DIRECTV via Internet vs. DIRECTV STREAM: Which One Is Right for You?

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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 vs. DIRECTV STREAM: What’s the Difference?

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.

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.

Bottom Line: Which is Better, DIRECTV via Internet or DIRECTV STREAM?

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.

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DIRECTV via INTERNET: Service subject to DIRECTV delivered via internet terms and conditions (see directv.com/legal/legal-policy-center/). Available only in the U.S. (excludes Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I.). Some offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Different offers may apply for eligible multi-dwelling units. Early termination fees apply for a maximum of $480, prorated at $20 per month over the 24-month term. If you cancel your service within the first 14 days of ordering, a full refund of charges will be applied, and the early termination fees will be waived. If service is canceled after 14 days, you can continue to access DIRECTV through the end of the bill period, but there is no refund or credit for partial-month or unwatched content.

DIRECTV VIA INTERNET BILL CREDIT OFFER: Limited Time Offer. Receive $10/mo. credit for 24 mos. with CHOICE pkg. 24-mo. agmt req’d. Customer must activate service and account must remain in good standing to receive all discounts. You will lose this offer and/or any portion of this offer if you cancel your service. LIMIT ONE OFFER PER DIRECTV ACCOUNT. May not be combined with certain offers. Offer may be changed or discontinued at any time.

Requires high speed internet. Minimum internet speed of 8Mbps per stream recommended for optimal viewing. Pricing: ENTERTAINMENT $84.99/mo., CHOICE $115.98/mo., ULTIMATE $145.98/mo., PREMIER $190.98/mo. for 2 years. After 2 years, continues month to month at then-current prevailing prices unless cancelled. Prices reflect base package prices plus the req’d. $15/mo. Advanced Receiver Service Fee and Regional Sports Fee (RSF) of up to $15.99/mo. RSF applies to CHOICE Pkg. or higher and varies based on location. May be lower in some areas. $7/mo. lease fee per each additional device will be charged on your account. State and local taxes or other governmental fees and charges may apply including any such taxes, fees or charges assessed against discounted fees or service credits. See directv.com/directv-fees/ for additional information.

Equipment Non-Return Fees: If service is cancelled you must return the included and leased device to avoid a non-return fee of $120 per device.

Regional Sports & Local Channels: Regional Sports available with CHOICE and above. Not available in select areas. Channels vary by package & billing region. Device may need to be in billing region in order to view. In select markets certain local channels are not available, call 800-535-5000 or visit directv.com/channel-lineup/ for more info. Limits: Programming subject to blackout restrictions.

DIRECTV STREAM: Service subject to DIRECTV STREAM terms and conditions (see https://www.directv.com/legal/legal-policy-center/). Requires high speed internet. Minimum internet speed of 8Mbps per stream recommended for optimal viewing. Compatible device req’d. Residential U.S. customers only (excludes Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands).

Your DIRECTV STREAM service renews monthly at the prevailing rate, charged to your payment method on file unless you cancel. New customers who cancel service in the first 14 days will receive a full refund. Otherwise, no refunds or credits for any partial month periods or unwatched content. However, once you’ve canceled, you can access DIRECTV STREAM through the remaining monthly period. Returning customers who disconnected service within previous 12 months are not eligible for a refund.

Regional Sports & Local Channels: Regional Sports available with CHOICE and above. Not available in select areas. Channels vary by package & billing region. Device may need to be in billing region in order to view. In select markets certain local channels are not available, call 800-535-5000 or visit directv.com/channel-lineup/ for more info. Limits: Programming subject to blackout restrictions.

Cancellation: Modify or cancel at any time online or by calling 1-800-531-5000.

Taxes: State and local taxes or other governmental fees and charges may apply including any such taxes, fees or charges assessed against discounted fees or service credits. Limits: Offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Programming subject to blackout restrictions.

All offers, programming, promotions, pricing, terms, restrictions & conditions subject to change & may be modified, discontinued, or terminated at any time without notice. See directv.com for details.

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