DIRECTV provides television via satellite or high-speed internet across four main packages: ENTERTAINMENT ($84.99–$86.99/mo for 90+ channels), CHOICE ($109.99–$114.99/mo for 125+ channels), ULTIMATE ($129.99/mo for 160+ channels), and PREMIER ($169.99/mo for 185+ channels). The CHOICE package and above includes local Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) like FanDuel Sports Network (formerly Bally), YES Network, and Marquee. All subscriptions come with unlimited Cloud DVR storage, the voice-controlled Gemini receiver/remote, and a 2-year price guarantee when selecting term-contract options.
DIRECTV remains a premier provider of live television in the United States, offering both traditional satellite reception and modern app-based delivery over existing broadband. With the sports market fragmenting across dozens of apps, DIRECTV stands out for keeping in-market regional games, college sports conferences, and major broadcast networks under a single interactive channel guide.
Below is an itemized breakdown of current DIRECTV packages, channel lineups, fees, sports inclusions, and delivery differences between DIRECTV via Satellite and DIRECTV via Internet.
DIRECTV Packages & Pricing Compared 2026
| Package Tier | Base Monthly Rate | Channel Count | Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) | Premium Movie Channels | Best Suited For |
| ENTERTAINMENT | $84.99–$86.99/mo | 90+ Channels | Not included | 3 free promotional months | Everyday entertainment, news, kids, & essentials |
| CHOICE (Top Pick) | $109.99–$114.99/mo | 125+ Channels | Included (In-market teams) | 3 free promotional months | Regional sports fans (MLB, NBA, NHL) & college sports |
| ULTIMATE | $129.99/mo | 160+ Channels | Included | STARZ ENCORE suite included | Movie buffs, niche channels, and large households |
| PREMIER | $169.99/mo | 185+ Channels | Included | Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, & Cinemax | All-in-one cable replacement with complete premium suites |
Note: Advertised prices typically reflect active AutoPay and paperless billing enrollment. Regional sports network fees and Advanced Receiver Service fees apply based on chosen delivery method and regional market.
1. Package Channel Lineup Breakdown
ENTERTAINMENT (90+ Channels): Essential broadcast and cable staples: local networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, CW), ESPN, ESPN2, CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, HGTV, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, TNT, TBS, USA Network, FX, and Discovery.
CHOICE (125+ Channels): The flagship tier for live sports. Adds local Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), ACC Network, Big Ten Network, SEC Network, ESPNU, MLB Network, NBA TV, Game Show Network, and Nicktoons.
ULTIMATE (160+ Channels): Expands film and outdoor lineups: STARZ ENCORE channels, FX Movie Channel, NHL Network, CBS Sports Network, Golf Channel, BBC News, and Discovery Family.
PREMIER (185+ Channels): The complete package with zero add-ons needed. Includes full live and on-demand suites for Max (HBO), Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax.
2. DIRECTV via Satellite vs. DIRECTV via Internet
Subscribers can choose how to receive their programming:
DIRECTV via Internet (Stream):
How it connects: Plugs into your existing home broadband connection (minimum 25–50 Mbps recommended).
Hardware: Uses the compact DIRECTV Gemini streaming device or the DIRECTV App on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and smart TVs.
Pros: No satellite dish installation, no roof drilling, unaffected by heavy rain fade or severe snow cover.
DIRECTV via Satellite:
How it connects: Requires an outdoor dish mounted with a clear view of the southern sky.
Hardware: The Gemini receiver or Genie HD DVR connects directly to the satellite coaxial line.
Pros: 99% signal reliability nationwide, independent of home internet bandwidth or local ISP data caps. Ideal for rural areas without high-speed fiber or cable.
3. Sports Coverage: The Regional Sports Network (RSN) Leader
DIRECTV carries more regional sports networks than any mainstream competitor (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV do not carry the majority of local RSNs):
MLB, NBA, and NHL In-Market Action: Live broadcasts across FanDuel Sports Network (formerly Bally Sports), YES Network, NESN, Marquee Sports Network, MASN, Altitude Sports, and regional NBC Sports channels.
College Conference Networks: Full distribution of Big Ten Network, SEC Network, and ACC Network included on the CHOICE tier and above.
DIRECTV Sports Pack: An optional add-on (+$14.99/mo) providing over 40 regional and specialty sports channels, including NFL RedZone, Outdoor Channel, and extra collegiate feeds.
4. Hardware, Cloud DVR & Simultaneous Streams
DIRECTV Gemini Device: Combines live TV channels with streaming apps (Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube) on a single screen with an integrated Google Assistant voice remote. The first leased Gemini unit is typically included on 2-year contract plans.
Unlimited Cloud DVR: Included with all packages. Recordings are stored for up to 9 months with no hard gigabyte capacity caps.
Simultaneous In-Home Streaming: Watch on unlimited compatible devices connected to your home Wi-Fi network simultaneously, plus up to 3 concurrent streams outside the home on mobile devices.
5. Mandatory Fees & Contract Details to Keep in Mind
To avoid billing surprises, factor in these regular line items:
2-Year Price Guarantee vs. Agreement: Most promotions require a 24-month agreement. The price guarantee protects against base package increases during those 24 months, though taxes and surcharges remain variable. Early termination fees apply if service is canceled before the 24-month term ends.
Advanced Receiver Service Fee: An ongoing monthly fee (~$15.00/mo) that covers advanced HD DVR capabilities and Gemini gateway operations.
Regional Sports Network (RSN) Fee: Depending on zip code and local team broadcast rights, CHOICE packages and higher may include an RSN fee ranging from $0.00 up to $15.99/mo.
6. DIRECTV vs. Top Live TV Competitors
| Feature / Metric | DIRECTV (CHOICE) | YouTube TV (Base) | Hulu + Live TV (Base) |
| Monthly Starting Cost | $109.99–$114.99/mo | $72.99/mo | $76.99–$89.99/mo |
| Total Channel Count | 125+ Channels | 100+ Channels | 95+ Channels |
| Local RSN Availability | Extensive (Bally/YES/NESN/etc.) | None | Extremely Limited |
| Cloud DVR Storage | Unlimited (9 Months) | Unlimited (9 Months) | Unlimited (9 Months) |
| Home Streams | Unlimited | 3 Screens | 2 Screens (Unlimited +$9.99) |
| Dish Required? | Optional (Internet or Dish) | No (App-only) | No (App-only) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most popular DIRECTV package?
The CHOICE Package is the most popular option because it unlocks in-market Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) alongside major cable staples like ESPN, TNT, and HGTV without requiring the higher-priced ULTIMATE or PREMIER tiers.
Do I need a satellite dish to get DIRECTV?
No. DIRECTV offers its full service via an internet connection (DIRECTV via Internet / DIRECTV STREAM), requiring only a high-speed broadband connection and a streaming device or smart TV.
Does DIRECTV charge an early cancellation fee?
If you enroll in a 24-month agreement, canceling prior to the end of the term incurs an Early Termination Fee (ETF) calculated on a prorated monthly basis (typically $20 for each month remaining on the contract).