Many people ask how do you watch live TV on Hulu, especially when they want familiar cable channels without long contracts. Hulu offers several built-in ways to stream live networks, local channels, and your favorite news and sports in real time.
This guide walks through the live TV options on Hulu, how they work on different devices, and what to consider before you subscribe.
| Plan | Live Channels | Cloud DVR | Device Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu + Live TV (Ad-Supported) | 85+ live and local channels | 20 hours, renewal eligible | Web, iOS, Android, Smart TV, streaming device |
| Hulu + Live TV (No Ads) | 85+ live and local channels | 40 hours, renewal eligible | Web, iOS, Android, Smart TV, streaming device |
| Add-on to Hulu On-Demand | Select live add-ons, limited local | Dependent on plan | Web, iOS, Android, Smart TV |
| Hulu + Disney+ + ESPN Bundle | Live ESPN channels, some local | 10 hours, limited | Web, iOS, Android, Smart TV, Fire TV |
Live TV on Hulu with the Hulu + Live TV Plan
What is Included in the Hulu + Live TV Plan
The Hulu + Live TV plan brings over 85 live channels, including major broadcast networks, popular cable networks, and local stations in many areas. You get the same Hulu on-demand library you are used to, plus live news, sports, and entertainment in one subscription. This option is ideal for people who want a cable alternative but still want access to Hulu originals and add-ons.
How to Start Live TV on Hulu
To watch live TV on Hulu, you need an active Hulu + Live TV subscription. After you subscribe, open the Hulu app or website, select the Live tab, and browse current programming and upcoming shows. You can jump into live channels instantly or use the guide to schedule future viewing. The interface is designed to feel familiar if you have used traditional TV guides.
Cloud DVR and Unlimited Storage
Every Hulu + Live TV plan includes Cloud DVR, which automatically saves past broadcasts so you can watch them later. Depending on your plan, you get 20 or 40 hours of storage that renews each billing cycle. You can record live channels, sports events, and local news without managing storage manually. These recordings work across your devices, so you can start a show on TV and finish it on your phone.
Watching Live TV on Different Devices
Smart TVs and Streaming Devices
You can watch live TV on Hulu using apps on smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast. The Hulu app supports full live channel navigation, guide browsing, and playback. If you subscribe through your TV provider, sign in with those credentials to unlock live streams. On devices that support it, you can also access live TV without the standard Hulu interface through provider-specific apps.
Mobile and Web Access
Live channels are available in the Hulu app on iOS and Android phones and tablets, which is convenient when you are away from home. The Hulu website also streams live TV through most modern browsers, though some features may be limited compared to the app. Live viewing on mobile includes full DVR controls, so you can pause, rewind, and resume live broadcasts. Closed captions and parental controls are supported across devices.
Adding Live Features to Your Current Hulu Account
Live Add-Ons for On-Demand Plans
If you do not want the full live TV plan, you can add live channels as an add-on to your existing Hulu subscription. These add-ons provide access to a smaller selection of live news, sports, and entertainment channels. Note that local channel availability may be limited, and Cloud DVR hours are often more restricted compared to the dedicated live TV plan. This option works well if you only need occasional live coverage.
Bundles with Disney+ and ESPN
Another way to watch live TV on Hulu is through bundles that include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN. These bundles deliver ESPN live sports and events along with the Hulu on-demand catalog. The live channel selection focuses primarily on ESPN properties, with limited general cable options. This bundle is a strong choice for sports fans who also enjoy family-friendly content on Hulu.
Key Takeaways for Watching Live TV on Hulu
- Hulu + Live TV is the primary way to watch a broad selection of live and local channels on Hulu.
- Cloud DVR is included, giving you hours of recorded live programming each billing cycle.
- You can watch live TV on smart TVs, streaming devices, mobile apps, and through the web.
- Live add-ons are available if you want limited live access on an existing Hulu on-demand plan.
- Consider a Disney+ + ESPN bundle if your main interest is sports and family-friendly content.
- Compare channel lineups, pricing, and storage limits before choosing between the Ad-Supported and No Ads plans.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I watch live TV on Hulu without the Hulu + Live TV plan
Yes, you can access some live channels through add-ons on your current Hulu plan, though the selection and local channel availability may be more limited than the full live TV plan.
Does Hulu + Live TV include local channels
Yes, Hulu + Live TV includes broadcast networks and local stations in most supported locations, which lets you watch local news and events live.
How much Cloud DVR do I get with live TV on Hulu
Hulu + Live TV (Ad-Supported) provides 20 hours of Cloud DVR, and Hulu + Live TV (No Ads) provides 40 hours, with both automatically renewing each billing cycle.
Can I pause or rewind a live channel on Hulu
Yes, you can pause, rewind, and resume most live channels, and the controls work across mobile, web, and connected TV apps where supported.