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DIRECTV vs. Spectrum: Packages, Pricing & More

DIRECTV vs. Spectrum: Packages, Pricing & More

We get it. Choosing a live television service provider is no easy task. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best package for your needs.

To help you make the right entertainment decision for you and your family, we’ve laid out some key areas to consider. Find our comparison of DIRECTV vs. Spectrum below to determine which option is the best fit for you.

Spectrum TV vs. DIRECTV Comparison

The most basic difference between DIRECTV and Spectrum is how TV gets to your home. Spectrum delivers TV via cable alone, but DIRECTV lets you choose between DIRECTV via satellite or DIRECTV via internet.

Wondering what this means? Basically, DIRECTV connected via satellite provides an amazing channel lineup and features available through satellite. DIRECTV connected via internet is similar to streaming and gives you great content online with no satellite dish required.

Depending on your home’s location, access to quality internet and a variety of other factors, one option may be better than the other.

Related Resource: How to Watch DIRECTV

This article will focus on DIRECTV packages and offers for customers connecting via internet. For more information on DIRECTV with a satellite, check out the related resource above.


When it comes to DIRECTV vs Spectrum, here’s a quick comparison of the main factors you should know:

Package Options & Pricing

Once you know how you want to connect, another of the key factors to consider is the package options and pricing.

DIRECTV via internet has four base packages to choose from (ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE™, ULTIMATE and PREMIER) with several different ways to customize your experience, plus one Spanish-language plan. Spectrum, on the other hand, has three packages and one Spanish-language plan.

Here we will compare the two most popular DIRECTV packages against Spectrum’s top two plans.

Package DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT (via Internet) DIRECTV CHOICE™ (via internet) Spectrum TV Select Signature Spectrum TV Select Plus
Price $69.99/mo.* for 24 months + taxes & fees
($84.99/mo. total w/ req’d $15/mo. ARS fee) w/24-mo. agreement
$74.99/mo.* for 24 months + taxes & fees ($105.98/mo. w/ req’d $15/mo. ARS fee & Regional Sports Fee of $15.99/mo.) w/24-mo. agreement $64.99/month for 12 months $74.99/month for 12 months
Feature Highlights 90+ channels

Local channels included, where available

Unlimited Cloud DVR recording

125+ channels

Local channels included, where available

Regional & Specialty sports networks

Unlimited cloud DVR

150+ channels

DVR (with extra charge)

Premium channels add-on option

4 sports networks

Sports View channels add-on option

160+ channels

Regional Sports Networks

Special Offer 3-months included*: Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+, Cinemax**

*Must select offers. Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+ and Cinemax are included for first 3 months and auto-renew monthly thereafter at then-prevailing rates (currently $15.99/mo. for Max, $11.99/mo. for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, $10.99/mo. each for STARZ and Cinemax, and $5.99/mo. for MGM+), unless cancelled. See DIRECTV Legal Policy Center for details.

$10 off for 24 months

3-months included*: Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+, Cinemax**

*Must select offers. Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, MGM+ and Cinemax are included for first 3 months and auto-renew monthly thereafter at then-prevailing rates (currently $15.99/mo. for Max, $11.99/mo. for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, $10.99/mo. each for STARZ and Cinemax, and $5.99/mo. for MGM+), unless cancelled. See DIRECTV Legal Policy Center for details.

Disney+ Basic, included

availability varies by location

Disney+ Basic, included

ESPN+, included

*New approved residential customers, price incl. TV pkg & equip. fees for first TV. Add’l fees may apply to non-qualified customers. Equipment lease req’d. Early agmt termination fee applies ($20/mo.) & add’l fee(s) may apply if equip. not returned. Credit card req’d. Restr’s apply.

**Access Max only through Max app or max.com. Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscription includes access to the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME streaming plan, available via the Paramount+ app or paramountplus.com/link. Online account registration may be required. Offer not available to DIRECTV and U-verse TV customers switching to DIRECTV via Internet. Cancel online or by phone. Offer subj. to change.

For more information into all four DIRECTV packages, check this out!


