Is DIRECTV STREAM the same as DIRECTV?

DIRECTV STREAM and DIRECTV – What is the difference?

DIRECTV STREAM is very similar to DIRECTV on first glance – it has similar name and it delivers live TV channels through a set-top box. That being said, there are some distinctions between the two services that you should know if you are planning on subscribing to satellite or streaming TV.

What is DIRECTV STREAM?

DIRECTV STREAM is an online streaming TV which is an affiliate of DIRECTV. YahLive has live TV channels that can be accessed through the internet connection rather than using a satellite dish. DIRECTV STREAM has a streaming box and a remote which are connected to a TV for live TV as well as on-demand shows and movies.

Some key things to know about DIRECTV STREAM:Some key things to know about DIRECTV STREAM:

• No satellite dish needed – It broadcasts channels through the World Wide Web

• Live television and over 2000 movies and programs are available on this app.

• Entertainment packages contain entertainment, news, and sports channels.

• Cloud DVR allows the user to record programs for future viewing

• Works on phones, tablets, computers, and most streaming devices that connect to your television.

• No annual contract needed, completely without a contract

  What is DIRECTV?

  DIRECTV, while operated under the same corporate umbrella as DIRECTV STREAM, is a more conventional satellite television provider. DIRECTV needs a satellite dish at your home through which it picks its signals from satellites in space. This makes it possible to watch the channels and the programmes through coaxial cables from the satellite dish as opposed to going through the internet.

  Here are some key DIRECTV satellite service details:Here are some key DIRECTV satellite service details:

• Satellite receiver and professional installation needed

• Provides a wider range of programming with focus on specialized and foreign channels

• Genie DVR system that is more advanced and can store lots of information.

• Some channels not influenced by bad weather such as rain or snow

• That is why it is often possible to get the best price only when signing a 2-year contract with the provider.

• Accessibility somewhat confined to the location of your satellite dish at home

  What About the Channel Lineups?

  DIRECTV STREAM and DIRECTV have the most-watched networks such as ESPN, TNT, Nickelodeon, and local broadcasting stations. As a whole, DIRECTV has more channels compared to the newly launched DIRECTV STREAM, but the latter provides the most significant bundle of the necessary essential entertainment and news networks.

  The basic package for DIRECTV STREAM comes with 65+ channels. DIRECTV STREAM step-up packages offer additional channels from a choice of up to 140+ channels offered by the service. OPTIONS packages in DIRECTV consist of over 155 channels, while the PREMIER package may offer as many as 330+ channels.

  Therefore, if the concern is to access the largest number of channels, satellite based DIRECTV wins here hands down with a more extensive and richer list of channels. However, DIRECTV STREAM still allows for a great set of the most popular networks in the library.

  What are the differences in the Price of each Service?

  DIRECTV has professional installation of satellite equipment, and packages need a 2-year term which makes them offer promotional prices. DIRECTV STREAM does not offer contracts on its packages so it has more stable package prices.

  Here is a comparison of pricing if getting the ENTERTAINMENT package on each service:Here is a comparison of pricing if getting the ENTERTAINMENT package on each service:

  DIRECTV STREAM ENTERTAINMENT Package

  $69. 99 per month No annual contract Unlimited cloud DVR included 3 concurrent device streams

  DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT Package

  $64. 99 per month for the first twelve months 2-year contract required Advanced Genie HD DVR – $10/mo $17 activation fee 2 device streams

  Consequently, DIRECTV enters at a lower price initially, but a higher price is charged after the first year of service. DIRECTV STREAM provides more choices without contracts in the mix. They also have additional packages above the base ENTERTAINMENT that includes a bigger number of channels at a higher monthly price.

  What exactly is the Difference in Sports Content?

  DIRECTV and its streaming version, DIRECTV STREAM, are well-suited for sports enthusiasts as they both offer numerous national sports channels like ESPN, FS1, and the NFL Network. Regional sports networks such as NBC Sports Bay Area can be somewhat different depending on your geographical location.

  DIRECTV has a service known as NFL SUNDAY TICKET and this is a subscription service that allows the clients to watch all the out of market Sunday NFL football games during a particular season. This is a very popular choice for football enthusiasts which is currently not offered by DIRECTV STREAM.

  So in terms of sports both are good but serious NFL fans may opt for the DIRECTV satellite service because of this premium add-on package which is not available anywhere else.

  What Distinguishes the Equipment in the Two Services?

  DIRECTV STREAM does not require satellite to broadcast itself over the network and hence, the equipment required for it is relatively simple. DIRECTV utilizes a high power satellite dish, multiple receivers, and coaxial wiring spread throughout the home. It is advisable to seek professional installation since the process is rather intricate.

  The only hardware you will require is the streaming box that connects to your TV, similar to a DVD player or game console. It is as easy as plugging in the device even for an individual with little or no knowledge of technology. You plug the streaming device into your home’s WiFi to be able to have access to the service.

  What About the HD or 4K Support?

  DIRECTV comes with High Definition channels and on-demand content while DIRECTV STREAM also has the feature. As for most channels, up to 1080p is supported, so the picture that is shown will be rather clear and sharp. While comparing satellite vs streaming video, DIRECTV used to offer more options for HD because of the increased bandwidth from satellites. However, with broadband internet speeds, DIRECTV STREAM currently is on par with or even has better HD availability than the satellite service in most locations around the country.

  Another area where 4K video support is still restricted in both services. DIRECTV offers 4K for a few on-demand movies and events where available. At the time of this writing, it is important to note that DIRECTV STREAM does not offer any live programming in 4K. Therefore, both services do not have a lot of 4K ultra HD content available at the moment.

  Which is Better Overall In Terms of Value?

  The better value overall depends on the requirements of the contract obligations, equipment configurations, channel options and the cost sensitive features. If you’re willing to sacrifice the lowest price point and don’t mind the lack of two-year price lock, going with a DIRECTV via satellite dish is the better option.

  However, the best overall user experience is with DIRECTV STREAM due to no contracts, easy streaming hardware, clean design, and affordable channel packages from $70-$150 per month. Currently, most households require high-definition video quality, and both services offer an almost equal level of picture clarity, making DIRECTV STREAM highly convenient and easy to use.

  In Summary:

  DIRECTV STREAM removes the complexity of subscription TV by harmoniously incorporating live channels into contemporary streaming gadgets. On the other hand, AT&T Directv satellite service uses advanced broadcasting technology but involves professional installation and making holes on the wall. For an uninterrupted live TV experience with flexibility in packages, DIRECTV STREAM stands out. However, sporting enthusiasts and consumers who are price conscious may still consider making a long-term investment in the DIRECTV Satellite.