Does DIRECTV STREAM have local channels?

Is It Worth It to Switch from DIRECTV to DIRECTV STREAM?

DIRECTV, a part of AT&T, has long been one of the leading satellite TV services in the United States. Despite this, with the introduction of streaming TV services such as DIRECTV STREAM, several of the long-time DIRECTV satellite subscribers are planning to switch. But is it really worth it? In this article, we’ll take a look at the main differences between the traditional satellite TV service, DIRECTV, and the streaming version of this service, DIRECTV STREAM, with the goal of helping you decide if upgrading is worth it for you.

DIRECTV vs, DIRECTV STREAM: Package Comparison & Channels

Channel and content are among the critical factors that should be considered when making the balance. DIRECTV has one of the biggest selections of channels from any TV provider with starting packages at 155+ channels and going up to 330+ channels. It offers local networks, popular cable networks, regional sports networks, and optional extra packages, such as HBO and SHOWTIME.

DIRECTV STREAM has a more limited number of overall channels compared to the satellite service but offers a solid channel range of 69+ to 140+ channels. The streaming service is just as comprehensive with most of the popular cable channels and regional sports networks included. There is also the option to add on premium channels though the total number is relatively lower than that in the DIRECTV satellite. Hence, if one wants the most extensive channel choices, the satellite television from DIRECTV remains the most extensive.

Which is why there might be sufficient choices of your preferred channels on DIRECTV STREAM if you are not a huge fan of sports or movies that require every channel out there. For most households who are trying to eliminate cable from their lives, the streaming packages should be sufficient in the number of channels offered.

DIRECTV vs DIRECTV STREAM: Comparing Video Quality

Satellite vs streaming video quality once had DIRECTV standing tall with better video quality. However, with advancements in streaming technology and internet connection, DIRECTV STREAM can also deliver HD quality similar to satellite on compatible devices.

DIRECTV satellite TV is an excellent option for the highest picture quality and less likelihood of the picture freezing or getting pixelated like it can happen with streaming. This makes it a better option for the lovers of movies and sports that require the sharpest picture at every time.

However, I want to point out that the video quality of DIRECTV STREAM is significantly better than previous streaming services. The service delivers great picture quality with minimal buffering or quality degradation if you have a fast high-speed internet connection of at least 15 Mbps for the 1080p HD resolution. Thus, in general, when comparing the quality of videos, it is quite similar for most spectators for both of them.

Weighing the Cost Differences

In deciding between DIRECTV and DIRECTV STREAM, the other major factor that many customers consider is the costs and charges. This consideration will really depend on the specific packages and extra add-ons that are selected.

When comparing the basic plans of each service, it is found that DIRECTV STREAM is generally $5-10 cheaper than DIRECTV packages. But, DIRECTV satellite often has special offers with lower prices for the first year, thus making the expenses similar to or even less than those of streaming for the first year.

DIRECTV also has lower equipment, installation, and activation charges than the steep initial costs required to acquire streaming devices for DIRECTV STREAM. Thus, although the basic rates for streaming packages are somewhat lower, you will spend more on DIRECTV STREAM at the beginning.

When it comes to additional features, such as the DVR service, HD channels, or premium movie channels, DIRECTV satellite tends to stay slightly cheaper. Therefore if you wish to indulge yourself with all the glamour then the amount of savings usually tends to pile up more in the case with satellite.

Comparing the Pros and Cons of DIRECTV and DIRECTV STREAM

To recap the key points, lets look at the major pros and cons of each service:To recap the key points, lets look at the major pros and cons of each service:

DIRECTV Satellite Pros:

• Largest channel selection

• This is highly reliable and dependable HD video quality.

• Other features of the Genie DVR include

• Reduced costs for premium extras

• This price plan is usually lower than the normal price and is usually used for promotional purposes in the initial stages of the service offer.

  Cons:

• For this system to work, it is highly recommended that satellite dish installation is done.

• Held captive by a long-term contract

• Potential weather-related interruptions

• There are no streaming options, and there is no mobile application.

  DIRECTV STREAM Pros:

• We do not have any contracts and there are no hidden fees.

• Record live television with an unlimited DVR feature.

• Streaming on multiple mobile devices within and outside the home

• Somewhat lower basic offers

• No dish required and easy to self-install.

  Cons:

• Smaller channel selection

• More streaming glitches can be expected

• Mandatory purchase of streaming devices at own cost

• While it does offer some basic DVR features, it lacks some of the advanced functions like Genie.

  Therefore, is it worthwhile to stop using the original DIRECTV satellite service and use the new model known as DIRECTV STREAM? It is possible to provide both the proponents and opponents of the concept with good arguments. While streaming has become more popular and convenient, especially with devices such as Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, DIRECTV satellite is still better in terms of channels, reliability and overall cost if you want all the channels and the extra perks. However, there are major benefits that come with DIRECTV STREAM such as the ability to watch from any location, no commitment to the service provider, and the ability to stream using a mobile device. DIRECTV STREAM offers quite a value-oriented solution for those cord-cutters who want to upgrade their TV experience in a convenient and efficient way. Of course satellite remains the premium pay TV experience, but streaming does enough to match in enough areas that most households won’t miss satellite after moving to DIRECTV STREAM.