As regional cable provider Buckeye Broadband continues to deliver internet and TV bundles across parts of Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, national satellite provider DirecTV offers an expansive footprint and broader entertainment options across the U.S. While Buckeye’s appeal lies in its local presence and bundled pricing, DirecTV draws attention for its national network coverage, HD sports packages, and integrated streaming features.
Many customers are now considering a move from Buckeye to DirecTV. Why? Increases in monthly fees, the lack of competitive channel lineups, and limited DVR or streaming capabilities have prompted a fresh look at modern viewing alternatives. With DirecTV offering customizable packages, advanced Genie DVR, and access to premium content through streaming apps—all without requiring internet service—the contrast is clear.
This guide breaks down exactly what makes DirecTV a strong alternative. You’ll see how pricing compares, what channel and sports packages each provider offers, and the benefits of switching in terms of technology, flexibility, and customer experience. Ready to evaluate your next move? Let’s explore.
Buckeye Broadband offers a relatively narrow selection of channels, shaped largely by its regional footprint in northwestern Ohio. The Basic Tier includes local affiliates like ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX, along with PBS and a few cable staples such as CNN, ESPN, HGTV, and TNT.
To access more specialized content, customers can add tiers like “Local Plus”, “Essential”, or “Elite”, which expand access to networks like AMC, FX, Syfy, Food Network, and Discovery. Premium networks—HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz—are available through additional subscription fees. However, availability may vary based on ZIP code due to Buckeye’s footprint limitations.
DirecTV opens its full national channel list to every subscriber, regardless of location. Across its four core packages—Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier—it covers over 340 channels. Even the baseline Entertainment plan includes staples like ESPN, CNN, TBS, Nickelodeon, and USA Network, while higher tiers introduce sports, movie, and specialty networks.
DirecTV exclusively carries NFL Sunday Ticket in 2024, delivering every out-of-market Sunday afternoon game. This sports exclusivity alone places it in a distinct tier for fans of the NFL. Additionally, channels like NBA TV, MLB Network, and NHL Network expand the offering for more targeted sports viewing.
On the premium side, the Premier package bundles HBO, Showtime, Starz, and Cinemax without additional cost. Subscribers can also access niche movie channels and foreign-language programming through a la carte options.
Both providers supply local broadcast networks—CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, and The CW—in high definition. However, while Buckeye’s service area limits them to specific cities (like Toledo and Sandusky), DirecTV achieves comprehensive local coverage via satellite or streaming signal, depending on setup.
Its dominance in sports coverage is reflected in broadcast rights and exclusive partnerships that no regional cable provider can match.
Buckeye offers HBO, Showtime, and Starz as paid add-ons, invoicing them separately from basic plans. DirecTV’s Premier package integrates all four major premium networks into the base monthly cost without requiring separate subscriptions. This bundling model makes DirecTV more cost-efficient for viewers who regularly watch premium content.
Buckeye delivers most channels in HD and a very limited set in 4K Ultra HD, typically through on-demand or special events. Its 4K content is sparse and subject to device support.
DirecTV provides 4K capable equipment with access to dedicated 4K channels (like Channel 104-107) broadcasting sporting events, concerts and documentaries. On-demand titles are also widely available in 4K HDR. The number of 4K-capable live games, especially in NFL and golf coverage, significantly exceeds what Buckeye can offer.
Switchers seeking nationwide channel consistency, better sports coverage, and superior high-definition experiences get more value from DirecTV’s offerings. Interested in niche channels like The Tennis Channel or BBC World News? DirecTV includes them in standard tiers, eliminating the need for fragmented upgrades.
DirecTV delivers a broader array of sports content compared to Buckeye Broadband, particularly when it comes to national leagues and exclusive packages. While Buckeye offers standard sports channels such as ESPN, FS1, and regional sports networks subject to area restrictions, DirecTV raises the bar with extensive league coverage and exclusive access to premium sports options.
Buckeye Broadband includes a limited range of regional sports networks, depending on ZIP code. This setup sometimes leaves out local fans due to blackout rules or unavailable channel agreements. DirecTV, by contrast, integrates major Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) such as Bally Sports, YES Network, and NBC Sports regional affiliates in its CHOICE™ package and higher. Subscribers can follow local NHL, NBA, and MLB teams without unexpected gaps in coverage.
Beyond major leagues, DirecTV supports in-depth coverage of golf, tennis, international soccer, and NCAA college sports through channels like Tennis Channel, GOL TV, SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and ESPNU. The sports-oriented viewer looking for year-round, sport-specific content gains more from DirecTV’s higher-tier plans.
