Updated October 13, 2024

DIRECTV vs DISH: Which Service is Better?

By Anna G
Read more about TV
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Compare DIRECTV and DISH promotions, channel packages, and equipment. Find out which is the best satellite TV provider for you.

Thinking of making the switch from cable to satellite?

DIRECTV and DISH are your two options. But which TV provider is better for you?

Both have their advantages and downsides. DISH doesn't have the NFL Sunday Ticket, but it does have the Hopper that instantly skips commercials. DIRECTV has the most sports programming; however, the price goes up significantly in the second year.

In this review, we do an in-depth comparison of both TV providers.

DISH vs DIRECTV: DISH is the best TV service provider for the money, but DIRECTV offers more HD channels. DIRECTV is also known for better sports packages. DISH is known for its better DVR that automatically skips commercials in selected primetime recordings.

We'll explain more below. But first, let's highlight the current DISH and DIRECTV promotions.

DIRECTV Promotions

DISH Promotions

At a Glance

Which TV provider is best? While DIRECTV excels with its sports bundles, DISH wins with its prices. Both services provide mobile apps and HD channels. If sports are important to you DIRECTV is a no-brainer. If you watch a lot of common TV channels DISH could be better. They offer a 190-channel bundle for $91.99/mo paired with a two-year price guarantee.

Before we get into the meat of the comparisons, here is a quick showdown between the two providers:

  • Best channels: DIRECTV wins this battle. It offers nearly every channel you could want. It has packages for the NBA, NHL, and Major League Baseball. It also has more on-demand movies and TV shows.

  • Best DVR: The winner goes to DISH's Hopper 3. Its hard drive capacity is way more than DirectTV's unit. It can record up to 16 shows at the same time and can hold 500 hours of HD recordings (2,000 SD hours). DIRECTV's Genie can only do 5 recordings at once and store 200 HD hours (1,000 SD hours). And plus - the Hopper is the only DVR on the market that automatically skips commercials.

  • Best Pricing: Again, this round goes to DISH. DISH and DIRECTV both require a 2-year contract. Both have a 2-year guarantee, which locks you into the rate for a whole 24 months.

Which TV provider offers better HD Programming? Both providers have over 200+ HD channels. However, DIRECTV has more sports channels in HD.

Both providers also cater to 4K. However, DIRECTV has dedicated 4K channels in their lineup. With DISH, only certain programs are in 4K picture quality.

Keep in mind that DIRECTV has a $10 monthly charge for HD service. Overall, DIRECTV has better HD content. If HD is important to you, go with DIRECTV.

DIRECTV and DISH Packages Comparison

DIRECTV offers 8 different packages.

The options are:

DIRECTV Stream: This is DIRECTV's streaming-only package. There are several packages, starting from $74.99/month to $164.99/month, and ranging from 90+ channels to 185+ channels.

Under the DIRECTV Stream are the following packages:

  • Entertainment ($74.99): You get 90+ channels. You can also stream on an unlimited number of devices at home. This also includes unlimited Cloud DVR storage

  • Choice ($89.99/month): You get 125+ channels. This also allows streaming on an unlimited number of devices and includes unlimited Cloud DVR storage. In addition, you don't need to pay extra to access regional sports networks.

  • Ultimate ($119.99/month): You get to enjoy the same features in the Choice package, but this offers 160+ channels.

  • Premier ($164.99/month): You get to enjoy the same features in the Ultimate package, but this offers 185+ channels and includes HBO Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax.

What is DIRECTV Stream? DIRECTV Stream is DIRECTV's version of the Playstation Vue and Sling TV, which is a streaming video service of live television and video on demand. It's a separate service from DIRECTV's satellite TV and uses the internet to stream content. There is no contract and no box/satellite/cable installations. Subscribers can watch it on any device which supports the app such as a Roku stick or browser, and pay month-to-month with the option of terminating at any time.