Spanish Language Plans & Add-Ons

DIRECTV via internet and Spectrum both offer one Spanish-language TV package. Check out the similarities and differences below:

Package DIRECTV ÓPTIMO MÁS™ SPECTRUM MI PLAN LATINO
Cost $74.99/mo. for 24 months + taxes & fees
($89.99/mo. w/req’d $15/mo. ARS fee) w/ 24-mo. agmt.
$39.99/mo. for 12 months*

*Limited time offer, subject to change

Number of Channels Up to 80+ Spanish channels; 125+ English channels 75+ Spanish channels; 70+ English channels
Package Highlights Local channels included, where available

Sports Channels: FS1, FS2, ESPN, FOX Deportes, ESPN Deportes, etc.

Entertainment Channels: A&E, Food Network, Discovery, E!, History en Espanol, etc.

News Channels: CNN/CNN International, Telemundo, Univision, etc.

ViX Premium w/ Ads, included

Includes Univision, Telemundo, ESPN Deportes, HITN

Along with DIRECTV’s Spanish-language package, there are also two Spanish-language add-ons that can be purchased along with a base package. Those add-ons are laid out below:

  • DIRECTV Deportes: An extra 5 Spanish-language channels for international sports like soccer, baseball and more for $4.99/mo. + tax
  • DIRECTV En Español: 60+ Spanish-language channels (includes channels in Deportes) for $14.99/mo. + tax

Spectrum, however, only has the full Spanish plan, and one Spanish add-on for English base channels.

  • Latino View: 70+ Hispanic channels for $15/mo.

Channel Availability

In the Packages & Pricing section we went over the number of channels available and the monthly costs for both DIRECTV and Spectrum. But it’s also important to look at the individual channels to ensure the streaming service you choose has the channels you’re interested in.

Get an overview of both providers’ channel availability here.

Package ENTERTAINMENT CHOICE™ Spectrum TV Select Signature Spectrum TV Select Plus
Number of Channels 90+ 125+ 150+ 160+
Popular Channels ESPN

ESPN 2

FX

Disney Channel

CNN

HGTV

FOX News

Featured ENTERTAINMENT Channels +

MLB NETWORK

NBA TV

NFL Network

Cooking Channel

Bally Sports

NBC Sports

A&E

ACC Network

AMC

ESPN

ESPN 2

SEC Network

TNT

USA

NFL Network

NBA TV

MLB Network

HGTV

FS1

ESPN

Local Channels Yes, where available (including PBS) Yes, where available (including PBS) Yes, where available (including PBS) Yes, where available (including PBS)
Local Regional Sports Networks No Yes*

*Not all RSNs avail in all areas. Limited by zip code

No Yes*

*availability varies by location

Regional Sports Networks Yes, 30+ channels w/ Sports Pack for $14.99/mo. + taxes & fees Yes, 30+ channels w/ Sports Pack for $14.99/mo. + taxes & fees ? ?

Premium Channels & Add-Ons

Depending on your needs, there are countless premium channels for entertainment and sports you may be interested in. Let’s look at how premium channels compare between DIRECTV and Spectrum.

Entertainment Add-Ons

When it comes to specialty channels, there are some live TV providers that are better than others.

These are networks that customers can add to their base TV package for an extra cost. Let’s compare DIRECTV and Spectrum and their add-ons below.

Channel DIRECTV Spectrum
Max 3 months included then $15.99/mo. $16/mo.
PARAMOUNT+ WITH SHOWTIME 3 months included then $11.99/mo. $10/mo.
STARZ 3 months included $10.99/mo. $9/mo.
MGM+ 3 months included then $5.99/mo. $7/mo.
Cinemax 3 months included then $10.99/mo. $10/mo.
Movies Extra Pack

Includes: Crime+Investigation; Hallmark Drama; Hallmark Movies & Mysteries; HDNet Movies; INSP HD; MTV Live; ShortsTV; Smithsonian Channel; Sony Movies

