While Hulu doesn't have nearly as many subscribers as streaming services like Netflix and HBO Max, Statista reports that the popular service currently has more than 42 million paying customers. In addition to a deep catalog of TV shows and movies, Hulu also creates original content, like the Steve Martin and Martin Short comedy "Only Murders in the Building."
And thanks to the optional Hulu Live TV add-on, you can also stream live programming from over 50 TV channels. You can get access to all this Hulu content from most Roku devices - here's what you need to know.
To watch Hulu on your Roku, you need two things: a subscription to Hulu and the Hulu app on your Roku player.
1. Using your Roku remote, press the Home button.
2. Select Streaming Channels in the list on the left side of the screen.
3. Select Search Channels.
4. Search for Hulu. When it appears in the search results, click it and then select Add Channel.
5. After the channel is installed, select OK.
6. Press the Home button again.
7. Find Hulu and select it to open the channel.
8. Sign in and you can start watching Hulu content on your Roku.
You can install the Hulu app on most Roku media players, though a few older models are not compatible. The easiest way to determine if your Roku can play the Hulu app is to try to install it (see the previous section). If Hulu doesn't appear in the list of installable apps, it is not compatible with that model.
In addition, some older Rokus can only install the "classic" Hulu app, which does not support streaming live TV from a Hulu + Live TV subscription. Roku players with model numbers 2400 to 3100 (the Roku 1, Roku 2, and Roku LT) and the older Roku Streaming Sticks (models 3420 or earlier) can't play Hulu + Live TV.
To find out if your Roku player works with Hulu + Live TV:
1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
2. Select Settings.
3. Choose System.
4. Select About, and you should see your model number listed.
If you don't already have a Hulu account, you can sign up from the Hulu website or from the Hulu app on your Roku. When signing up, you can usually get a free trial unless you've previously had a subscription.
If you use the website, keep in mind that you may be offered a bundle that includes Disney+ and ESPN+, but there should be an option to subscribe to Hulu on its own somewhere on the page.
To sign up using the Roku Hulu app:
1. Download and s the Hulu app on your Roku.
2. Select Start Your Free Trial.
3. Select a plan - you can choose from among Hulu, Hulu (No Ads) and Hulu + Live TV.
4. Follow the instructions to complete your account setup and enter your payment information.
5. After completing the signup process, you can manage your subscription, including changing your payment information or cancelling your service, on your account page at the Hulu website.