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Posted on: 19 Sep 2025
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1. Introduction
The way we watch television has undergone a revolution. The era of bulky cable boxes, long-term contracts, and frustrating hidden fees is rapidly giving way to the flexibility and convenience of live TV streaming. With so many options vying for your subscription, choosing the right service can feel overwhelming. You want a robust channel lineup, a seamless user experience, and most importantly, transparent, predictable pricing.
Enter DIRECTV Stream, a premier live TV streaming service that has carved out a significant niche by offering a cable-like experience without the cable company hassles. But as a savvy consumer, the first question on your mind is undoubtedly: How much is DIRECTV Stream?
This isn't a simple one-word answer. The true DIRECTV Stream cost depends on the package you choose, the add-ons you select, and how you decide to bundle it. In this definitive 2025 guide, we will break down every aspect of DIRECTV Stream's pricing. We'll explore its various packages, compare it to the competition, uncover potential deals, and provide you with all the information you need to determine if a DIRECTV Stream subscription offers the value you're looking for.
2. What is DIRECTV Stream?
Before we dive into the numbers, let's clarify what DIRECTV Stream actually is. Formerly known as AT&T TV, DIRECTV Stream is a live TV streaming service that delivers a wide array of channels over the internet. It’s designed to be a direct replacement for traditional cable or satellite TV, but with the modern flexibility of streaming.
Key Features that Define DIRECTV Stream:
Extensive Live TV & On-Demand Library: Stream live broadcasts of your favorite news, sports, and entertainment channels, plus access thousands of on-demand titles.
Cloud DVR: Every plan includes 20 hours of cloud DVR storage at no extra cost, allowing you to record shows and movies to watch later.
Unlimited Simultaneous Streams at Home: This is a massive differentiator. While you're connected to your home internet, you can stream on an unlimited number of devices. Outside your home, you can stream on up to three devices simultaneously.
Device Compatibility: The service works on a vast range of devices, including Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Vizio), streaming sticks (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast), gaming consoles (Xbox), Apple TV, smartphones (iOS, Android), and web browsers.
No Annual Contract: Unlike its satellite counterpart, DIRECTV Stream operates on a month-to-month basis. You can cancel anytime without facing early termination fees.
DIRECTV Stream vs. Traditional DIRECTV:
The key difference lies in the delivery method and commitment. Traditional DIRECTV requires a satellite dish, professional installation, and typically a two-year contract. DIRECTV Stream requires no dish, no installation (beyond downloading an app), and no long-term contract. It's the content of satellite TV with the freedom of a streaming service.3. DIRECTV Stream Plans & Pricing (2025 Updated)
DIRECTV Stream structures its service into four primary tiered packages. The pricing listed is the standard monthly rate. It's important to note that, like most services, DIRECTV Stream reserves the right to change prices, but these are the current rates as of 2025.
Entertainment Package
Monthly Cost: $79.99
Channel Count: 75+ channels
Best For: Casual viewers and families looking for a solid foundation of popular entertainment and news channels.
Notable Channels: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, CNN, TNT, TBS, Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, FX, USA, Food Network, HGTV, and local regional sports networks (RSNs) in most areas.
Choice Package
Monthly Cost: $108.99
Channel Count: 105+ channels
Best For: Sports enthusiasts. This is the most popular plan as it includes all the essentials from Entertainment, plus adds more sports-centric networks.
Notable Additions: NFL Network, NBA TV, MLB Network, Golf Channel, SEC Network, ACC Network, and a plethora of additional RSNs. It also includes your local regional sports network for watching home teams, which is a huge draw.
Ultimate Package
Monthly Cost: $119.99
Channel Count: 140+ channels
Best For: Movie lovers and families who want more variety without committing to full premium networks.
Notable Additions: This tier adds a significant number of entertainment channels, including EPIX, MGM+, MGM+ Hits, and a wider array of music and lifestyle channels like BET HER, Comedy.TV, and Universal Kids.
Premier Package
Monthly Cost: $154.99
Channel Count: 150+ channels
Best For: The ultimate viewer who wants everything in one bill. This plan includes all the channels from the Ultimate package plus a full suite of premium networks.
Notable Additions: HBO Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and CINEMAX are all included at no extra charge. This bundle offers tremendous value if you were already planning to subscribe to these services separately.
