Hulu + Live TV vs DirecTV Stream
It’s a close call. The right pick depends on your priorities — see the breakdown below.
Hulu + Live TV vs DirecTV Stream at a glance
| Feature | Hulu + Live TV | DirecTV Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Our editorial score | 9.0 / 10 | 8.7 / 10 |
| Starting price | $83/mo | $87/mo |
| Free trial | Varies | 5 days |
| Channels | 95+ | 75+ |
| Simultaneous streams | 2 (unlimited add-on) | Unlimited at home |
| Cloud DVR | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Devices | 11 platforms | 10 platforms |
| Best for | you want live TV bundled with a huge on-demand library plus Disney+ and ESPN+ | you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams |
Price and value
Hulu + Live TV: $83/mo. Live TV plus a huge on-demand library and the Disney bundle in one subscription.
DirecTV Stream: $87/mo. The most cable-like service, and the strongest for regional sports networks.
Channels and sports
Hulu + Live TV offers 95+, including ABC, ESPN, FX and Local channels.
DirecTV Stream offers 75+, including ESPN, Regional sports networks, Local channels and TNT.
Lineups vary by ZIP code — check your exact channels.
DVR and simultaneous streams
Hulu + Live TV: Unlimited DVR, 2 (unlimited add-on).
DirecTV Stream: Unlimited DVR, Unlimited at home.
Which should you choose?
- Choose Hulu + Live TV if you want live TV bundled with a huge on-demand library plus Disney+ and ESPN+.
- Choose DirecTV Stream if you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams.
Hulu + Live TV
Visit official siteOpens Hulu + Live TV’s official site
DirecTV Stream
Visit official siteOpens DirecTV Stream’s official site
Frequently asked questions
Is Hulu + Live TV or DirecTV Stream better?
Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV Stream both aim to fully replace cable. Hulu + Live TV bundles a huge on-demand library with Disney+ and ESPN+, while DirecTV Stream leans into a traditional, cable-like lineup with strong regional sports networks. Choose Hulu for the best mix of live TV and on-demand; choose DirecTV Stream for regional sports and a classic channel feel.
Which is cheaper, Hulu + Live TV or DirecTV Stream?
Hulu + Live TV starts at $83/mo and DirecTV Stream starts at $87/mo. Prices change, so confirm the current price on each provider’s site.
Can I try Hulu + Live TV and DirecTV Stream before paying?
Trials vary. Hulu + Live TV: Varies. DirecTV Stream: 5 days. Check each site for current offers.