The streaming industry has experienced a boom in the last couple of years, as cord-cutters are more determined than ever before to find alternatives to cable and satellite TV that have now become a tad more pricey.

And with big players like Netflix, Hulu, YouTube TV and others stepping up their game, TV lovers are inundated with fantastic TV streaming options they simply cannot say no to.

Without a doubt, Netflix stands out from the pack and for good reasons too. To start with, Netflix’s content library is a force to reckon with. And we love the fact it works across a ton of platforms and it’s super easy to use.

But while Netflix seems to be the best video streaming service we have right now, other players like Hulu and Amazon Prime Video are working round the clock to be crowned champions of TV streaming.

In today’s post, we will compare Hulu and Amazon Prime Video and show you why either of these providers is a must-have.

Hulu

Hulu has pretty much stayed on top of its game since stepping foot to the TV streaming industry. And despite the fierce competition in the streaming world, Hulu has continued to offer its superb TV streaming services to thousands of users across the United States.

With Hulu, TV lovers have lots of great stuff to look forward to, so you’ll definitely find them quite interesting.

For a start, Hulu boasts of a highly impressive catalogue of streamable content. And unlike other streaming platforms, Hulu goes the extra mile to ensure you get your favourite TV shows the day after they first aired on their respective networks. While it may take other platforms some days to do the same, Hulu lowers the waiting time and ensures that you can catch your favourite TV shows on time.

We love the fact that Hulu’s content library is massive and we can tell you for a fact; that it is only getting better. For anime lovers, there are plenty of titles waiting for you on Hulu.

To expand its content option, Hulu tows a different trajectory from other TV streaming service providers. In addition to its rich on-demand library, Hulu also offers a live TV option that costs $54.99 per month. So if you have always fancied the idea of having a streaming platform and live TV option paired into one, Hulu will make a fantastic option for you.

When it comes to compatibility, you’ve nothing to worry about as Hulu works seamlessly on tons of devices. From Android to Fire tablets to iOS to Apple TV to Smart TV’s to game consoles and more, Hulu is supported across a broad range of devices, and chances are you may already own one or more of these devices.

Pros and cons

Hulu has a lot of great things going for them. But like a lot of TV streaming providers out there, Hulu has some flaws you should know before subscribing to their service. Read on to see some pros and cons of Hulu.

Pros

Hulu boasts of an impressive on-demand library.

Offer low and competitive pricing for their basic plan.

Features a cloud DVR with 50 hours of storage space

Cons

Hulu is ad-supported, which is a bit annoying

Allows only two simultaneous screens, except you, pay extra

Their extras and add-ons are a bit pricey

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video is gradually gearing up to become the best TV streaming services out there, and if you look at their fantastic services, you’ll agree that they are on the right track.

One of the upsides about Amazon Prime Video is that you may already have access to their brilliant services, especially if you have an Amazon Prime account.

What we mean here is that Amazon Prime Video is rolled into Amazon Prime. So if you already have a Prime account that you use to shop on Amazon, stream music or order whole foods, then you can start streaming your favourite titles on Amazon Prime Video right away.

Simply put, Amazon Prime delivers a whole lot more than just video streaming, so you’re guaranteed to enjoy an awesome experience with this TV streaming provider.

When it comes to video streaming, Amazon Prime Video isn’t such a bad choice, and they are getting better by the day. With Amazon Prime Video, you’re in for the ultimate streaming experience as they feature some great titles that will keep you glued to your screens without flinching.

Amazon boasts tons of original programming that have been well received. Some of their prominent originals include big names like The Grand Tour and the Man in the High Castle. More so, Amazon Prime Video is home to tons of TV shows and movies, so you’ll always find something to watch.

While Amazon Prime Video library may not be as massive as what you get on Netflix and Hulu, we love the fact that they feature tons of titles that will interest you, so you may not miss much.

Like Hulu, Amazon Prime Video is also supported across a variety of devices. Some of these devices include Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, Fire Phone, Roku, Xbox, Tivo and more. Plus, you can also stream Amazon Prime Video using your favourite browser.

Pros and cons

Amazon Prime Video isn’t letting the competition coast home with victory as they have a lot of good things going for them. That said, Amazon Prime Video has a couple of slip-ups we want you to check out. Here, find some pros and cons of Amazon Prime Video.

Pros

Features loads of impressive original content

Provides support for 4K and HDR streaming

Provides support for offline download and multiple simultaneous streams

Cons

Doesn’t have as many solid shows and movies like the competition

Amazon Prime Video has continued to lose a number of its third party contents to competitors

Its originals still fall below par, especially when compared to what you get on Netflix or Hulu

Installation Process and Bundled services

Amazon Prime Video and Hulu are so easy to set up, that you can have everything nicely set up and ready to roll within a couple of minutes. Unlike cable and satellite that requires the installation of fancy equipment and hardware, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu cut you some slack as they allow you to stream your favourite movies and TV shows without installing any equipment or hardware. This saves you the extra charges you’d have incurred as equipment fees.

