Ask Difference

Hulu vs. Netflix — What's the Difference?

By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on October 1, 2023
Hulu is a streaming service known for next-day TV show availability, while Netflix is recognized for its vast original content and movie library.

Difference Between Hulu and Netflix

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Key Differences

Hulu and Netflix are both renowned streaming platforms, each boasting its unique features. Hulu often capitalizes on its next-day availability for many TV shows, making it a favorite for those who don't want to wait. Netflix, on the other hand, has carved out a niche for itself with its diverse and expansive library of original content, ranging from TV series to movies to documentaries.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 01, 2023
Moreover, Hulu provides an option for live TV, which is an added advantage for those interested in real-time programming. On the flip side, Netflix's global reach and wide array of international content make it an ideal choice for diverse audiences worldwide.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 01, 2023
It's crucial to note that while both platforms offer a plethora of movies and TV shows, Hulu is more intertwined with current network TV, whereas Netflix leans more towards unique and original content.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 01, 2023

Comparison Chart

Content Focus

Next-day TV shows
Vast original content
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Oct 01, 2023

International Reach

Primarily U.S. with limited international offerings
Available in over 190 countries
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Oct 01, 2023
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Subscription Options

Offers with/without ads, Live TV option
Tiered plans based on streaming quality, no ads
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Oct 01, 2023

Original Programming

Has some original series
Extensive range of original series, movies, documentaries
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Oct 01, 2023

Relationship with Network TV

Closely tied to current network TV shows
Less emphasis on current network TV, more on originals
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Oct 01, 2023

Definitions

Hulu

A streaming platform known for next-day TV episodes.
I watched the latest episode on Hulu just a day after it aired.
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Sep 20, 2023

Netflix

Offers movies, documentaries, and TV shows.
Last night, I watched an intriguing documentary on Netflix.
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Sep 20, 2023
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Hulu

Provides content both with and without commercials.
I upgraded to Hulu's no-ads version for uninterrupted viewing.
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Sep 20, 2023

Netflix

Known for its lack of commercials.
I love watching movies on Netflix without any ad breaks.
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Sep 20, 2023

Hulu

A platform with some original series.
The Handmaid's Tale on Hulu is captivating.
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Netflix

Features content from various countries.
I discovered a captivating Korean drama series on Netflix.
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Sep 20, 2023

Hulu

Primarily serves the U.S. market.
Hulu's primary audience is based in the United States.
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Sep 20, 2023

Netflix

A global streaming service with a wide range of original content.
Stranger Things on Netflix is a massive hit worldwide.
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Sep 20, 2023

Hulu

Offers options for live television streaming.
With Hulu Live, I can catch the game in real-time.
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Sep 20, 2023

Netflix

Provides a tiered subscription model.
I upgraded to Netflix's premium tier for 4K streaming.
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Sep 20, 2023

Hulu

Hulu () is an American subscription video on demand service fully controlled and majority-owned by The Walt Disney Company with Comcast as a minority stakeholder. Hulu was initially established as a joint venture between News Corporation and NBC Universal, Providence Equity Partners, and later The Walt Disney Company, serving as an aggregation of recent episodes of television series from their respective television networks.
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Sep 27, 2021

Netflix

Netflix, Inc. is an American over-the-top content platform and production company headquartered in Los Gatos, California.
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Sep 27, 2021

FAQs

Which is better, Hulu or Netflix?

It depends on viewer preference. Hulu is great for current TV shows, while Netflix offers vast original content.
Tayyaba Rehman
Oct 01, 2023

Does Hulu offer movies like Netflix?

Yes, Hulu offers movies, but Netflix has a more extensive movie library.
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Oct 01, 2023

How much do Hulu and Netflix cost?

Both have varying plans, with Hulu starting at $5.99/month (with ads) and Netflix at $8.99/month (for the basic plan).
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Oct 01, 2023

Which platform has more awards for its original content?

Netflix, with its vast original content library, has received numerous awards over the years.
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Oct 01, 2023

Do both platforms offer 4K streaming?

Yes, both Hulu and Netflix offer 4K streaming for specific content and plans.
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Oct 01, 2023

Can I access Hulu outside the U.S.?

Hulu is primarily for the U.S. market, with limited international offerings.
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Oct 01, 2023

Can I download content for offline viewing?

Yes, both Hulu and Netflix allow users to download certain content for offline viewing.
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Oct 01, 2023

How frequently does Hulu update its library?

Hulu often updates its content, especially with next-day TV episodes.
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Oct 01, 2023

Which platform is more popular globally?

Netflix, due to its availability in over 190 countries, has a broader global audience.
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Oct 01, 2023

Which platform releases episodes weekly?

While Netflix typically releases entire seasons at once, Hulu often releases episodes weekly for certain shows.
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Oct 01, 2023

Are there parental controls on both platforms?

Yes, both Hulu and Netflix offer parental control features.
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Oct 01, 2023

Does Netflix offer live TV like Hulu?

No, Netflix focuses on on-demand content and doesn't offer live TV.
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Oct 01, 2023

Can I share my subscription with others?

Both platforms allow multiple profiles, but sharing outside your household may violate their terms of service.
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Does Netflix have ads?

No, Netflix offers an ad-free viewing experience.
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Oct 01, 2023

Do I need a separate subscription for Hulu Live TV?

Yes, Hulu Live TV is a separate package and costs more than the basic Hulu subscription.
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Oct 01, 2023

Author Spotlight

Written by
Tayyaba Rehman
Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.

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