DIRECTV Satellite: This has different packages, includes a Genie HD DVR device, and ensures 99% signal reliability. Under this service are the following packages:

  • Entertainment ($74.99/mo for 24 months) ($89.99/mo w/ req'd $15/mo ARS fee): 165+ channels, including AMC, CNN, Disney Channel, ESPN & ESPN2, Nickelodeon, and local channels
  • Choice ($89.99/mo for 24 months) ($117.98/mo w/ req'd $15/mo ARS fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $17.99/mo): 200+ channels, featured channels in ENTERTAINMENT, plus specialty sports, and Regional Sports Networks
  • Ultimate ($119.99/mo for 24 months ($147.99/mo w/ req'd $15/mo ARS fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $17.99/mo): 270+ channels, everything in CHOICE, plus more sports & movies
  • Premier ($164.99/mo for 24 months) ($192.98/mo w/ req'd $15/mo ARS fee & Regional Sports Fee of up to $17.99/mo): 340+ channels, everything in ULTIMATE, plus premium networks: Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ. Includes every DIRECTV Sports Pack channel & NFL RedZone from NFL Network

Compare Plans Sign Up

DISH offers 4 different packages. Your prices are locked in for a full 2 years. The options are:

  • America's Top 120 ($91.99/month): 190 channels, includes ESPN, Newsmax, CMT, Disney Channel, E!, and local channels, 70+ Sirius XM Music Channels.
  • America's Top 120+ ($106.99/month): 190+ channels, includes Big Ten Network and NFL Network, and local channels, 70+ Sirius XM Music Channels.
  • America's Top 200 ($111.99/month): 240+ channels, includes NBA, NHL networks, the Golf Channel, Hallmark, Disney Channel, A&E, Sundance, and local channels, 70+ Sirius XM Music Channels.
  • America's Top 250 ($121.99/month): 290+ channels, 70+ Sirius XM Music Channels, 17 movie channels (such as Turner Classic Movies, The Movie Channel, and Starz Encore channels), additional channels such as Smithsonian, Bloomberg, Nicktoons, Great American Faith & Living, and local channels.

Compare Plans Sign Up

With any of the America's Top packages, you get free premium movie channels for 3 months. If you want to add them to your package, they cost $6-$17 per month.

What's your favorite thing to watch on TV?

Why Both DIRECTV and DISH Are Good Choices

Both DISH and DIRECTV offer features that make watching TV more fun and hassle-free.

  • Watch on the go: Both have mobile apps that allow you to live stream or watch pre-downloaded shows on your phone. You can also use the app to schedule DVR recordings. For both, this feature is free without additional costs.

    DIRECTV app: The DIRECTV app allows you to instantly stream shows from your HD-DVR playlist on your laptop, tablet, or cell phone within your home Wi-Fi network.

    DISH Anywhere app: The DISH Anywhere app can be installed on any mobile, tablet, or compatible network device, and stream your recorded shows.

  • Hundreds of HD channels: It used to be that DIRECTV was king when it came to HD channels. But now, DISH has majorly stepped it up with over 200 HD channels. So for both, you will be able to watch almost all your favorite channels in high definition.

  • Free premium channels for 3 months: Both give you free premium movie channels for 3 months.

  • Multiple TVs per home: Both let you hook up multiple TVs, so they're both great if you have large families or multiple housemates. DIRECTV supports up to 8 TVs, while DISH is 7. For both, you can simultaneously watch on 4 TVs at once.

  • Large on-demand library: Both have an on-demand library that allows you to watch TV shows or movies whenever you like (as long as there's an internet connection). DIRECTV has a larger library with over 90,000 titles. But even with DISH's smaller library, you'll find something to watch, including movies even before they hit Redbox.

Which is better cable or satellite TV? Cable TV tends to be more expensive but is less likely to be impacted by weather. While Satellite TV is usually cheaper but may experience interruption during heavy rain and snow. Some rural customers choose satellite simply because there is no cable TV alternative.

Now, let's jump into the differences.

Why You May Prefer DIRECTV

DIRECTV definitely has the upper hand when it comes to sports programming. Here are some reasons why you may prefer DIRECTV:

  • Better channels at lower prices: Depending on what you like to watch, you may like DIRECTV's selection more at the lower price tiers. So, think about which channels are your must-haves and see which provider offers them at a better price.

    Tip: DIRECTV Promo Code

  • AT&T Bundle: Since AT&T acquired DIRECTV, you can also bundle AT&T internet and phone services with your TV package. This could save you some hassle by just getting one bill for everything. The bundle options are:

    • DIRECTV Entertainment + Internet ($129.99/month): Get the DIRECTV Entertainment package along with unlimited 300Mbps internet. Includes the monthly equipment fee for 1 DVR. This price includes $5 discount for autopay and paperless billing.

