While DirecTV Stream and DirecTV are connected services emanating from the same company, they are distinct and cannot be accessed without subscribing to the two services. Another confusion is that the DirecTV Stream subscription is bundled with the DirecTV satellite subscription and that is a myth. Here are the two main distinctions between DirecTV Stream and DirecTV satellite service explained below.
What is DirecTV Stream?
DirecTV Stream is an internet television service that was formed as AT&T TV and AT&T TV Now before it was acquired by DirecTV. This provides hundreds of renowned live TV channels that can be broadcast over an internet connection.
DirecTV Stream offers various plans that cost between $69. 99/month and $149. 99/month, based on the channel selection. Cable/satellite packages include the major broadcast networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX and cable networks such as ESPN, TNT, HGTV, and so on. Some local sports networks and regional sports networks have also been aired in some other markets.
Unlike satellite service, DirecTV Stream does not come with the need for any equipment such as a satellite dish or a receiver box. It can be used with most streaming devices including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, and others, along with mobile devices and web browsers.
What is DirecTV Satellite Service?
DirecTV on the other hand is a conventional satellite TV service that transmits programs from satellites in space directly to a satellite dish installed in a subscriber’s premise. It has over 295 channels with all packages and only works with professionally installed satellite equipment to operate.
Pricing starts with the Choice package at $69. 99 per month and goes up to the Premier package at $139. 99 per month with the option of adding movie packages such as HBO and Showtime. Local stations and regional sports networks are incorporated based on zip code.
Another advantage of the satellite service is that there is no fluctuation in the quality of the videos that is favored by the service because it is not dependent on an internet connection. However, parts such as the dish, cables, and receiver box are more permanent once they have been installed.
Key Differences Summarized
In short, here are some of the main differences when comparing DirecTV Stream vs DirecTV satellite:
> **DirecTV Stream** is an internet television streaming service, while **DirecTV** employs satellite dishes to provide service.
DirecTV Stream has a monthly price of $69. 99, while the DirecTV basic package goes for $59. 99 per month.
While **DirecTV Stream** is available through streaming devices and smartphones and tablets, **DirecTV** needs to have a satellite dish and a receiver.
That’s why **DirecTV Stream** provides from 65 to 140 channels based on the chosen subscription type, while **DirecTV** offers over 295 channels.
Both services are connected and are branded under AT&T ownership, however, DirecTV Stream is not offered as a bundle with the DirecTV satellite service. The two services are different, and one cannot be used in place of the other; they have their subscription and equipment.
Do I Need a Directv Satellite To Get a Directv Stream?
No, a subscription to DirecTV satellite TV is not necessary or even possible with DirecTV Stream. As discussed a little earlier, DirecTV Stream is a standalone streaming platform for cord-nevers and does not interact with any satellite hardware or network.
DirecTV Stream requires only an active internet connection capable of streaming media and a streaming device like a mobile phone, Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV. An account can then be created and billing can be set without requiring a satellite dish or any hardware at all.
Therefore, if you are interested in the DirecTV channel packages and experience delivered over the internet to devices within your home, then DirecTV Stream does this without necessarily needing DirecTV’s satellite service. Just note that there are differences in the channels offered on DirecTV satellite and Stream.
Can I Get a DirecTV Stream If I Already Have a DirecTV Satellite?
Yes, satellite subscribers from DirecTV can opt for the additional services offered by DirecTV Stream if they wish to. The services aren’t bundled but the current satellite-based DirecTV users are still able to sign up for the DirecTV Stream as a separate streaming TV option.
There are a few reasons an existing DirecTV satellite customer may want to additionally subscribe to DirecTV Stream:
* Watch live TV via mobile devices other than the home
* Watch on additional TVs without having to install more satellite boxes
* Learn how to manage conflict of interest when it comes to the main living room television set.
* Receive specific channels not offered by their existing satellite package
As long as the internet connection meets the requirements set by DirecTV Stream, a satellite subscriber can sign up for streaming services and get all the same packages and content. So yes, DirecTV satellite and DirecTV Stream are compatible and you are allowed to have both subscriptions under the same account.
Signing Up for DirecTV Stream
Perhaps the breakdown above helps explain why a DirecTV satellite subscription does not offer any kind of free or cheaper access to the DirecTV Stream service. It is also important to note that these two features work autonomously and both carry an added cost per month.
To get DirecTV Stream without bundling it with an AT&T plan, check out their official website for the latest offers and promotions. Many will let you begin streaming immediately upon creating an account so you can start watching right away. All you need is to have your streaming device nearby to download the application and get ready to watch!
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!
