DirecTV Stream is another live TV streaming service that was previously known as AT&T TV. Since streaming has become the new normal, people ask whether DirecTV Stream supports HD or 4K for better streaming. This article will define what 4K is, determine if DirecTV Stream has 4K support, discuss compatible 4K devices, and analyze competitors.
What is 4K Resolution?
4K, also called Ultra HD (UHD), is a video resolution with a total of approximately 8. 3 million pixels, 3840 x 2160. This is equivalent to roughly 4000 pixels horizontally and that is where the term ‘4K’ is derived from.
4K boasts of having four times the resolution of 1080p high-definition video. Higher resolution means improved clarity and detail on the images and generally improved picture quality.
4K content is best streamed with a fast and stable internet connection, usually above 25 Mbps. An appropriate compatible 4K television or a streaming device is also required to watch 4K streams properly.
Yes, DirecTV Stream offers 4K streaming for many of its channels, but this feature will vary depending on its availability in the chosen plan.
Yes, DirecTV Stream does have some 4K Ultra HD content available, such as movies, television shows, sporting events, and other programs.
However, 4K content in DirecTV Stream is scarce in comparison with other regular high-definition content for now. The 4K channel lineup includes:
- Documentaries on BBC America and Discovery Channel
- Select live sports like Baseball, Basketball, Ice hockey, and College Football
- Certain programs on FX and some programs on NBC
- Few Full HD PPV Movies
To access 4K streams on DirecTV Stream, you need:
- A compatible 4K device like Roku, Fire Stick 4K, Apple TV 4K, etc.
- Internet connection speeds of not less than 25 Mbps
- This means that the so-called “Ultimate” package at $100 per month or any higher package.
Therefore, although DirecTV Stream supports 4K streaming to some extent, there are fewer options for content in this resolution than in standard HD at the moment.
Compatible 4K Streaming Devices
This means to watch 4K Ultra HD content on DirecTV Stream, you have to use a streaming media player compatible with a 4K television.
Supported 4K devices for DirecTV Stream include:
- Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K and Fire TV Cube are two of the biggest competitors of Google Chromecast.
- Apple TV 4K (5th generation or later)
- Google Chromecast Ultra
- Roku Premiere, Streaming Stick+, Ultra, Ultra LT, and other models newer than the ones listed above
- Samsung, LG, and Sony smart TVs
Ensure that any streaming device you are using has sufficient memory and processing capacity to support the 4K streams. Also, ensure that your television is compatible with 4K before purchasing DirecTV Stream expecting to watch 4k content.
DirecTV 4K in Comparison with Other Providers
Almost every large provider of live TV streaming services provides some 4K content today. However, it is still limited compared to traditional high-definition content across the board.
Here's how DirecTV Stream compares to competitors for 4K:
DirecTV Stream
- 4K streaming is only available with the Ultimate package and there is not a lot of 4K content available.
- Extra expenses for Ultimate needed
YouTube TV
- Additional $4. 99 per month 4K option
- Some live sports as well as On Demand 4K.
Hulu + Live TV
- 4K costs $9. 99 per month additional
- It has stocked videos with a minimum of 4K selections in the VOD category so far.
FuboTV
- Better 4K options than other services
- The additional cost for the 4K add-on is $7 per month.
Sling TV
- There are no 4K options on offer
In conclusion, as per the ongoing expansion, the 4K programming is still scarce on the live TV streaming services. It is quite probable that FuboTV currently offers the most streaming options in 4K. However, there is some 4K content available to DirecTV Stream Ultimate subscribers at no extra cost.
Conclusion
Yes, DirecTV Stream does offer select live and on-demand content in 4K Ultra HD resolution to answer the main question. However, 4K content is still limited compared to its HD library at the moment.
Anyone expecting the most 4K streaming might want to stick with FuboTV or another service now. However, with updates underway, DirecTV Stream can have the opportunity to broaden its 4K potential in the future as well.
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!