    • DIRECTV Choice + Internet ($144.99/month): Get the DIRECTV Choice package along with unlimited 300 Mbps internet. This also includes the features and benefits of the DIRECTV Entertainment + Internet package, plus AT&T Internet Security with ActiveArmor.

    • DIRECTV Ultimate+ Internet ($174.99/month): Get the DIRECTV Ultimate package along with the features and benefits of the DIRECTV Choice + Internet package.

    • DIRECTV Premier + Internet ($219.99/month): Get the DIRECTV Premier package along with the features and benefits of the DIRECTV Choice + Internet package.

    • DIRECTV Entertainment + Internet + Home Phone ($154.98/month): Get the DIRECTV Entertainment package, unlimited 300Mbps internet, and digital home phone. Includes the monthly equipment fee for 1 DVR. This price includes $5 discount for autopay.
    • DIRECTV Choice + Internet + Home Phone ($172.98/month): Get the DIRECTV Choice package, unlimited 300Mbps internet, and digital home phone.

    Did you know: DIRECTV may partner with other internet providers (other than AT&T) to bring you their internet + TV package. One of their partners is Viasat Internet (formerly known as Exede) which is a high-speed internet service provider that uses satellite technology to connect you online. Currently, they offer a bundled package with DIRECTV for a cheaper promotional price for the first year of their two-year contract.

Why You May Prefer DISH

DISH and DIRECTV are both good TV service providers. But DISH Network offers the best overall deal for most people. For the non-die-hard sports fans, DISH wins in terms of recording power. Here is why you may prefer DISH Network:

  • 2-year price guarantee. If you like knowing what you're getting into, you may prefer DISH's 2-year price guarantee. DISH's prices have gone up, but at least you know you're locked into that rate. DIRECTV has a 2-year introductory price, after which there is a significant price hike. The 3rd year price could be subject to change at any moment.

  • The Hopper. The Hopper 3 is the most advanced DVR on the market. It instantly skips commercials on primetime recorded shows. DISH is the only provider that offers this no-forwarding feature. That alone might be worth it to some.

    Note: Not everyone is eligible to receive the new Hopper 3 (or upgrade to it if you're an existing customer). The Hopper 3 offer depends on credit qualification.

  • More recording power. The Hopper far surpasses DIRECTV's Genie in terms of show recording capacity. It can record up to 16 different shows at once, compared to the Genie's 5. It also has an impressive hard drive capacity that can store 2,000 hours of programming (or 500 hours in HD), as compared to the Genie's capacity of 1,000 standard hours (or 200 HD hours).

    DishNET: Dish also offers internet services, which are included in their service called dishNET. Depending on your location, they offer satellite and/or wired internet connections.

DishLATINO

Dish also offers five Spanish and English TV packages, which feature soccer and sports, novelas, movies, news, music, and entertainment. Here's a breakdown of the packages:

  • DishLATINO Clásico ($76.99/month):

    • 180+ channels
    • More than 45 Spanish-language channels, including Univision, Telemundo, BEIN Sports, and ESPN Deportes
    • More than 70 SiriusXM music channels
    • Includes optional local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and more).

  • DishLATINO Plus ($78.99/month):
    • 190+ channels
    • More than 50 Spanish-language channels, including Univision, Telemundo, BEIN Sports, Caracol, and Cartoon Network
    • More than 70 SiriusXM music channels
    • Includes optional local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and more).

  • DishLATINO Dos ($103.99/month):
    • 225+ channels
    • Features family entertainment with channels like Disney, TNT, Discovery and CineLatino
    • More than 50 Spanish-language channels, including Univision, Telemundo, BEIN Sports, Caracol, and Cartoon Network
    • More than 70 SiriusXM music channels
    • Includes optional local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and more).

  • DishLATINO Max ($118.99/month):
    • 270+ channels
    • More than 60 Spanish-language channels
    • More than 70 SiriusXM music channels
    • Includes optional local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and more).

If you get rid of your DISH package, you will have to pay to access Sirius XM channels.

Both Do Have Downsides

Neither of the two providers is perfect. Both have disadvantages that may be the final deal breaker for you.

