DIRECTV Stream, and DIRECTV Internet as their names might suggest are not two ends of the same service. In this article, we will describe each of them in detail and state the differences between them.
What is DIRECTV Stream?
Originally called AT&T TV, DIRECTV Stream is an online television service offered by DIRECTV. Instead of obtaining them via satellite or cable television services, it provides accessibility of television broadcast signals via the usage of the internet.
Some key things to know about DIRECTV Stream:
Streaming Service for Live & On Demand TV
Popular live TV channels like sports, news, entertainment, and much more abound on DirecTV Stream. It also lists movies and series that are on demand and might be seen anywhere at any time. Every piece of material is provided to pertinent devices over the internet.
Multiple Package Options
DIRECTV Stream is available in four differing channel packages such as the ENTERTAINMENT package which has 65+ channels at $69. 99/month and the PREMIER package with 140+ channels at $139. 99/month. There are also Spanish language and international packages that can be subscribed to.
Cloud DVR & Simultaneous Streams
DIRECTV Stream now offers unlimited cloud DVR for recording your favorite shows and a limited number of streams depending on your selected package. For instance, the ENTERTAINMENT package comes with a feature that permits two streams at a time.
No Long-Term Contract
Like most cable systems, there are no long-term contracts that come with the DIRECTV Stream. There are no early termination fees, and you can cancel your subscription at any time.
What is DIRECTV Internet?
DIRECTV Internet is another broadband Internet service that uses satellite technology, and it is also from the DIRECTV family. It provides broadband connection to places that might not even have DSL, dial-up, or any other choice at all.
Here’s an overview of DIRECTV Internet service:
Satellite Internet Service
DIRECTV Internet offers home internet connection through the help of satellites in space with high technology. At your home, a small dish and a modem are placed to receive the signal from the satellite and to send data.
Available Anywhere with a Clear View of South Sky
Because it is satellite-based, the DIRECTV Internet can deliver fast home internet with possible coverage all over the United States given the satellite dish has a clear view of the southern sky. This makes it an option for rural areas because they may not afford the more expensive bridges.
Download Speeds Up to 100 Mbps
DIRECTV Internet is available with download speeds of up to 100 Mbps depending on the plan you opt for. This is similar to the cable internet connection speed that many companies offer. Nevertheless, it offers uploads of only 3 Mbps.
Data Caps Apply
All DirectV Internet services have a monthly data cap, which suggests that there is a limit on the amount of data that may be consumed every month after which the speeds are slowed down. The base plan allows you as low as 35 GB for the data allotment and a maximum of 150 GB in the premium package.
How DIRECTV Stream and Internet Differ
Although DirectV offers both services, DirecTV Stream and DirectV Internet provide their offerings using wholly distinct technologies: Although DirectV offers both services, DirecTV Stream and DirectV Internet delivery depends on fundamentally distinct technologies:
Method of Delivery
DIRECTV Stream relies on your high-speed internet connection and delivers content through the internet to other devices in your house. DIRECTV Internet itself refers to the home internet service that is delivered through a satellite dish.
Type of Service
DIRECTV Stream is an online streaming TV service like Sling TV or YouTube TV whereas DIRECTV Internet offers a home internet connection like cable or DSL.
Contract and Cancellation Differences
DIRECTV Stream does not have an annual contract, unlike DIRECTV Internet where one is bound to a 24-month contract. DIRECTV Stream can be canceled at any time while DIRECTV Internet attracts early termination fees if canceled before the contract period expires.
Access to DIRECTV Regular Satellite TV
DIRECTV Stream is a streaming service that provides live channels, but it does not offer satellite programming from the DIRECTV platform. This service is only available to the DIRECTV satellite subscribers as well as other special programs such as NFL Sunday Ticket.
Do You Need Both?
DIRECTV Stream does not require a certain internet service provider and connection speed but for optimum experience, a minimum of 10 Mbps is recommended. That means you do not necessarily have to subscribe to DIRECTV Internet to get the DIRECTV Stream.
However, for those who do not have cable/fiber internet, there is always DIRECTV Internet that facilitates broadband to enable services such as DIRECTV Stream. Thus, in many cases, especially in rural areas, the satellite internet service remains the only available solution.
Thus, the decision on whether you require both or just one of these DIRECTV services depends on your present location and the Internet that connects your home as we speak.
So, this list of differences can help you understand what distinguishes DIRECTV Stream and DIRECTV Internet from each other! Please let me know if you need any additional information.