DIRECTV Stream is another streaming TV service that works similarly to AT&T TV and offers live TV channels without requiring a satellite dish or cable connection. And how much does it cost to stream DIRECTV as a subscription service compared to the standard satellite offering? Let's break it down.
DIRECTV Satellite vs Streaming Packages and Pricing
DIRECTV Stream has channel packages that are almost the same as the channels that are included in the DIRECTV satellite packages. Here's a quick overview:
Entertainment – It offers a package with more than 65+ including ESPN, TNT, and USA at $69. 99 per month
Choice – Offer over 90+ channels such as regional sports networks for $84. 99 per month
Ultimate – Offers more than 130+ channels with HBO, Showtime, and Starz, among others for $94. 99 each month.
Premier – Offers all the DIRECTV packages and more than 140+ channels for $139. 99 per month.
The most significant differentiation in price policy is that DIRECTV Satellite has lower prices for bundled services with a two-year subscription, which ranges from $60 to $100 per month for clients. DIRECTV Stream does not lock customers into yearly or monthly contracts or force them to purchase unrelated services, which keeps the prices at the aforementioned levels.
Additional DIRECTV Stream Fees:
- Taxes and Regional Sports Fees: Fluctuates depending on the location and range between $812 extra per month.
- Equipment – Streaming box rental $5/month, purchased device fee $120
- Premium Channels – Additional packages include HBO Max, Showtime, etc, and cost a range of $11-$18 per month.
Thus, an equivalent mid-tier satellite package would cost $120-$150/month for the first year with the DIRECTV satellite rather than $85-$95/month for the contract-free DIRECTV Stream.
Comparing Streaming vs Satellite DIRECTV
In addition to the price, what are the major differences in your DIRECTV experience if you access it through the internet or if it is transmitted directly from a satellite?
Convenience
Satellite involves making holes in a dish that is fixed by a technician. It can also be affected by storms. Streaming is an on-demand service, and there’s no contractual obligation involved for its usage as long as there is an internet connection.
Content
For streaming and satellite, the same packages exist, including the 200+ channel. The only difference that I can notice is that streaming has no PBS in most countries.
Picture Quality
It is also helpful because satellite connection is not affected by congestion/buffering during heavier usage which can slightly reduce streaming quality. However, streaming picture quality is impressive under normal circumstances, and can even go up to 4K HDR quality in compatible devices.
Commitment
However, as pointed out in the previous sections, satellite TV is cheaper when you go for the two-year deals and subscription packages, while DIRECTV Stream has no annual contracts or subscription packages. But satellite discounts can make it at least $900 cheaper a month than streaming for the first year.
Should I Choose DIRECTV Satellite or Streaming?
Therefore, it becomes significant to decide on which is beneficial for you – satellite or streaming DIRECTV? Here are a few key questions to ask yourself:
- Are you among those who rent and cannot fix satellite dishes? Streaming is probably the right way to go.
- Are you more concerned with contract flexibility and ease of service than initial cost? Online streaming, is the way forward.
- Would you like additional services such as HBO Max included in the base price? It is less expensive in the beginning to use a satellite.
- Storm-prone or ‘cord-cutting’ inclined? Less likely to be disrupted than streaming.
All in all, DIRECTV Stream offers you a great live TV streaming experience with the same packages and characteristics of satellite, but without the equipment and contract issue in exchange for a slightly higher monthly fee. As for the convenience and the ability to watch what one wants, when one wants, streaming is probably the better option, although the argument could be made that satellite is a better choice for the consumers willing to pay the most amount of money for the most amount of content, at least in the first year.
I hope this breakdown sheds some light on the pricing and differences of getting DIRECTV as a streaming platform rather than a direct satellite! Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions.