Choosing the right TV programming package can be overwhelming, especially with providers offering various options. DIRECTV, a leading television provider, offers a range of packages delivered via satellite and internet, each with different channels, features, and price points. Understanding the nuances of each package is crucial to making an informed decision that fits your entertainment needs and budget. This guide will break down and compare DIRECTV’s programming packages, helping you determine the best option for your household.
DIRECTV Packages Overview (Satellite & Internet)
DIRECTV offers four primary programming packages, available through both satellite and internet delivery methods. While the core channel lineups are largely similar, there are distinctions in pricing, contract terms, equipment, and service features depending on the delivery method you choose. Let’s explore each package:
ENTERTAINMENT Package
The ENTERTAINMENT package is positioned as the entry-level option, offering a solid foundation of channels for a basic viewing experience.
- Price: $89.99/month for 2 years (both via satellite and internet).
- Contract: 2-year agreement required.
- Channels: Includes over 160 channels, featuring popular networks such as ESPN, Disney Channel, CNN, and HGTV.
- Key Features: Access to local channels, music channels, and standard definition programming.
- Best For: Individuals or small households looking for a budget-friendly option with essential channels covering news, entertainment, and sports.
CHOICE Package
Stepping up to the CHOICE package provides a broader channel selection and unlocks regional sports networks, making it a popular choice for sports enthusiasts.
- Price: $122.98/month for 2 years (both via satellite and internet).
- Contract: 2-year agreement required.
- Channels: Over 185 channels, adding regional sports networks, more news and entertainment channels compared to the ENTERTAINMENT package.
- Key Features: Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), ideal for local sports fans; often includes more family and lifestyle channels.
- Best For: Families and sports fans who want a wider variety of channels, including local sports coverage, at a mid-range price.
ULTIMATE Package
The ULTIMATE package expands the channel lineup even further, incorporating more movie channels and specialty networks for a more comprehensive entertainment experience.
- Price: $152.98/month for 2 years (both via satellite and internet).
- Contract: 2-year agreement required.
- Channels: Over 250 channels, including a wider range of movie channels, more sports options, and specialty entertainment networks.
- Key Features: Expanded movie channel selection, often includes channels like STARZ and Encore; caters to diverse interests with niche programming.
- Best For: Households that want a broad spectrum of channels, including a significant movie channel selection and more in-depth coverage of various interests.
PREMIER Package
The PREMIER package is DIRECTV’s top-tier offering, providing the most extensive channel lineup and premium channel access for the ultimate viewing experience.
- Price: $197.98/month for 2 years (both via satellite and internet).
- Contract: 2-year agreement required.
- Channels: Over 340 channels, including premium channels like HBO Max, SHOWTIME, Cinemax, and STARZ (note: premium channel inclusions may vary based on promotions).
- Key Features: Includes premium movie channels; the most comprehensive channel selection DIRECTV offers; often comes with additional perks and benefits.
- Best For: Large households, movie buffs, and viewers who want access to virtually every channel DIRECTV offers, including premium networks, and are willing to pay a premium price for it.
Key Differences: DIRECTV Satellite vs. Internet Packages
While the package names and core channel lineups are consistent across DIRECTV’s satellite and internet services, several key differences can influence your choice:
Pricing and Contracts
- Base Package Prices: The base prices for ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, ULTIMATE, and PREMIER packages are currently the same for both satellite and internet delivery for the first 2 years.
- Long-Term Costs: After the 2-year contract, prices revert to prevailing month-to-month rates, which can be significantly higher. It’s crucial to be aware of these potential price increases after the contract period.
- Early Termination Fees (Internet): DIRECTV via internet has early termination fees of up to $480, prorated at $20 per month over the 24-month term. Satellite service terms are subject to customer agreements, and it’s important to review those for specific early termination details.
Channel Availability & Regional Sports
- Core Channel Lineups: Generally consistent across satellite and internet.
- Regional Sports Fees (RSF): Applied to CHOICE package and higher for both delivery methods. RSF can add up to $17.99/month and varies by location.
- Local Channels: Both satellite and internet services provide access to local channels, but availability can depend on your location.
Equipment and Fees
- Advanced Receiver Service Fee: A mandatory $15/month fee applies to both satellite and internet services.
- Additional TV Connections: $7/month for each additional TV connection for both services.
- Satellite Equipment: Leased equipment, including receivers and DVRs. Non-return fees apply if equipment is not returned upon cancellation ($45-$135 per piece depending on type). Wireless HD DVR upgrade available for a one-time fee ($99).
- Internet Equipment: Gemini device required. Equipment lease might not be available in all sales channels; purchasing devices at $120 each may be necessary for additional TVs. Non-return fee of $120 per device if service is canceled within 14 days of ordering for internet service.
- Internet Connection Requirement (Gemini Device): Gemini devices for internet service can deactivate after 90 consecutive days without an internet connection.
Internet Requirement and Reliability
- Satellite: Does not require internet service for basic TV viewing, but internet is needed for on-demand content, DIRECTV App features, and potentially for initial setup and account management.
- Internet: Requires high-speed internet service. Minimum recommended speed is 8Mbps per stream for optimal viewing. Reliability is dependent on your internet service provider.
Promotions and Add-ons
DIRECTV frequently offers promotions and add-ons to enhance the value of their packages:
Current Deals and Bill Credits
- $240 in Bill Credits: A common promotion offers $10/month credit for 24 months with CHOICE package or higher, requiring a 24-month agreement. This offer may have specific end dates and eligibility requirements.
- Autopay & Paperless Bill Discount: $10/month discount for enrolling in autopay and paperless billing within 30 days of activation. Maintaining autopay and paperless billing is required to keep the discount.
Premium Channel Offers
- Free Premium Channels for Limited Time: Often includes free trials of premium channels like Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+, and Cinemax for the first 3 months with ENTERTAINMENT through ULTIMATE packages (PREMIER may have different premium channel inclusions).
- Auto-renewal: Be aware that these premium channel subscriptions auto-renew at prevailing rates after the trial period unless you cancel.
Making the Right Choice: Which DIRECTV Package is Best for You?
Choosing the best DIRECTV programming package depends on your individual viewing habits, budget, and preferences. Consider these factors:
- Budget: The ENTERTAINMENT package is the most affordable, while PREMIER is the most expensive. Evaluate your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on TV entertainment.
- Channel Needs: Think about the types of channels you and your household watch most frequently. If you need regional sports, CHOICE or higher is necessary. For extensive movie channels and premium networks, ULTIMATE or PREMIER are better suited.
- Sports Enthusiast: CHOICE package and above are essential for regional sports networks. ULTIMATE and PREMIER offer more sports channels overall.
- Movie Buff: ULTIMATE and PREMIER packages provide a significantly larger selection of movie channels, including premium options in the PREMIER package.
- Premium Channels: If you desire premium channels like HBO Max, SHOWTIME, etc., consider the PREMIER package or factor in the cost of adding them to a lower-tier package.
- Internet vs. Satellite: If you have reliable high-speed internet, DIRECTV via internet is an option. If internet reliability is a concern or you prefer traditional satellite TV, DIRECTV via satellite is available.
By carefully comparing DIRECTV programming packages and considering your specific needs, you can select the plan that delivers the best entertainment value and aligns with your preferences and budget. Remember to check DIRECTV’s website or contact them directly for the most current pricing, channel lineups, and promotional offers, as these are subject to change.
