Hulu + Live TV Faces Competition as Disney Raises Streaming Prices

LOS ANGELES, CA — As Disney prepares to raise the price of its Hulu + Live TV streaming package to $89.99 on October 21, consumers are scrambling to explore alternatives that won’t break the bank. With increased costs for live programming, many viewers are looking for ways to cut expenses while maintaining their favorite shows and sports coverage.

Disney’s announcement has prompted households using Hulu + Live TV to reconsider their streaming options. Potential savings, superior sports coverage, and the availability of local channels are among the many factors to evaluate when making the switch.

For those seeking alternatives, several streaming services are worth considering. Each option caters to different viewing habits and preferences, ensuring there is something for every viewer.

DIRECTV offers traditional cable service with modern streaming perks, including a larger channel lineup than Hulu + Live TV. Selected plans even package in Disney’s streaming services, which allows subscribers to retain access to popular networks. DIRECTV also features customizable add-ons, unlimited DVR, and no contracts, giving users flexibility in their viewing choices.

Fubo TV distinguishes itself as a sports-oriented service with a wider selection of live sports channels and better international coverage. It provides various subscription tiers, including a five-day free trial that lets users test its offerings before committing. Additionally, Fubo currently offers promotional savings for new subscribers, making it a favorable choice for sports fans.

Sling TV emerges as an affordable option, especially for those who only need a few channels. Its flexible à la carte framework allows customers to choose packages that fit their specific interests, with prices starting as low as $19.99 for basic access.

YouTube TV is often seen as a top competitor due to its user-friendly interface, competitive pricing, and robust features like unlimited DVR and multiple viewing options. Its diverse channel selection appeals to a broad audience, including families and sports enthusiasts.

For viewers prioritizing family and lifestyle content, Frndly TV and Philo present lower-cost alternatives. Frndly focuses on feel-good programming while Philo offers a large library of entertainment and lifestyle channels, both significantly cheaper than Hulu + Live TV.

Lastly, Peacock and Paramount+ provide substantial on-demand libraries and live streaming options catering to families and entertainment seekers alike, often at lower rates than Disney’s offerings.

As the price hike looms, consumers are encouraged to assess not just price, but also features and channels that suit their viewing preferences before committing to a new streaming service.