HULU PLUS VS NETFLIX – WHICH ONE IS THE BEST?

Although there are a number of video subscription services sprouting in the virtual world today, only two names reign supreme and are being constantly compared to each other. This article is talking about Netflix and Hulu Plus, the two largest and most popular video streaming programs at present. To help you determine which the best bet is, we have created a comprehensive comparison article on Hulu Plus vs Netflix, which we based on content, ease of use, and other valuable aspects of both.

Background

Before Hulu Plus, Netflix used to dominate the video subscription industry. The latter started out as an online DVD-ordering program through mail and then evolved into a feature-packed movie streamer later on. On the other hand, Hulu Plus came to life in 2007. It started as a free video service on the internet that offered a wide selection of top-rating shows, movies and other interesting perks. Just recently, Hulu Plus added a subscription service which promises to give more thrilling contents than what you can get from free membership.

Ease of Use

Both Netflix and Hulu Plus are accessible through the internet. To get the movies you are looking for, you simply have to log in into your personal account and you’ll instantly have the access to the variety of movies or shows offered by both programs. Users can also get free trials from both companies, which is highly beneficial to beginners looking for the best alternative.

However, you may want to know that Hulu Plus is only streamable; while with Netflix, you can also order DVDs online through mail where you have the freedom to choose a specific title of movies from their comprehensive list and even organize your own wish list which automatically sends the movie you have chosen after you have finished watching the previous title.

In terms of being user-friendly, both programs acquire equivalent points. Signing up is pretty easy; you just need to fill up the form, choose your own password, and immediately start on watching movies, TV shows, and get to know the new releases on that particular point.

Device Compatibility

Technically, Netflix can be used on several compatible gadgets which means you have the advantage of accessing your Netflix account from Mac and other brands of PC, Wii, PS3, Xbox 360, iOS and Android devices, Roku, Windows Phone, D-Link, as well as home theater systems from different brands. As you can see, users can easily to connect from one device to another through Netflix, no matter where they may be.

On the contrary, Hulu Plus does not contain as many features as Netflix. But still, it gives the freedom of accessing your account through a number of compatible devices including PS3, Xbox 360, Roku, iOs and Android gadgets, Nintendo 3DS, Amazon Kindle Fire, LG, Samsung, Panasonic and Sony TVs, TiVo Premiere, and of course, from your personal computer. Soon, it will also be available to Wii gaming systems.

Title Choices

According to Netflix, they offer as much as 100,000 titles on Blu-ray and DVD titles. These exclude the movies available for streaming, which count as tens of thousands based on the company’s claims. Hulu Plus does not reveal the exact number of titles; however, the company declares that they have thousands of box-office hit movies in possession, all without the annoying interruption of TV commercials. Meanwhile, a third-party analyzer estimates that Hulu Plus has 2,500 films, 43,000 TV episodes, and 1,650 old and current TV shows, which only means that Netflix still reigns supreme when it comes to this aspect.

 Content

Netflix contains a plethora of excellent content; thanks to the wide variety huge licensing deals it has with ABC, CBS, FOX, BBC, NBC, Dreamworks Animation, and Sony. However, Hulu Plus’ content offerings are not bad at all; considering that you can stream the latest TV shows from a number of channels including MTV, NBC Universal, Disney, The Biography Channel, Public Broadcasting Service, and even National Geographic Channel. But despite the great deals on content Hulu Plus offers, Netflix still has more variety to give to its users.

Speed

Both programs require certain software in order to perform their functions well. Hulu Plus needs Adobe Flash Player 10.153.64 or higher, Internet Explorer 7.0 or higher, Chrome or Safari 3.0 or higher, and cookies and JavaScript enabled. Netflix, on the other hand, requires an internet connection with a minimum speed of 500 kbps for you to get the best results.

Video Quality

Netflix produces HD movies, TV shows, and videos at 1080p; while videos on Hulu Plus are only streamable videos at 1080p when available. As for the TV shows, it offers viewing at 720p resolution. 

Price

Netflix has recently increased its price; while Hulu Plus retains its old price list. However, the latter broadcasts advertisements as you stream, which users may find irritating. This is done for a reason, though, which is to reduce the subscription and license fees from the contents they provide. For people who hate interruptions brought about by advertisements, Netflix still becomes a preferable choice despite of the higher price.

Currently, Hulu Plus charges $7.99 monthly; although the users can opt out anytime they want to. As with Netflix, you can choose from different subscription options such as $7.99 per month for unlimited movie streaming or unlimited one DVD at a time rental or $11.99 for two DVDs at a time. If you want the best of both worlds, then you will have to spend $15.98. If you also wish to rent Blu-rays along with these contents, you’ll have to pay an extra of $2 each month. 

Conclusion

After the further evaluation of Hulu Plus vs Netflix conducted above, it is concluded that the latter possesses more beneficial features and bonuses for its users. However, the features Hulu Plus has in store are not bad at all; considering that it can provide your favorite TV shows and series right after they have been aired on national television. The bottom line? The ultimate test still lies in your hands; so try to take advantage of their free trials for you to have an in-depth evaluation of both programs before subscribing to one of them.