With DIRECTV, instantly watch more content than DISH with 100,000+ 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.
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 | 175+ 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 HBO 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 offers. Premiums included for first 3 mos., then auto-renew monthly at then-prevailing rates unless canceled (curr. $18.49/mo. for HBO Max, $12.99/mo.; $13.99/mo. for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, $11.99/mo. for STARZ, $10.99/mo. for Cinemax, and $7.99/mo. for MGM+). . Cancel anytime. Offer not avail. to existing DIRECTV or U-verse TV customers. Offer subj. to change.
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 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.
1Separate paid subscription(s) required for third party apps not included in your service. Internet-connected Gemini device req'd to view via DIRECTV.
DIRECTV has a leg up on the competition—especially regarding reliable signal, channel options, and sports.
The Winner: DIRECTV is the clear choice for dedicated fans due to its unmatched selection of local Regional Sports Networks.
The Tie: Both providers offer a secure 2-year price guarantee, giving your monthly budget long-term protection.
The winner: DIRECTV wins for app lovers by seamlessly blending live TV guide channels with streaming apps on one remote.
The winner: Choose DIRECTV for flexible cloud streaming, or choose satellite for reliable, internet-independent hardware.
Which is better, DISH or DIRECTV?
The better choice depends on your viewing preferences and household needs.
DIRECTV is often the better option for sports fans, streamers, and families who want access to regional sports networks, unlimited in-home streaming, and the flexibility to choose between satellite or internet-based TV service.
DISH, on the other hand, may be a better fit for customers in rural areas or those who prefer a traditional satellite experience with local DVR storage and features like AutoHop commercial skipping.
Both providers offer strong channel lineups, but their strengths cater to different types of viewers.
Should I switch to DIRECTV?
You may want to switch to DIRECTV if you're looking for more sports coverage, greater streaming flexibility, or a simpler way to manage your entertainment.
DIRECTV offers access to regional sports networks that may not be available on many streaming services, making it a popular choice for local MLB, NBA, and NHL fans. It also supports unlimited in-home streams and lets you choose between traditional satellite service and a 100% internet-based TV experience—no satellite dish required.
What is the average monthly cost for DIRECTV?
DIRECTV packages typically range from $89.99 to $169.99 per month, depending on the package selected. Although additional fees such as equipment, regional sports network (RSN), taxes, and other charges may apply, DIRECTV delivers value through premium sports access, extensive channel options, unlimited in-home streaming, and flexible viewing across satellite and internet-based service.
Most customers can expect their total monthly cost to fall between $100 and $200, depending on their package, equipment, and location.
Is DIRECTV or DISH the better option for my budget?
It depends on what you watch. If sports aren't a priority, DISH may be the less expensive option, as its plans are more basic and entertainment-focused.
If you regularly watch live sports or already pay for multiple streaming services, DIRECTV may offer better overall value. Select packages include streaming perks like Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN, as well as access to regional sports networks, extensive channel lineups, and unlimited in-home streaming. For many households, that means getting more of their entertainment in one place.
Which offers more channels, DIRECTV or DISH?
On paper, DISH offers more channels in its entry-level package, with 190+ channels in America's Top 120 compared to 90+ channels in DIRECTV's ENTERTAINMENT package.
However, channel count doesn't tell the whole story. DIRECTV focuses more heavily on live sports, regional sports networks, and popular entertainment channels, while DISH's higher channel count includes a broader mix of specialty, music, and shopping channels.
Which provider offers more sports channels: DISH or DIRECTV?
DIRECTV offers more comprehensive sports coverage, especially for fans who follow local teams. While both providers carry major national sports networks like ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, and MLB Network, DIRECTV also carries many regional sports networks (RSNs) that broadcast local MLB, NBA, and NHL games.
If watching your local teams is important to you, DIRECTV is generally the better choice. DISH focuses on national sports coverage but does not currently offer in-market regional sports networks.
What makes DISH Network different from DIRECTV?
The biggest difference is how each provider delivers and manages your TV service. DISH is a traditional satellite TV provider built around the Hopper 3 DVR, which stores recordings locally on a built-in hard drive and includes unique features like AutoHop commercial skipping.
DIRECTV offers more flexibility, giving customers the choice between satellite service or a 100% internet-based TV experience. It also includes features like Unlimited Cloud DVR and unlimited in-home streaming, making it a strong fit for households that prefer a more modern, streaming-focused setup.
Should I go with DIRECTV or DISH for streaming?
If streaming flexibility is a priority, DIRECTV is the go-to option. It offers a dedicated internet-based TV service that doesn't require a satellite dish, along with Unlimited Cloud DVR and unlimited in-home streaming for compatible devices. For households looking to replace traditional TV with a streaming-first experience, DIRECTV generally provides more flexibility and convenience.
