DirecTV Stream, previously known as DirecTV Now, has been on the radar of many cord-cutters. While some have reservations, a significant number of users have found it to be a refreshing change from other streaming services. This review is based on a our experience after 14 days with DirecTV Stream.
TL;DR: DirecTV Now, rebranded as AT&T TV Now, is an over-the-top (OTT) streaming service that delivers live TV and on-demand content over the internet. Unlike traditional cable or satellite services, it doesnโt require any long-term contracts or expensive equipment. All you need is a stable internet connection and a compatible device to stream your favorite shows and movies.
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Table of Contents
Another Rebrand
DirecTV Now was launched by AT&T on November 30, 2016. The service underwent its first major rebranding in August 2019 when it was renamed โAT&T TV Now.โ Later, AT&T consolidated its streaming services, and by 2020, โAT&T TV Nowโ was integrated into โAT&T TV.โ So, the significant name change from DirecTV Now to AT&T TV Now occurred in August 2019.
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At its core, DirecTV Now offers the following:
- Live TV Streaming: Just like your traditional cable or satellite TV, but delivered over the internet. You can watch your favorite shows as they air.
- On-demand Content: Besides live TV, DirecTV Now also has a library of movies and TV shows you can watch anytime.
- Multiple Channel Packages: Depending on how much youโre willing to spend, you can choose a package that suits your needs.
- No Contract: One of the big advantages of DirecTV Now over traditional TV services is the lack of contracts. You pay month to month and can cancel anytime.
I recommend considering your viewing habits and budget when choosing a plan. DirecTV Now offers a range of channel lineups and pricing tiers, ensuring thereโs something for everyone.
Whats New?
Transition from Other Services
Having previously used YouTube TV for almost two years, the user faced persistent audio sync issues. A brief stint with Hulu W/Live TV felt clunky and occasionally suffered from buffering. The transition to DirecTV Stream brought a noticeable improvement in both user experience and technical performance.
Picture Quality
DirecTV Stream stands out with its exceptional picture quality, which some users believe surpasses competitors like Hulu Live and YouTube TV. The clarity and sharpness of the visuals have been a highlight for many.
User Interface
The DirecTV Stream interface is described as fresh yet familiar. It offers a seamless experience with features like the favorites tab, making navigation intuitive. The overall experience is smooth, snappy, and fuss-free.
Performance
I would like to report zero sync issues and no buffering, which is a significant improvement from their experiences with other services. The streaming is consistent, offering a hassle-free live TV experience.
How DirecTV Now Works
To start with DirecTV Now, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a package: DirecTV Now offers multiple packages, each with a different number of channels and price points.
- Create an account: Youโll need to create an account and provide payment information.
- Download the app: DirecTV Now works through an app that you can download on a variety of devices including smart TVs, streaming media players, smartphones, and tablets.
- Start streaming: Once youโre set up, you can start watching live TV or on-demand content.
Pricing and Packages
DirecTV Streamโs pricing structure aligns closely with traditional cable and satellite services. It offers four distinct packages:
- Entertainment: $75/mo. for 75+ channels
- Choice: $100/mo. for 105+ channels
- Ultimate: $110/mo. for 140+ channels
- Premier: $155/mo. for 150+ channels
Add-Ons and Premium Content
DirecTV Stream offers a plethora of add-ons to enhance the viewing experience. The premium movie bundle, priced at an additional $54/mo. after the first three months, includes HBO Max, Cinemax, MGM+, Showtime, and Starz. Individual pricing for these channels ranges from $6/mo. to $15/mo.
Other notable add-ons include the Movies Extra Pack for $5/mo., AMC+ for $9/mo., NBA League Pass Premium for $20/mo., Discovery+ for $3/mo., Fox Nation for $6/mo., and ALLBLK for $6/mo.
For those seeking international content, DirecTV Stream offers packages catering to Brazilian, Korean, Vietnamese, and Spanish-speaking audiences, with prices ranging from $5/mo. to $30/mo.
