Netflix and Hulu have taken over TV, computer and phone screens across the nation. These streaming services are monthly subscription based that provide movies and television programs. These two services share both similarities and differences, but which is a better service overall when breaking down the three big C’s?
Cost is essential when comparing Netflix and Hulu. Netflix’s cost varies depending on two variables: the quality of videos and how many screens one plans to use when streaming. Streaming on one screen with standard definition is $8, two screens with high definition is $10, and four screens with ultra-high definition is $11.99.
On the other hand, Hulu’s cost varies depending on one sole factor, commercials. Hulu has a streaming plan that includes commercials for $8 a month and non-commercial plan that costs $11.99 a month. Additionally, Hulu offers a $5 a month student discount for the Hulu and Spotify package. In the end, Netflix offers more and cheaper plans that avoid commercials. Thus, Netflix takes the streaming crown in this comparison round.
Content is also essential when comparing Netflix and Hulu. Netflix has invested $16 billion into creating original content for its users. Hit series such as “Stranger Things,” “Orange is the New Black,” “13 Reasons Why” and “House of Cards” are a couple of the many highly acclaimed exclusive Netflix programs. In contrast, Hulu is a much different streaming network.
Hulu features some original series such as “The Handmaids Tale,” but all in all Hulu focuses on more current TV content. Hulu allows streaming of real-time shows from networks like ABC, and FX. Hulu also offers add-on channels for HBO and Showtime that cost the streamer $8 extra a month to stay up to date on hit programs like “Shameless” and “Billions.” All in all, both Hulu and Netflix have hit series on their networks, but because of Netflix’s expansive list of hit series, Netflix takes the crown in this content showdown.
Convenience is the last essential criteria to assess when comparing Netflix to Hulu. Netflix releases its shows upon the conclusion of its real-time season. Basically, once “Shameless” has concluded on Showtime, a week later the entire season will be available on Netflix for the user to binge watch. Although many may look at this as an inconvenience by having to wait months for the series to release, many also look at this Netflix’s unique release method as more convenient because they can watch all of the series at once rather than having to wait each week to see one episode. Netflix also keeps all seasons of hit series accessible to the user.
In comparison, Hulu streams shows the day after they air. This is convenient because the subscriber is able to watch his/her programs immediately, rather than waiting months at a time. However, Hulu does not keep all TV show seasons accessible for the user to watch at his/her leisure, but on the bright side, Hulu has 56 Disney movies that are stream ready. In the end, both services have positives and negatives concerning their streaming. However, Hulu takes the trophy in the convenience category because of their ability to release shows quickly.
When choosing which streaming service to use, it really depends on the viewer’s priorities. Netflix is for the binge watchaholic who cannot stand ads and wants a deep catalog of both movies and TV shows. Whilst Hulu is for the live-in-the-moment viewer; “I need to watch the newest show as soon as possible” individual. Both services offer great rewards for a minimum of $8 a month. However, the best service ultimately depends upon the viewer.
