Product Overview: DirecTV Stream
Website: streamtv.directv.com
Cost: Entertainment Plus Sports Pack $101.98/mo Choice $114.99/mo Ultimate $129.99/mo Premier $169.99/mo
General Entertainment Streaming Services: AMC+ $6.99/mo Discovery+ $4.99/mo Peacock $4.99/mo Fox Nation $5.99/mo Allblk $5.99/mo A & E Crime Central $4.99/mo History Vault $4.99/mo Acorn TV $7.99/mo BET+ $10.99/mo
Add-ons: Movies Extra Pack $4.99/mo Sports Pack $14.99/mo NBA League Pass $24.99/mo during season
Premium Add-ons: MGM Premium $6.99/mo Starz Pack $10.99/mo Paramount+ With Showtime $10.99/mo Cinemax Pack $10.99/mo Max Pack $15.99/mo
Regional Sports fee: $10.00 to $17.99/mo
Launching: Founded by AT&T and launched on November 30, 2016, initially under the name DirecTV Now. Rebranded twice since, AT&T TV Now in 2019 and finally DirecTV Stream in 2021
DirecTV Stream is a game-changer in the world of streaming. Trust me, whether you’re a long-time cord-cutter or just looking for a flexible alternative to traditional cable, this might be the thing you’ve been waiting for.
This service goes beyond the clunky cable boxes and messy setups we all tried to escape from. With a sleek interface, straightforward navigation, and that sweet, sweet freedom of streaming anytime and anywhere, DirecTV Stream offers a modern solution for today’s viewing needs.
No more flipping through endless channels of nonsense. DirecTV Stream provides tailor-made plans that offer you exactly what you want. Think of it like getting a perfect pizza with all your favorite toppings, minus the pineapple if you’re not into that weird flavor combo.
It’s important to really understand how DirecTV Stream gives you options. You get four service plans to choose from, starting at $101.98/month with a decent lineup of over 90 channels. They’ve packed this service with everything from local networks to premium offerings, giving you the ability to customize based on what you actually watch.
Streaming has changed the landscape of how we consume entertainment. That’s why a comprehensive review like this one is key. We’ll break down all the nitty-gritty details so you can make an informed decision that suits your viewing habits and budget.
Get ready to ditch the old school and step into the future with DirecTV Stream.
Plan Options and Pricing
Let’s get down to what you’re really curious about—the different plans and how much each one will set you back. Trust me, the options are pretty versatile, so there’s something for everyone.
First off, we have the Entertainment plus Sports Pack, which is the entry-level option at $86.99/month after a $15.00 discount for the first two months. It comes with over 90 channels, including local favorites like ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and PBS. It’s a solid choice if you just want the basics without spending too much.
Moving up a notch is the Choice Plan at $94.99/month after a $20.00 discount for the first three months. You get a beefier lineup with over 125 channels. This plan is perfect for sports enthusiasts, including regional sports networks and ESPN. It’s a nice middle ground if you’re into a bit of everything.
Next up is the Ultimate Plan. At $109.99/month after a $20.00 discount the first three months. You get 160+ channels, including specialty sports channels and a broad range of entertainment and lifestyle networks. For folks who want it all but aren’t ready to splurge on the most expensive option, this one’s a winner.
At the top of the heap is the Premier Plan. Priced at $149.99/month after a $20.00 discount for the first three months. This plan offers a whopping 185+ channels and includes premium networks like Cinemax, MAX, and Paramount+ with Showtime. If you want the full package and then some, this is where it’s at.
You should also know that there are extra fees and taxes that can add up to $30/month to these prices. It’s a bit of a bummer, but it’s something to factor into your budget.
Overall, despite the additional costs, these plans offer a good range of choices to fit different viewing needs. Think about your must-have channels and what you might miss if you don’t have them. This way, you can pick a plan that strikes the right balance between cost and content.
Features and Benefits
DirecTV Stream isn’t just about a wide range of channels and flexible pricing. It’s loaded with features that make your viewing experience top-notch.
One standout feature is the unlimited cloud DVR storage. You can record as many shows and movies as you want, without worrying about running out of space. For binge-watchers and sports fans, this is an absolute game-changer. Never miss your favorite game-winning moment or that cliffhanger episode again.
Local channels are part of the package, no matter which plan you pick. This means you can still catch your local news, sports, and community events. Having those familiar channels mixed with a vast array of national ones keeps you connected to your community while enjoying diverse content.
The Gemini Air streaming device is a neat addition. It’s included in the plans, making the transition to DirecTV Stream even smoother. This little gadget makes it easy to navigate through channels and access all the services you need without any fuss. It’s simple, effective, and keeps your setup looking clean.
Sports fans will love the extensive lineup of sports channels. From ESPN to regional sports networks, DirecTV Stream has you covered. Whether it’s football, basketball, or even niche sports, you’re bound to find something to cheer for.
Higher-end plans come with premium channels like Cinemax, MAX, and Paramount+ with Showtime. It’s like getting all the toppings on your pizza—pure entertainment bliss.
