Hulu vs Netflix: What You Should Know About Two Streaming Giants?

Comparing Hulu and Netflix can be quite complicating; both platforms have many things in common with just slight differences. However, in this comparison post, we will try as much as possible to cover various points and aspects that would let you choose the best-suited platform between these two.

On a quick note, Hulu is only available in the United States. If you're living outside the region, you'll need to tweak your way into the platform, maybe using a VPN. Some people may not want to go through the stress of using a VPN all the time to stream the available content offered by their plan; thus, they'd prefer Netflix, which is available in many regions and countries globally.

Hulu vs. Netflix: Battle For The Best Worthwhile Streaming Platform

Here’s a detailed comparison between Hulu and Netflix - based on different aspects.

1. Price and Plans

Apparently, Hulu is the cheaper option here. The basic plan for Hulu starts at $5.99, while the basic plan for Netflix starts at $8.99 - about $3.00 difference. It's pretty insignificant, but there has to be something offered by Netflix, which is not available on Hulu, hence the higher subscription price? Well, even the basic Netflix plan doesn't show ads, but Hulu's basic plan supports ads. Also, Hulu offers two simultaneous streams while Netflix offers up to 4 (on the premium plans).

Other plans offered by Hulu and Netflix are mentioned below:

Netflix: Basic plan ($8.99), Standard plan ($13.99), and Premium plan ($17.99).

Hulu: Basic plan ($5.99), Hulu no ads ($11.99), Hulu + Live TV ($64.99), and Hulu no ads ($70.99).

On Hulu, regardless of your plan, you are limited to 2 simultaneous streams. In contrast, Netflix offers 4 simultaneous streams if you’re on the Premium plan, and 2 if you’re on the Standard, where Basic users are limited to just 1.

2. Device Compatibility

On this aspect, Hulu and Netflix are leveled up. You can stream Hulu or Netflix from any device you have, including iOS devices, Windows PC, MacBooks, Linux systems, Android devices, streaming sticks such as Roku, Amazon Firestick, etc. However, Hulu further supports the Nintendo Switch, and if you have the device, you can stream Hulu from there. Netflix isn't supported on Switch, and that's the only difference here. Except you own or planning to own a Nintendo Switch, this may not seem to be a strong point to prefer Hulu.

3. Regions Supported

As mentioned in the intro, Hulu is only available to people living in the United States. Anyone living outside the US would need to tweak his/her way of using the platform. On the other hand, there's the possibility that Netflix is available in your country. Currently, Netflix is available in over 190 countries across continents. So, you will not need to use VPN to access Netflix from your city, but you live outside the US and wish to go with Hulu, you'd need a VPN.

4. Content

Well, it is impossible to tell which streaming service has more content than the other. But, one thing is sure, there are some originals and shows you’d find on Hulu that you won’t find on Netflix, and vice versa.

However, talking about content, Hulu offers Live TV streaming while Netflix does not. Hulu has legal rights to provide next-day streaming of new shows from ABC, NBC, and Fox on its platform - no other well-known streaming platform supports this feature. If you're looking to stream popular TV shows - on-time - more often, Hulu might just be your best option. It offers series such as ER, Seinfeld, Futurama, and lots more.

Coming to Netflix, they typically release an entire season of a show at a go, while Hulu lets you watch them 24 hours after they premier on TVs.

Regardless, both platforms offer originals and on-demand content streaming. Also, it is important to say that the content you’d see on Netflix is dependent on your region - due to copyrights. Not all content available on Netflix US may be available on Netflix CA.

5. HD and 4K Streaming

This is where many people would draw their conclusion. Hulu doesn't offer 4K streaming but Netflix does. All Hulu plans provide you with HD quality streams while Netflix offers 4K quality if you're a premium subscriber. Apparently, an audiophile or home theater enthusiast would go for Netflix due to 7.1 audio and 4K UHD.

Another point here is, Hulu streams with stereo sound, which may not sound so good to someone who loves sound. Well, you'll be paying more for those top-quality features; that is to say, you'll have to spend $18 per month on a Netflix subscription.

Hulu or Netflix: How To Make Your Choice?

Your personal preferences notwithstanding, here's the conclusion on Netflix vs Hulu. If you love movies more and love high-quality visuals, Netflix is a great deal. Netflix studios is remarkable for producing some of the highest quality originals as far as online streaming is concerned.

In contrast, if you love broadcast TV shows and also on a budget, Hulu is a great deal here. It is available at a cheaper price and rated the foremost platform for streaming Live TV. However, Live TV streaming is not available on the basic plan, and there are two options - Hulu + Live TV (with ads) and Hulu + Live TV (no ads); the former goes for $64.99 while the latter goes for $70.99. Furthermore, Hulu looks to be the better option here - for someone who's looking to cut off cable TV subscriptions.

Another thing that’s worth mentioning here is the fact that you can cancel your subscription on either of these platforms at any time. Remember, not all shows/movies on Netflix are available on Hulu, and vice versa.

How To Download Movies From Netflix?

Yes, you can download movies from Netflix, but first of all, you need a Netflix video downloader software. Interestingly, the Y2Mate Downloader software supports Netflix downloading. It allows you to download TV shows, movies, and virtually any content you discover on the platform. More interestingly, Y2Mate Downloader supports 5.1 audio channels and 1080p resolution quality. Thus, your Netflix videos will download in near-lossless quality.

Download Netflix Movies Using Y2Mate Netflix Downloader

This software bypasses DRM encryption and lets you save Netflix content on your local PC storage. It is available for only Windows OS at the moment.

To get started, you need to download and install Y2Mate Netflix Downloader. After installation, launch the software and follow the steps below:

1st Step:

Launch the Y2Mate downloader software and click on “Streaming Services” on the left pane. From the supported platforms’ tile display, click on Netflix.

2nd Step:

Find the video you want to download and start playing it; a download button will appear at the top-left corner of the window, click on the download button and choose your download options.

3rdStep:

Tick the checkbox beside the Subtitle option if you'd love to save the Netflix video meta info. Click on "Download Now" or "Add to Queue" to save the show/movie to your local storage.

What More?

You can view the download progress info by clicking on the “Downloading” tab. Also, you can download multiple Netflix videos and shows at a go by adding them to the “Queue,” one after the other.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is Better Hulu or Netflix?

Hulu is better if you love broadcast TV shows and never wish to miss a moment. In contrast, Netflix is the best if you love streaming super-quality movies; it offers up to 4K UHD quality for premium plan subscribers.

2. Is Hulu Available Outside The US?

No, it is not available outside the United States territory. However, some people find their way around to bypass Geo-restriction and still use the platform from anywhere around the world. Normally, Hulu is a streaming service platform meant for American residents.

Summary

In summary, both Hulu and Netflix are good streaming platforms; it all depends on your preference to choose which is best for you. However, if you're living outside the United States of America, Netflix is preferable. Both platforms provide originals, as well as boast of so many interesting contents across genres.