DIRECTV Streaming vs. DIRECTV Satellite: Live Streaming or Satellite TV Service – Which Is Better For You?
Our expert analysis says that both DIRECTV's streaming and satellite TV options are too expensive to be worth it for most folks—but the no-contract streaming service is at least easier to escape.
Is DIRECTV streaming or DIRECTV satellite better?
When it comes to DIRECTV, I have years of experience using both the classic satellite dish setup and its streaming form. Which one is better depends on your preferences.
Each DIRECTV service has identical high prices, two-year term agreements, and hidden fees that always seem to pop up. Also, both services are excellent for sports. The biggest differences are channel lineups, delivery method (satellite vs. streaming), devices (Genie or Gemini or Gemini Air) for live TV channels, movies, and shows.
I’ve enjoyed both feature-rich services, but if you forced me to choose, I’d go with DIRECTV’s streaming plans. It’s just simpler to install and use—and cancel without a penalty.
However, my overall recommendation is that DIRECTV plans change too frequently and its prices are much too high; you can often get more bang for your buck elsewhere. Check out YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV or, if you’re still considering a satellite setup, DISH.
But maybe you’re not yet ready to turn your back on DIRECTV—perhaps because you want to access the services’ top-shelf sportsball experience. If so, read on for a deeper comparison of both services.
Compare DIRECTV streaming and satellite plans head-to-head
| Provider | Price* | Connection type | Channel count | DVR storage | Simultaneous recordings | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
DIRECTV (streaming) Best for flexibility |
$89.99–$169.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | Internet | 90–185+ | Unlimited for $10.00/mo. | 5 |
View Plans for DIRECTV STREAM Read DIRECTV Streaming Review |
|
DIRECTV (satellite) Best for DVR and features |
$89.99–$169.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | Satellite | 165–340+ | 200 hrs. (Genie) or 450 hrs. (Gemini) for $10.00/mo. | 3 |
View Plans for DIRECTV Read DIRECTV Satellite Review |
Data effective as of post date. Not all offers are available in all areas. See full disclaimer for details.
Let’s recap the similarities and differences between DIRECTV’s streaming and satellite plans.
DIRECTV’s streaming plans have 90–185+ channels—that’s a good bit less than its satellite plans. That’s not such a big deal because the lineups are curated to include mostly popular channels—you won’t get as many filler channels as you find on DIRECTV.
DIRECTV’s streaming plans connect to your home Wi-Fi network and deliver your channels via either the Gemini Air device (first one’s free), or one of several streaming devices that support the DIRECTV app.
Pro tip: If DIRECTV’s traditional plans are too expensive, but you like the brand, check out DIRECTV’s Genre Packs. These themed packages are dedicated to entertainment, kids, news, and sports content, featuring smaller price tags. They also have fewer channels—but more of the ones you want—and some even include streaming services like Disney+, ESPN Select, Hulu, and HBO Max.
If satellite TV is your only option, we think DIRECTV is the best in the biz. Still, some folks love DISH Network, which has slightly fewer channels than DIRECTV, but almost as many sports networks and add-ons. DISH also has the more powerful Hopper 3 DVR and similarly guarantees your monthly payment for two years.
However, as I mentioned, I steer people away from DIRECTV and towards live TV streaming services like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. While they have fewer channels than DIRECTV, I’ve found they offer better overall value with better affordability, no hidden fees, curated lineups of popular channels, and free unlimited cloud DVR storage.
DIRECTV streaming vs. satellite prices and plans: Both are expensive
DIRECTV’s streaming and satellite services each have four plans with similar monthly payments—but wildly divergent channel counts. Let’s see how they rate in terms of overall value.
DIRECTV streaming pricing and plans
| Package | Price* | Channel count | Popular channels | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENTERTAINMENT | $89.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 90+ | AMC, CNN, ESPN, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, MSNBC, Nickelodeon, and TLC | View Plan |
| CHOICE™ | $94.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 125+ | Bravo, Disney, IFC, Nick Jr., OWN, Science, Travel Channel, and UniMás | View Plan |
| ULTIMATE | $124.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 160+ | Magnolia Network, Golf Channel, LOGO, Nat Geo WILD, NHL Network, and Universal Kids | View Plan |
| PREMIER | $169.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 185+ | CINEMAX®, STARZ®, Paramount+ Premium and HBO MaxTM | View Plan |
Data effective as of post date. Not all offers are available in all areas. See full disclaimer for details.
All live TV streaming services, not just DIRECTV, have fewer channels than cable and satellite TV services. So it’s not like DIRECTV is trying to give you less for your money. It’s how live TV streaming services roll—they offer quality over quantity or more popular channels instead of filler networks.
