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DIRECTV vs. DISH

Compare DIRECTV vs. DISH channel packages, pricing, and features to see which is best for you.

Compare DIRECTV vs. DISH

With DIRECTV, instantly watch more content than DISH with 70,000+ On Demand shows and movies at your fingertips.

DIRECTV SATELLITE
DISH
More live sports in 4K HDR1
More On Demand entertainment included
More hours of HD DVR storage included compared to Dish Hopper Duo

1Limited 4K content available for satellite service and via some 3rd party apps when connecting via internet. 4K TV req’d. Video quality defined by resolution.

DIRECTV vs. DISH: Prices

Package
DIRECTV CHOICE™
DISH America’s Top 120
Price
$89.99/month
for 24 months plus taxes and fees ($117.98/mo. w/req’d $10/mo. TV Access Fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $17.99/mo.) w/ 24-mo. agmt. Autopay and paperless bill req’d. One-time $19.95 activation fee may apply.
$91.99/month
for 24 months
Channels
200+ channels (Satellite)
190 channels
Equipment
Gemini HD DVR
Hopper DVR
Add-on options
Premium sports add-on option
Premium sports add-on option
Bonus Features
First 3 months of Max™, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME®, STARZ®, Cinemax® and MGM+™ included*
First 3 months of Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, Starz and DISH Movie Pack included

2w/eligible pkg. Must select offer. Premiums incl. for first 3 mos., then auto-renew monthly at then-prevailing rates unless canceled (curr. $16.99/mo. for Max, $12.99/mo. for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, $10.99/mo. ea. for STARZ and Cinemax, and $6.99/mo. for MGM+). Cancel anytime. Offer subj. to change. See below for details.  Access Max only on Max app or max.com. Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscription incl. access to Paramount+ with SHOWTIME streaming plan, avail. on Paramount+ app or paramountplus.com/link. Online acct. reg. may be req’d. Offer not avail. to existing DIRECTV/U-verse TV customers. Offer subj. to change.

DIRECTV vs. DISH: Sports

DIRECTV is your home for regional sports, with the most in-market RSNs — More than DISH, YouTube & Hulu+Live combined.

Compared to cable, Dish and most streaming providers. RSNs avail. with CHOICE package or higher. Availability of RSNs varies by ZIP code and package.

DIRECTV

  • Includes live regional sports (Choice level or higher)
  • Essential sports channels like ESPN, FS1, and NBCSN included in ENTERTAINMENT package
  • 12 channels included in CHOICE package
  • 20 channels included in ULTIMATE or PREMIER packages
  • League-specific and college-level networks available
  • Sports add-ons available

DISH

  • Includes 6 sports channels in base America’s Top 120 package
  • Includes 20 sports channels in America’s Top 250 package
  • League-specific and college-level networks available
  • Sports add-on available (DISH Multi-Sport Pack)

Collage of DIRECTV devices

DIRECTV vs. DISH: Equipment

DIRECTV provides top-notch equipment to make television easy. When you connect by Satellite, you’ll get a Genie receiver with free professional installation, and you can also watch on the go with the DIRECTV app.^^

For those who prefer to connect to DIRECTV Streaming, you’ll simply use the Gemini device to watch your favorite shows, movies, and sports. Plus, you’ll have access to the Google Play Store, which includes over 7,000 streaming apps to choose from.1 And since you’ll connect through your existing internet connection, self-installation is quick and easy for DIRECTV Streaming.

If you get a DISH package, you’ll receive a satellite and set-top box for your home with optional upgrades for an extra fee. Upgraded features include more storage, access to thousands of Google Play apps, and a simpler connection to your smartphone. The free DISH Anywhere app also lets you sign into your account to watch your shows when you’re away from home.

^^Available only in the U.S. (excl. Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I.). Not all channels available to stream. Limited to up to 5 concurrent streams. Restr's apply. Visit directv.com/app for more information.

1Req's separate paid subscriptions for 3rd party apps. Internet-connected compatible device required.

Benefits of DIRECTV vs. DISH

DIRECTV has a leg up on the competition—especially regarding reliable signal, channel options, and sports.

Strong signal reliability

With DIRECTV’s exclusive SignalSaver™ technology, you can continue watching TV via your internet connection when inclement weather or other issues interrupt your satellite connection.

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

More channel selections

DIRECTV offers up to 340+ channels*, so you can personalize your package to ensure you get the best content for your household.

*Actual number of shows and movies will vary based on programming package

More sports

DIRECTV is your home for regional sports, with the most in-market RSNs. (More than DISH, YouTube TV, & Hulu Live combined!)

Compared to cable, Dish and most streaming providers. RSNs avail. with CHOICE package or higher. Availability of RSNs varies by ZIP code and package.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better, DISH or DIRECTV?

While DIRECTV and DISH are both great options for your home TV network, DIRECTV provides additional perks. With up to 340+ channels* and more regional sports2 and DVR space, DIRECTV is an awesome choice for your home entertainment.

Plus, with DIRECTV, you can connect via Satellite or Streaming App and enjoy your favorite shows and movies the way you want.

*Actual number of shows and movies will vary based on programming package

2Compared to cable, Dish and most streaming providers. RSNs avail. with CHOICE package or higher. Availability of RSNs varies by ZIP code and package.​

Should I switch to DIRECTV?

Upgrade your TV experience when you switch to DIRECTV. Whether you connect by Satellite or Streaming App, you’ll access some of the highest quality entertainment with top-tier channels and DVR storage. With the Gemini device combining live TV and streaming into one device, you’ll find what you’re looking for faster and easier than ever before.

What is the average monthly cost for DIRECTV?

DIRECTV packages start at $84.99/mo, so you can get the best TV experience without breaking the bank. Check out more DIRECTV packages to find the best fit for your budget.

Starting at
$
84.99/mo

for 24 months plus taxes and fees.
($94.99/mo. w/ $10/mo. Gemini lease fee).
Cancel anytime.

*New approved residential customers only. Service renews monthly unless you cancel. Cancel anytime. Add’l fees may apply to non-qualified customers. Device subject to Equipment Lease agmt. Add’l fee(s) may apply if equip. not returned. Credit card req’d. Restr’s apply.