Comparing Hulu + Live TV vs YouTube TV vs Sling TV
Live TV streaming services have become the go-to alternative for people cutting the cord—but with multiple options offering similar features at different price points, it’s tough to know which one offers the best value. Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV are three of the most popular choices, and while each has its strengths, they cater to different needs and budgets.
If you’re deciding where to stream your favorite channels without a traditional cable package, this breakdown will help you make a smarter choice.
Pricing and Packages
- Hulu + Live TV: Starts at $76.99/month (as of May 2025), includes access to Hulu’s full on-demand library, plus live channels and Disney+/ESPN+ bundled in. No free trial, but you get a ton of content across genres.
- YouTube TV: Starts at $72.99/month with a generous 7-day free trial. Offers over 100 channels including locals, sports, and unlimited DVR space.
- Sling TV: Starts at $40/month for Sling Orange or Blue, or $55 for both. Fewer local channels but highly customizable and significantly cheaper than competitors.
Channel Offerings
YouTube TV offers the most comprehensive channel lineup, including regional sports networks and popular news outlets. Hulu + Live TV provides solid coverage but limits some add-ons. Sling TV is best if you want specific channels at a lower price, although it lacks major networks like CBS.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Hulu + Live TV: ABC, NBC, FOX, ESPN, CNN, FX, plus Hulu Originals
- YouTube TV: CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, TNT, TBS, ESPN, local channels
- Sling TV: ESPN, AMC, CNN, TNT, but limited access to local stations
Device Compatibility
All three platforms support a wide range of devices including:
- Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Vizio)
- Streaming sticks (Roku, Chromecast)
- Gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation
- Mobile apps for Android and iOS
DVR Capabilities
- YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage, with recordings kept for nine months.
- Hulu + Live TV includes Cloud DVR with up to 9 months of storage and no ad skipping unless upgraded.
- Sling TV includes 50 hours of DVR for free, upgradeable to 200 hours with an extra fee.
User Interface and Experience
YouTube TV is considered the most user-friendly with clean navigation and intuitive search. Hulu’s interface is modern but can feel cluttered due to the mix of live and on-demand content. Sling TV is simpler but requires more manual setup to build your ideal channel package.
Can You Save More With Gift Cards or Cashback?
While the platforms don’t typically offer ongoing discounts, there are ways to save. For example, you can get cashback with a Hulu gift card or buy a Sling TV gift card online using platforms like Fluz. This lets you reduce the monthly cost just by changing how you pay. Additionally, Rakuten or Ibotta may feature limited-time deals or rebates.
Which Service Is Right for You?
- Choose Hulu + Live TV if you want live and on-demand in one place, plus the Disney+ and ESPN+ bundle.
- Choose YouTube TV if you need local stations and sports with a seamless viewing experience.
- Choose Sling TV if you want a budget-friendly live TV option and are comfortable customizing your lineup.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV depends on what matters most: cost, channel variety, DVR storage, or overall user experience. Each offers a distinct value depending on your priorities—and if you use platforms like Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta, you may even lower the cost of your subscription without sacrificing features.
