DIRECTV STREAM vs DIRECTV Satellite: Best option for you in 2024?

Entertainment

DIRECTV STREAM’s basic plan still packs a punch. The Entertainment package starts subscribers off with more than 75 channels, covering sports, news, and, of course, entertainment. News enthusiasts who want to keep up with current affairs will appreciate that CNN, CNBC and MSNBC are part of the lineup. For home and lifestyle content, tune into HGTV and the Food Network. 

Spend your Sundays bundled up with a blanket and get cozy while watching movies on Lifetime and the Hallmark Channel. Are you the outdoorsy type or struck by wanderlust? National Geographic and Tastemade Travel will keep you captivated for hours. This plan also includes enough to satisfy the casual sports palate: ESPN, ESPN2, TNT and Fox Sports 1 (FS1). Please be mindful that this plan does not feature regional sports networks (RSNs), setting it apart from other plans. This makes the Entertainment package ideal for those who favor news and entertainment channels over an extensive selection of sports channels.

Choice

The DIRECTV STREAM Choice plan provides over 105 channels and takes it a step further with even more entertainment, news, children's shows and sports. It adds Pop TV, Travel Channel, Game Show Network, CNBC World, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network. For sports fans, the Choice package enhances the offering of the Entertainment package by including regional sports networks at no additional cost. Besides bringing local sports action closer to viewers, the package upgrades with NBA TV, MLB TV, Golf Channel, Tennis Channel and ESPNU.

Ultimate

Subscribing to DIRECTV STREAM's Ultimate plan unlocks access to 140-plus channels. This package includes channels like Aspire, BBC News, BET Her, FX Movie Channel, Discovery Life, Lifetime Movie Network, MTV Classic and Nat Geo Wild. What sets the Ultimate package apart is a generous collection of sports channels. It combines the offerings of the Entertainment and Choice plans with other channels such as CBS Sports Network, Fox Sports 2 (FS2) and NHL Network.

Premier

DIRECTV STREAM's Premier plan lives up to its name with over 150 channels at a monthly cost of $154.99. Subscribers get everything from the previous plans plus premium channels like Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax. And if you want a truly elite viewing experience, consider padding your plan with more premium channels at an extra cost. This is hands down the most complete package for those who log heavy hours watching TV.

DIRECTV Satellite packages and pricing compared

Entertainment

This is the entry-level option; perfect for those who want a quality mix of channels without a hefty price tag. It's comprised of popular networks like CNN, AMC, HGTV, Nickelodeon, TLC, Hallmark Channel and Fox, making it an optimal choice for families and casual viewers. While it offers some sports content like ESPN, ESPN2 and Fox Sports 1, it's more limited compared to higher-tiered packages. This package is best suited for budget-conscious households that still want variety in their programming.

Choice

Stepping up, the CHOICE package offers over 200 channels, adding more sports channels like ESPNU and MLB Network, making it a better fit for sports fans. This package is tailored for those who want a richer selection of channels, including more sports options, without jumping to the highest tiers.

Ultimate

With over 270 channels, the ULTIMATE package is designed for serious TV enthusiasts. It includes all the channels from the lower tiers plus additional premium networks like IFC and Sundance TV. Sports coverage is further enhanced with channels like NHL Network, Golf Channel and CBS Sports Network. This package is ideal for families and individuals who want a wide array of entertainment options, including a robust sports lineup.

Premier

The top-tier option, PREMIER, offers over 340 channels, including premium networks like Max, SHOWTIME, Cinemax, and STARZ at no extra cost. It's the most comprehensive sports package, offering extensive coverage across nearly all major sports networks. This package is perfect for those who want the ultimate TV experience, with extensive channel options across all genres, including premium movie channels and exhaustive sports coverage.

DIRECTV STREAM vs. DIRECTV Satellite

DIRECTV STREAM is a flexible streaming service that doesn't require a long-term contract, satellite dish, or special hardware, making it optimal for convenience and mobility in TV viewing. It comes with generous unlimited cloud DVR storage but has a more limited channel selection.

Alternatively, DIRECTV Satellite provides a more traditional TV experience with a broader range of channels, including extensive sports coverage. The setup is much more involved than its streaming counterpart since it requires the installation of a satellite dish. It comes with a two-year contract and offers the Genie HD DVR for recording shows. This service is well-suited for viewers who prefer a comprehensive channel lineup and are comfortable with the standard setup and commitment to a long-term contract.

Contracts vs monthly subscriptions

With DIRECTV STREAM, there's no need to commit to any contract at all. You pay a monthly bill and can cancel at any time without pesky and exorbitant disconnection fees. In contrast, choosing DIRECTV Satellite involves a two-year contractual agreement. Previously, DIRECTV would significantly increase your monthly fees in the second year, almost doubling them. However, the current policy brings your costs back to DIRECTV's standard, non-promotional prices once your contract concludes.

Service features

The DIRECTV Genie, an HD DVR designed for DIRECTV Satellite customers, offers the convenience of enjoying full HD DVR service in every room of your house without the need for individual DVR receivers in each room. This Genie HD DVR comes equipped with 200 hours of DVR storage capacity, is prepared for 4K viewing, and features voice search capabilities through Amazon Alexa. 

DIRECTV STREAM provides its users with unlimited cloud DVR storage, meaning there's no limit to the number of hours you can save. But recordings can only be kept for a duration of nine months and there's a limit of 30 episodes per TV show.

Equipment

DIRECTV Satellite requires a basic setup consisting of a satellite dish, a receiver, and a remote control. Getting started with DIRECTV STREAM is simpler, requiring just a branded box and a standard streaming device. For both DIRECTV Satellite and Internet users, the company's Gemini device now enables the enjoyment of 4K quality on preferred apps. The Gemini's wireless installation involves the device itself, an HDMI cable, a power supply, and a remote. If you opt for a wired setup, it includes all the components of the wireless setup plus an ethernet coax adapter, an ethernet cable, and a micro USB cable. Additionally, the Genie DVR offers Satellite subscribers 200 hours of HD storage and the capability for five simultaneous streams.

FAQ

Do I have to pay extra for DIRECTV STREAM if I have DIRECTV?

DIRECTV and DIRECTV STREAM are two separate services. This means that there is no discount for doubling up on the two. 

Should I switch from DIRECTV satellite to DIRECTV STREAM?

It all depends on what’s important to you. If you don’t mind the commitment that comes with traditional cable and appreciate an extensive channel selection, DIRECTV Satellite will work for you. For more flexibility, consider DIRECTV STREAM. 

Can I switch from DIRECTV to DIRECTV STREAM?

Sure, but you will need to cancel your DIRECTV account and sign up for a new account with DIRECTV STREAM because they are two separate services.