Navigating DirecTV Nowโs Features and Add-Ons
DirecTV Now stands out with a range of features and add-ons to enhance your streaming experience. Hereโs what you can expect:
- Cloud DVR: DirecTV Now offers a cloud DVR service. This allows you to record your favorite shows and movies to watch later. However, compared to competitors, the storage space is somewhat limited.
- Multiple Streams: You can watch DirecTV Now on multiple devices at the same time. The exact number of simultaneous streams depends on your subscription package.
- Add-on Channels and Features: Want more than whatโs in your package? DirecTV Now offers add-ons like HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax, as well as international channels. Thereโs also an option to add more DVR storage or additional streams.
Channel Offerings
DirecTV Stream boasts an extensive channel lineup. The Ultimate and Premier packages are particularly comprehensive, with the only distinction being the inclusion of premium channels like HBO Max, Cinemax, Starz, and Showtime in the Premier package.
Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the Choice package, which offers a rich array of sports channels, including ACC Network, Big 10 Network, ESPNews, ESPNU, Golf Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, SEC Network, and the Tennis Channel. Additionally, regional sports networks from Bally Sports, AT&T SportsNet, and Root Sports are available, with availability contingent on the userโs location.
Understanding the DirecTV Now Experience
One of the most important aspects of any streaming service is the user experience, and DirecTV Now doesnโt disappoint. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate between live TV, your library, and on-demand content.
Hereโs what to expect:
- Channel Guide: DirecTV Nowโs guide is similar to what youโd see with traditional cable or satellite TV, listing channels and current and upcoming programming.
- Search and Discovery: The service makes it easy to find your favorite content, whether youโre searching for a specific title or browsing by genre.
- Personalization: You can mark your favorite channels for quick access and set up profiles for different family members.
If youโre switching from traditional TV, youโll find DirecTV Nowโs interface familiar and user-friendly.
Osprey Box: A Game Changer
Many users have emphasized the enhanced experience when using the Osprey box with DirecTV Stream. It replicates the traditional cable experience, complete with a physical remote with numbers. The convenience of a single remote controlling everything โ TV, stream box, and audio system โ has been a highlight. The boxโs performance is faster, and it offers a more immersive experience, making it a popular recommendation among users.
Legacy Users and Loyalty
Several users have been with DirecTV in its various iterations, from the satellite days to DirecTV Now and its current form. Many of these legacy users, especially those with the โGo Bigโ package, have expressed satisfaction with the service, citing its comprehensive channel lineup and consistent performance. However, some have voiced concerns about potential price hikes and the future of certain discounted packages.
Comparing DirecTV Now with Alternatives
When considering DirecTV Now, itโs essential to look at its competitors. While DirecTV Now offers an extensive channel lineup and flexibility, other services might offer better pricing or features.
For example, Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV are two major competitors. Both services offer a combination of live TV and on-demand content, similar to DirecTV Now. However, Hulu has the advantage of access to its large library of on-demand content, while YouTube TV offers unlimited cloud DVR storage.
I recommend exploring all your options and taking advantage of any free trials to find the service that best meets your needs.
Conclusion
After 14 days with DirecTV Stream, the user experience suggests that it offers a superior streaming experience in terms of picture quality, user interface, and overall performance. While it might be on the pricier side compared to some competitors, the quality and consistency it delivers, especially when paired with the Osprey box, make it a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and high-quality streaming service.
FAQ:
What is the difference between DIRECTV and DIRECTV NOW?
DIRECTV is a satellite-based television service that requires a long-term contract, professional installation, and specific equipment. On the other hand, DirecTV Now, now known as AT&T TV Now, is an internet-based streaming service that requires no contracts, no installations, and can be accessed from various devices.
What is DIRECTV NOW called now?
In 2019, DirecTV Now was rebranded to AT&T TV Now to better align with its parent company, AT&T.
What is AT&T DIRECTV NOW?
AT&T DirecTV Now, currently known as AT&T TV Now, is an internet-based streaming service offered by AT&T that provides live TV channels and on-demand content without the need for a cable or satellite subscription.