The streaming CHOICE plan ($94.99/mo., 125+ channels) is the best value. With CHOICE and ULTIMATE ($124.99/mo., 160 channels) packages, new customers get three free months of CINEMAX, MGM+, HBO Max, Paramount+ Premium, and STARZ. But if you go with PREMIER ($169.99/mo., 185+ channels), those premium channels are a permanent part of your plan.
DIRECTV satellite pricing and plans
| Package | Price* | Channel count | Popular channels | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENTERTAINMENT | $89.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 175+ | AMC, CNN, ESPN, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, MSNBC, Nickelodeon, and TLC | View Plan |
| CHOICE™ | $94.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 215+ | Bravo, Disney, IFC, Nick Jr., OWN, Science, Travel Channel, and UniMás | View Plan |
| ULTIMATE | $124.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 270+ | Magnolia Network, Golf Channel, LOGO, Nat Geo WILD, NHL Network, and Universal Kids | View Plan |
| PREMIER™ | $169.99/mo. for 24 mos. plus taxes and fees | 350+ | CINEMAX, STARZ, Paramount+ Premium, and HBO Max | View Plan |
Data effective as of post date. Not all offers are available in all areas. See full disclaimer for details.
DIRECTV’s satellite and streaming packages are essentially the same in terms of popular channels. The difference is that the streaming packages cut out the filler channels you’ll probably never watch.
Both providers now charge close to the same price for their plans—but the channel counts are vastly different, as I’ve shown.
Pro tip: Check out our guide to the Hidden Costs of DIRECTV, which explains all of the service’s various hidden charges, including fees for activation, devices, early cancellation, late payments, local channels, and more.
DIRECTV streaming and satellite plans have different equipment and DVR storage
When it comes to DVRs, the DIRECTV Genie (200 hours) and Genie 2 (450 hours) are powerful units with limited streaming app support. That said, the DIRECTV Gemini (450–unlimited hours) and Gemini Air (unlimited hours) aren’t as feature-rich as the Genies, but their accompanying cloud DVR storage is much greater. Check out each device’s vital statistics below.
DIRECTV streaming vs. satellite DVR
| DVR | Price | Storage | Simultaneous recordings | Video quality | Streaming app support | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV Gemini Air (optional) | $10.00/mo. | Unlimited (cloud) | 3 | Up to 4K | Disney+, ESPN, Hulu, HBO Max, Paramount+, Peacock | View Plans for DIRECTV |
| DIRECTV Genie | $10.00/mo. | 200 hrs. (physical) | 5 | Up to 4K | HBO Max, Netflix, Pandora | View Plans for DIRECTV |
| DIRECTV Genie 2 (wireless) | $10.00/mo. | 450 hrs. (cloud) | 7 | Up to 4K | HBO Max, Netflix, Pandora | View Plans for DIRECTV |
| DIRECTV Gemini | $10.00/mo. | 450 hrs.–unlimited (cloud) | 3 | Up to 4K | Disney+, ESPN, Hulu, HBO Max, Netflix, Paramount+, Peacock, Prime Video | View Plans for DIRECTV |
Data effective as of post date. Not all offers are available in all areas. See full disclaimer for details.
DIRECTV Gemini Air and cloud DVR
When you sign up for DIRECTV’s streaming plans, you can choose to use the service’s new Gemini Air device ($10.00 per month), which includes a universal voice remote, support for most major streaming apps, and unlimited DVR. Or you can save ten bucks a month by using one of the many streaming devices, smartphones, or tablets that you probably already own—and already support the DIRECTV app.
Unlimited cloud DVR has a nine-month keep time for recordings, and that sure beats DIRECTV’s old cloud DVR offer: A measly 20 hours free or unlimited storage for $10.00 a month, with only a 90-day keep time. It’s also infinitely more DVR storage than you get with the Genies.
DIRECTV Genie DVRs and wireless Gemini
If you like to keep movies, shows, and sporting events to watch at your leisure, the best option is DIRECTV’s Genie (200 hours, five simultaneous recordings) or wireless Genie 2 (450 hours, three simultaneous recordings). The Genie DVRs don’t auto-delete your recordings unless you’re out of storage.
The basic Genie (wired) has enough storage and tuners for most users. The Genie 2 is best for committed couch creatures and their binge-watching habits, and the unit is wireless so you can avoid cable clutter. Another wireless option is the Gemini (different from the Gemini Air), which includes a universal voice remote, streaming app support, and 450 hours of cloud DVR storage.
If you have multiple TVs, you can add DIRECTV on up to seven more screens in your home with additional Genie or Gemini devices ($10.00 a month each). To learn more about DIRECTV whole-home DVR, check out our DIRECTV Genie review.
DIRECTV satellite vs. streaming installation = simple vs. complicated
Installing and setting up DIRECTV’s streaming plans is a breeze. In fewer than five minutes, I downloaded the app to my Roku Ultra and smartphone, signed in, and started browsing what to watch while also building my watchlist. (Note: We haven’t tested the Gemini Air device. When we do, we’ll update this article. For now, it’s safe to assume the setup process will be just as easy.)
