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mother and daughter watching directv

DIRECTV vs. cable: Which is right for you?

Find out how DIRECTV excels against competitors.

Watch DIRECTV with internet
Watch DIRECTV with internet

DIRECTV vs Cable

What sets DIRECTV apart from other cable providers?

With DIRECTV, you get to pick the right kind of package for your home. DIRECTV is available by satellite or streaming app, so you can watch your favorite shows and movies the way you want to.

DIRECTV Satellite.

With DIRECTV via Satellite, a DIRECTV professional will install a satellite dish on your property so you can tune into your favorite channels.

DIRECTV Streaming.

DIRECTV via Internet makes TV more accessible than ever. Simply connect Gemini Air to your existing internet service, and enjoy your top shows without additional installation.

DIRECTV vs. DISH Network

See what DIRECTV and DISH offer to determine which option is best for you. Both provide DVR storage and hundreds of channels, so you’ll never run out of shows and movies to watch.

While DISH requires a satellite connection, you can connect to DIRECTV via satellite or streaming app. DIRECTV also offers multiple sports add-ons so you can keep up with all your favorite teams from the comfort of your couch.

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Connection type Satellite or Internet
Connection type Satellite
High quality audio Yes
High quality audio Yes
Package options 4 plus 4 Spanish-language
Package options 3 plus 3 Spanish-language
Channels Up to 340+ channels for Satellite or 185+ channels via Internet in PREMIER™
Channels Up to 290 in America's Top 250
Sports 20 channels included in ULTIMATE™ and PREMIER™
Sports 20 channels included in America's Top 250
DVR Storage Yes
DVR Storage Yes
Equipment needed Satellite dish and Receiver box
Equipment needed Satellite dish
Availability 50 states
Availability 50 states

Compare DIRECTV Satellite to cable providers

DIRECTV Satellite
Spectrum
Xfinity (Comcast)
HD DVR Device included
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400+ hours HD DVR storage included**
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Available in rural areas
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Access to thousands of apps**
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**Req's internet-connected Gemini device and separate paid subscriptions for 3rd party apps.

**w/ Genie 2 equipment req’d. Add’l & Advanced Receiver fees may apply.

Compare DIRECTV Streaming to cable providers

See how DIRECTV Streaming stacks up against the competition.

DIRECTV Streaming
Spectrum
Xfinity (Comcast)
Unlimited hours of Cloud DVR storage included & unlimited simultaneous DVR recordings^
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Access your DVR recordings wherever you are^^
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Stream on unlimited devices at once in your home.
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Access to thousands of apps
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^Data connection required. Recordings expire after 9 months. Restr's apply.

^^Available only in the U.S. (excl. Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I.). Limited to up to 3 concurrent streams.

How to decide between DIRECTV and cable

See whether DIRECTV or a traditional cable network is best suited for your home entertainment needs.

DIRECTV

  • Up to 340+ channels for Satellite or 185+ channels Streaming
  • Flexibility to connect via satellite or via internet
  • Low cost per channel
  • Great picture quality
  • 2-year price guarantee

Cable

  • Affordable lower-tier plans
  • Typically includes short-term contracts
  • Easy installation
  • Usually fewer channels
  • Less availability in rural areas

Frequently asked questions

What is the competitive advantage of DIRECTV?

DIRECTV stands apart from the competition by offering TV via Satellite or via Internet. That means you can access your favorite sports, channels, and shows through your existing internet connection or with a professionally installed satellite dish. 

What are the advantages of DIRECTV?

DIRECTV offers multiple advantages that make it a viable option for your home entertainment. With DIRECTV via Satellite available nearly everywhere across the US, you can access up to 340+ channels from the comfort of your home.

Plus, watching sports has never been easier than with a DIRECTV subscription. With incredible sports add-ons and multiple games available in 4K, DIRECTV is a perfect choice for sports fans.

Is DIRECTV a good option?

Yes, DIRECTV is a fantastic option for your home. Whether you connect by satellite or streaming app, you’ll get access to some of the best entertainment with top-tier channels and DVR storage. Plus, the Gemini device brings live TV and streaming together in one device—it’ll help you find exactly what you’re looking for by only using your voice.^

^High-speed Internet connection required. Google login required.

Which satellite TV provider is the best?

DIRECTV via Satellite is a great option for your home entertainment. With access to up to 340+ channels, professional installation, and a signal saver that will keep you connected even with inclement weather, DIRECTV via Satellite provides awesome, accessible entertainment.

SignalSaverTM only in case of satellite signal outage. Available on 240+ channels. Requires compatible device connected to high-speed internet.

Which is better DIRECTV or DISH network?

DIRECTV and DISH both offer strong TV packages for your home. Check out the comparison chart above to see which provider better fits your entertainment needs.