Is Hulu still worth the subscription in 2025? This in-depth review covers Hulu's pricing, live TV options, exclusive shows, pros, cons, and how it stacks up against Netflix and Disney+.
Ben Carter | August 17, 2025
Is Hulu still worth the subscription in 2025? This in-depth review covers Hulu's pricing, live TV options, exclusive shows, pros, cons, and how it stacks up against Netflix and Disney+.
Is Hulu still worth the subscription in 2025? This in-depth review covers Hulu's pricing, live TV options, exclusive shows, pros, cons, and how it stacks up against Netflix and Disney+.
Hulu is one of the most popular and long-standing streaming platforms in the U.S., known for offering a hybrid of on-demand shows, movies, and live TV streaming. With a massive catalog of current TV episodes, Hulu gives viewers the flexibility to stream new network content shortly after it airs—something Netflix and Prime Video can’t match.
Now part of the Disney streaming family (alongside Disney+ and ESPN+), Hulu remains a staple in many households in 2025.
One of Hulu’s standout features is its ability to stream new episodes of popular TV shows the day after they air. From NBC and ABC dramas to FOX sitcoms, Hulu is ideal for cord-cutters who still want to stay up-to-date on broadcast content.
Popular current titles include:
The Handmaid’s Tale
Only Murders in the Building
Abbott Elementary
The Bear
Grey’s Anatomy
Family Guy
If you're looking to replace cable, Hulu + Live TV is a powerful solution. It includes:
90+ live TV channels (sports, news, entertainment)
Unlimited DVR storage
Disney+ and ESPN+ included
Price: Starting at $76.99/month (subject to change)
For those who don’t need live TV, Hulu's basic streaming plans are still budget-friendly:
$7.99/month (with ads)
$17.99/month (ad-free)
Each plan gives you access to thousands of episodes, movies, Hulu Originals, and content from FX on Hulu.
The standard $7.99/month plan includes frequent ads, which can disrupt binge sessions. You’ll need to upgrade to the ad-free tier for a smoother experience.
Hulu is still only available in the U.S. and Japan. If you’re outside those regions, you’ll need a VPN or a different streaming service.
Since the full Disney acquisition, some shows and movies—especially Marvel and Star Wars-related content—are moving to Disney+, meaning Hulu may lose a bit of variety in the long run.
Hulu is ideal for:
Viewers who want next-day access to broadcast TV
Fans of critically acclaimed original series
Cord-cutters looking for live TV alternatives
Households bundling Disney+, ESPN+, and Hulu for savings
If you like to stay current on hit shows and want one platform for both binge-worthy series and live TV, Hulu remains one of the best streaming services in 2025.
Definitely—especially if you want the best of both TV and streaming.
Hulu continues to offer a wide mix of content at a competitive price, with some of the best original programming and most reliable next-day streaming in the industry.
The Hulu + Live TV bundle is still one of the strongest cable replacements available, and the basic on-demand plan is perfect for casual streamers.
Best Streaming Service for Network TV & Original Series
Feature | Rating |
---|---|
Original Series | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
Live TV Options | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Price/Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ |
New Episode Availability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Ad Experience (Free Tier) | ⭐⭐☆☆☆ |
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