3 months included then $4.99/mo. Not available
THE MOVIE CHANNEL Not available $5/mo.
AMC+

includes access to Shudder, Sundance Now, IFC Films Unlimited

$8.99/mo. + tax & $2 off monthly DIRECTV bill Not available
discovery+

includes HGTV, Food Network, TLC, ID, Animal Planet, Discovery Channel

$4.99/mo. + tax & $2 off monthly DIRECTV bill Not available
ALLBLK $5.99/mo. + tax Not available
ACORN TV $7.99/mo. + tax Not available
FOX Nation $5.99/mo. + tax Not available
History Vault $4.99/mo. + tax Not available
Lifetime Movie Club* $4.99/mo. + tax Not available
Peacock* $4.99/mo. + tax Not available
A&E Crime Central* $4.99/mo. + tax Not available
Hallmark Movies Now* $5.99/mo. + tax Not available
UP Faith & Family* $5.99/mo. + tax Not available

*May only be accessed on internet-connected HD DVR/Gemini and the DIRECTV app. Subscription not valid for streaming using the provider app or website.

While Spectrum has far fewer premium add-ons compared to DIRECTV, the platform does have an Entertainment View add-on that provides customers with 70+ additional channels, for an extra $15/mo., which includes the following channels:

ACC** Crime & Investigation GSN** MTV2* Smithsonian Channel
American Heroes Destination America Hallmark* NBA TV** Sundance*
AXS TV* Discovery Family HDNetMovies NBC Universo TCM**
BabyFirstTV* Discovery Life i24 Newsmax* TeenNick*
BBC World News Discovery Science IFC* NFL Network** Tennis Channel**
BET Her ESPN Deportes Indieplex Nick Jr** The Africa Channel
BET Jams ESPN News** Jewish Life TV Nick Music The Cowboy Channel
BET Soul ESPNU** Justice Central* Nicktoons** The Impact Network
Boomerang* Flix Lifetime Movie Network Olympic Channel Tr3s
BYU TV FM* Lifetime Real Women Ovation TV* TUDN
Cars.TV Fox Deportes Logo OWN** Universal Kids
CBS Sports Network Fox Sports2 Military History Channel Pets.TV Up**
Cheddar** Fuse** MLB Network** Recipe.TV** Viceland
CNBC World** FYI Movieplex Reelz*
Comedy.TV** GAC MTV Classic Retroplex
Cooking Channel** Golf** MTV Live RFD TV

*Channels available in DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT package or above
**Channels available in DIRECTV CHOICE™ package or above


Premium Sports Channels

For sports fans, it’s important to have access to most networks so you can watch the most games. But these days, with broadcast rights for sports spanning networks and streaming services, it can be difficult.

Let’s look at the different sports packages available to customers for DIRECTV and Spectrum.

DIRECTV Sports Pack Spectrum Sports View
Cost $14.99/mo. + tax $10/mo.
Number of Channels 22 additional channels for ENTERTAINMENT customers); 12 additional channels for CHOICE™ customers 20 total channels
Channel List ACC Network
Big Ten Network
CBS Sports Network
ESPNEWS
ESPNU
FanDuel TV
FOX Sports 2
Golf Channel
MLB Network
MLB Strike Zone
NBA TV
Next Level Sports
NFL Network
NFL RedZone
NHL Network
Outdoor Channel
SEC Network
Sportsman Channel
Tennis Channel
TUDN
Willow HD
Willow Xtra &…

30+ Regional Sports Networks (also included in PREMIER package)

ACC
BeIN en Español
BeIN Sports
ESPN College Extra
ESPN News
Fox Sports 2
Golf
Mav TV
MLB Network
MLB Strike Zone
NBA TV
NFL Network
NFL Redzone
NHL Network
Olympic Channel
Outdoor
Tennis Channel
The Cowboy Channel
TVG
Willow

All in all, the choice between DIRECTV and Spectrum largely depends on your viewing preferences, especially when it comes to sports. Keep in mind, depending on the base package you choose some of these networks may be included already, so make sure to check out the full channel lineup of the package you want!

DIRECTV also allows customers to purchase premium sports add-ons like NBA League Pass. Plus, DIRECTV is one of the few providers with access to Willow TV, the exclusive cricket broadcast network in the US.


Entertainment Experience

You deserve a relaxing, uncomplicated entertainment experience, where you get the best content of the highest quality in a way that works best for you. Below are some considerations to think about before choosing a live TV service.