Movie lovers comparing DirecTV and Buckeye Broadband discover a noticeable difference in premium add-on depth. DirecTV offers all major premium networks as optional packages or included for limited-time promotions, including:
While Buckeye does provide access to some of these networks, package bundling options are fewer, and availability depends heavily on regional licensing agreements. DirecTV’s consistent nationwide availability and promotional pricing for premium add-ons give it an edge for households building a full-spectrum entertainment experience.
The cost of television service does more than reflect the number of channels—it also speaks to the flexibility, promotions, and commitment each provider requires. Buckeye Broadband and DirecTV take vastly different approaches to packaging and pricing, resulting in different monthly obligations depending on usage and viewing habits.
Buckeye Broadband follows a straightforward pricing model, primarily offering its cable TV services in three main bundles:
Add-on packages include:
Costs can rise quickly when layering premium content or sports programming. Moreover, Buckeye Broadband customers typically face higher charges for HD and DVR service—about $12.95/month extra combined.
DirecTV crafts its pricing structure around four core satellite plans, all with nationwide availability and consistent features:
Promotional pricing is consistent across plans. New subscribers typically receive discounts for the first 12 months, with rates increasing in the second year. For example, the Entertainment plan may drop to $64.99/month during the first year and revert to full price in the second.
HD and DVR access come included in most DirecTV packages, and the Genie HD DVR system covers the whole home with no additional monthly DVR fee. However, an advanced receiver fee of $15/month applies.
Buckeye Broadband uses a month-to-month service model, allowing subscribers to cancel at any time without penalty. This offers a high degree of flexibility but typically comes with fewer promotional perks.
In contrast, DirecTV requires a 24-month agreement for satellite TV service. Upgrading packages or switching during this period may trigger contract resets or additional charges. DirecTV Stream, however, operates on a no-contract basis, offering more flexibility for those who prefer month-to-month billing.
With Buckeye Broadband, canceling service early comes with no financial consequence due to its no-contract structure. Conversely, DirecTV enforces early termination fees (ETFs) on its satellite service customers. The standard charge is $20 for each month remaining on the contract—for example, canceling with 12 months left results in a $240 termination fee.
This financial penalty incentivizes commitment, but it also locks customers into the service for the full contractual term unless they're willing to pay to exit early.
DirecTV uses a professional installation model that typically takes between 2 to 4 hours. After placing your order, a certified technician schedules a visit at your convenience. On the day of installation, the technician evaluates your property to determine the best possible placement for the satellite dish, ensuring a clear line of sight to the southern sky—an absolute requirement for optimal signal reception.
The process includes mounting the satellite dish, running coaxial cables to the receiver, setting up the DVR or Genie system, and verifying service quality. Technicians also take time to walk you through the channel lineup, remote functions, and on-screen interface. Same-day installation may be available in select markets.
Unlike Buckeye Broadband’s cable setup, DirecTV relies on a satellite system. That requires two primary pieces of hardware:
Power outlets and access to interior walls may be necessary for cable routing. Installers assess each setup for optimal wiring without damaging aesthetic elements of your home.
Because Buckeye Broadband uses a cable-based system, current customers won’t have external satellite equipment installed. This marks the most noticeable difference in the switch. Cable systems use underground or aerial coaxial lines connected directly to your home, and no external dish is required.
Switching to DirecTV adds a hardware component not previously installed—namely, the satellite dish. It also changes the signal delivery method from cable transmission to satellite feed, which can offer broader national coverage and access, especially in rural or underserved areas. Installation must account for weather exposure and positioning, both of which don’t factor into Buckeye’s setup.
DirecTV equips new customers with the Genie HD DVR, a device engineered to handle multi-user households and dense TV schedules. Capable of recording up to five shows simultaneously, the Genie eliminates conflicts between family members wanting different content at the same time. Built-in tuners streamline the experience, so no external splitters or add-on boxes are needed to watch or record while another program is airing.
Storage won’t be an issue either. Genie offers up to 200 hours of HD content or around 800 hours if content is in standard definition. This gives users the freedom to record entire seasons, multiple movie marathons, or a mix of sports, reality, and children’s programming without ever running out of space. Older recordings are only deleted when the storage cap is reached, and even then, only the oldest recordings get removed unless marked as “keep until I delete.”
DirecTV offers access to over 80,000 titles On Demand, with selections across genres, networks, and user preferences. From current-season episodes to full series archives, plus movies ranging from recent theatrical releases to throwbacks, the content library updates daily. Many titles allow for restart and lookback features, giving users the option to begin a show that’s in progress or view programming aired within the past 72 hours.
