DirecTV stands out as a leading provider of satellite television and live streaming services across the United States, offering a robust lineup of channels, premium add-ons, and integrated streaming features. As the shift toward flexible and budget-conscious home entertainment grows, more households are re-evaluating their TV service options.
In this guide, find up-to-date information on DirecTV's current deals—breaking down key packages, monthly pricing, bundled value, and available streaming upgrades. Whether you're interested in sports, movies, or live local channels, every essential detail is covered to help evaluate where DirecTV fits in your content strategy.
DirecTV offers four primary satellite TV packages—Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier. Each tier builds upon the next, adding more channels, extensive sports coverage, and premium programming. Whether viewers want news, movies, or live sports, one of these packages aligns closely with individual preferences.
For those preferring a streaming-based experience, DirecTV Stream delivers four similar tiers—Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier—all without the need for satellite equipment.
Stream packages include unlimited cloud DVR storage and support for up to 20 simultaneous household streams. No contract is required, and users can start or stop the service month to month.
DirecTV's pricing structure consists of four primary English-language package tiers. As of mid-2024, these are the standard monthly base rates before promotions or discounts:
Each plan includes access to live TV, on-demand programming, cloud DVR, and three simultaneous stream allowances (via DirecTV STREAM app). Additional streams and DVR upgrades cost extra.
All packages provide basic DVR capability, but capacity and simultaneous streams differ based on upgrade choices:
Regional sports networks (RSNs) are available starting with the Choice package and above with no added fee, a distinction that sets DirecTV apart from many streaming competitors that charge extra for RSNs.
Pricing slightly adjusts based on geographic location due to differences in state and local taxes, public utility fees, and regional sports network surcharges. Here's how these variations typically manifest:
To see exact fees in your area, enter your ZIP code during checkout on DirecTV's official site. The final monthly bill can exceed the base price by $15–$30 depending on those layered, location-based surcharges.
DirecTV updates its promotions regularly, offering substantial short-term savings and added value for both new and current subscribers. These promotions aren’t just generic—they're highly targeted, shifting monthly and shaped by seasonal trends, viewing preferences, and subscriber demand.
The promotional landscape differs based on the service model. DirecTV Stream leans into digital-first benefits—shorter commitments, app-based access, and streaming device compatibility. This flexibility often results in trial-based promotions. For instance, a 7-day free trial is standard, with additional time-extension offers during peak promotional windows.
Meanwhile, DirecTV’s satellite service focuses on long-term value. Seasonal packages may include significant equipment savings, installation credits, or multi-month premium channel giveaways, especially when tied to 24-month contracts.
Across both services, DirecTV frequently includes premium entertainment bundles. These rotate but regularly include:
These bundles typically apply for the first 90 days of service, with automatic renewal at standard rates unless removed beforehand. During high-demand seasons (such as fall premieres or award season), DirecTV occasionally expands free trial windows to four months, maximizing audience appeal.
DirecTV reduces its base pricing for new customers during the first 12 months of service, applying automatic discounts across all core packages. For example, the popular CHOICE package, which normally retails at $123.99/month, starts at $84.99/month for the first year — a $39/month discount totaling $468 in savings over 12 months. This pricing approach applies to ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, ULTIMATE, and PREMIER tiers, each structured with lower introductory rates before reverting to the standard monthly cost in the second year.
New DirecTV subscribers receive included hardware, removing an upfront equipment barrier. The standard setup includes the Gemini device, which combines traditional satellite and streaming functionalities. In addition, new accounts often benefit from Genie HD DVR service at no extra cost. This device supports up to five simultaneous recordings and connects to multiple rooms. Without the promotion, monthly DVR service runs up to $15; this cost is absorbed for first-time users entering under a promotion.
Ordering through DirecTV.com triggers exclusive online-only perks. These promotions vary, but regularly include:
Promotions stack. New subscribers can simultaneously receive first-year pricing, free premium trials, device credits, and online-exclusive rebates — creating a cumulative discount package that dramatically lowers first-year costs.
DirecTV offers a wide range of premium add-ons that allow subscribers to tailor their entertainment experience. Whether you're into blockbuster films, original series, or exclusive documentaries, the available channels meet a variety of content preferences. The lineup includes longstanding heavyweights like HBO Max, Showtime, STARZ, and Cinemax.