With our DIRECTV App, you can easily view all your DIRECTV package content, including live sports or On Demand content, wherever you are. As long as you have a high-speed internet connection, you’re good to go.

Content Aggregation

DIRECTV wants you to watch your favorite movies, sports and shows in the way that works best for you. And with so many disparate entertainment apps and networks these days, it can be difficult to stay organized. DIRECTV gives customers the opportunity to house all their video streaming services on the DIRECTV interface, so you never have to switch inputs again.

*Req’s separate paid subscriptions for 3rd party apps. Internet-connected Gemini device required.

That’s right, with a Gemini box, DIRECTV via internet customers can enjoy an enhanced viewing experience. You’ll be able to view all content included in your package, plus access the Google Play Store to add additional streaming apps to your device. And self-installation is fast and easy, so you can connect right away.

For Spectrum, you need a TV and a receiver. Spectrum offers cable TV, which means you won’t need a satellite dish, but you’ll still need a cable connection to view content through your TV system without their app. The Spectrum TV App comes free with a Spectrum TV package, so you can also use a supported device to stream live and On Demand content.

DVR

You want to be able to record your favorite shows and movies when you’re not around to watch them – and you shouldn’t be punished for that! With DIRECTV connected via internet, customers get unlimited Cloud DVR storage for no extra cost. Spectrum, however, requires purchasing the DVR add-on, starting at $13.99/mo.

Picture Quality & 4K Content

DIRECTV provides exclusively 4K Ultra HD channels to internet or stream customers for watching TV series, movies, live sports and more for no additional cost to customers*. The following three channels are always playing great content in the best quality.

  • 104 (DTV4K) – 24/7 channel featuring shows, original series and documentaries
  • 105 (LIVE4K) – occasional live sporting events
  • 106 (LIVE4K2) – occasional live sporting events

Spectrum offers an Apple TV 4K add-on, which allows customers to stream content with Apple TV and the Spectrum TV App for an additional $9.99/mo. This is another example of how DIRECTV’s entertainment experience is unrivaled by Spectrum!

*4K TV required

Simultaneous Streams

Within the home, DIRECTV allows for unlimited devices to stream at the same time. Out of the home, three devices are permitted for use at the same time**.

Spectrum also allows for unlimited streams when connected to your home internet. While outside the home, only two simultaneous streams are permitted.

DIRECTV comes out on top here, as customers can have one more stream outside of the home.

**Minimum internet speed of 8Mbps per stream recommended for optimal viewing. All DIRECTV streams must be on the same home network and a compatible router is required. Certain channels are excluded. Limit 3 concurrent out-of-home DIRECTV streams. Restrictions apply. See directv.com/unlimitedstreams for details.


Compare DIRECTV vs. the Competition

With all the information above comparing DIRECTV and Spectrum, you should be able to make a smart choice about the live TV provider that’s right for you. If you’re also looking to compare DIRECTV to other competitors, we’ve got you covered there, too!

Check out our DIRECTV vs. the Competition hub to find out what other competitors DIRECTV beats out.

Or, if you’re ready to start watching, sign up today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have Spectrum internet and DIRECTV?

This question is essentially asking, “Can I have DIRECTV and Spectrum at the same time?” Yes, you can pair DIRECTV with whatever internet service you like best. As long as you have high-speed internet access, you can use the DIRECTV Gemini receiver to watch all your favorite channels. And, if you’d rather not worry about internet, our DIRECTV SATELLITE packages will work on your TV without any internet connection required.

How much is DIRECTV monthly?

The price of DIRECTV each month depends on the plan you choose. We have four plan options via satellite or internet: ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE™, ULTIMATE and PREMIER™. Depending on which you choose, you’ll pay between $64.99 and $154.99 per month (not including add-on channel fees).

DIRECTV Insider brings you our views on what’s happening in streaming, t.v., movies and sports. Companies and persons mentioned are not necessarily associated with and do not necessarily endorse DIRECTV. We will disclose sponsored content on our site when we show it to you, and some of the links on the site may be ads or affiliate links which means DIRECTV may earn compensation from your purchases.