DIRECTV Stream, previously AT&T TV, is one of the best live TV streaming services that offer a vast number of channels. But what is the true cost of a DIRECTV Stream subscription per month? This guide will explain the direct stream packages, fees, and other charges so that you clearly understand how much you are likely to pay.
DIRECTV Stream Package Pricing
DIRECTV Stream has multiple tiers for the packages, so you can get the channels you’re interested in at a given price. Here's an overview of the monthly pricing for each package: Here's an overview of the monthly pricing for each package:
- ENTERTAINMENT – Available at $69. 99 per month and comes with 65+channels.
- CHOICE – $84. 99 monthly, it has over 90 channels.
- ULTIMATE – $94. 99 / month (130+ channels)
- PREMIER – $139. 99 per month (over 140 channels)
The most basic package that you can avail of is the ENTERTAINMENT package which will cost you $64. 99 per month and this comes with channels like ESPN, TNT, HGTV, and many others. PREMIER is the most costly package but has over 140 channels.
Other channel packages such as regional sports networks and premium channels like HBO and SHOWTIME can be upgraded to any of the available packages at a specified monthly cost.
Additional DIRECTV Stream Fees
On top of the package pricing, some additional standard fees get tacked onto your bill each month:
- Local Channel Fee: $16. 99 per month
This enables you to connect to local broadcast networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. - Regional Sports Fee: Up to $11/mo
This fee varies with your location and offers you regional sports networks. - DVR Service Fee: $10 per Month
Enhances the option to record shows and watch recorded content. - Unlimited Screens: If you want a larger partition, then there is an additional cost of $5 per month on top of the main price.
By default, they can only stream 2 screens at a time. This removes that limitation.
So, a Choice package subscription would be $84. 99 base package + $16. 99 for local channels + fees = **$111. 98** per month, excluding taxes or other premiums.
DIRECTV Stream Device Costs
Unlike other streaming services, there is no need to take any additional devices to be used to enable the DIRECTV Stream. You can access DIRECTV Stream by downloading the app on popular devices like:
- Smart TVs
- Devices like Roku, Firestick, Apple TV, etc.
- Video games (PlayStation 4, Xbox One).
- Mobile devices
- Web browsers
However, if you do not have either of these devices, you will have to buy one separately to begin streaming with DIRECTV Stream. Prices for streaming devices commonly vary from $20 to $200 depending on the specific model.
How Long Will The Price Be Locked In?
Another advantage that DIRECTV Stream has over traditional cable packages is the price lock guarantees. You can keep your base package price fixed at the time of registration for the first twelve months. This helps you to avoid any possible rise in interest rates for the first year of using the service.
But in this case, the Local Channel fee, the Regional Sports fee, and other similar fees are still liable to be changed—the package prices are what become fixed.
DIRECTV Stream will also notify you one month before the completion of 12 months of subscription and will then change your rates. However, your bill will probably rise in year 2 and other subsequent years, depending on the plan you choose.
Should You Bundle DIRECTV Stream?
If you bundle this service with AT&T internet or wireless phone plan, you may be eligible for a $1020 discount on your monthly bill. These offers that come with the product help to make the pricing of DIRECTV Stream more reasonable in the long run.
It can also be bundled with the DIRECTV satellite television service. Unlike satellite and streaming services, bundling has its advantages and disadvantages for you to consider, and the good thing is that you get the best of both services right on your bill.
To determine if you can bundle services, contact AT&T or consult with a DIRECTV Stream sales specialist because there may be considerable savings when bundling services.
What's The True Cost Comparison vs. Cable?
Thus, comparing DIRECTV Stream with the traditional cable depends on the channels that you require. DIRECTV Stream allows for even more channel selection than most basic cable offerings.
But if you sum up all the individual TV fees, internet, premium channels, etc., the total monthly cost of both DIRECTV Stream and cable TV will be quite similar. Calculate what it will cost you for your household and determine which will give you more value.
The main difference is that DIRECTV Stream is more flexible as it doesn’t require any contracts and a person cannot be tied to a long-term agreement. Plus streaming enables you to view TV at any place, on any device – something that cable cannot offer.
Bottom Line on DIRECTV Stream Pricing
If you take a closer look at DIRECTV Stream base packages, they may look cheap and reasonably priced, but they are not. The discounted pricing for the first year offsets this, and getting it bundled with other AT&T services means that you are likely to save some amount each month as well.
Estimate your possible bill to be charged before you subscribe to DIRECTV Stream to be sure of the amount of money you will need to spend. And find out if streaming is cheaper in the long run than your current television subscriptions or if cable/satellite still provides more value for your money.