DIRECTV STREAM is a premium live TV streaming service offered by DirecTV that offers four primary packages: ENTERTAINMENT ($86.99/mo for 90+ channels), CHOICE ($114.99/mo for 125+ channels), ULTIMATE ($129.99/mo for 160+ channels), and PREMIER ($169.99/mo for 185+ channels).
It includes unlimited Cloud DVR storage, unlimited simultaneous streams on home Wi-Fi, zero equipment rental fees, and the most extensive collection of Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) available across any live TV streaming platform, with no annual contract required.
DIRECTV STREAM delivers full cable-satellite channel lineups over any high-speed broadband connection. It bridges the gap between traditional cable TV and app-based streaming, eliminating satellite dishes, long-term contracts, and proprietary receiver rental fees.
Below is an itemized breakdown of DIRECTV STREAM packages, channel lineups, sports coverage, equipment options, and alternatives compared.
DIRECTV STREAM Packages & Pricing Compared
| Package Tier | Monthly Base Price | Channel Count | Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) | Simultaneous Home Streams | Best For |
| ENTERTAINMENT | $86.99/mo | 90+ Channels | Not included | Unlimited (Home Wi-Fi) | Families, news followers, & essential entertainment |
| CHOICE | $114.99/mo | 125+ Channels | Included (No extra RSN fee) | Unlimited (Home Wi-Fi) | Die-hard sports fans (MLB, NBA, NHL local games) |
| ULTIMATE | $129.99/mo | 160+ Channels | Included | Unlimited (Home Wi-Fi) | Movie lovers, niche sports fans, & large households |
| PREMIER | $169.99/mo | 185+ Channels | Included | Unlimited (Home Wi-Fi) | Complete cable replacement with HBO/Max & Showtime |
1. Package Channel Lineup Breakdown
ENTERTAINMENT (90+ Channels): Local networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, CW), ESPN, ESPN2, CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, HGTV, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, TNT, TBS, USA Network, and Discovery.
CHOICE (125+ Channels): Adds all major regional sports networks (Bally Sports/FanDuel Sports Network, YES Network, NESN, Marquee Sports Network, MASN, Altitude), plus SEC Network, ACC Network, Big Ten Network, MLB Network, and Game Show Network.
ULTIMATE (160+ Channels): Adds FX Movie Channel, NHL Network, CBS Sports Network, Starz Encore suite, BBC News, and Discovery Family.
PREMIER (185+ Channels): Includes all premium network suites: Max (HBO), Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax directly inside the live TV guide.
2. Regional Sports Networks (RSN) Leader
DIRECTV STREAM is the market leader for live local sports coverage:
Unmatched RSN Carriage: Most live streaming competitors (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV) dropped regional sports networks due to high carriage costs. DIRECTV STREAM's CHOICE package and above includes local RSNs for MLB, NBA, and NHL coverage without separate regional sports surcharges.
In-Market Game Access: Live local broadcasts for teams across Bally/FanDuel Sports, YES Network, NESN, MASN, Marquee, NBC Sports regional channels, and Root Sports.
3. DVR, Home Streaming & Hardware Options
Unlimited Cloud DVR Storage: Every plan includes unlimited Cloud DVR. Recordings are stored for up to 9 months with no hard storage gigabyte limits.
Unlimited In-Home Streams: Watch on unlimited compatible devices connected to your home network simultaneously, plus up to 3 mobile streams on the go.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Works via the DIRECTV app on Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Google TV/Android TV, Samsung/LG Smart TVs, iPhones, and Android devices.
Optional DIRECTV Gemini Device: Prefer a traditional cable remote with numbered channel buttons and voice search? DIRECTV offers the Gemini streaming box for purchase or monthly financing.
4. DIRECTV STREAM (No Contract) vs. DIRECTV via Internet (2-Year Contract)
DIRECTV offers two distinct ways to stream:
DIRECTV STREAM (Recommended - BYOD): 100% month-to-month, no credit check, no annual contracts, $0 activation fee, and works on your existing streaming devices.
DIRECTV via Internet: Requires a 24-month contract, includes 1 leased Gemini device, but includes an Advanced Receiver Service fee (~$15.00/mo) and early termination fees if canceled before 24 months.
DIRECTV STREAM vs. Competitors
| Feature / Metric | DIRECTV STREAM (Choice) | YouTube TV (Base) | Hulu + Live TV (Base) |
| Monthly Price | $114.99/mo | $72.99/mo | $76.99–$89.99/mo |
| Channel Count | 125+ Channels | 100+ Channels | 95+ Channels |
| Regional Sports (RSNs) | Extensive Coverage | Very Limited | Very Limited |
| Cloud DVR | Unlimited (9 Months) | Unlimited (9 Months) | Unlimited (9 Months) |
| Simultaneous Streams | Unlimited (Home) | 3 Streams | 2 Streams (Unlimited +$9.99) |
| Contract Required | No | No | No |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need a satellite dish for DIRECTV STREAM?
No. DIRECTV STREAM transmits 100% over your high-speed internet connection through your smart TV, streaming stick, or mobile device.
2. Does the ENTERTAINMENT package include Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)?
No. Local Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) are included starting at the CHOICE package ($114.99/mo) and above.
3. Can I use DIRECTV STREAM on multiple TVs at the same time?
Yes. DIRECTV STREAM includes unlimited simultaneous screens on your home Wi-Fi network and up to 3 streams outside the home on mobile devices.