The Pay-Per-View catalog runs deep. Premium fights, concerts, and special events can be purchased directly through the remote, integrated into the monthly bill, and watched live or recorded for later playback. For those who still value choice over linear programming, DirecTV’s hybrid model of broadcast plus on demand delivers flexibility without compromising availability.
For viewers managing busy households or curating large personal content libraries, the technological capabilities of DirecTV’s Genie DVR consistently outpace Buckeye’s offerings, both in storage and real-time recording flexibility.
The DirecTV app brings full control of your entertainment directly into your hands. Whether on the way to work, relaxing at home, or out of town, stream live channels or dig into on-demand titles using a single interface. Available to DirecTV subscribers at no additional charge, the app provides seamless TV access beyond the living room.
Scroll through a full live channel guide and watch real-time broadcasts from virtually anywhere. DirecTV app users can stream breaking news, live sports, or primetime shows right as they air. A stable internet connection is all that's required—no cable box needed.
Missed a show last night? Looking for a movie to unwind with? The DirecTV app features an extensive on-demand library, updated constantly with current network episodes, classic films, and HBO Max and STARZ originals (with subscription). Stream episodes minutes after they air, or binge full seasons already released.
Access DirecTV content on a wide range of platforms, including:
While Buckeye Broadband's TV Everywhere provides access to partner network apps, it lacks a unified streaming environment. Users must log in separately to each network's platform. In contrast, DirecTV consolidates all content—live and on-demand—under one login, removing friction and boosting usability. Navigation, playback quality, and content availability offer a more advanced user experience on DirecTV’s app.
DirecTV’s cloud-based platform doesn’t limit you to one location. Whether traveling across states or skipping town for the weekend, the app continues to deliver live channels and on-demand hits. Use mobile data or Wi-Fi—your lineup comes with you. Location-based restrictions apply only in rare cases, mainly for regional sports licensing.
Already imagining catching your favorite team mid-flight or streaming your kids’ cartoons while waiting at the dentist's office? With DirecTV’s robust app, switching from Buckeye doesn't mean giving anything up—it means watching how and where you want, without compromise.
Buckeye Broadband delivers HD content across many of its live TV and on-demand channels, typically broadcasting in 720p or 1080i, depending on the channel provider. However, the availability of 4K content remains extremely limited. Buckeye does not operate a dedicated 4K channel lineup, and 4K programming is not consistently integrated into its packages.
DirecTV, by contrast, operates one of the most comprehensive 4K platforms in the satellite television industry. It offers three dedicated 4K channels—104, 105, and 106—that regularly feature sports, movies, travel documentaries, and exclusive concerts filmed in native 4K Ultra HD resolution. Broadcasts are delivered in full 3840 x 2160 pixels, combined with HDR (High Dynamic Range) where available, for greater contrast and color fidelity.
For Buckeye Broadband, even though some streaming apps accessed through its TiVo platform may support 4K playback (such as Netflix or Prime Video), the core Buckeye cable service does not natively support 4K broadcasts. Users seeking 4K experiences must rely on third-party streaming sources and ensure their TiVo DVR supports UHD output.
DirecTV requires a 4K-capable TV that supports HDCP 2.2 and HDMI 2.0, along with specific DirecTV hardware: the Genie HR54 or Genie 2 (HS17) receiver, paired with a C61K 4K client for full compatibility. Additionally, an internet connection is necessary to access on-demand 4K content.
With Buckeye, the question doesn’t apply—no 4K channels are included in any package. Even premium tiers max out at HD. In contrast, DirecTV includes access to 4K content in its CHOICE package and above.
No separate fee applies to access 4K resolution content on DirecTV, provided the subscriber meets both the equipment and package prerequisites.
Thinking about what difference resolution really makes? Try switching to DirecTV’s live NFL game in 4K and compare it directly with Buckeye's broadcast. The depth, clarity, and realism separate the platforms immediately.
Buckeye Broadband operates as a full-service provider offering bundled packages that include TV, internet, and phone. These bundles simplify billing and often come with slight discounts. For instance, the “Essentials Double Play” combines 200 Mbps internet with standard cable at a rate that generally undercuts the combined cost of individual services. Their fiber-backed internet infrastructure supports speeds up to 10 Gbps in select areas, giving customers flexibility for streaming, gaming, and home office use.