To stream either Hulu or Amazon Prime Video seamlessly, you only need a reliable internet connection and a compatible streaming device.

Supported devices

Having settled its squabbles with google, Amazon Prime Video is now compatible with Chromecast and Chromecast Ultra. This has further broadened the list of compatible devices you can use to stream Amazon Prime Video. Here, check out a comprehensive list of devices with support for Amazon Prime Video.

Amazon Prime Video compatible devices

Nvidia Shield

Roku device

Blu-ray players

Web interface

Android

BT TV set-top box

Google Chromecast

Tivo

Hulu compatible devices

Like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu supports a long list of streaming devices and chances are you may already have one or two of them, so you may not need to invest in a new one. Here is a list of devices you can use to stream Hulu seamlessly

Android TV

Roku

Android tablet

Apple TV

Google Chromecast

iPhones and iPads

Echo Show

Amazon Fire TV

Amazon Firestick

Bundled services

Want to take your TV experience up a notch? Then never miss out on the opportunity to bundle. Thankfully, Amazon Prime Video and Hulu roll out some fantastic bundle deals you’ll love. Besides its regular package, Amazon Prime Video lets you bundle premium channel selections to beef up your TV channels and overall experience.

With Amazon Prime Video, you can bundle top channels like Nick Hits, HBO, Starz, Noggin, Britbox and more at an extra fee.

Hulu is also doing a fantastic job with their exceptional bundle deals. With Hulu, there is no shortage of bundles as you’ll most certainly find a bundle deal that thrills you.

For TV lovers who are not impressed with Hulu’s on-demand catalogue and looking to rev up their options, you’re welcome to try the Hulu, Disney Plus and EPSN+ bundle. With this bundle, you’ll enjoy access to loads of Hulu on-demand titles, an opportunity to explore Disney Plus impressive library and exclusive sports content from ESPN+ for only $13 monthly.

If you’re interested in Live TV, then you’ll love Hulu’s Live TV services. Although Hulu with Live TV is a bit expensive, it is totally worth it. Get cranking with Hulu live TV for only $54.99 per month.

In terms of bundling, Hulu is the obvious winner here, as they simply offer a blend of fantastic bundling deals that will wow you.

Content Library

Hulu and Amazon Prime Video have set their sights on delivering superb contents to their teeming customers and guess what, they haven’t fallen short on that promise. Regardless of which provider you finally settle for, one thing is sure- you’ll not run out of contents to stream.

For starters, Amazon Prime Video features a massive content library you’ll love. We are talking about thousands of titles you can stream for months on end. Add that to premium channel add-ons like Showtime and Starz, and you’ll be blown away by what they offer.

We love the fact that Amazon isn’t relenting when it comes to rolling out original programmings. As things stand, the company has continued to invest heavily in the production of original contents. Some of their most successful originals include Jack Ryan and The Marvelous Mrs Maisel.

Where Amazon Prime Video outshines competitors is in sheer quantity. At the moment, Amazon Prime video features more movies than Hulu and Netflix combined. As at January 2019, Amazon Prime Video boasts of a movie catalogue with over 17,000 titles. We agree that quantity doesn’t equal quality, but guess what numbers don’t lie. More so when it comes to ratings, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video go head to head.

And for those looking to quit cable but are worried that they will miss out on pay-per-view options, we are happy to inform you that Amazon Prime Video features an extensive selection of new releases you can buy or rent.

On the flip side, Hulu also features a massive library of movies and TV shows you can barely keep up with. And because Hulu is partly owned by Disney, you’ll get exclusive access to an impressive collection of TV shows. This makes Hulu a great choice especially for people who are looking for a cable replacement with access to major networks.

What we particularly love about Hulu is their currency. With Hulu, you’re poised to get popular shows a day after they first aired on their respective networks, except for CBS which is missing on Hulu.

Let us also add that Hulu features a decent collection of movies, even though movies are not the company’s main attraction.

Hulu is not only popular for its unparalleled on-demand catalogues. Oh yes, their amazing Live TV service is second to none. With awesome channels and quality on-demand shows waiting for you on Hulu, we doubt you’ll find a TV streaming provider with a better proposition.

As things stand, we will hand Hulu the winners trophy as they roll out some superb options you’ll not get with a lot of TV streaming providers. And even though Hulu may not match Amazon’s wide selection of services, we are convinced that you’ll want to stream more of Hulu’s exciting catalogue.

Premium Channel offerings

If you’re not impressed with either Hulu or Amazon Prime Video on-demand library, you can switch things up with their superb premium channel offerings. Although this comes at an extra cost, you’ll unlock access to brilliant programmings you’ll love.

With Amazon Prime Video, you can subscribe to premium channels like HBO, Cinemax, Starz, Showtime, Sport illustrated TV, Sundance Now and more.

