## Ditch the Dish: DirecTV Stream’s Comprehensive Guide to Live TV Streaming
DirecTV has been a household name for years, but now you can enjoy the channels you love without the bulky satellite dish. Introducing DirecTV Stream, formerly known as AT&T TV, a streaming service that blends live TV and an extensive on-demand library. While it may not be as widely recognized as some other popular streaming platforms, it’s certainly worth exploring.
DirecTV Stream: A Look Beyond the Basics
DirecTV Stream offers a diverse channel lineup, a robust on-demand library, and several tiers to match your viewing needs. It’s not just another live TV streaming service; it’s a comprehensive entertainment solution.
Unveiling the Channel Lineup: Options for Every Viewer
DirecTV Stream boasts a robust channel selection, and one of its standout features is the ability to access even more channels by opting for higher-tiered subscription plans. You can explore the full channel listing to see which channels align with your interests.
The basic
Entertainment
package, priced at $75 per month, provides access to over 90 channels, offering a solid foundation for your viewing experience. However, if you crave a more expansive channel selection, thePremier
tier, priced at $155 per month, expands your options to over 185 channels.Beyond national networks, DirecTV Stream also includes local programming based on your ZIP code, ensuring you stay connected to your local news and events. You can conveniently compare channel availability across different packages to find the perfect fit.
Customizing Your Viewing Experience: Premium Channels and Bundles
DirecTV Stream offers a selection of premium channels and bundles, allowing you to personalize your viewing experience and cater to your specific interests. Some notable options include:
*
AMC Plus & IFC Films Unlimited ($9 per month):
Access to AMC Plus, Shudder, Sundance Now, and IFC Films Unlimited, offering a vast library of movies and original programming from AMC and IFC.*
Peacock ($5 per month):
Enjoy new movies, rewatch favorite shows, and discover new original programming from the popular streaming platform.*
Discovery+ ($5 per month):
Immerse yourself in the world of Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, ID, Animal Planet, and more. Ideal for those who love exploring the world and its diverse offerings.*
Acorn TV ($8 per month):
Discover mysteries, dramas, and thrillers from Britain, France, Australia, Ireland, and beyond.*
ALLBLK ($6 per month):
Explore a world of Black cinema, exclusive original series, independent films, WE tv originals, and stage plays.*
A&E Crime Central ($5 per month):
Indulge in classic crime series from A&E.*
BET+ ($11 per month):
Access over 2,000 hours of content from the Black Entertainment Network, including movies, TV series, and exclusive original programming.*
Fox Nation ($6 per month):
Dive into Fox’s streaming hub, featuring original content, exclusive shows, and popular FOX news personalities.*
History Vault ($5 per month):
Immerse yourself in thousands of hours of ad-free documentaries from The History Channel.*
Lifetime Movie Club ($5 per month):
Enjoy over 200 new and classic Lifetime movies, all ad-free.DirecTV Stream vs. DirecTV: Understanding the Key Differences
DirecTV Stream is not the same as traditional DirecTV. While the channel lineups share similarities, they are distinct services with key differences. DirecTV relies on a satellite dish and doesn’t utilize internet-based streaming. DirecTV Stream, on the other hand, is solely internet-based, delivering video over your internet connection.
Both services offer DVR functionality, but DirecTV Stream utilizes cloud-based recording, allowing you to store your favorite programs for later viewing.
Pricing and Packages: Finding the Right Fit for Your Budget
DirecTV Stream offers four subscription tiers to accommodate diverse budgets and needs.
*
Entertainment: $75 per month ($90 with fees)
: This basic package provides the fewest channels (90-plus) at the lowest cost, including live TV, a library of over 40,000 on-demand titles, and unlimited recording. It also includes a three-month trial to Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, Cinemax, and MGM+.*
Choice: $80 per month ($109 with fees)
: Choice offers a significant upgrade with more channels (125-plus), including additional ESPN channels, the Cooking Channel, and more. It expands the on-demand library to over 45,000 titles, provides access to regional sports networks, and includes the same three-month trial to Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, Cinemax, and MGM+.*
Ultimate: $110 per month ($139 with fees)
: Ultimate builds upon the Choice package, adding an extra 35 channels (160-plus), including the NHL Network, Starz Encore channels, FXM, and an even larger on-demand library with 55,000 titles. It includes the same three-month trial to Max, Paramount+ with Showtime, Starz, Cinemax, and MGM+.*
Premier: $155 per month ($184 with fees)
: The Premier package significantly increases the price but includes full subscriptions to Max, Starz, Cinemax, MGM+, and Paramount+ with Showtime. Keep in mind that you’ll still need to pay for entirely separate apps like Netflix or Hulu, as these are not included in the AT&T partnerships. This package features over 185 channels and access to the full library of 65,000 on-demand titles.Key Features and Considerations
DirecTV Stream includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, making it easy to save your favorite programs for later viewing. AT&T recommends an internet speed of at least 24Mbps for optimal streaming quality. Additionally, you can stream content simultaneously on up to three devices outside your home.
It’s important to note that DirecTV and U-Verse TV customers cannot directly apply for DirecTV Stream. You’ll need to contact an AT&T representative to discuss transitioning from these older services.
If you’re unsure if DirecTV Stream is the right fit, take advantage of their free five-day trial for new subscribers. Remember to review the fine print, as there’s a $15 ARS fee each month, along with a $14 Regional Sports Fee for the Choice, Ultimate, and Premier tiers. The prices mentioned above include these fees, so you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect when signing up. Be sure to thoroughly review any other associated fees, such as equipment rental or early termination fees, before committing.
Conclusion: Finding Your Entertainment Solution
DirecTV Stream offers a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality live TV streaming service without the need for a satellite dish. With its diverse channel lineup, extensive on-demand library, and customizable packages, it provides a comprehensive entertainment experience. Before making a decision, consider your channel preferences, budget, and desired features to determine if DirecTV Stream aligns with your entertainment needs.
