The world of online streaming is ablaze with popular services vying for our attention. Two of the most prominent players in this arena are Hulu and Amazon Prime. While both offer an impressive array of entertainment options, many users often find themselves asking a burning question: Is Hulu Plus free with Amazon Prime? In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these two services, exploring what each has to offer and whether Hulu Plus is indeed included with an Amazon Prime membership.
What is Hulu Plus?
Before we dive into the relationship between Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime, let’s first understand what Hulu Plus is. Hulu Plus is a premium version of the popular streaming service Hulu, offering an ad-free viewing experience, access to a larger content library, and the ability to watch on multiple devices simultaneously. With Hulu Plus, users can enjoy a vast collection of TV shows, movies, and documentaries, including current and past episodes of popular TV series, as well as a selection of critically acclaimed films.
One of the primary advantages of Hulu Plus is its focus on TV shows, with a vast library of content from major networks like ABC, NBC, FOX, and CBS. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to stay up-to-date with their favorite TV series without the need for a traditional cable subscription.
What is Amazon Prime?
Amazon Prime is a premium membership program offered by e-commerce giant Amazon. Initially designed to provide fast and reliable shipping, Amazon Prime has evolved into a multifaceted service that includes a wide range of perks, including:
- Free two-day shipping on millions of eligible items
- Same-day or one-day shipping in select areas
- Access to Prime Video, a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content
- Prime Music, a music streaming service with a vast library of songs, playlists, and radio stations
- Photo storage on Amazon Drive
- Early access to lightning deals and other exclusive promotions
- Twitch Prime, a premium experience for gamers
Amazon Prime is a highly attractive service, particularly for those who shop frequently on Amazon or want to enjoy the company’s growing library of original content, including hit series like The Grand Tour, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan.
The Relationship Between Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: Is Hulu Plus free with Amazon Prime? The short answer is no. Hulu Plus is a separate service that requires a distinct subscription, regardless of your Amazon Prime status. While both services offer streaming options, they are distinct entities with their own unique features and pricing models.
However, Amazon does offer a way to subscribe to Hulu Plus through the Amazon Channels platform. This allows Amazon Prime members to add Hulu Plus to their Amazon account, making it easier to manage their subscriptions and access Hulu content through the Amazon Prime Video app. But this does not mean that Hulu Plus is included with an Amazon Prime membership; rather, it’s an additional service that requires a separate subscription.
Hulu Plus Pricing and Amazon Prime Discounts
If you’re interested in subscribing to Hulu Plus through Amazon, you may be wondering about the pricing. The good news is that Amazon offers a discount for new Hulu Plus subscribers who sign up through the Amazon Channels platform. For a limited time, new subscribers can enjoy a $1.99/month discount for the ad-supported plan, which normally costs $5.99/month. The ad-free plan, typically priced at $11.99/month, is discounted to $10.99/month for new subscribers.
Keep in mind that these discounts are only available for new subscribers and are subject to change. If you’re already an Amazon Prime member, you won’t receive a discount on your Hulu Plus subscription.
Bundling Options: A Comparative Analysis
Both Hulu and Amazon offer bundling options that can help you save money and streamline your streaming experience. Let’s examine these options and compare them to help you make an informed decision.
Hulu Bundle
Hulu offers a bundle that includes Hulu (with ads), Disney+, and ESPN+ for $13.99/month. This bundle is an excellent option for those who want to access a wide range of content, including TV shows, movies, documentaries, and sports. The inclusion of Disney+ and ESPN+ adds significant value to this bundle, making it a compelling choice for families or individuals with diverse entertainment interests.
Amazon Prime Video Bundle
Amazon offers a bundle that includes Prime Video, which grants access to a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content. While this bundle doesn’t include Hulu Plus, it does offer a range of additional features, including access to Prime Music, photo storage on Amazon Drive, and more.
Comparison Time
When comparing the Hulu Bundle and the Amazon Prime Video Bundle, it’s essential to consider your specific entertainment needs. If you’re primarily interested in TV shows and want access to a larger content library, the Hulu Bundle might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive package that includes music streaming, photo storage, and fast shipping, the Amazon Prime Video Bundle could be the way to go.
| Bundling Option | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hulu Bundle | $13.99/month | Hulu (with ads), Disney+, ESPN+, access to TV shows, movies, and documentaries |
| Amazon Prime Video Bundle | $12.99/month (or $119/year) | Prime Video, access to movies, TV shows, and original content, Prime Music, photo storage on Amazon Drive, fast shipping, and more |
The Verdict: Is Hulu Plus Free with Amazon Prime?
