DIRECTV (streaming) review
Cable-style packages over the internet, with locals in every package and regional sports on higher tiers. Sports fans who want their regional sports network and households that want a cable-style package without a dish. We rank it #3 of 8 in our streaming services comparison, with an editorial score of 8.7 out of 10.
DIRECTV scores well on Local & sports coverage because local channels are included with every package and regional sports networks come with CHOICE and higher packages, and on Channel & content coverage for its traditional package tiers. It is held back on Value transparency because packages, Genre Packs and regional availability take time to compare, and on Features because DVR terms are not set out on its streaming page.
How we score streaming services
Visit site (DIRECTV (streaming), opens in a new tab)Quick facts
Overview
DIRECTV's streaming service, formerly called DIRECTV STREAM, delivers DIRECTV packages over the internet instead of a satellite dish. DIRECTV says local channels are included with every package, with lineups that vary by market, and that regional sports networks are included with CHOICE or higher packages, depending on your ZIP code.
Besides traditional packages such as ENTERTAINMENT and CHOICE, DIRECTV sells smaller Genre Packs, including MySports, MyNews, MyKids and MyEntertainment. The MySports pack includes the ESPN Unlimited plan, according to DIRECTV. You can watch on DIRECTV's Gemini streaming device, popular streaming devices and smart TVs, the DIRECTV app and web browsers.
Service renews monthly with no long-term contract. Check DVR terms, regional fees and the current packages on the site.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Strong regional sports coverage on higher packages
- Familiar cable-style package tiers
- Smaller Genre Packs for narrower needs
- No long-term contract
Cons
- Many packages and packs to compare
- Regional sports depend on package and ZIP code
- DVR details need checking on the site
Key features
- Local channels included with every package (varies by market)
- Regional sports networks with CHOICE and higher
- Genre Packs such as MySports and MyNews
- Gemini streaming device or your own devices
- No long-term contract
Who DIRECTV (streaming) is for
A good fit if
Sports fans who want their regional sports network and households that want a cable-style package without a dish.
Look elsewhere if
Anyone who wants the simplest possible plan choice.
How we scored DIRECTV (streaming)
DIRECTV scores well on Local & sports coverage because local channels are included with every package and regional sports networks come with CHOICE and higher packages, and on Channel & content coverage for its traditional package tiers. It is held back on Value transparency because packages, Genre Packs and regional availability take time to compare, and on Features because DVR terms are not set out on its streaming page.
Our streaming services score weighs channel & content coverage (30%), local & sports coverage (20%), value transparency (20%), features (15%), device support & ease of use (15%). See the methodology.
DIRECTV (streaming) alternatives
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#1

YouTube TV
Best overallBroad live TV lineup with local channels in most markets and an included cloud DVR.
- Live local channels in most US markets (check your ZIP code)
- Unlimited cloud DVR space
- Up to six household accounts and three streams at once
- Optional add-ons, including NFL Sunday Ticket and premium channels
-
#2

Hulu + Live TV
Best live TV + on-demand bundleLive TV channels plus Hulu's on-demand library and Disney bundle content.
- Live channels including locals in many markets
- Hulu on-demand library included
- Disney bundle content (check current bundle contents)
- Cloud DVR included; check current limits
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#4

Fubo
Best for sportsSports-first live TV streaming with locals in many markets and a cloud DVR.
- Sports-focused live channel lineup
- Local channels and regional sports in many markets (check your ZIP code)
- Unlimited DVR and unlimited screens, per Fubo's help center
- 4K on higher plans
DIRECTV (streaming) FAQ
Is DIRECTV STREAM still available?
DIRECTV now calls it streaming live TV from DIRECTV (formerly DIRECTV STREAM). It delivers DIRECTV packages over the internet with no satellite dish.
Does DIRECTV streaming include regional sports networks?
DIRECTV says regional sports networks are included with CHOICE or higher packages, with availability depending on your ZIP code and package.
Does DIRECTV streaming require a contract?
DIRECTV says its streaming service renews monthly and you can cancel any time. Check the current terms on the site.
Sources and fact check
We checked the facts on this page against DIRECTV (streaming)'s own website on .