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When it comes to selecting the best streaming service, it’s critical to consider all of the factors before making a decision. We compiled an all-inclusive list to help you choose between Hulu and HBO Max because there are so many different prices, plans, features, and personal preferences.
The main benefit of HBO Max is that you’ll get all of HBO’s content, including originals, a large library of extras, and in-theater showings, on the same day they’re released. HBO Max also offers a diverse selection of over 10,000 films, many of which are not available on other platforms, thanks to a partnership with WarnerMedia. Hulu, on the other hand, offers a more robust service when it comes to add-ons, and the service’s base plan is less expensive at $6.99 per month.
When comparing these services, it’s essential to keep in mind the available add-ons, as HBO Max offers a free trial to new subscribers who sign up via Hulu. Hulu offers an HBO Max add-on for the same price as the standalone service. This could be appealing to viewers who want to take advantage of everything Hulu has to offer while also having the option to add HBO Max at a later date.
Although there is no longer a free trial for HBO Max, Hulu subscribers can add the HBO Max add-on to their existing account for a 7-day free trial. HBO subscribers who subscribe to HBO through Hulu will receive HBO Max for free. HBO Max does not have a DVR option, but with the HBO Max ad-free plan, you can download TV shows, movies, and other live shows to watch later after they’ve aired. When it comes to Live TV and add-ons from other services, Hulu is the way to go.
Hulu and HBO Max Plans and Pricing
HBO Max is more expensive than Hulu, with the base plan costing $9.99/month versus $5.99/month for Hulu. HBO Max also offers an ad-free plan for $14.99/month, while Hulu offers a variety of additional options that can be added to an existing plan.
HBO Max Pricing and Plans
$9.99/month for HBO Max (with ads)
$14.99/month for HBO Max (ad-free)
HBO Max with Ads has about four minutes of commercials for every hour of content watched. In comparison to Hulu’s ad-supported tier, HBO’s ads are shorter, with ad breaks of up to 90 seconds. Users of HBO Max’s base plan do not have access to all of the big-name movies or the ability to download content for offline viewing.
HBO Max (ad-free) is the ad-free option, giving users access to all of the platform’s content, as well as the ability to download it for offline viewing.
Hulu Plans and Pricing
$6.99 for Hulu (Standard)
$12.99 for Hulu (ad-free)
$69.99 for Hulu + Live TV
$74.99 Hulu (no ads) + Live TV
Hulu’s basic plan is one of the most affordable options among all streaming services. Hulu standard, which includes advertisements and costs $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year, is available for purchase. This plan allows you to access the entire streaming library without Live TV or add-ons. Hulu (No Ads) gives users access to all of the same content without the ads for $12.99 per month.
Hulu + Live TV will have ads, but it will give users access to over 75 channels that aren’t available on network or cable TV. Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV enhances the live TV plan with an ad-free experience for the best of the best subscribers.
How do Hulu and HBO Max compare in terms of features?
Simultaneous Streams
Hulu offers two simultaneous streams with a $10 option to add unlimited streams. HBO Max offers three simultaneous streams.
Cloud DVR
Hulu offers 50 hours of Cloud DVR storage, while HBO Max offers none.
Add On Options
Hulu offers Enhanced Cloud DVR, Unlimited Screens, HBO Max, CINEMAX, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and an Entertainment, Espaol, and Sports Add-on, as well as HBO Max, CINEMAX, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and an Entertainment, Espaol, and Sports Add-on. Hulu consolidates the number of services a subscriber must manage by allowing multiple add-ons, which are all conveniently billed together through Hulu.
HBO Max supports up to 5 user profiles, which was previously unavailable in the HBO Go and HBO Now apps, making it easier to share an account. Comcast, Charter, or an AT&T package will provide free access to Max to many current HBO subscribers.
Which service is better overall?
Overall, Hulu is one of the most extensive networks for viewing the widest variety of video content, but HBO Max is the best option for users who already subscribe to a partner network that may provide free access to the network. Although HBO Max provides access to additional and exclusive shows and movies, most users will find it more convenient to purchase this service as an add-on through Hulu.