DirecTV Streaming Options: Stream vs. via Internet – Which is Right for You?

DirecTV has evolved. You no longer need a satellite dish clinging to your roof to enjoy their content. Now, they offer streaming services, but navigating their options can be tricky. Two primary services exist: DirecTV Stream and DirecTV via Internet. These services share similar branding and offer nearly identical channel packages, but crucial differences exist. Understanding these differences is paramount before committing to a plan.

The Short Version:

• DirecTV Stream: Ideal if you want to avoid hidden fees and restrictive long-term contracts. Offers flexibility and cancellation freedom.
• DirecTV via Internet: Suited for those seeking a more traditional pay-TV experience, potentially with lower initial equipment costs (though this may be offset by other fees).

A Deeper Dive into the Differences:

Channel Lineups:

Both DirecTV Stream and DirecTV via Internet boast identical channel lineups for their equivalent packages. If you’re primarily concerned with accessing a specific set of channels, both services can deliver.

• Refer to the official DirecTV Stream and DirecTV via Internet documentation for a comprehensive breakdown of available channels in each package. This will help ensure the service you select offers the specific channels you desire.

Contracts vs. No Contracts:

This is the single most important distinction.

• DirecTV via Internet: Involves a contract, typically a 24-month commitment. Early cancellation triggers a hefty early termination fee, potentially costing you up to $480 ($20 for each remaining month of the contract).
• DirecTV Stream: Operates without contracts. You can cancel at any time without incurring penalties. However, this flexibility comes with a caveat: prices are not locked in and can increase during your subscription.

Fees and Hidden Costs:

• DirecTV via Internet: Be wary of potential fees beyond the advertised monthly price. Specific equipment fees may apply, increasing the overall cost.
• DirecTV Stream: Presents a more transparent pricing structure. The advertised price generally includes all fees, with no extra charges for equipment or regional sports channels. Note the lack of price-lock.

Genre-Specific Bundles:

DirecTV Stream provides greater flexibility with its channel packages.

• DirecTV Stream: Offers smaller, more affordable bundles focusing on specific genres. This allows subscribers to tailor their viewing experience and potentially save money by only paying for content they actually watch. Check DirecTV Stream’s bundle picker page for channel lists and add-on options.
• DirecTV via Internet: Does not currently offer these cheaper, genre-focused packages. This makes it a less attractive option for viewers with niche interests or those seeking to minimize their monthly expenses.

The Hardware Experience:

• DirecTV via Internet: Includes DirecTV’s Gemini Air streaming dongle. This device plugs into your TV’s HDMI port and provides a traditional TV experience with a familiar remote, channel number buttons, and quick access to live TV and a grid guide. The Gemini Air also supports popular streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu.
• DirecTV Stream: Requires you to supply your own streaming hardware. DirecTV offers apps for a wide range of devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Android TV/Google TV, Samsung TVs, iOS, and Android. It also supports web browsers and Google Cast. The DirecTV Stream app functions similarly to other streaming apps.

The Gemini Air Dongle: An Added Advantage?

While the Gemini Air dongle comes standard with DirecTV via Internet, it’s not officially supported for use with DirecTV Stream. However, it can be purchased separately from retailers like SolidSignal or eBay. When used with DirecTV Stream, the Gemini Air provides the same traditional TV experience as with DirecTV via Internet.

The decision to purchase a Gemini Air for use with DirecTV Stream depends on your preferences and budget. It represents an additional upfront cost, whereas it’s included (though potentially amortized within the monthly fee) with DirecTV via Internet.

DirecTV via Satellite:

DirecTV continues to offer its traditional satellite service. The costs are similar to DirecTV via Internet, and new satellite subscribers receive a Gemini box comparable to the Gemini Air. The primary difference is the delivery method (satellite signal vs. internet streaming) and the need for satellite dish installation. A potential advantage of satellite is the ability to opt out of local channels for a $12 monthly discount.

Which Service Should You Choose?

For most viewers, DirecTV Stream is the superior choice. Its flexibility, lack of contracts, and potentially cheaper genre-specific bundles make it a compelling option.

DirecTV via Internet is worth considering only if you are certain about your viewing habits for the next two years and strongly prefer DirecTV’s Gemini Air streaming dongle.

Beyond DirecTV:

Numerous other live TV streaming services are available. Exploring these alternatives can help you find the best fit for your needs and budget. It’s also worth considering a purely on-demand streaming approach to further minimize costs and customize your viewing experience.

Key Considerations Recap:

• Flexibility: DirecTV Stream offers greater flexibility with no contracts.
• Cost: DirecTV Stream can be cheaper, especially with genre-specific bundles, but prices may increase. DirecTV via Internet may seem cheaper upfront, but contracts and fees can make it more expensive.
• Hardware: DirecTV via Internet includes the Gemini Air dongle, while DirecTV Stream requires you to supply your own streaming device (or purchase a Gemini Air separately).
• Commitment: DirecTV via Internet requires a long-term contract, while DirecTV Stream does not.
• Channel Packages: Both services offer similar channel lineups in their equivalent packages.
• Satellite vs. Streaming: DirecTV still offers satellite service with similar costs, a Gemini box, and a potential discount for opting out of local channels.

Ultimately, the best DirecTV streaming option depends on your individual needs and priorities. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each service before making a decision.