In the world of television streaming, there are numerous options available to cater to different viewer preferences and needs. Among these, two popular options are DirecTV and DirecTV Now. While they may seem like similar entities, they are actually two distinct services offered by AT&T, a telecommunications giant. Understanding the differences between these two services is crucial to making an informed decision about which one is best for you.
What is DirecTV?
DirecTV is a traditional satellite television service provided by AT&T that offers a wide range of channels, including local networks, sports, news, and entertainment. It was launched in 1994 and has since become one of the largest satellite television providers in the United States. DirecTV is known for its comprehensive channel lineup, which includes popular networks like HBO, Showtime, and ESPN, as well as international channels and sports packages.
To access DirecTV, users need to install a satellite dish at their home, which receives signals from satellites in orbit around the Earth. This allows for high-quality video transmission and a wide reach across the United States. DirecTV also offers advanced features like DVR (Digital Video Recorder) capabilities, which enable users to record and play back their favorite shows and movies.
Key Features of DirecTV
- Wide channel selection: DirecTV offers a vast array of channels, including local networks, sports, news, and entertainment.
- Satellite transmission: DirecTV uses satellite technology to transmit signals, allowing for high-quality video and a wide reach across the United States.
- DVR capabilities: DirecTV offers advanced DVR features, enabling users to record and play back their favorite shows and movies.
What is DirecTV Now?
DirecTV Now is a live TV streaming service offered by AT&T that allows users to watch their favorite channels and programs without the need for a satellite dish or equipment. Launched in 2016, DirecTV Now is a more modern alternative to traditional satellite television, catering to cord-cutters and those who prefer streaming over traditional TV.
DirecTV Now offers a range of channels, including local networks, sports, news, and entertainment, although the selection may vary depending on the package chosen. Users can access DirecTV Now through various devices, such as smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV.
Key Features of DirecTV Now
- Live TV streaming: DirecTV Now allows users to stream live TV channels and programs without the need for a satellite dish or equipment.
- No contracts or equipment rental fees: DirecTV Now is a month-to-month service, with no contracts or equipment rental fees.
- Multi-device support: DirecTV Now can be accessed through various devices, including smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and streaming devices.
Differences between DirecTV and DirecTV Now
Now that we’ve understood the basics of both services, let’s dive into the key differences between DirecTV and DirecTV Now:
Channel Selection
DirecTV offers a more comprehensive channel lineup compared to DirecTV Now. While both services offer popular networks like HBO and ESPN, DirecTV has a longer list of channels, including international networks and sports packages. DirecTV Now, on the other hand, has a more limited channel selection, although it still covers the basics.
Pricing
DirecTV Now is generally more affordable than DirecTV, with prices starting at $50 per month for the basic package. DirecTV, on the other hand, has more tiers and pricing plans, with prices ranging from $50 to over $150 per month, depending on the package and equipment choices.
Equipment and Installation
DirecTV requires a satellite dish installation, which can be a one-time fee or an ongoing rental charge. DirecTV Now, being a streaming service, does not require any equipment installation or rental fees.
Availability
DirecTV is available across the United States, although signal quality may vary depending on the location. DirecTV Now, being a streaming service, is available wherever there is a stable internet connection, making it more accessible to users with internet connectivity issues.
Which Service is Right for You?
Choosing between DirecTV and DirecTV Now ultimately depends on your viewing habits, budget, and preferences. If you’re looking for a comprehensive channel lineup and advanced features like DVR capabilities, DirecTV might be the better choice. However, if you’re a cord-cutter or prefer a more affordable, streaming-based service, DirecTV Now could be the way to go.
Consider the Following Factors
- Channel selection: If you have specific channel requirements, DirecTV might be the better choice.
- Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, DirecTV Now’s more affordable pricing plans might be more suitable.
- Equipment and installation: If you’re not comfortable with equipment installation or rental fees, DirecTV Now is a better option.
