Is DIRECTV worth it?

DIRECTV is a worthy satellite TV service for those in search of deep content including HBO, SHOWTIME, and NFL Sunday ticket. The channel offers a host of premium channels through two year contracts that at times may see you experience some price hikes. But, they are worth it considering the kind of content you are getting.

Many people have jumped into the bandwagon of cord cutting by cancelling their pay-for-TV cable services for streaming service providers. Unlike the rest of the streamersDIRECTV uses satellites orbiting the atmosphere to send signals to dishes positioned on homes. You will need a technician to do the in-house wiring but once this is done you are good to go.

Why DIRECTV is worth it

DIRECTV packages and pricing

*Pricesare based off the 1^st year of a 2-year contract. Increases in months 13-24

From the table you note that the prices cover a whole range of options from the lowest package the DIRECTV select that goes for $59.99 to the highest the DIRECTV premier that goes for $134.99 and with over 330 channels. The problem is once you are done with the first year of contract the prices rise again and you get $81/month for the DIRECTV select to $181/month for the premier.

Direct also has bundles with the popular ones being

The best part about DIRECTV packages is you can bundle them with either AT&T or CenturyLink internet depending on your preferences.

DIRECTV contracts

Most streaming service providers do not have contracts. You can pay as you use. Should you see the need to opt out of the service then you can do so without incurring any termination fees. DIRECTV works differently in that it comes with two year contracts. On your first year things look okay but the moment you jump to the second year you start experiencing price hikes. If you want out of the deal then be ready to pay early termination fees. The fees come at a cost of $20 per month of what is remaining in your contract.

When you sign up for DIRECTV you also get a $5 discount when you opt for autopay and paperless billing. This discount however, only applies for your first year. Other fees you should expect to be charged for include DVR service fee, installation cost, and additional receiver fee of $7/Month plus $99 installation fee. You also get charged a regional sports fee of up to $9.99/Month.

DIRECTV versus DISH

Which DIRECTV package to go for

When it comes to packages you have to consider the family preferences. Do you have kids, do you enjoy sports and want lots of news channels. The starter package will give you access to channels like CNN, Disney, HGTV and ESPN. For those into sporting channels then Choice is the right package for you as you get NFL Network where you can get a lot of football matches. You also get access to an all out of market NFL games. Ultimate is designed for movie lovers as you get ENCORE drama and action. You also get an additional tennis channel. The most expensive channel the premier gives you access to STARZ, CINEMAX, HBO, and SHOWTIME. You also get some sport channels like Fox soccer channel and Fox deportes. You also get DIRECTV local channels that includes ABC, FOX, CBS, NBC, PBS.

Equipment

As stated this is a satellite premium broadcasting channel so you will need a dish installed for you. The best part about the company is you get their DIRECTV Genie DVR for free. This is works great if all of the family members will be watching TV from a central place. However, if you want to watch the same shows in different rooms then you need to pay $7/mo. For additional receiver and $49 upfront for 5^th and 6^th receivers. The DVR gives you 200 hours of storage with 800 more on SD. You also get the ability to record up to 5 shows at once.

Another cool feature is the DIRECTV restart. This simply allows you to restart live shows that you have stumbled on when there are midway. This feature does not attract any fees but is limited to specific channels. The DIRECTV rewind feature takes it a step further by allowing you to rewind shows that aired more than 72 hours ago (3 days).

Conclusion

DIRECTV diversity in terms of pricing and packages is quite good as it gives everyone an option to enjoy what they like. When compared with others they are one of the first ones to offer NFL SUNDAY TICKET along with other premium channels. The Genie DVR is free which is quite good however, many subscribers find it a shock how the company prices their packages by introducing a price hike in the second year of contract. The fact that you need a contract to enjoy their services also means you get charged termination fees the moment you cancel your contract. This is unlike other providers that are free.

FAQ

Are channels offered on DIRECTV in 4K?

More than 200 channels on DIRECTV are in HD. Some of the movies are in 4K hence ensuring you get the best quality shows. The company is infact the only one to offer a dedicated 4K channel.

Can you control channels through my iPhone?

If you own an iPhone then Yes you can turn it into a DIRECTV remote. This allows you to watch up to 4 different shows in different rooms