When signing up for any streaming service, you’ll always have a few burning questions about the way things work and the features you’ll be able to enjoy like simultaneous streaming limits, compatible devices, and personalization opportunities. Here, we’re going to be focusing on streaming giant Hulu, more specifically, explaining to you how many people can watch Hulu at the same time.
Currently, users on the basic plan can watch Hulu on two devices at once, and create up to six profiles with their subscription. Unfortunately that’s not as many simultaneous streams as some of Hulu’s top competitors, but it does serve the purpose for most households.
How many devices can use one Hulu account?
Hulu allows all subscribers to access its streaming service on two devices at the same time. That means you won’t have to fight over watching tonight’s game or the latest episode of a brand new show. Hulu has a variety of packages to choose from. For access to the on-demand catalog, you’ll only have to pay $5.99/mo. or $59.99/yr. But if you want to combine on-demand viewing with Hulu + Live TV, the cost will shoot up to $64.99/mo. (Take a look at our Hulu + Live TV review.)
No Ad Plans
There are also plans that feature zero commercials on the majority of on-demand content. On-demand No Ads costs $11.99/mo., while Hulu + Live TV No Ads will set you back $70.99/mo. Of course, every package comes with the same two simultaneous streams.
Extras
In some cases, two streams just aren’t enough. Luckily, the service gives Hulu + Live TV subscribers the chance to enjoy unlimited simultaneous streaming. Pay for the $9.99/mo. Hulu Unlimited Screens add-on to stream on every single device in your home network at the same time, plus up to three mobile devices outside of the home.
To watch thousands of shows, movies, and more on Hulu, you’ll need a good Wi-Fi connection and a compatible device. (More on those below.) More than 60 live networks are yours to view with Hulu’s live TV package. The channel list includes local networks such as ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. Plus, the majority of places will get local sports coverage from the likes of FOX Sports and NBC Sports, so you don’t have to miss out on any local action. Again, live TV access will cost you a minimum of $64.99/mo.
What devices can I use to stream Hulu?
Hulu has two different apps: the up-to-date version and the classic one. The latest app gives you access to every Hulu feature, including live TV and all add-ons. But the older, classic version only unlocks Hulu’s on-demand catalog and select add-ons.
Each app comes with a separate list of compatible devices, too. The updated one is available on almost every device you could think of, from mobile devices and Google Chromecast to smart TVs and Nintendo Switch. The classic, meanwhile, can be downloaded onto older devices such as select Blu-ray players and Roku models.
Here’s every device you can access Hulu’s latest app on:
- Amazon Fire tablets
- Amazon Fire TV and TV Stick
- Android phones and tablets
- Android TV (select models)
- Apple TV (4th generation or later)
- Chromecast
- Echo Show
- iPhones and iPads
- LG TV (select models)
- Nintendo Switch
- Mac and PC web browsers
- PlayStation 3
- PlayStation 4
- Roku and Roku Streaming Stick (select models)
- Samsung TV (select models)
- Vizio SmartCast TVs
- Xbox 360
- Xbox One
- Xfinity Flex Streaming TV Box
- Xfinity X1 TV Boxes
Note that PlayStation 3 and Xfinity devices don’t currently support Hulu’s live TV programming, but do include other updated features.
And if you’re wondering which devices support Hulu’s classic app, look no further:
- Apple TV (3rd generation)
- LG TVs and Blu-ray players (select models)
- Roku and Roku Streaming Stick (select models)
- Samsung TVs and Blu-ray players (select models)
- Sony TVs and Blu-ray players (select models)
- TiVo
- Vizio TVs (select models)
How many user profiles can I have on Hulu?
As well as giving you plenty of simultaneous streams, Hulu also personalizes your experience with user profiles. When you sign up, you’ll be assigned a primary profile. But you can create up to five extra profiles for each member of your household, making six in total.
Each person will be asked to tell Hulu about their favorite shows, movies, and genres. This helps the platform provide personalized content recommendations, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through irrelevant titles. You can continue this process as you use Hulu, liking and disliking content for a further customized list. Plus, if you’re a Hulu + Live TV subscriber, you can easily access your own recordings via your profile’s cloud DVR.
Profiles also give each user a unique viewing history and can even be customized for kids. By switching the kids’ profile option on, you’ll stop that particular user from watching or searching for mature content.
Can I download content on my devices?
Hulu does allow subscribers to download content for their offline viewing needs, but there’s a catch. Downloading is only available to those who pay for a No Ads on-demand or Hulu + Live TV plan. If you tick that box, you’ll be able to download up to 25 titles per account on five mobile devices at any one time. Each title tends to remain in your download library for 30 days. But as soon as you hit play, you’ll only have 48 hours to finish watching it.
Not everything shown on Hulu can be viewed offline. Titles from premium add-ons can’t be downloaded. Neither can on-demand content that comes exclusively with Hulu + Live TV.
The final cut
Hulu‘s basic packages only come with two simultaneous streams, but the platform does give you the freedom to pay for more if you choose. Hulu is more generous in other ways. For example, by giving each account six individual profiles and by ensuring the service is available on a vast range of popular devices. But to get the best experience, you’ll have to invest a little more cash. Find out more about Hulu’s packages and pricing here. Plus, check out how to cut costs with our rundown of Hulu’s free trials and deals. And if you’re interested in the Disney Plus, ESPN+, and Hulu bundle, we have plenty of information about that, too.