The installation process is much more complicated, and potentially frustrating, with DIRECTV’s satellite service. It required setting up an install appointment where a technician installed the dish on my roof, drilled cable holes into my house, and set up my Genie DVR. That involved taking time off work and took significantly longer to complete. Also, apartment dwellers may need to have their landlord sign an installation approval form. On the bright side, installation is free of charge.
DIRECTV streaming vs. satellite: Two services, one streaming app
Comparing DIRECTV’s apps is a little tricky. Allow us to elaborate.
DIRECTV streaming app
All streaming services are based around an app that you use on a compatible device like a Chromecast, gaming console, personal computer, smart TV, smartphone, streaming stick, or tablet. So, while the DIRECTV app is an extra way to enjoy your DIRECTV satellite package on the go, it’s the main way to use the streaming service.
When I put the DIRECTV app to the test, I quickly understood why it boasts such high ratings—4.6 out of 5.0 on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. From my perspective, the app consistently delivered an easy, intuitive user experience across every platform I tried.
One of the first things that struck me was the app’s incredible device compatibility. I found it worked seamlessly with my Android and iOS devices, Amazon Fire TV sticks, Apple TV, Chromecast, NVIDIA Shield, and even my Roku. I also experimented with it on my Google and Roku smart TVs, as well as various internet browsers, and had no issues whatsoever. It’s safe to say you probably already own something that works with it.
Now, on the downside, I was a bit disappointed to discover there’s no gaming console support. As a gamer, that’s a feature I’d love to see in the future. But I was pleasantly surprised to find that the app is compatible with the Apple Vision Pro virtual reality device and even select Peloton models, which is a nice touch.
The DIRECTV device compatibility page offers all the nitty-gritty details like specific model numbers and operating system requirements.
DIRECTV streaming vs. DIRECTV satellite FAQ
How much does DIRECTV's streaming plans cost?
DIRECTV has four streaming plans priced $89.99–$169.99/mo. a month for 90–185+ channels.
Can I stream DIRECTV if I have DIRECTV?
You can stream your DIRECTV live channels, on-demand content, and DVR recordings with the DIRECTV App, which is free to current DIRECTV subscribers.
Is DIRECTV streaming worth it?
If you’re asking about the DIRECTV live TV streaming service, we think it’s too expensive to be worth it, unless you're a sports lover. But if you’re asking about streaming DIRECTV through its mobile app, we think it adds a ton of value to your DIRECTV subscription.
How much does DIRECTV cost after one year?
DIRECTV no longer has a second-year price hike—the satellite TV provider now offers a two-year price guarantee. Current DIRECTV prices are $89.99–$169.99/mo..
Why you should trust us
At CableTV.com, we constantly analyze prices, plans, and specifications of TV providers like DIRECTV so our readers can make informed buying decisions. We’ve also tested DIRECTV streaming and DIRECTV satellite from signup through activation, and surveyed other customers to see what they thought about providers. To learn more about our process, see our How We Rank page.
Disclaimer
Satellite:
ENTERTAINMENT: ($99.99/mo. w/req’d $10/mo. TV Access Fee) w/24-mo. agmt. Autopay and paperless bill req’d. One-time $49.95 activation fee is extra and applies.
CHOICE: ($124.98/mo. w/req’d $10/mo. TV Access Fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $19.99/mo.) w/ 24-mo.agmt. Autopay and paperless bill req’d. One-time $49.95 activation fee is extra and applies.
ULTIMATE: ($154.98/mo. w/req’d $10/mo. TV Access Fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $19.99/mo.) w/ 24-mo.agmt. Autopay and paperless bill req’d. One-time $49.95 activation fee is extra and applies.
PREMIER™: ($199.98/mo. w/req’d $10/mo. TV Access Fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $19.99/mo.) w/ 24-mo. agmt. Autopay and paperless bill req’d. One-time $49.95 activation fee is extra and applies.
Streaming:
ENTERTAINMENT: Up to $94.99/mo. w/ req’d fees . Price reflects $5 off for 24 mos.
CHOICE: Up to $89.98/mo. w/ req’d fees for 1st mo; $114.98/mo. for months 2-24. Price reflects $35 off for 1st mo; $10 for mos. 2-24.
ULTIMATE: Up to $114.98/mo. w/ req’d fees for 1st mo; $139.98/mo. for months 2-24. Price reflects $40 off for 1st mo; $15 for mos. 2-24.
PREMIER™: Up to $154.98/mo. w/ req’d fees for 1st mo; $179.98/mo. for months 2-24. Price reflects $45 off for 1st mo; $20 for mos. 2-24.
OPTIMO MÁS: ($94.99/mo. w/ $10/mo. Gemini lease fee). Cancel anytime.