On the flip side, Hulu also rolls out similar premium channels like Amazon Prime Video. Some of them include HBO, Cinemax, Starz, Showtime, Epix and more.

If you have always wanted to stream the best premium channels without going overboard with your budget, then it’s time to live your fantasy with either Amazon Prime Video or Hulu.

interface comparison

In terms of interface, Amazon Prime Video spots a bit of a scattered interface that’s different across devices. Although this can be a bit of a worry, we are glad that Amazon Prime Video is consistently improving on that.

But while the inconsistencies in interface rage on, we love the fact that users can instantly browse their favourite videos via the Amazon web page or through its various apps. Let us also add that this works great on Amazon’s various streaming devices.

Hulu features a better interface than Amazon and we love that Hulu spots a relatively uniform intuitive interface. Navigating Hulu is a walk in the park, and you’ll be thrilled to learn that Hulu offers unique categories like Keep Watching, Movies, and Kids, which makes navigation smooth, seamless and hassle-free.

Another high point is that Hulu lets users add premium channels like HBO, Movies and Shows from their favourite channels directly to their main interface, making navigation easy.

Giving its intuitive interface, and ease of incorporating premium channels, we will crown Hulu the worthy champion here.

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, both Hulu and Amazon Prime Video offer some mouthwatering options you simply cannot say no too. And depending on your budget, one of their many plans will tickle your fancy.

For starters, Amazon Prime Video features two main price tiers you can explore. There is the annual Amazon Prime package that costs $119 and discounted to $59 for students who sign up using a valid student email or a cheaper $13 per month package.

We like that both package options feature all the exciting perks that Amazon offers. From discounted prices of select items to two-day free shipping to cloud storage and most importantly seamless streaming of on-demand video and music, Amazon Prime lets you enjoy all of its exciting benefits. All you have to do is opt for one of their plans and you’re good to go.

The icing on the cake is that unlike Netflix where you have to pay extra for HD, Amazon Prime Video lets you stream 4K Ultra HD content with HDR at no extra cost. More so, you can share accounts with family and friends, so everyone can enjoy all the awesome deals that Amazon promises.

With Amazon, you can switch things up by opting for channel add-ons like CBS All Access at an extra fee. Unfortunately, Amazon is missing live TV streaming service, which is one area where Hulu stands out. That said, Amazon partners with some content providers that allow customers to stream their programs live.

Hulu also offers users two options they can explore when it comes to pricing. To start with, Hulu offers a $6 package that is ad-supported. However, if you think you can’t deal with the frequent commercials that pop up when streaming your favourite TV shows, you can opt for Hulu’s ad-free package that costs $12 per month.

To offer users an endless array of options, Hulu offers a live TV streaming package that is very similar to Playstation Vue and Sling TV. With the Hulu live TV streaming package, you’ll unlock access to nearly 65 channels for $55 per month. This is in addition to the company’s already awesome on-demand library. The only caveat is that all these fantastic options will shoot your bills through the roof, but that shouldn’t be an issue if you have the cash to spare.

Although Hulu’s $6 package looks technically cheaper especially considering that it lets you stream 4K content at the cheapest possible price, still we love Amazon better and that’s because they offer a better proposition and they are completely devoid of ads.

Simultaneous streams

Amazon Prime Video and Hulu let users stream their favourite video on multiple devices.

While Amazon Prime lets you stream up to three titles at the same time using one account, you are only allowed to stream the same video on two devices simultaneously. Compared to what you get with other providers, we think Amazon can do better.

On the other hand, Hulu allows two simultaneous streams, but this can be bumped to unlimited screens if you opt for Hulu’s unlimited screen add-ons. Though pricey, the unlimited screen ad-on lets you stream on unlimited devices for an extra $9.99 per month. This makes it perfect for family and friends who can’t just agree on what to watch.

Frequently asked question

Can I cancel my subscription with Amazon?

Tired of contracts and commitments? Then now is the right time to make the switch to Amazon. With Amazon Prime Video, you can cancel your subscription any time you like.

Can you have multiple users on Amazon Prime Video?

Amazon Prime Video lets you stream on two devices at a time, so yes, you can share your account with multiple users.

How good are Hulu originals?

Hulu’s original programming can go head to head with the best out there. Some of their titles have been nominated for the best awards.

Can you bundle Hulu with Live TV?

Not impressed with Hulu’s on-demand and looking for more from your subscription? Then you will not go wrong to bundle Hulu with its Live TV service.

Conclusion

For those who already subscribe to Amazon Prime Membership, you don’t have to go the extra mile, as your Prime membership already unlocks access to Prime Video so you can start streaming right away.

You can also consider mixing Hulu’s ad-supported plan so you can keep up with shows you’re missing on Prime Video.

However, if you don’t have a Prime membership, you can just opt for Hulu’s ad-supported subscription. And although Hulu is missing 4k and better sound format, they feature the kind of content that will thrill almost any viewer.