With the rise of streaming services, Directv Stream and Hulu Live have become popular alternatives to expensive cable TV subscriptions. Choosing the right platform can be tricky since both have distinct features and advantages.
To help you out, this article will explain the main differences between Directv Stream and Hulu Live. We will also examine their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive right into the comparison between Directv Stream and Hulu Live.
5 Directv Stream vs Hulu Live Comparison
These are the 5 Directv Stream vs Hulu Live Comparison:
1. Content Library
There are notable differences between Directv Stream and Hulu Live channel comparisons. One of the most common differences is their content library.
Directv Stream
Directv Stream offers various live TV channels, including sports, news, and movies. It also provides access to popular networks like ESPN, HBO, and CNN. However, its on-demand content may not be extensive.
Hulu Live
On the other hand, Hulu Live combines live TV channels with on-demand content, including movies, TV shows, and original content. Users can also add premium options like Showtime and Cinemax.
Directv Stream wins when it comes to Directv vs. Hulu Live channel comparison. It offers a wider selection of channels and on-demand content.
Discover what time Hulu releases new episodes.
2. Pricing
Directv Stream
Directv has four pricing plans: Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier. The Entertainment plan costs $69.99, while the Choice plan is $84.99. The Ultimate plan costs $114.99, and the Premier plan at $159.99.
However, there is a catch – you must pay an extra $10 monthly to upgrade the cloud DVR and keep up with all those channels.
Hulu Live
In contrast, Hulu Live offers three types of packages. For $76.99 per month, you can enjoy access to over 85 channels and unlimited cloud storage. However, this plan comes with ads.
If you prefer an ad-free experience, you can opt for the $89.99 package. You can access on-demand selections, original content, Disney+, and ESPN with either package.
Alternatively, you can choose the Live TV Only package for $75.99. This option only allows live programming access and excludes Hulu, ESPN+, and Disney+ content.
In terms of pricing, Hulu Live wins. It offers more flexible pricing plans.
Find out more about Hulu + Live TV Plans on Hulu Help.
3. Supported Devices
Directv Stream
Directv Stream is compatible with mobile devices, web browsers, smart TVs, and streaming media players. This ensures you can enjoy your favorite content on your device of choice.
Hulu Live
Hulu Live is more compatible with various devices, including gaming consoles, streaming devices, smart TVs, PS4, Xbox One, Echo Show, and mobile devices. This makes switching between screens and watching your favorite shows easy without interruptions.
Here, Hulu Live wins since it’s accessible through more devices.
4. Streaming Quality
Directv Stream
Directv Stream supports high-quality streaming, including the 4K UHD content resolution, especially in the sports category or where applicable.
Hulu Live
In contrast, Hulu Live provides reliable streaming with full HD support and offers 4 K resolution for select on-demand content.
In this category, Directv Stream wins as it offers more than 4k content.
5. DVR Capabilities
Directv Stream
Directv Stream provides a cloud-based DVR with up to 20 hours of storage. The platform deletes the recordings after 30 days, so be sure to watch them in time. If you need more storage, you can upgrade to an unlimited storage plan for $10.
Hulu Live
Hulu Live offers a larger DVR functionality with up to 50 hours of recorded storage. You can purchase an add-on to increase the storage capacity to 200 hours. This allows you to watch your favorite shows at your convenience.
Hulu Live is the winner when it comes to cloud DVR storage.
Learn more about the strengths of Hulu Live from Hulu Help.
What Is Directv Stream Good For?
Directv Stream is good for those who want to watch live sports, news, and popular TV shows without committing to a cable or satellite TV subscription. It offers a variety of packages and channels to choose from, allowing you to tailor your viewing experience to your preferences.
One of its greatest features is the availability of free premium channel trials. These trials allow you to experience premium channels like HBO and Cinemax for a limited time at no extra cost. This allows you to test premium content before subscribing.
Learn more about Directv Stream from Directv Support.
What Is Hulu Live Good For?
Hulu Live is good for those who want unlimited screen time and can record their favorite shows with unlimited cloud DVR storage. It is also a great option for those wishing to access live TV channels like sports and news.
Hulu Live has a wide variety of on-demand content, including Hulu originals and movies. It is also compatible with various devices, including smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
This makes it a convenient option for users who want to watch their favorite shows while on the go.
Read more about Hulu Live from Hulu.com.
Similarities Between Directv Stream and Hulu Live
Here are the similarities between Directv Stream and Hulu Live:
- Simultaneous Streams.
Directv and Hulu Live offer multiple streams, allowing different people to watch other channels or shows simultaneously on various devices. This is convenient for large families. - User-Friendly Interface.
Both TV streaming services have user-friendly interfaces, making it easy to navigate and find the content you want to watch. - Streaming Quality.
DirecTV and Hulu Live offer high-quality streaming with 1080p or 4K resolution. This ensures you can enjoy your favorite shows without interruptions. - Expensive Plans.
Compared to other streaming services, Directv Stream and Hulu Live are costly. This might make them unaffordable for users who are looking for budget-friendly options. - Limited Availability.
Not all locations have access to Directv Stream and Hulu Live. Directv is available in around 20 states, while Hulu is in 50 states. This can be a disadvantage for people who want to use these services but are not within their service areas. - Device Compatibility.
While Directv Stream and Hulu Live are compatible with various devices, they may be incompatible with older devices and operating systems, limiting users with such gadgets. - Inconsistent Streaming Quality.
Issues with internet connectivity or server problems can cause buffering or freezing, disrupting the viewer’s experience on Directv and Hulu Live.
You can check Directv’s availability here. If you want to use Hulu Live, just enter your ZIP code here to see if it’s available in your area.
Is Directv Better Than Hulu Live?
Directv Stream is better than Hulu Live if you need a platform with a wide channel selection. You can get up to 150+ channels with Directv. Hulu Live is perfect if you need more DVR storage. Still, choosing which platform is better depends on your preferences.
Hulu Live has 500 hours of storage, far surpassing Directv’s 20 hours.
If you’re using Hulu on your Roku TV and the app suddenly stops working, we have a list of ways to fix a Hulu that’s not working on a Roku TV.
Which Streaming Service Is Best for Live TV?
The best streaming service for live TV depends on your preferences and needs. Sling TV is the best option if you are on a budget and want customizable channel packages. Hulu + Live TV is ideal if you’re looking for a combination of live TV channels and on-demand content.
If you’re looking for the best streaming TV service with many channels and strong device compatibility, Directv Stream is the best choice. Meanwhile, if you desire a lot of channels with unlimited storage and multiple simultaneous streams, YouTube TV is a suitable pick.
