While at first glance, both services may sound like they are part of the same platform, DirecTV, and DirecTV Stream are as different as night and day. Identifying these differences can assist you in evaluating which of the two services is more suitable for your personality.
What is DirecTV?
DirecTV is a satellite television provider that was established in 1994 with its headquarters in El Segundo, California. One has to have a satellite dish that must be installed professionally at the customer’s home to be in a position to access the programming that is offered by Direct TV through signal reception from the satellites that are positioned in space.
Some key things to know about DirecTV satellite service:
- Expect a satellite dish on your roof or outside of your house.
- The cable provider has over 200 cable channel options under various packages.
- May be bundled with AT&T Internet/phone services
- Best pricing arrangements involve the signing of 2-year contracts.
- In addition, it provides the option to upgrade to Genie DVR, which is full of enhanced functionalities.
In a nutshell, DirecTV uses satellites and dishes for the television service while confining customers to agreements that require them to sign contracts.
What is DirecTV Stream?
Formerly known as AT&T TV Now, DirecTV Stream is an IPTV live TV streaming service with more than 140 channels. It does not use satellites at all while it solely relies on internet connectivity.
Some key DirecTV Stream details:
- No need for a satellite dish
- Broadcast live via the internet to various devices such as mobile devices or smart TVs.
- No long-term contracts
- Accompanying the video content is a database of 20,000 on-demand titles.
- Entertainment-only packages or Entertainment + Sports packages
Thus, the main difference is that DirecTV Stream is an over-the-top streaming service with no contracts or equipment. It is also relatively younger, having been started in 2016 as DirecTV Now.
Key Differences at a Glance
To recap, here are the major ways that DirecTV and DirecTV Stream differ:
- Technology: Satellite vs internet streaming
- Equipment: Necessary for dish preparation vs. No additional equipment needed
- Commitment: Long-term contracts as opposed to no contracts
- Portability: Watch only on TVs with the dish and not through streaming to other devices
- Channels: 200+ versus 140+ channels
Even though both organizations are named DirecTV, they currently employ quite distinct technologies in the delivery of television programming. DirecTV needs the installation of satellite equipment while DirecTV Stream only needs an internet connection and can be used on any device.
Which is Better for You?
So which service is better suited for you in the long run? Here are a few key questions to ask yourself when deciding:
- Would you like streaming like Mobility or the highest number of channels like satellite?
- Is it fine to have contracts or do you prefer having the option to switch services as often as possible?
- Is a dish installation compatible with your home type and preferred style?
- Why is it a concern to obtain local sports and regional sports networks?
As a result, it’s these factors as well as how much you value contracts, equipment limitations, and channel count as well as streaming flexibility that will make one service more advantageous for a household than the other. In the sense that it benefits both the company and the consumer, it is all good, but it also has its drawbacks that apply well depending on the circumstances.
However, if you prefer to have full access to sports and do not mind commitments, then DirecTV satellite service will suit you best. However, if you are interested in streaming without a contract on all your devices, then DirecTV Stream would be a better fit. The choice of which service came out on top depends on your likes and dislikes.
The Bottom Line
The two have very similar names and both offer access to live television but DirecTV and DirecTV Stream work on two different technologies to offer the programs. One depends on dishes while the other transmits programs through the World Wide Web. In the end, your tech setup, channel priorities, desire for mobility, and opinion on contracts will decide which service gives you the experience you need.
Transform your viewing experience with DirecTV! Call us today at +1 855-213-2250 to explore our plans and find the perfect package for you. Our experts are ready to assist you and get you set up with top-notch entertainment. Don’t wait—contact us now!
