Does DIRECTV STREAM require a satellite dish?

DIRECTV STREAM is a well-known live television streaming service that carries numerous cable networks and regional sports networks. In contrast to the DIRECTV satellite TV service, DIRECTV STREAM is available exclusively through the internet with no satellite equipment. This makes it quite appealing to many cord cutters who are in the market for a cable service provider.

However, with a name like DIRECTV STREAM, people may have questions if it is required to have the satellite dish for service. The short answer is no – DIRECTV STREAM does not require any special equipment and can be accessed fully over an internet connected device. To learn more about what makes DIRECTV STREAM different from satellite DIRECTV and why no dish is required, keep reading.

What is DIRECTV STREAM?

DIRECTV STREAM also called AT&T TV Now is an over the top streaming service that is subscription based and is under the ownership of DIRECTV. It offers its subscribers a chance to watch Live TV streams through the Internet as opposed to satellite transmission.

It provides many of the same channels that can be accessed from the DIRECTV satellite service; these include ESPN, Discovery, TNT, FX, Fox News, MSNBC, and many others. It is also important to note that the major networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox among others are also available in most markets. Here is a list of devices you can use to stream DIRECTV STREAM: Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, phones, and tablets.

Why No Satellite Dish Required for DIRECTV STREAM

Contrary to the original DIRECTV which is a satellite service that uses a dish installed at your home to bring you channels, DIRECTV STREAM transmits its content through your home broadband internet connection. It does this without requiring any specialised equipment such as satellites or rooftop antenna gear.

DIRECTV STREAM is an OTT streaming service, which means it provides content directly to your devices through the public internet. There is no application to download and all that is required is internet connected streaming device or smart TV. This is one of those applications that you can operate easily using your Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV or any other mobile device. All one has to do is to ensure that they have an internet connection, launch the DIRECTV STREAM app and begin streaming.

You also have the freedom to take DIRECTV STREAM with you when you are on the road or not at home without the need for equipment. All that’s required is an internet enabled device and connection, one can simply login and resume watching the selected channels at any point. It is rather impossible to do that with a satellite dish.

Comparing with Satellite DIRECTV

This confusion is quite reasonable given that the two services are closely associated with each other but are not entirely the same. It is important to note that although these names are very similar, they are two different services that are delivered through two different approaches. Let's take a look at some of the key differences:Let's take a look at some of the key differences:

Satellite DIRECTV entails installation of a satellite dish on the building together with wiring to connect a receiver inside. This binds you to watching from one house rather than the flexibility that comes with streaming. DIRECTV STREAM allows you to take your streaming experience to any place with internet connectivity without being attached to a piece of equipment in a specific location.

DIRECTV utilizes long-term contracts and moving or changing services for the company can be quite complicated. In regards to this, DIRECTV STREAM does not bind you to any form of contract and you can opt out anytime you want.

While satellite DIRECTV depends on the equipment and availability of the southern oriented skies, DIRECTV STREAM is suitable for everyone who has internet connection with desire speeds. This makes streaming possible even for renters, apartments, or areas that are not ideal for a satellite dish.

Although the name suggests they offer a similar service, DIRECTV STREAM provides their service in a completely different manner by transmitting the video streams through the internet. This means no more need for rooftop satellite hardware or complicated installations.

Package and Channel Offerings

DIRECTV STREAM has four major English language live TV services: Entertainment with over 65 channels and Premier with over 150 channels. Towards the higher plans, more channels and features are included to warrant for the corresponding higher monthly subscription fee. Some of the most popular channels offered include:Some of the most popular channels offered include:

A&E ABC Bravo Cartoon Network CBS CNN Discovery Channel Disney Channel E! ESPN Food Network Fox News Fox Sports FS1 FX Hallmark Channel HGTV History Channel Investigation Discovery MSNBC NBC NFL Network Nickelodeon Paramount Network Syfy TBS TLC TNT USA Network

In most of the places, the local affiliate feeds of ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC are provided so that you can easily follow the local news, events and the primetime shows. Local networks on your areas of interest are also usually accessible depending on your chosen packages.

Additional International programming is available through add ons to any base package if you desire more Spanish language plans.

Supported Streaming Devices

As it is an internet-based service, DIRECTV STREAM has apps for most media streaming devices and operating systems. This goes further than having it available on a mobile device. DIRECTV STREAM is currently available for streaming on:DIRECTV STREAM is currently available for streaming on:

Amazon Fire TV and Fire tablets will be subjected to a similar upgrade. Android phones and tablets Apple iPhones and iPads Apple TV 4K and HD Google Chromecast and other devices with Chromecast built in Roku streaming players Samsung Smart TVs

DIRECTV can have on-demand and live programming readily accessible across devices with the support of this company. And you always have the ability to watch it on your compatible phone, tablet, or laptop if you are traveling or away from your television.

No Satellite Required

Hopefully this will shed some light on why DIRECTV STREAM doesn’t need any satellite equipment or how it differs from traditional satellite DIRECTV service. For all other questions regarding the supported devices, availability in your area, current promotions or channel lineups, do not forget to check the DIRECTV STREAM website for more details. Happy streaming!