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Even with all the great on-demand streaming content out there, live TV is still a must-have for many of us. From news to sports to certain TV series, plenty of programming is still only available through live TV.
However, the way we watch live TV has totally changed over the last several years. DIRECTV — best known for its satellite TV service — now offers two other options that are well worth considering: DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV STREAM. Both let you watch popular live TV channels without a satellite, making them very attractive for modern streaming households.
DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV STREAM are fairly similar in price, channel offerings, and setup, but there are some key differences between the two that any prospective customers should be aware of. To help make things more clear, here’s a full breakdown of all the key differences between DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV STREAM.
– Uses Gemini voice-controlled streaming device, powered by Google (included)
– Starts at $69.99 a month for 24 months for the ENTERTAINMENT package ($84.99/mo. w/req’d ARS $15/mo. fee. Regional Sports Fee up to $15.99/mo. is extra & applies to CHOICE Pkg. or higher) – Save $240 when you sign up for CHOICE Package or higher
Ltd time offer. Receive a $10 credit each month for the first 24 months, then regular monthly price.
– 2-year contract required
– Up to 185+ channels (with PREMIER Package)
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. Available in select sales channels. Restr’s apply.
– Use streaming devices you already own
– Starts at $79.99 a month
– No contract
– Up to 185+ channels (with PREMIER Package)
Hardware: The main difference between DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV STREAM is the hardware you’ll be using to access either service.
With DIRECTV via Internet, DIRECTV will send you the DIRECTV Gemini device (at no additional cost for well-qualified customers). The Gemini device is easy to install yourself and lets you access streaming services like Netflix and Max, as well as live TV channels available through DIRECTV. The Gemini also features a voice-activated remote control that utilizes Google Assistant.
Internet and separate 3rd party app subscriptions required.
With DIRECTV STREAM, you’ll access live TV through devices you already own. DIRECTV STREAM is compatible with most major streaming devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, current Xbox and Playstation consoles, and handheld devices.
Price & Contract: Another important difference between DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV STREAM is their respective pricing. DIRECTV via Internet packages start at $69.99 a month for 24 months + taxes & fees ($84.99/mo. w/req’d ARS $15/mo. fee. Regional Sports Fee up to $15.99/mo. is extra & applies to CHOICE Pkg. or higher) and require a 24-month agreement. Bonus: For a limited time, DIRECTV customers get up to $10 off every month for 24 months when they sign up for the CHOICE package or higher. DIRECTV STREAM packages start at $79.99 a month and don’t require an agreement.
Ltd time offer subject to change. Receive a $10 credit each month for first 24 months, then regular monthly price. New approved residential customers. Available in select sales channels.
Channel Lineup: The channel lineups offered by DIRECTV via Internet and DIRECTV STREAM are slightly different. DIRECTV via Internet’s upgraded packages — specifically its CHOICE and ULTIMATE packages — include specialty sports channels like ACC Network, MLB Network, and NBA TV. DIRECTV STREAM also offers these channels, but you’ll need to get them through the DIRECTV Sports Pack add-on which costs an additional $14.99 a month. In short, DIRECTV via Internet offers a slightly more comprehensive channel lineup — especially for sports fans.
So, which one is right for you, DIRECTV via Internet or DIRECTV STREAM? If you want a new all-inclusive streaming device (the Gemini) — and a more robust channel lineup with plenty of sports and local coverage, plus easy access to third party apps all in one place — DIRECTV via Internet is probably a better choice. If you want to get live TV on your current streaming devices, DIRECTV STREAM is probably right for you.
