DirecTV Stream, previously called AT&T TV Now or AT&T TV is a live TV streaming service that allows users to watch dozens of popular cable channels and live TV programming without requiring cable or satellite subscriptions. But is it a good service? In this last analysis, we will discuss the most basic aspects such as the price and the options that are offered by DirecTV Stream as well as the capabilities and the options that are included in the offer.
Overview of DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream is an internet television service that partially succeeds AT&T, providing live and streaming TV from 64 to 140+ channels depending on the package. Key features include:
- Access 65+ Live TV Channels with the initial package of $69. 99 per month.
- Availability of local stations such as ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC in most markets
- Cloud DVR for recording 20 hours of shows and movies
- Over 1000 on-demand titles available for viewing
- For the first time, HBO Max is included in particular packages of the platform.
- On mobile devices, you can use the DirecTV Stream application to access content.
- Use on your main TV with streaming players or on compatible Smart TVs.
As such, in terms of core competencies, DirecTV Stream offers a cable experience, but there is no need to have satellite dishes or set-top boxes. Another notable feature is that all the operations are made through a straightforward streaming control panel.
Channel Lineups and Packages
When it comes down to it, one of the most critical questions about any live TV streaming service is – does it include the necessary channels and an adequate channel list?
DirecTV Stream offers four English language packages:
Entertainment – 65+ channels at 69. 99$ per month
Choice – Over 90 channels for 89. 99 USD per month
Ultimate – over a hundred and thirty channels for one hundred and four dollars and ninety-nine cents per month.
Premier – 140+ channels with a monthly fee of $149. 99.
Local ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox stations are available for almost all users along with the most popular cable networks including ESPN, TNT, Nickelodeon, HGTV, and others. The packages in the upper tiers include even more specialized sports, news, and entertainment channels.
Regional sports networks and locals are dependent on the location. Regarding channels, this can be checked out during the signup process to determine which channels are available in the region.
Cloud DVR Functionality
This means that live TV playback must be possible. DirecTV Stream offers cloud DVR with 20 hours included for recording programs aired on your selected channels.
Although 20 hours is lower than some competitors, it is quite realistic to use it for regular operations for those who are not power users. Other features including the playback function are functional and include the option for pause, rewind, and fast forward. Recordings are kept for 90 days.
Power users can add more space at $10 per month additional for a total of 200 hours.
Pros of Choosing DirecTV Stream
Compatible with your current system – As everything runs through the internet, you can watch DirecTV through smart TV apps, streaming devices such as Apple TV or Firestick, computers, and mobile devices. There are no satellites or additional equipment required in this system.
Included HBO Max – Some packages have ad-free HBO Max for the first year, which has a value of $15/month with ads. Nice extra for all lovers of movies and TV programs.
Lack of hiccups – On our usage, there is easy switching between channels, the quality of videos is good, and the features are fully functional without giving us a hard time or lagging.
Flexibility – The service provided does not require a long-term commitment as it allows the consumer to subscribe or unsubscribe at will with no extra charges like termination fees. Somewhat flexible if one lives between two houses.
Cons to Consider
Limited regional sports – While the offering of national sports is good, RSN depends on the location of the viewer. Ensure that all the local RSNs are listed.
Cloud DVR limitations – 20 hours isn’t much storage so this could present issues for those used to more traditional 500+ hr DVRs from cable. There are updates or an external hard drive may be used as a solution.
And the interface is not using 4K at full – The menus and the interface are still not fully 4K. The picture quality within the video is good, however, the font and other images within the experience could be a lot clearer. We expect that over time there will be upgrades to the current models.
No offline access – The shows are stored in the cloud, so a data connection is required to watch the recordings. In the case of real mobility, downloads would be preferred.
The Final Verdict
Thus, after exploring the depths of pricing, channels, DVRs, and so on – is DirecTV Stream good enough?
Of course, we believe that this is the case – for the right user, at least. DirecTV Stream is the combination of the buttons of live TV + sports + news + DVR Void of the troubles of contracts or equipment. Some features are missing in comparison to cable and satellite, but improvements are constant and most people switching to streaming-first cord-cutters will find it familiar.
If you need the channels, convenience, and powerful coverage of a cable subscription that has only been updated through streaming delivery, DirecTV Steam offers all that. Some improvements in certain aspects would make it even more formidable; nonetheless, the service is one of the best live TV streaming platforms for most casual viewers and sports enthusiasts.
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!
