows, movies, and original content. Launched in 2007, Hulu has evolved from a niche service into a major player in the streaming industry, offering one of the most diverse libraries of content.
What makes Hulu particularly unique is its ability to stream episodes of current TV shows shortly after they air, making it an ideal choice for users who don’t want to wait for the entire season to become available. In addition to on-demand streaming, Hulu also provides a live TV option, making it a versatile platform that caters to cord-cutters as well as those who still want access to live sports, news, and events. Hulu has positioned itself as a comprehensive service, blending traditional TV features with modern on-demand streaming.
While Hulu offers a rich variety of entertainment, it isn’t without its drawbacks. For some users, the presence of ads, unless they subscribe to a higher-tier plan, can be frustrating. Others might find its selection of newer movie releases lacking compared to competitors like Netflix or HBO Max. In this article, we’ll dive into the 12 pros and 10 cons of Hulu, giving you a detailed look at what the platform offers and its potential downsides. Whether you’re thinking about subscribing or just curious about how Hulu stacks up against other services, this guide will provide valuable insights.
Pros Of Hulu
1. Next-Day Streaming Of Current TV Shows
One of Hulu’s biggest draws is its next-day streaming of currently airing TV shows. For viewers who want to stay up-to-date with their favorite network shows, Hulu offers this convenience without needing a cable subscription. Whether it’s drama, comedy, or reality TV, users can catch the latest episodes of popular shows like The Simpsons, The Bachelor, or Saturday Night Live the day after they air. This feature is particularly attractive for those who don’t want to wait months for an entire season to become available on other platforms like Netflix.
2. Live TV Streaming Option
Hulu sets itself apart by offering a Live TV plan, which gives access to over 85 live channels. Users can stream networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX as well as cable channels like ESPN, CNN, and HGTV. This means you can watch live sports, news, and special events in real-time, making Hulu a great alternative to traditional cable. Additionally, Hulu’s Live TV option includes features like cloud DVR, allowing users to record live broadcasts and watch them at their convenience. This blend of live and on-demand content makes Hulu a one-stop entertainment platform.
3. Extensive Content Library
Hulu offers a massive content library that includes everything from the latest TV shows to classic series and a wide selection of movies. The platform’s extensive catalog is a significant advantage for users with diverse viewing preferences. Whether you enjoy binge-watching popular series like The Handmaid’s Tale, catching up on old favorites like Seinfeld, or exploring an array of documentaries, Hulu has something for everyone. With content spanning multiple genres, it caters to a wide range of audiences, including families, young professionals, and older viewers.
4. Affordable Subscription Options
Hulu offers a variety of subscription plans, catering to different budgets and viewing preferences. The ad-supported plan is one of the most affordable options in the streaming market, making Hulu accessible to a broader audience. For those who prefer an ad-free experience, Hulu also offers a pricier, ad-free tier. Hulu’s pricing flexibility, including options to bundle with Disney+ and ESPN+, provides excellent value for users looking to access multiple platforms at a discounted rate.
5. Original Programming
Hulu has made a name for itself by producing high-quality original content. Shows like The Handmaid’s Tale, Castle Rock, and Only Murders in the Building have gained critical acclaim and attracted a dedicated following. Hulu Originals have helped the platform carve out a niche in the competitive streaming market by offering exclusive content that can’t be found on other services. With continued investment in original programming, Hulu is poised to keep delivering unique and engaging content for its subscribers.
6. User Profiles For Personalization
Hulu allows up to six profiles per account, which is perfect for households with multiple users. Each profile can be personalized based on individual preferences, watching history, and viewing habits, ensuring everyone in the family gets tailored content recommendations. This feature eliminates the hassle of sifting through content others have watched and makes it easier to find shows and movies suited to your personal tastes.
7. Offline Viewing For No Ads Plan
For subscribers on the No Ads plan, Hulu offers the option to download content for offline viewing. This is particularly useful for users who travel frequently or have limited internet access. Offline viewing allows users to download their favorite shows and movies ahead of time, ensuring they can enjoy their content on the go without needing to be connected to Wi-Fi or using mobile data.
8. Broad Range Of Genres
Hulu’s content library spans a wide variety of genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, light-hearted comedies, horror films, or educational documentaries, Hulu’s selection covers nearly every category. The platform’s ability to cater to niche audiences while also providing mainstream content makes it a versatile service for viewers with diverse tastes.
9. Device Compatibility
Hulu is compatible with a wide range of devices, allowing users to stream content on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, streaming devices (like Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire Stick), gaming consoles, and computers. This flexibility ensures that users can access Hulu no matter where they are or what device they’re using, providing a seamless viewing experience across multiple platforms.
10. Intuitive User Interface
Hulu’s interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, providing quick access to categories like “Keep Watching,” “My Stuff,” and recommended shows based on your viewing history. The platform’s layout is designed to help users discover new content while making it easy to pick up where they left off. With well-organized categories and a strong search function, Hulu’s interface makes the viewing experience smooth and enjoyable.
