A Streaming Services Buyers Guide: PlayStation Vue, Hulu, YouTube TV

Note: Since we published this article, Sony announced it was closing PlayStation Vue. Check out our other article detailing some suitable PS Vue alternatives.

With our ongoing series on the changing television world, it makes sense to publish a streaming services buyers guide. This time out, it’s a throwdown between PlayStation Vue, Hulu Live TV, and YouTube TV. Cordcutters note, all three offer enough channels to be considered replacements for your cable or TV service.

Our guide takes a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of all three. Note that the monthly price for the three is around $50. For our profiles of the individual services, click on the following links: PS Vue, Hulu Live TV, and YouTube TV.

The Best Collection of Streaming Channels?

PlayStation Vue, Hulu Live TV, and YouTube TV all offer a similar robust channel lineup. This means each serves as a valid replacement for your cable or satellite TV service. Any preference for one likely lies with the availability of specific channels or special perks.

PS Vue likely serves sports fans better than the rest, with the ESPN family, FS1 and FS2, NBCSN, and much more. Its inclusion of BeIN Sports is sure to attract soccer fans.

Ultimately, the quality of the channel line up is wash between the three streaming services. Note that all three include local channels. Check the website for each to see what’s available at your home.

Which Streaming Service has the Best Cloud DVR?

All three streaming services provide users with a Cloud-based DVR to store programming. Hulu Live TV requires an upgrade to receive the 200 hour storage of their enhanced DVR. Normally, users receive 50 hours. 

YouTube TV takes things to another level, however. All subscribers receive a Cloud DVR with unlimited storage. You are able to keep recordings for up to nine months. It’s the major advantage of Google’s streaming service.

Streaming Device Support

All three services support nearly all the major streaming devices, such as Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast. Expect the same support with most smart TVs. Of course, web-browser viewing on your desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone is also possible.

PlayStation Vue offers five simultaneous streams. This compares nicely to YouTube TV’s three, and Hulu Live TV’s two. Keep this in mind if you have a large family.

PlayStation Vue Service Summary

• Monthly Price: Access $49.99. Core $54.99. Elite $64.99. Ultra $84.99.
• Pros: Superior sports channel offerings. Five simultaneous streams.
• Cons: Buggy app for the Roku. (This writer is currently feeling that pain.)

Hulu Live TV Service Summary

• Monthly Price: $44.99
• Pros: Cheaper price compared to the others. Access to Hulu’s library of movie and TV show content included.
• Cons: Only two simultaneous streams. Cloud DVR provides less storage.

YouTube TV Service Summary

• Monthly Price: $49.99
• Pros: Cloud DVR boasts unlimited storage.
• Cons: Google’s well-documented privacy issues.

Ultimately, all three of these streaming services offer similar lineups and features. YouTube TV’s Cloud DVR is a clear winner, but one of the other options might offer a specific channel you want. This is especially the case for sports fans considering PS Vue.

Hopefully, this streaming services buyers guide provides some food for thought before you make a final choice. Remember, you need Internet speed of at least 5 Mbps to stream HD content to one device. 4K content requires at least 25 Mbps. Make sure to perform regular speed tests to ensure your ISP keeps their promised service level.

In the future, expect additional buyers guides. Our goal is to cover budget offerings like Philo, videogame streaming, and music services. Of course, comparisons of non-cable replacements like Netflix, Apple TV+, and Disney+ are also planned. Stay tuned.