One more thing to love is the unlimited simultaneous streaming on devices connected to your home network. Plus, you can stream on up to 3 devices when you’re out and about. This flexibility ensures everyone in the house can watch what they want, when they want, without arguing over the remote.
Taken together, these features and benefits make DirecTV Stream a compelling choice for both casual viewers and hardcore TV enthusiasts.
Limitations and Drawbacks
While DirecTV Stream has a lot to offer, it’s not without its downsides. Here’s what you need to watch out for before making a decision.
First off, there’s the two-year service contract. This is a pretty hefty commitment considering the rapidly evolving streaming landscape. If you decide to cancel before the contract ends, be prepared to pay an early termination fee. It’s a good idea to weigh the long-term cost before locking yourself in.
Another bummer is the additional fees and taxes, which can increase your total bill by up to $30/month. What seems like an affordable plan can get pricey once you factor these in. Transparency in billing is essential, and this is something that can catch folks off guard.
Also, DirecTV Stream isn’t compatible with gaming consoles and most streaming sticks like Roku or Apple TV. If you’re already invested in those devices, you’ll need their proprietary Gemini Air streaming device, which may limit the flexibility you are accustomed to.
The free trial is another area where DirecTV Stream falls short. They offer only a 5-day trial, which doesn’t give much time to explore all the features and decide if it’s the right fit for you. Compared to other services offering longer trials, this is a bit stingy. Personally, the 5-day free trial is not a biggie. I mean, come on it is only two days shorter than most of their competitors. I believe most people could make up their mind in five days.
Users have also reported that the Gemini Air device can be hit or miss. Some folks need frequent reboots to keep it working properly, which can be frustrating. It’s crucial to have a smooth, hassle-free experience, and occasional tech hiccups can be a real downer.
Lastly, when compared to competitors, DirecTV Stream’s overall cost is higher especially when you add in those pesky fees and taxes. You may end up paying more for similar services elsewhere. Make sure to compare alternatives and see what gives you the best bang for your buck.
So, while DirecTV Stream offers a lot of features and flexibility, these limitations are worth considering before you sign up.
User Experience and Final Thoughts
DirecTV Stream is all about blending a traditional TV experience with modern streaming convenience. Users generally have a positive experience, especially when it comes to navigating the interface and accessing a wide range of content.
Customer reviews are mostly favorable. Many praise the cloud DVR feature and the extensive channel lineup. However, complaints about the contract and early termination fee do pop up. Some users find the initial setup and installation process straightforward, while others encounter technical issues with the Gemini Air streaming device. It seems like a mixed bag depending on your tech comfort level.
The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly. The guide makes it easy to browse channels and find content, which is a huge plus. Switching between live TV and on-demand content is seamless, giving you the best of both worlds. However, those used to more simplistic devices may find the learning curve a bit steep.
Comparing DirecTV Stream to other streaming services, it holds up fairly well. Services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV offer similar features but may have better device compatibility or longer free trials. If unlimited DVR and a huge sports lineup are must-haves, DirecTV Stream comes out ahead.
Unfortunately, DirecTV Stream still carries the two of the most important reasons to make the change from cable tv to streaming tv. One is the freedom of not being locked in for an extended period of time, if you decide you don’t like the service, with most streaming services, you change services. You lose that freedom with DirecTV Stream. You leave early and then you have to pay for it. Two is the overall costs. With all of their fees added to their already high prices makes DirecTV Stream for a pretty easy “no thank you, I will go with someone else!”
I have been kind of hard on DirecTV Stream. DirecTV Stream offers a wealth of features and base plans to cater to various needs. The unlimited DVR storage, local channels, and extensive sports options are compelling. They are the most like a cable tv than any other services, so the transition from cable to streaming should be seamless. But the two-year contract, additional fees, and device limitations are notable drawbacks. Weighing the pros and cons will help you decide if this service aligns with your entertainment needs.
As DirecTV Stream continues to evolve, it’s worth keeping an eye on upcoming updates and improvements. If the current setup matches what you’re looking for, it’s definitely a strong contender in the streaming market.
As always, if you have any questions or comments for me, leave them below and I will get back to you.
All the best,
Hello,
Wow, this is a very detailed and balanced review, thank you for breaking everything down! I love how you have highlighted the standout features like unlimited DVR storage and the extensive sports options, but you are also honest about the drawbacks like the two-year contract and extra fees.
It is super helpful to see the pros and cons laid out so clearly. The comparison with other streaming services also gives great perspective. I am definitely rethinking my streaming options after reading this!
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m really glad you found the review helpful and balanced. My goal is to provide clear insights into the strengths and challenges of each service so readers like you can make informed decisions. And I believe that all of the streaming services available are good selections for each person’s unique life situations.
It’s great to hear that the comparison with other streaming options helped give some perspective—that’s exactly what I aim for! If you have any specific questions or need more details as you rethink your streaming options, feel free to ask. I’m always happy to help.