Downsides of DIRECTV:

  • Hidden regional sports fee. It's not very much, but DIRECTV does charge a regional sports fee for certain ZIP codes (up to $17.99/mo). You don't get a choice in this (whether you watch sports or not). So if you don't watch any sports, you'd be paying a few extra bucks per month for something you don't even enjoy. DISH, on the other hand, doesn't charge a regional sports fee.

Downsides of DISH:

  • Monthly DVR cost: DISH also charges $15 per month for the DVR service fee. But there is usually a $5 automatically applied Hopper discount, which brings it down to $10/month. On the other hand, DIRECTV has no DVR fee and includes 3 additional receivers at no extra cost.

  • More for Hopper 3: The package price only includes the Hopper Duo, which supports 2 TVs (when paired with a Joey receiver). It can store up to 125 hours of HD recording. However, if you want to upgrade to the Hopper 3, that's an extra $5/mo.

Is satellite TV reliable? While satellite TV is good, heavy snow or rain can briefly interrupt signal.

Receivers

What are receivers? Receivers convert the satellite signal to programs and channels on your TV.

DIRECTV and DISH have many types of receivers. However, the popular ones are their HD-DVR receivers. The receiver also acts as a DVR and can record your favorite programs.

To watch programs in HD, the receiver must be able to decode HD signals. That's why some models are HD-DVR. This means they can convert HD signals, as well as record them.

DIRECTV's HD-DVR receiver is the Genie. DISH's HD-DVR receiver is the Hopper 3.

Both companies provide the first receiver free of charge. The first one will be your main receiver. However, you'll need more receivers if you want to connect more than one TV. These receivers have a monthly equipment fee.

The receivers for the TVs are different from the main HD-DVR receiver. They don't convert satellite signals. Instead, they connect with the main HD-DVR receiver to transmit shows and programs.

For DIRECTV, the TV receivers are called 'Genie Minis'. Dish has many receivers, but the standard ones are called 'Joeys'.

The 'Genie Minis' cost an extra $7.00/month. A Genie HD-DVR can connect up to eight Minis. However, only three Minis can be active at the same time.

For DISH, it depends on the type of receiver you have. Like DIRECTV, the main Hopper 3 unit itself is free. However, the Joey will cost $7.00/month each.

If you get the Super Joey, it costs $10/month. The Super Joey is pricier because you get more tuners. With more tuners, you can record more shows at the same time.

Bear in mind that DISH also charges a $12/month whole-home-DVR fee. The whole-home DVR is a feature that lets you watch a recorded show from any room in your home.

For DISH, if you want to upgrade your receivers, there is an upgrade fee. However, the amount will depend on your account at the time. You have the option of buying it upfront or paying a monthly leasing fee.

For DIRECTV, there's a $99 upgrade fee when you upgrade to wireless receivers. However, this may also be affected by the current promotions at the time.

Installation

Before getting your satellite TV service, you must set an appointment. You'll need to call either DIRECTV or DISH to set a time and date. They then send a technician to install your service.

A good thing about DISH is that they have the My Tech app. With it, you can track where your technician is. You don't have to wait at home pointlessly.

DISH promises that their technician will arrive within a 75-minute window.

Both companies will send a technician for installation. The first step is to install a satellite dish facing the southern sky.

Because it needs a clear view of the sky, they'll install it at an elevated position. Usually, it's the roof or balcony.

Where is satellite TV available? DISH and DIRECTV are available nationwide. The satellite will need a clear view of the southern sky for the best reception.

After that, they connect the dish to your receiver. They might need to drill a hole for the wiring. They then test the system to make sure it's working.

If everything's okay, they'll activate your service. The final step is teaching you how to operate your new satellite TV.

Before you install your service, get written consent from the landlord or homeowners association. This will prevent complications later on. The FCC forbids local governments and homeowners associations from stopping you from getting a satellite TV.

Bottom Line

DIRECTV wins hands down as the better sports provider. It has great sports programming, such as regional games and matches that aren't available from other providers. For the die-hard sports fans, it'll be a no-brainer to go with DIRECTV.

If you watch a lot of normal TV programming, you may like DISH's DVR more. The Hopper far outshines the Genie in terms of recording capacity and technology.

In conclusion: DIRECTV is better for super sports fanatics. DISH is better for casual TV watchers.

Write to Anna G at feedback@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.

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