- Availability: If you have internet connectivity issues, DirecTV might be a better choice, but if you have a stable internet connection, DirecTV Now is more accessible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both DirecTV and DirecTV Now are popular services offered by AT&T, they cater to different user needs and preferences. DirecTV is a traditional satellite television service with a comprehensive channel lineup and advanced features, while DirecTV Now is a more modern, streaming-based service with a more limited channel selection but greater accessibility and affordability. By understanding the differences between these two services, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What is the main difference between DirecTV and DirecTV Now?
DirecTV is a satellite-based television service that requires a physical dish to be installed at your home. It offers a more traditional TV viewing experience with a wider range of channels and more sports coverage. On the other hand, DirecTV Now is a streaming service that allows you to watch live TV without the need for a satellite dish or any equipment rental fees. It’s a more flexible and affordable option that can be streamed on various devices.
DirecTV is generally more suited for those who want a more comprehensive TV package with a lot of channels and sports coverage, while DirecTV Now is better for those who want a more affordable and flexible streaming option with fewer channels.
Do both DirecTV and DirecTV Now offer live TV?
Yes, both DirecTV and DirecTV Now offer live TV, allowing you to watch your favorite shows and sports in real-time. However, DirecTV offers a more comprehensive range of live channels, including regional sports networks and some sports packages that are not available on DirecTV Now. DirecTV Now, on the other hand, offers a more limited range of live channels, but it’s still a great option for those who want to watch live TV without the need for a satellite dish.
With both services, you can watch live TV on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices like Roku and Chromecast. However, DirecTV Now is more geared towards streaming on-the-go, while DirecTV is more suited for watching live TV on your TV at home.
Can I get sports coverage with DirecTV Now?
Yes, DirecTV Now does offer some sports coverage, but it’s limited compared to what’s available on DirecTV. With DirecTV Now, you can get access to some sports channels like ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBC Sports, but you won’t get access to regional sports networks or some sports packages like NFL Sunday Ticket. If sports is a top priority for you, DirecTV may be a better option, as it offers more comprehensive sports coverage.
That being said, DirecTV Now is still a good option for those who want to watch some sports, but don’t need a lot of sports channels. Plus, it’s more affordable than DirecTV, so it’s a great choice for those on a budget.
Do I need a contract with DirecTV Now?
No, DirecTV Now does not require a contract, which means you can cancel at any time without penalty. This is one of the main advantages of DirecTV Now over DirecTV, which typically requires a two-year contract. With DirecTV Now, you can try out the service risk-free and cancel if you’re not satisfied.
This means that you can try out DirecTV Now for a month or two and see if it’s the right fit for you. If you decide you want more channels or sports coverage, you can always switch to DirecTV or another TV service.
Can I get premium channels with DirecTV Now?
Yes, DirecTV Now does offer premium channels like HBO and Cinemax, but they’re not included in the base package. You’ll need to add them as extras, which will increase your monthly bill. With DirecTV, premium channels are often included in the higher-tier packages, but you’ll need to pay more for them.
DirecTV Now is more geared towards those who want a more affordable TV option, so if you want premium channels, you may be better off with DirecTV. However, if you only want one or two premium channels, adding them as extras to your DirecTV Now package may be a more cost-effective option.
Is DirecTV Now available everywhere?
DirecTV Now is available in most areas of the United States, but it may not be available in some rural areas or areas with limited internet connectivity. You’ll need a reliable internet connection to stream DirecTV Now, so if you live in an area with slow internet speeds, you may not be able to get the service.
If you’re not sure if DirecTV Now is available in your area, you can check the DirecTV Now website for more information. They offer a zip code lookup tool that can help you determine if the service is available in your area.
Can I get a discount if I bundle DirecTV Now with AT&T internet?
Yes, if you’re also an AT&T internet customer, you can get a discount on your DirecTV Now subscription. This is a great way to save money if you’re already paying for AT&T internet. However, the discount may vary depending on your location and the type of internet plan you have.
It’s worth noting that the discount may not be available if you’re not a new customer, so you may need to sign up for both services at the same time to get the discount. You can check the AT&T website for more information on bundling discounts.