In conclusion, Hulu Plus is not free with Amazon Prime. While Amazon offers a convenient way to subscribe to Hulu Plus through the Amazon Channels platform, this requires a separate subscription and payment. However, the discount offered to new subscribers can help make Hulu Plus more affordable for those who want to access its vast library of TV shows and movies.
Ultimately, the decision to subscribe to Hulu Plus or Amazon Prime depends on your individual entertainment needs and preferences. If you’re primarily interested in TV shows and want a larger content library, Hulu Plus might be the better choice. But if you’re looking for a more comprehensive package with a range of additional features, Amazon Prime could be the way to go.
By understanding the unique strengths and weaknesses of each service, you can make an informed decision that meets your entertainment needs and budget.
What is Hulu Plus?
Hulu Plus is a premium subscription service offered by Hulu, a popular online streaming platform. It provides users with an ad-free viewing experience, access to a larger content library, and the ability to stream content on multiple devices simultaneously. Hulu Plus offers a range of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and original content, making it a great option for those who want to cut the cord and rely on streaming services for their entertainment needs.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, Hulu Plus also allows users to watch TV shows and movies in high definition (HD) and standard definition (SD), depending on their internet connection speed. The service also provides users with personalized recommendations based on their viewing history and preferences, making it easier to discover new content. Overall, Hulu Plus is a great option for those who want a hassle-free streaming experience with a wide range of content to choose from.
What is Amazon Prime?
Amazon Prime is a premium membership program offered by Amazon, the e-commerce giant. In addition to providing users with free two-day shipping, music streaming, and photo storage, Amazon Prime also offers access to a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Prime Instant Video, as it’s called, is a popular streaming service that competes directly with Hulu Plus and other streaming platforms.
Amazon Prime Instant Video offers a vast collection of content, including popular TV shows, movies, and original content produced exclusively for Amazon Prime members. The service also allows users to download content for offline viewing, making it a great option for those who want to watch their favorite shows or movies on the go. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, Amazon Prime also provides users with access to early deals, Twitch Prime benefits, and other perks, making it a great value for the price.
What is the main difference between Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime?
The main difference between Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime is the type of content they offer. Hulu Plus focuses primarily on TV shows, with a large collection of current and past episodes from major networks and cable channels. Amazon Prime, on the other hand, offers a more diverse range of content, including movies, TV shows, and original content produced exclusively for Amazon Prime members.
In addition to the type of content, the two services also differ in their pricing models. Hulu Plus charges a monthly fee for access to its content, while Amazon Prime charges an annual fee that includes additional perks beyond just streaming content. Additionally, Hulu Plus is more focused on providing users with a traditional TV viewing experience, while Amazon Prime offers a more personalized and on-demand viewing experience.
Can I get a free trial for Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime?
Yes, both Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime offer free trials for new users. Hulu Plus provides a one-week free trial, during which users can access all the content and features of the service without paying a dime. Amazon Prime, on the other hand, offers a 30-day free trial, during which users can access all the benefits of Prime membership, including streaming content, free shipping, and music streaming.
During the free trial period, users can test out the services and see which one they prefer. If they decide not to continue with the service, they can cancel before the trial period ends and avoid being charged. The free trials are a great way for new users to experience the services and make an informed decision about which one to choose.
How much do Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime cost?
Hulu Plus currently costs $7.99 per month for its basic plan, which includes access to a limited ad-supported experience. The ad-free plan costs $11.99 per month, while the live TV plan costs $44.99 per month. Amazon Prime, on the other hand, costs $12.99 per month or $119 per year.
It’s worth noting that Amazon Prime offers a discounted annual fee for students and low-income families, making it a more affordable option for those who qualify. Additionally, both services offer discounts for long-term commitments, making them more affordable for users who plan to use the services for an extended period.
Can I use Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime simultaneously?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine to use Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime simultaneously. In fact, many users choose to subscribe to both services to access a wider range of content and take advantage of the unique features of each service.
Using both services simultaneously can provide users with a more comprehensive streaming experience, as they can access TV shows on Hulu Plus and movies and original content on Amazon Prime. Additionally, users can take advantage of the unique features of each service, such as Hulu Plus’s focus on TV shows and Amazon Prime’s additional perks beyond streaming content.
Is Hulu Plus or Amazon Prime better for cord-cutters?
Both Hulu Plus and Amazon Prime are great options for cord-cutters, but the better option depends on individual preferences and viewing habits. If you’re primarily interested in TV shows and want a traditional TV viewing experience, Hulu Plus may be the better option. However, if you’re looking for a more diverse range of content, including movies and original content, and want additional perks beyond streaming, Amazon Prime may be the better choice.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of content you want to watch and what features you’re looking for in a streaming service. If you’re unsure, you can try out both services during their free trial periods to see which one you prefer.