fubo: YouTube TV vs. Hulu + Live TV – Which Streaming Service Reigns Supreme in 2026?

YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are leading contenders in the rapidly evolving world of live TV streaming, offering cord-cutters a compelling alternative to traditional cable. Both boast extensive channel lineups and broad platform compatibility, but which service delivers the best value and features in 2026? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of each platform, helping you make an informed decision.

For the Sports Enthusiast: YouTube TV Takes the Lead

YouTube TV is a haven for sports fans, providing access to all major national sports networks, including the entire ESPN family. While a brief carriage dispute in late 2025 caused a scare, access has been restored. Regional Sports Network (RSN) coverage isn’t comprehensive, but you do get four NBC Sports RSNs. Beyond the basics, YouTube TV offers exclusive access to out-of-market NFL games with the NFL Sunday Ticket ($192/year).

However, it’s the innovative features that truly set YouTube TV apart. Key Plays View, powered by AI, delivers instant highlights to catch you up on a game, while Multiview lets you watch up to four games simultaneously. The Sports Plus add-on ($11/month) further enhances the experience with channels like NFL RedZone, Tennis Channel, beIN SPORTS, and Willow.

Hulu + Live TV also carries major sports networks, but it lacks NBA TV, the unique features of YouTube TV, and NFL Sunday Ticket. While Hulu + Live TV offers ESPN Select and ESPN Unlimited (featuring out-of-market NHL games, UFC Fight Nights, and college sports), ESPN Unlimited is slated to arrive on YouTube TV in the fall.

Genre-Specific Plans: YouTube TV Offers Unmatched Flexibility

One of the most significant developments from YouTube TV in 2026 is the introduction of genre-specific “lean” plans. These plans allow you to tailor your subscription to your viewing habits, reducing costs by only paying for the channels you need. Options include Sports Plan, Sports + News Plan, Entertainment Plan, and News + Entertainment + Family Plan – all priced lower than the base plan.

Crucially, choosing a lean plan doesn’t compromise core YouTube TV features like unlimited DVR, access from six accounts, and three simultaneous streams. You can still add premium options like NFL Sunday Ticket, NFL RedZone (with Sports Plus), and 4K Plus. Hulu + Live TV currently doesn’t offer comparable genre-specific plans, requiring a $90/month base subscription.

Simultaneous Streams & 4K Streaming: YouTube TV Provides More Options

YouTube TV’s base plan supports three simultaneous streams, ideal for families with diverse viewing preferences. Hulu + Live TV limits you to two streams in its base plan, requiring an additional $10/month for the Unlimited Screens Add-on. However, even with the Hulu add-on, access is limited to three mobile devices when away from home.

YouTube TV also offers unlimited screen access on your home Wi-Fi network with the 4K Plus add-on, which also unlocks 4K streaming for select content from Discovery, ESPN, FOX Sports, FX, Nat Geo, NBC Sports, Tastemade, and NBA TV. Hulu + Live TV doesn’t currently offer 4K streaming for any live TV content.

On-Demand Content & Bundling: Hulu + Live TV Offers Value with Disney+

If you’re already a Disney+ subscriber, Hulu + Live TV can save you money. The $90/month subscription includes ad-supported access to Disney+, ESPN Select, and the regular Hulu streaming service. Both services offer extensive on-demand libraries, including Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, and National Geographic content. Hulu also boasts a strong selection of original series and current-season network TV shows.

YouTube TV’s on-demand library is smaller, featuring a rotating selection of episodes and movies from its subscribed channels. However, some networks offer entire seasons of popular shows.

Channel Availability: Where Each Service Falls Short

YouTube TV lacks A+E Networks properties like A&E, History Channel, and Lifetime, potentially requiring a separate subscription to Frndly TV ($7/month) for fans of these channels. It also misses Cooking Channel and Science Channel.

Hulu + Live TV, on the other hand, doesn’t include AMC and BBC America.

The Verdict: Which Service is Right for You?

In 2026, YouTube TV emerges as the stronger overall choice, particularly for sports fans and those seeking flexibility with genre-specific plans. Its innovative features, generous simultaneous stream allowance, and potential for 4K streaming give it a significant edge. However, Hulu + Live TV remains a compelling option, especially for Disney+ subscribers and those who prioritize access to A+E Networks channels. Ultimately, the best streaming service depends on your individual viewing habits and preferences.

For more information on cutting the cord, check out The Verge’s comprehensive streaming guide.