Promotional Discounts & Free Trial:
DIRECTV Stream occasionally offers promotional pricing, especially for new subscribers or those who bundle with AT&T Internet. These can often save you $10-$20 off your first few months. Always check their website for the latest deals.
They also frequently offer a FREE TRIAL, typically for 5 days. This is a great, risk-free way to test the service's interface, channel selection, and streaming quality on your own devices before committing.4. DIRECTV Stream Add-Ons & Extras
The base package price is just the beginning. You can customize your experience with a variety of add-ons, which will increase your final monthly DIRECTV Stream cost.
Premium Channels: If you don't have the Premier package, you can add premium networks à la carte.
HBO Max: $15.99/mo
Cinemax: $11.99/mo
SHOWTIME: $11.99/mo
STARZ: $11.99/mo
EPIX: $5.99/mo
MGM+: $5.99/mo
Sports Packages: For the die-hard fan, DIRECTV Stream offers out-of-market sports packages. Note: NFL SUNDAY TICKET is now exclusive to YouTube TV.
NBA League Pass
NHL Center Ice
MLS Season Pass
(Pricing for these varies by season and league)
Cloud DVR Upgrade: The included 20 hours of DVR storage is decent, but you can upgrade to Unlimited Hours for an additional $10.00 per month.
International Channels: A robust selection of international packages is available for audiences seeking content from around the world, including channels from Latin America, South Asia, and more. Pricing varies by package.
5. DIRECTV Stream vs. Competitors
vs. YouTube TV: YouTube TV is a strong competitor with a slightly lower price and unlimited DVR. However, DIRECTV Stream often has better and more consistent availability of Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), which is a critical factor for many sports fans.
vs. Hulu + Live TV: Hulu's biggest advantage is its massive on-demand library included in the price. Its base plan only allows 2 streams, and unlimited streams cost extra. DIRECTV Stream wins on simultaneous streams and often on channel availability for sports.
vs. fuboTV: fuboTV started as a sports-first service and remains a top contender. It has a fantastic channel lineup and cloud DVR. The choice between fubo and DIRECTV Stream often comes down to specific channel preferences and which service carries your local RSN.
6. DIRECTV Stream Device Compatibility
One of the benefits of streaming is watching on your terms, on your devices. DIRECTV Stream excels here.
Supported Devices Include:
Smart TVs: Samsung, LG, Vizio
Streaming Devices: Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV (4th Gen+), Chromecast
Gaming Consoles: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
Mobile Devices: iPhones, iPads (iOS 15+), Android phones and tablets
Computers: Web browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge)
Simultaneous Streams: As noted, this is a major selling point. When on your home Wi-Fi network, you can stream on an unlimited number of devices. This means every TV, phone, and tablet in your house can watch something different with no extra fees. When away from home, you can stream on up to three devices at once.
7. DIRECTV Stream Deals & Bundles
The best way to save on your overall DIRECTV Stream monthly cost is often through bundling.
Internet + DIRECTV Stream Bundles: If you are an AT&T Internet customer (specifically their fiber service), you can often get significant discounts when you bundle with DIRECTV Stream. These deals can include monthly savings, gift cards, or waived activation fees.
AT&T Wireless Partnerships: AT&T wireless customers should occasionally check for perks or discounts linked to their wireless plan, as cross-service promotions are common.
Seasonal Promotions: Keep an eye out during major holidays (Black Friday, New Year's) or during the start of major sports seasons for limited-time promotional pricing on DIRECTV Stream packages.
8. Is DIRECTV Stream Worth the Price?
So, is the premium DIRECTV Stream price justified? It depends entirely on your viewing habits.
For Sports Fans: ABSOLUTELY. The consistent access to Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) like Bally Sports, NBC Sports Regional Networks, and YES Network is a killer feature that many competitors lack. The Choice package is arguably the best sports streaming package available.
For Movie Lovers: The Ultimate and Premier packages offer fantastic value. The Premier package, in particular, bundling HBO Max, Showtime, and Starz, is a compelling offer for cinephiles.
For Families: The unlimited streams at home are a game-changer for households with multiple viewers. The inclusion of Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, and Cartoon Network in the base package is a major plus.
For Casual Viewers: The DIRECTV Stream cost might be harder to justify if you only watch a handful of channels. You might be better served by a cheaper, more limited service like Sling TV or Philo.