11. Bundle Options With Disney+ and ESPN+
Hulu’s bundle options are a great value for families or households looking to access multiple streaming services at a lower cost. For a discounted price, users can subscribe to Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+, giving them access to a wide range of content, from family-friendly Disney movies and sports coverage to Hulu’s original shows and films. This bundle is ideal for households that want a variety of entertainment options under one affordable subscription.
12. Flexible Live TV Features
Hulu + Live TV offers flexibility in how users experience live television. The service includes 50 hours of cloud DVR storage, allowing users to record their favorite shows and watch them later. Users can also customize their live TV package by adding premium channels such as HBO, Showtime, and Starz. This customizable live TV experience makes Hulu an attractive option for users who want both live and on-demand content without needing a traditional cable subscription.
Cons Of Hulu
1. Ads In Lower-Tier Plans
One of the biggest drawbacks of Hulu’s lower-tier plans is the presence of ads. Although the ad-supported plan is more affordable, frequent commercials can interrupt the viewing experience. Many users find the ads disruptive, especially when compared to other services that offer ad-free streaming at lower costs. While there’s an option to upgrade to an ad-free plan, it comes at a significantly higher price.
2. Limited Access To New Movie Releases
While Hulu offers a large selection of older movies and original content, its library of new movie releases is somewhat limited compared to platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, or Amazon Prime Video. For users who prioritize access to the latest films, Hulu may not be the best option, as it tends to focus more on TV shows and Hulu Originals than on offering a constant stream of new movie releases.
3. Regional Content Restrictions
Hulu is primarily available in the United States, and even within the U.S., some content is restricted by region. This can be frustrating for users traveling abroad or those living in areas with limited access to certain live TV channels. For international audiences, Hulu’s availability is highly limited, and even attempts to use the service via VPNs are against Hulu’s terms of service, making it difficult to access content from outside the U.S.
4. No Offline Viewing For Ad-Supported Plan
While Hulu offers offline viewing for users on its No Ads plan, this feature is not available for those on the ad-supported plan. This limitation may be a drawback for users who travel frequently or have limited internet access, as they cannot download content for offline viewing unless they upgrade to the more expensive plan.
5. Smaller International Content Selection
Compared to platforms like Netflix, Hulu has a smaller selection of international content. While Hulu offers some foreign films and TV shows, its library is largely dominated by American programming. For viewers who enjoy content from other countries, Hulu may feel limited, especially when compared to other services that offer a more global variety of shows and movies.
6. Interface Overload For New Users
Although Hulu’s interface is generally intuitive, new users might find it overwhelming at first. With so many options, including on-demand content, live TV, and customizable profiles, it can take time to navigate and figure out how to access certain features. New subscribers may experience a learning curve as they explore the platform and become familiar with its structure.
7. Content Rotation
Hulu’s content library is subject to frequent changes, with shows and movies being added or removed based on licensing agreements. This can be frustrating for users who are in the middle of watching a series only to find it suddenly removed from the platform. While Hulu does provide notices for content set to expire, it can still disrupt viewing plans and create an inconsistent content experience.
8. Higher Cost For Ad-Free Plan
Hulu’s ad-free plan is significantly more expensive than the ad-supported version, which may deter some users from upgrading. Given that other streaming services offer ad-free content at lower prices, some users may find Hulu’s pricing structure to be less competitive, especially if they’re on a tight budget.
9. Limited DVR Storage For Live TV
Hulu + Live TV offers 50 hours of cloud DVR storage, which may not be sufficient for users who frequently record shows or sports events. While there’s an option to upgrade to 200 hours of storage, it comes with an additional cost, making it less attractive for users who want more recording capacity without paying extra.
10. Frequent Price Increases
Hulu has increased its subscription prices several times in recent years, particularly for its Live TV plans. While the service remains competitive compared to traditional cable, the price hikes can be frustrating for long-time subscribers who may not feel that the added costs come with substantial improvements to the platform. As prices continue to rise, some users may explore other, more affordable streaming options.
Conclusion
Hulu offers a well-rounded streaming experience that appeals to a variety of audiences. Its ability to provide next-day streaming of TV shows, live TV options, and exclusive original content sets it apart from other platforms. The service’s wide content library, affordable subscription plans, and user-friendly features make it a great option for households with diverse entertainment preferences. Additionally, Hulu’s bundle options with Disney+ and ESPN+ offer excellent value for those looking to expand their content offerings at a discounted rate.
However, Hulu is not without its downsides. The presence of ads in the lower-tier plans, limited access to newer movie releases, and regional content restrictions can be deal-breakers for some users. Furthermore, price increases and the higher cost of the ad-free plan may make Hulu less attractive compared to competitors that offer similar features at lower costs.
Ultimately, whether Hulu is the right choice depends on your viewing habits, budget, and content preferences. By weighing the pros and cons carefully, you can determine if Hulu meets your entertainment needs or if another streaming platform is a better fit for you.