By default, 2 people can watch their favorite movies and shows on Hulu simultaneously. To be more precise, it can be done only on 2 devices at once, even though you can install Hulu on up to 5 devices. What’s more, this applies to absolutely all subscription plans.
This is often enough for families of 3 or even 4 people (it is unlikely everyone will want to watch different content simultaneously). But as for larger families, this can be a problem.
Fortunately, just in this case, Hulu provides a solution. You can purchase a special add-on to your subscription to watch Hulu on unlimited devices at the same time. It is called Unlimited Screens and costs $9.99/month.
Of course, this add-on also has certain conditions, which I’ll describe below.
How many devices can you watch Hulu on at the same time?
Whether it’s a Basic (With Ads) or Premium (No Ads) plan, the limit is two screens. That means you can watch Hulu only on 2 devices at once. However, there is an exception for subscription plans with live TV. You can break the two-screen barrier for an extra $9.99 a month.
If you subscribe to Hulu + Live TV (With Ads) or Hulu + Live TV (No Ads), you can connect an add-on to watch content on an unlimited number of supported devices at the same time. Keep in mind that it’s only possible within your home network.
There’s one more catch. If you’re into premium channels like Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, or STARZ, you’re capped at five devices. What’s more, if you’re out of your home network, you can stream Hulu only on up to 3 mobile devices at once.
For your convenience, I suggest you check out the table below with the number of devices you can watch Hulu on simultaneously for each plan.
| Hulu with ads | Hulu without ads | Hulu (with ads) + Live TV | Hulu (without ads) + Live TV | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly price | $7.99 | $14.99 | $69.99 | $82.99 |
| Streams at once | Up to 2 | Up to 2 | Up to 2 | Up to 2 |
| Devices | Up to 5 | Up to 5 | Up to 5 | Up to 5 |
| Unlimited streams add-on | No | No | Yes ($9.99/month) | Yes ($9.99/month) |
Learn more about Hulu prices and plans.
How to add an Unlimited Screen add-on to your Hulu subscription
So, you’re tired of the screen limit and want to go all out with Hulu’s Unlimited Screens Add-on? Here’s how you can make it happen without breaking a sweat.
- First things first, log into your Hulu account. Use a web or mobile browser; it’s your choice.
- Once you’re in, head over to the Your Subscription section.
- Next, hit MANAGE ADD-ONS.
- You’ll see a checkmark next to any add-ons you already have or a + icon next to ones you don’t have.
- Scroll down to spot the Unlimited Screens Add-on and click the + sign next to it.
- Last but not least, click Review Changes at the bottom. Double-check everything and click Confirm.
From now on, you’re unlimited!
What happens when the Hulu device limit is surpassed?
So, you’re in the middle of a cliffhanger, and boom—an error message pops up, ruining the mood. It’s Hulu’s way of saying, “Hey, too many cooks in the kitchen!” You’ll likely see a message like “too many streams.” It’s Hulu’s not-so-subtle nudge to kick someone off.
You might wonder, how does Hulu even know? Well, they’ve got a system. Each device you use has a unique ID, and Hulu keeps a tally. So, if you’re thinking of some clever workaround, like logging in from multiple browsers, don’t bother. Hulu’s one step ahead, always watching, always counting.
How many people can watch Hulu at once compared to other streaming services?
Let’s compare Hulu to Netflix, Disney+, Max, Prime Video, and Paramount+.
Hulu
Streams at once:
- Up to 2 streams by default for each plan.
- Unlimited streams with Unlimited Screens add-on.
Netflix
Streams at once:
- Standard and Standard with ads – up to 2 devices at a time.
- Premium – up to 4 devices at a time.
Disney+
Streams at once:
- Up to 4 devices for each plan.
Max
Streams at once:
- Basic plan with or without ads – up to 2 streams.
- Ultimate – up to 4 streams.
Prime Video
Streams at once:
- Up to 3 streams overall.
- Up to 2 streams for the same content.
Paramount+
Streams at once:
- Up to 3 devices at once.
As you can see, Hulu doesn’t have it so bad, considering it offers unlimited devices in the add-on. Even if you have to pay an extra 10 bucks a month for it, it’s better than nothing.