Pros:
Best-in-class regional sports coverage.
Unlimited simultaneous streams at home.
No contract, cancel anytime.
User-friendly interface and channel guide.
Robust channel selection across all packages.
Cons:
It's one of the most expensive live TV streaming services on the market.
The base Cloud DVR is only 20 hours.
Promotional prices eventually expire, raising your monthly bill.
9. Tips to Save on DIRECTV Stream
If you decide DIRECTV Stream is for you, here’s how to keep your costs down:
Start with the Right Package: Don't overpay for channels you won't watch. The Entertainment package might be all you need.
Bundle with Internet: If you have or are considering AT&T Fiber, always explore the bundle price.
Limit Add-Ons: Those $10-$15 premium channel add-ons quickly add up. Subscribe only to what you'll use monthly.
Use the Free Trial: Never skip the free trial. It ensures the service works well in your home before you pay.
Watch for Promos: Check for new customer promotions or seasonal deals before signing up.
10. Conclusion
Determining how much DIRECTV Stream costs isn't just about looking at a single number. The final price is a combination of the package you choose, the add-ons you crave, and the bundles you qualify for. While its starting price of $79.99/month positions it as a premium option in the streaming market, it justifies that cost with an unbeatable combination of regional sports networks, unlimited home streams, and a no-contract flexibility that traditional cable simply can't match.
For the sports fanatic who can’t miss a local game, or the large family that needs to stream on every device simultaneously, DIRECTV Stream isn’t just an expense—it’s a valuable investment in entertainment. We recommend starting with the free trial, testing it in your own environment, and seeing if the value aligns with your viewing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much is DIRECTV Stream per month?
A: The monthly cost for DIRECTV Stream starts at $79.99 for the Entertainment package. Prices go up to $108.99 for Choice, $119.99 for Ultimate, and $154.99 for the Premier package. Your final monthly cost may be higher if you add premium channels or extra DVR storage.Q: Does DIRECTV Stream have hidden fees?
A: No, DIRECTV Stream is notably transparent about fees. There are no hidden broadcast fees or regional sports fees that traditional cable is known for. The price you see for your chosen package is the base price. You will, however, pay applicable state and local taxes.Q: Can I cancel DIRECTV Stream anytime?
A: Yes. Since there is no annual contract, you can cancel your DIRECTV Stream subscription at any time without facing an early termination fee (ETF). This is a major advantage over traditional cable and satellite services.Q: Is there a contract with DIRECTV Stream?
A: No. DIRECTV Stream is a month-to-month service. You are not locked into a long-term contract, giving you the freedom to change or cancel your service as you see fit.Q: How many channels does DIRECTV Stream include?
A: The channel count depends on your package:Entertainment: 75+ channels
Choice: 105+ channels
Ultimate: 140+ channels
Premier: 150+ channels
All packages include local ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC affiliates in most markets.
Q: Does DIRECTV Stream offer a free trial?
A: Yes, DIRECTV Stream typically offers a 5-day free trial for new subscribers. This allows you to test the service's features, channel lineup, and streaming quality on your own devices before committing to a paid plan.Q: How does DIRECTV Stream compare to cable?
A: DIRECTV Stream offers a similar channel experience to cable but with greater flexibility. Key differences include: no installation appointment (just an app), no long-term contract, no hidden fees, and the ability to watch on a wide variety of devices anywhere with an internet connection. The main downside can be the cost, which is now comparable to or even higher than some introductory cable packages.Q: Can I bundle DIRECTV Stream with internet?
A: Yes, the most common and often most economical bundles are with AT&T Fiber internet service. Bundling can provide a discount on your combined monthly bill. You do not need to have AT&T Internet to subscribe to DIRECTV Stream; it works with any high-speed internet provider.Q: What devices work with DIRECTV Stream?
A: DIRECTV Stream is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Samsung and LG Smart TVs, iOS and Android smartphones/tablets, and web browsers on Mac and PC.Q: Which DIRECTV Stream package is best for sports fans?
A: The Choice Package ($108.99/mo) is undoubtedly the best package for sports fans. It includes all the major national sports channels (ESPN, FS1, NFL Network, etc.) and, most importantly, access to your local Regional Sports Network (RSN) to watch your hometown baseball, basketball, and hockey teams.
