Hulu Live Tv Review: Is Hulu Worth The Cost? {$$$}

Hulu is not only one of the most popular streaming choices, but it is also one of the best. With a package option starting at $5.99, you will have difficulty finding a cheaper or better streaming service.

Hulu has been around for a long time. It is what we would call one of the OG’s of cableTV alternatives. Therefore, they’ve had time to perfect their offerings. They’ve excelled at this, and have both content and pricing that will meet the expectations of any looking to cut the cord.

However, if you’ve never used (or, gasp, heard of) Hulu, you may be wondering what all the fuss is about. We’ve put it in reverse and will happily give you the inside scoop about all things Hulu, and why you need this streaming service.

Hulu + Live TV Review

Hulu Live TV Channels

Hulu’s primary streaming content revolves around TV shows. The platform has expanded its offerings to original series that are both popular and diverse. It also offers viewers the opportunity to watch in HD, if a show provides the option.

Classics like 30 Rock and Seinfeld are some of the more popular throwbacks you can find on Hulu. If you’re interested in some of the original series that Hulu offers, be sure to check out The Handmaid’s Tale or Harlots.

If today’s television is your preferred choice, Hulu offers popular programming from networks such as ABC, CBS, and NBC. With a slightly delayed release schedule, you can keep up to date on all of your favorite programs without paying the price of traditional cable.

Hulu + Live TV Cost

This is where you’re going to need to put on your thinking cap and buckle down for some serious studying. Hulu has a LOT of package pricing options.

Hulu Packages

The base package of Hulu that includes the requirement to view commercials is $5.99. With this option, you will have access to the full library of content available, but you will have to tolerate ads and delayed viewing time for shows that are currently running on popular networks. However, for the price point and the ability to watch your favorite shows at your discretion, it’s a small price to pay.

If you’re opposed to tolerating ads amongst your television shows, than for a small increase to $11.99/month, you can avoid commercials for the most part. There are some limitations to the ad-free option, as some programs will still run ads, as required by their respective networks.

Hulu Live TV Package

The next upgrade you can make is to the Hulu Live TV package. This is a significant price jump to $44.99/month. With this option, you have access to Hulu’s full library in addition to live network streaming. This means that you will be able to watch any programming offered by any network supported through Hulu, in real-time.

For those of you who can’t stand spoilers, this is your best bet to assure you’re able to view programming right as it airs. The $44.99 option includes commercials, so if you want all this plus no ads, you’ll have to upgrade to the Hulu Live $50.99 option.

With both Hulu Live TV package options, you’re allowed to live stream TV and sports, a desirable feature for those who are emphatic about their team’s game schedule. Hulu features sports viewing on many channels, including BTN, CBS Sports, ESPN, ESPN 2, ESPNEWS, ESPN U, NBC Golf, and the Olympic Channel.

If you are a diehard football fan and looking for the NFL Redzone, you should look into either Playstation Vue, Sling TV, or Fubo TV. Currently, Hulu with Live TV, AT&T TV, and YouTube TV do not carry the NFL Network or NFL Redzone.

DVR options, Spanish language, and Unlimited screen options as add-ons to the Live packages are also available. If recording live TV is a priority for your family, then the DVR purchase will be a no-brainer. For an additional $4.99/month, you can access this add-on that will provide both convenience and reassurance that you can watch your favorite show, as soon as your schedule allows.

Additional features to consider are the various upgrades available. Users can add on premium channels such as HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax. These upgrades allow viewers to watch a variety of programs from the specific network as well as a live stream of their favorite programs without missing any episodes.

TV Everywhere

One of our favorite features of Hulu + Live TV is that you can access the TV networks apps using your Hulu credentials.

Is Hulu Worth It?

Hulu supports a user-friendly platform and is available to stream on any device available on the current market. This is another feature that makes it stand out amongst the crowd of streaming options.

While almost every other platform has limitations, Hulu does not have any sort of device that it is not available on. Even better, often, you can package Hulu with other streaming apps to receive a discount. For instance, right now, Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN are available for a reduced bundle rate.

The Bottom Line

Clearly, we’re a Hulu fan, and it’s hard for us to find an issue with this option. If you’re looking for a streaming app that will leave you pleased with your investment, then Hulu is your best choice. While the Hulu Live packages will cost you more, they’re an incredible alternative to cable and will allow you to have a wide variety of viewing options. You won’t feel like you’re missing anything AND you’ll have the choice of watching your favorite shows without commercials. To us, this is an absolute ideal scenario and one we’re happy to buy in to.

Hulu Live offers a free trial, so take the service for a spin and see if its cord-cutting service for you. Just be sure to set an alert to remind yourself when your trial is up, or you could end up paying for the service.

Originally published at https://yourmoneygeek.com on October 23, 2019.