A Thorough Comparison of Features, Content, and Value
HBO Max and Hulu have emerged as two of the most popular streaming platforms, offering robust on-demand libraries and acclaimed original programming. But how do these services compare when looking at factors like price, content selection, features, and more? This comprehensive guide breaks down the key differences to help you decide which is a better fit for your streaming needs.
Brief Background
First, a quick history on both services…
HBO Max – Launched in May 2020 as the streaming home to HBO content plus films/shows from Warner Bros., DC, Cartoon Network, TCM and more. Now has over 77 million subscribers globally. Set to merge with Discovery+ in Spring 2023.
Hulu – Established in 2007 as an ad-supported platform for next-day streaming of TV show episodes. Now has over 47 million subscribers. Owned by Disney (67%) and Comcast (33%).
Pricing Compared
When it comes to monthly costs, both HBO Max and Hulu offer ad-supported and ad-free options:
Hulu does have more flexibility when it comes to bundling – you can add Disney+ and ESPN+ starting at $9.99/month. HBO Max currently does not offer comparable TV/movie bundles.
Content Libraries
Both streamers offer popular shows, movies and originals, but HBO Max has the edge in terms of breadth and depth of library:
HBO Max
- 2,000+ movies, 600+ shows
- HBO series like Game of Thrones, Westworld, The Sopranos
- DC films/shows, Studio Ghibli, Cartoon Network
- Warner Bros. movies like The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter
Hulu
- 2,500+ movies, 1,650+ shows
- Next-day streaming for many broadcast/cable shows
- FX, Freeform, ABC and 20th Century Studios content
- Originals like Only Murders in the Building, The Handmaid‘s Tale
In addition to its robust on-demand catalog, Hulu also offers an option for 85+ live TV channels starting at $69.99/month. So if you‘re looking to eliminate cable, Hulu + Live TV is a excellent alternative.
Supported Devices
You can access both HBO Max and Hulu across a wide variety of streaming platforms:
HBO Max Supported Devices:
Android Phones/Tablets, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Fire TV, Gaming Consoles (PlayStation and Xbox), iOS Devices, LG TV, Roku, Samsung TV, Web Browsers
Hulu Supported Devices:
Android Phones/Tablets, Android TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Echo Show, Fire Tablets, Fire TV, Gaming Consoles, iOS Devices, LG TV, Nintendo Switch, Roku, Samsung TV, Web Browsers, VIZIO SmartCast TVs
So both offer apps across all major streaming devices and platforms.
Video and Audio Quality
HBO Max streams select content in 4K UHD, HDR 10, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos immersive audio. So subscribers can enjoy an elevated viewing experience.
Hulu streams a limited selection of original programming in 4K but lags behind HBO Max in terms of advanced format support.
Number of Streams
HBO Max allows you to stream on 3 devices simultaneously. This enables smooth streaming for small households.
Hulu permits 2 simultaneous streams for its on-demand service, or unlimited streams with its Hulu + Live TV plan. Ideal for larger families.
Offline Downloads
The ability to download content to watch offline when you don't have an internet connection is very convenient.
HBO Max permits offline downloads on up to 5 mobile devices. Hulu does not currently support offline viewing.
Release of New Movies
For the latest theater releases, HBO Max tends to get access to new Warner Bros. movies (like Elvis, Fantastic Beasts 3) on the same day as their theatrical premieres.
Hulu subscribers will have to wait several months after a film's big-screen release before it becomes available on the platform.
The Bottom Line…
Based on this detailed comparison, HBO Max comes out ahead for its superior content library, 4K streaming, downloads and same-day movie premieres. The ad-free plan does cost more than Hulu without ads, but you're getting far more value.
However, Hulu shines if you're looking for the latest episodes of network TV shows or desire a full-fledged cable TV replacement with Hulu + Live TV.
In 2023, with HBO Max set to merge with Discovery+, its content offering will expand even further making it tough for Hulu to match up. That said, Hulu's Disney ownership guarantees plenty of great entertainment options as well.
Ultimately it comes down to budget, preferred content types, and viewing preferences. And mixing services is always an option – Hulu for TV episodes plus HBO Max for prestige series/films.
Hopefully this detailed comparison gives you the info needed to determine which streaming provider – and which plan – suits your streaming style. Happy binge watching!