Subscribers can choose individual channels or opt for bundle pricing to reduce overall monthly costs. Here's a detailed breakdown of current rates:
Bundle options reduce costs. For example, a package combining HBO Max, Showtime, STARZ, and Cinemax is priced at $30.99/month — a $17 monthly discount versus separate subscriptions.
DirecTV frequently runs free preview weekends for premium channels, especially around holiday weekends and major TV premieres. These promotional periods usually last from Friday to Sunday and are automatically activated without the need to opt in.
In addition to previews, new customers often receive extended free trial periods on select premium networks. Promotional offers can include up to 3 months of HBO Max, STARZ, or Showtime at no charge when bundled into select packages like Choice or Ultimate.
These trial phases present an opportunity to explore each channel’s offerings without an immediate financial commitment. Interested in an upgrade? The changes can take effect instantly through your online account.
DirecTV holds exclusive rights to NFL Sunday Ticket for satellite TV subscribers. This package does not come standard with any base plan and must be added separately. To qualify, customers need to subscribe to DirecTV’s satellite service—streaming-only users do not have access. That limitation creates a distinct value proposition for those choosing a satellite setup, especially in markets where cable and fiber alternatives fall short.
On the other hand, streaming access to NFL Sunday Ticket became possible in 2023 via YouTube and YouTube TV following DirecTV’s loss of digital rights. Those platforms now carry the standalone streaming version, which is sold directly by Google. Therefore, if you require both live access to out-of-market games and DirecTV as your TV backbone, you’ll need the satellite-based package.
To complement NFL Sunday Ticket, DirecTV offers a lineup of dedicated sports add-ons, designed for fans of everything from hockey to international soccer.
DirecTV frequently introduces limited-time NFL promotions starting in late summer, aligning with preseason hype. These offers often include a year of NFL Sunday Ticket at no additional cost when you sign up for a qualifying Choice or higher package, with a 24-month contract. In some cases, subscribers also get discounts on installation and equipment during the same promotional window.
Past campaigns have bundled bonus content, such as Red Zone Channel access, or included expanded DVR capabilities to capture more live sports simultaneously. These deals align with key buyer moments—right before week one—and often expire after kickoff.
DirecTV collaborates closely with AT&T Internet to offer bundled service packages, delivering high-speed connectivity alongside premium television entertainment. In select markets, partnerships with regional fiber and DSL providers extend these bundles beyond AT&T’s direct service areas. These integrated solutions provide a single-provider experience, with synchronized billing, installation scheduling, and technical support.
Bundling Internet with DirecTV consistently generates monthly savings versus purchasing the services separately. For example, a household choosing the ENTERTAINMENT TV package and AT&T Internet 300 typically pays about $119.99/month. Separately, those same services could add up to over $145/month, depending on regional pricing and equipment costs. That’s a savings margin of nearly 18%.
The scale of savings increases with higher-tier plans and faster Internet speeds. Multi-product discounts also apply for households adding AT&T wireless to the mix, through the AT&T Signature Program.
Bundled packages often include more than just a monthly discount. Many offers come with essential equipment at no extra cost:
Bundled customers may also gain early access to exclusive upgrades or service enhancements as new technologies roll out—for example, integration with 5G home Internet where available.
Availability depends heavily on zip code. Urban and suburban regions with AT&T Fiber infrastructure see the widest selection of bundles, especially those involving gigabit Internet speeds. In contrast, rural bundles may utilize DSL or fixed wireless, with more limited combinations. Start by checking availability using your address to unlock the most accurate bundle lineup in your location.
Choosing a traditional DirecTV satellite plan locks you into a 24-month contract. This standard agreement applies to packages like ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, ULTIMATE, and PREMIER. The terms apply regardless of whether promotions or discounts are applied at sign-up.
While the first year often features a reduced rate, the second year reverts to the full standard monthly cost. For example, the CHOICE package may advertise a first-year rate under $85/month, but year two can increase that figure significantly. That pricing structure is embedded in the contract and can't be negotiated mid-term.
