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DIRECTV vs. DISH

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

Happy couple watch TV at home.

Compare DIRECTV vs. DISH

With DIRECTV, instantly watch more content than DISH with 60,000+ On Demand shows and movies at your fingertips.

DIRECTV SATELLITE

DISH

More live sports in 4K HDR1

More On Demand entertainment included

HD DVR Device included in package price

More hours of HD DVR storage included with
Genie as 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

$84.99/month

for 24 months plus taxes and fees
($115.98/mo. w/ req’d $15/mo. ARS fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $15.99/mo.) w/ 24-mo. agmt., autopay & paperless bill.

$84.99/month

for 24 months

Channels

200+ channels

190 channels

Equipment

Included Genie HD DVR

Hopper DVR included in the price for 1 TV

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

*w/ ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, or ULTIMATE package. Must select offers. Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+, and Cinemax are included for first 3 months and auto-renew monthly thereafter at then-prevailing rates (currently $15.99/mo. for Max, $11.99/mo. for paramount+, $10.99/mo. each for STARZ and Cinemax, and $5.99/mo. for MGM+), unless canceled. Prices subject to change. See offer details.

DIRECTV vs. DISH: Sports

There’s a reason why DIRECTV is the leader in sports. With more regional sports networks than DISH and other competitors, DIRECTV brings you the sports you love, in high quality^.

Claim based on offering of Nat’l and Regional Sports Networks. RSNs avail. with CHOICE package or higher. Availability of RSNs varies by ZIP code and package.

^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 (via satellite or internet)

  • 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 via Satellite, you’ll get a 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 via Internet, you’ll simply use the Gemini receiver 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 via Internet.

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. Peurto Rico and U.S.V.I.). Not all channels available to stream. Limited to up to 3 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.

Signal Saver only in case of satellite signal outage. Available on 160+ most-watched channels (based on viewership). 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 your existing internet connection 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 via Satellite or via Internet, you’ll access some of the highest quality entertainment with top-tier channels and DVR storage. With the Gemini receiver combining live TV and streaming into one device, you’ll find what you’re looking for faster and easier than ever before.

First device available for well-qualified customers. Internet connection required. Equipment lease req'd. Early agmt termination fee applies ($20/mo.) & add'l fee(s) may apply if equip. not returned.

What is the average monthly cost for DIRECTV?

DIRECTV packages start at $69.99/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.

Price guaranteed for first 2 years!
$
69.99/mo*

for 24 months plus taxes and fees
($84.99/mo. w/ req’d $15/mo. ARS fee) w/ 24-mo. agmt., autopay & paperless bill.

See offer details

*New approved residential customers, price incl. TV pkg & equip. fees for first TV. Add’l fees may apply to non-qualified customers. Equipment lease req’d. Early agmt termination fee applies ($20/mo.) & add’l fee(s) may apply if equip. not returned. Credit card req’d. Restr’s apply. One-time $19.95 activation fee may apply for satellite.