DIRECTV offers nationwide satellite TV with hundreds of channels, premium programming, and advanced DVR service. With plans that cater to sports fans, movie lovers, and families, DIRECTV brings reliable television service to urban and rural households alike.
The DIRECTV Genie (wired) and Gemini (wireless) are both decent DVRs with sufficient storage for most folks. The wired Genie stores 200 HD hours, while the Gemini stores up to 450 HD hours. The Genie costs $15 per month to rent, while the Gemini costs $10 per month. We prefer the Gemini because its wireless connectivity and broad support for streaming apps help minimize cable and device clutter. A word of warning—only opt for the Gemini if you have a strong internet connection. But honestly, if you can get high-speed internet at home, we’d recommend getting DIRECTV’s streaming plans instead of its satellite plans. Its streaming plans offer nearly all the same channels with free, unlimited Cloud DVR storage. Like to keep it old-skool? Learn more about pricing and specs in our complete Genie DVR review.
DIRECTV also offers up plenty of additional features to sweeten the pot.
DIRECTV is consistently one of the best of the best TV providers for sports—specifically, we think its streaming offering is the best TV provider for sports out there.
Along with RSNs available with its CHOICE through PREMIER plans, DIRECTV also offers additional sports packages for purchase. Sports lovers will want to jump on the DIRECTV Sports Pack, which includes 40 specialty sports networks, including CBS Sports Network, NFL Network, NBA TV, and more, for $14.99 per month.
Check out our dedicated DIRECTV Sports page for more details on DIRECTV’s sports offerings on both its satellite and streaming packages.
DIRECTV reports 99% signal reliability (the same as its main competitor, DISH). Of course, interferences are possible with storms or other natural disasters. Still, we appreciate this high reliability, even with such wide availability as DIRECTV has (it’s available nearly anywhere in the U.S.).
With your DIRECTV service, you can enjoy on-the-go viewing through the DIRECTV app. Simply download the app from the App Store or Google Play to get watching. The DIRECTV app lets you stream live channels, on-demand shows, and Genie DVR recordings wherever you are—just make sure you’re connected to the internet. To watch offline, download your cloud DVR recordings before heading out.
DIRECTV’s satellite plans offer a little something for everyone. If you’re on a budget and only need staple cable channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, and HGTV, check out the ENTERTAINMENT package.
CHOICE will satisfy sports fans with included regional sports networks (RSNs), and ULTIMATE’s added movie channels will be perfect for entertainment fanatics trying not to break the bank.
If you need premium channels in your life, DIRECTV’s top-shelf plan PREMIER has ’em for you, with free HBO Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, and STARZ.
Read our DIRECTV Channel Lineup guide to see which package has the live TV channels you want, or read our expert review to find out if DIRECTV is really worth it.
DIRECTV consistently offers oodles of deals for new (and existing) customers. That’s why we’ve awarded them the Best of the Best for Promos award for two years running.
Currently, they’re offering up free premium channels and some other sweet discounts. To see all of DIRECTV’s latest promotions, check out our dedicated DIRECTV deals page.
Customers subscribed to DIRECTV’s ENTERTAINMENT, CHOICE, or ULTIMATE TV packages will receive three free months of HBO Max, Paramount+ Premium, STARZ, Cinemax, and MGM+.
DIRECTV gives its satellite customers the choice to opt out of receiving local channels with their DIRECTV service, and gives them a discount on their monthly bills for doing so.
Yes, it’s available nationwide through satellite coverage.
Yes, bundles are available with partner internet providers depending on location.
Yes. Genie HD DVR is included with most packages, offering advanced recording features.
Plans start at 165+ and go up to 340+ channels.
Only available with CHOICE and above, and may be seasonal.