DirecTV Stream operates differently. No annual commitment is required. Subscribers pay monthly, and cancellation can be done anytime without penalty. This no-contract structure appeals to viewers who prioritize flexibility or plan to test the service short-term.
DirecTV Stream packages—like ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, ULTIMATE, and PREMIER—mirror the satellite channel lineups but stream over the internet. Customers can access local channels, sports programming, and on-demand content with no installation required.
Canceling a satellite plan before the 24-month term ends triggers an Early Termination Fee (ETF). As of 2024, DirecTV imposes a prorated fee of $20 per remaining month. For example:
There’s no reduction or grace period—fees apply regardless of the reason for cancellation. The moment a satellite customer deactivates service prior to the contract’s conclusion, the ETF is automatically added to the final bill.
DirecTV Stream avoids these fees entirely due to the absence of any long-term commitment. Subscribers who anticipate possible relocation, service dissatisfaction, or changes in content needs often lean toward this pay-as-you-go model for that exact reason.
Planning to stick with DirecTV for two years? Confident the service fits your long-term needs? If so, the satellite contract can work and unlock promotional pricing. But if you'd rather test the waters or pivot without cost, DirecTV Stream delivers that leeway.
DirecTV offers up to 160+ live channels with its Premier package, while YouTube TV streams around 100+ live channels, Hulu + Live TV delivers around 95+, and Sling TV caps out at approximately 40–50, depending on the bundle. That puts DirecTV well ahead in raw channel count. Premium networks such as HBO, STARZ, and Cinemax are available as add-ons across all platforms, but DirecTV frequently bundles them into promotional packages, reducing the need for separate subscriptions.
Sling focuses on leaner, customizable packages, but it doesn’t carry major networks like CBS without an antenna. Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV include the Big Four (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX) and regional sports networks, although blackout restrictions often apply. DirecTV locks in regional sports networks and local broadcasting coast-to-coast without gaps.
On a cost-per-channel basis, DirecTV’s Choice package offers 200+ channels at $84.99/month, translating to roughly $0.42 per channel. YouTube TV costs $72.99/month for 100+ channels—about $0.73 per channel. Hulu + Live TV runs $76.99/month but includes Disney+ and ESPN+, making its cost-per-network calculation less precise. Sling’s Blue and Orange packages cost $40 each per month for 32–42 channels, which places it around $0.95 to $1.25 per channel, depending on customization.
For viewers prioritizing channel variety and network reliability, DirecTV edges ahead in dollar-for-channel value, especially during promotional months when premium channels are included at no extra cost.
DirecTV sets itself apart by offering 200 hours of cloud DVR storage with its Genie HD DVR, with the ability to record up to five channels at once. YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR storage, but recordings expire after 9 months. Hulu + Live TV now provides unlimited cloud DVR as well, yet restricts some fast-forward options unless users upgrade. Sling TV provides only 50 hours for free, and charges for expanded DVR space.
In terms of interface, DirecTV’s satellite-based system relies on a traditional guide layout with predictive show ordering and quick-scan previews. Streaming services rely on app-based platforms—which can feel smoother or more intuitive on mobile devices—and vary by smart device interface. YouTube TV features a clean UI with personalized recommendations. Hulu’s navigation has improved but can still feel cluttered with mix-ins of on-demand content. Sling’s layout supports channel flipping but lacks polish.
Streaming platforms attract viewers with flexibility, but for those prioritizing uninterrupted access to live sports, a massive lineup, and traditional DVR control, DirecTV delivers a far more robust infrastructure that’s already integrated into legacy setups.
DirecTV's current offers strike a balance between robust content, promotional pricing, and value-added perks. For those looking to lock in traditional satellite TV with premium features, the current lineup has clear advantages, especially for sports fans and households still centered on the linear TV experience.
DirecTV delivers the most value to specific viewer profiles. Sports enthusiasts benefit the most, particularly from the NFL Sunday Ticket and regional sports networks not available on many streaming services. Traditional TV lovers also find the familiar channel lineup, live programming reliability, and optional DVR features an attractive combination. Households in rural areas with limited broadband have long relied on satellite for consistent service, and DirecTV remains one of the few viable options. Additionally, multi-TV homes wanting whole-home DVR systems can take advantage of Genie receiver setups that streamline access across rooms.
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