DirecTV does not provide its own internet service. This fundamental difference alters how bundling works. Customers choosing DirecTV must pair it with a separate internet provider. That separation can impact both cost and convenience. There’s no bundled discount directly from DirecTV, and billing comes from two separate entities.
Although DirecTV doesn’t bundle internet directly, AT&T offers an indirect solution. Since DirecTV is owned by AT&T, customers in AT&T Fiber coverage areas can package AT&T high-speed internet with DirecTV services under the same umbrella.
Deciding between Buckeye’s all-in-one packages and DirecTV paired with a separate internet provider hinges on usage and priorities. Households prioritizing simplicity in billing and bundled discounts may find Buckeye’s triple-play options more aligned with their preferences.
In contrast, DirecTV’s flexibility gives tech-savvy consumers the chance to customize their setup. They can choose premium fiber like AT&T for internet speed, then layer on DirecTV for satellite TV quality and exclusive access to offerings like the NFL Sunday Ticket. This also allows a move away from cable contracts, thanks to DirecTV’s no-hardware-needed streaming options.
The key question comes down to control: Do you prefer the convenience of an all-in-one provider, or the ability to tailor your services across multiple best-in-class vendors?
Ask any long-term subscriber and you'll hear this often: support quality can make or break the service experience. Based on data from the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) 2023 report, DirecTV scored 68 out of 100 in the Pay TV category for customer satisfaction, slightly above the industry average. Buckeye Broadband, which does not appear individually in the ACSI rankings, receives mixed reviews from users on platforms like Trustpilot and Yelp. Technical support complaints tend to focus on long wait times and inconsistent problem resolution.
DirecTV, on the other hand, earns more consistent praise for its U.S.-based call centers and follow-up service. Many users report faster resolutions and a more knowledgeable technical team, especially concerning satellite reception issues and device troubleshooting.
Customers switching from Buckeye Broadband to DirecTV frequently cite billing transparency as a motivating factor. Buckeye Broadband receives frequent criticism for unclear charges and limited visibility into promotional rate expirations. Reddit threads and forum posts highlight recurring frustration with hidden fees and unexpected rate hikes after promotional periods end.
DirecTV customers are not without complaints—some question the clarity of bundled offers and auto-renewal contracts—but billing practices overall receive fewer negative comments. The company's online account portal provides itemized statements and alerts when promotional pricing is about to change.
Installation feedback varies widely, yet a consistent pattern emerges. Buckeye Broadband customers report installation delays and limited technician availability in some areas, particularly in northwest Ohio and smaller suburban markets. Reviews mention missed appointments and vague arrival windows.
By contrast, DirecTV users often cite a more structured installation experience, with more reliable scheduling and professional technicians who complete multi-room setups efficiently. The satellite nature of DirecTV installation may introduce weather dependencies, but timing and service quality during setups generally receive better marks in user reviews.
On the praise side, DirecTV consistently receives high marks for technician professionalism and the ease of managing service online. Premium package users often compliment the company’s proactive troubleshooting alerts during signal issues.
Alternatively, Buckeye Broadband frequently faces criticism for addressing outages slowly and relying on limited customer service staffing during peak times. Some customers, however, appreciate the local support centers available in select Ohio markets, which offer face-to-face support not available with DirecTV.
So where do you stand? Would seamless app support and faster issue resolution enhance your viewing experience, or do you value the local presence Buckeye offers?
DirecTV offers specific advantages that appeal to distinct viewing habits and budget considerations. Subscribers seeking a broader sports lineup, premium entertainment choices, and nationwide availability often find more value here than with regional cable providers like Buckeye Broadband.
DirecTV doesn’t fit every viewing style or connectivity setup. Some customer profiles prefer the structure and bundling offered by a regional cable provider.
Evaluate viewing habits, regional availability, and preferred content before making a decision. Ask: Do you want a national service with enhanced sports and entertainment reach, or a partner that bundles TV and high-speed internet into a single bill?
©2025 American TV. All Rights Reserved
Disclaimer: All rights reserved. AmericanTV.com is a website for research and comparison as such, falls under "Fair Use". AmericanTV.com does not provide directly phone, TV, and internet service. All trademarks, logos, etc. remain the property of their respective owners and are used by AmericanTV.com only to describe products and services offered by each respective trademark holder. The use of any third party trademarks on this site in no way indicates any relationship between AmericanTV.com and the holders of said trademarks, nor any endorsement of AmericanTV.com by the holders of said trademarks.
We are here 24/7 to answer all of your TV + Internet Questions:
1-855-690-9884
1-855-690-9884