What channels are included in DIRECTV Stream?

DIRECTV Stream offers over 75+ to 150+ channels depending on your package. All packages include local ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, ESPN, TNT, TBS, CNN, HGTV, and Disney Channel. Higher-tier packages (CHOICE and above) add Regional Sports Networks, more news and entertainment channels, and the PREMIER package includes HBO Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax.

Does DIRECTV Stream have local channels?

Yes, DIRECTV Stream carries local channels in most markets across the US. You will get live feeds of your local ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates, as well as PBS and The CW in many areas. Availability is based on your zip code, which you can check on their website.

What sports channels are available on DIRECTV Stream?

DIRECTV Stream is excellent for sports. All packages include ESPN, ESPN2, FS1, and Fox Deportes. The key differentiator is that the CHOICE package and above include your local Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) like Bally Sports and NBC Sports RSNs to watch local MLB, NBA, and NHL games. You can also add a Sports Pack for more out-of-market channels.

Which premium channels can I add to DIRECTV Stream?

You can add HBO Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, Cinemax, and EPIX to any DIRECTV Stream package for an additional monthly fee. Alternatively, the PREMIER package includes all of these premium channels bundled together at a discounted rate.

How many channels does the DIRECTV Stream Entertainment package include?

The DIRECTV Stream ENTERTAINMENT package includes over 75+ channels. This covers all major local broadcast networks, basic cable staples like TNT, TBS, USA, CNN, and Fox News, and family channels like Disney and Nickelodeon. It does not include Regional Sports Networks.

Can I watch Spanish-language channels on DIRECTV Stream?

Absolutely. DIRECTV Stream offers a dedicated Spanish-language package called Óptimo Más, which includes over 65 channels like Univision, UniMás, Telemundo, ESPN Deportes, and Discovery en Español. You can also add Spanish-language channels to other packages.

How does DIRECTV Stream compare to YouTube TV and Hulu Live?

DIRECTV Stream generally offers a more robust channel lineup, especially for sports fans due to its inclusion of Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), which YouTube TV and Hulu Live have largely dropped. It also includes channels like A&E and History that are missing from YouTube TV. However, YouTube TV and Hulu Live may be cheaper and Hulu includes its on-demand library. DIRECTV Stream is best for those wanting the most cable-like channel experience.

Does DIRECTV Stream include DVR recording?

Yes, every DIRECTV Stream package includes unlimited cloud DVR storage. Your recorded shows are stored for up to nine months. You can record multiple shows at once and fast-forward through commercials on recorded content.

What devices support DIRECTV Stream?

DIRECTV Stream is supported on a wide range of devices including Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast, Samsung Smart TVs, iOS and Android smartphones/tablets, and web browsers. It offers unlimited simultaneous streams at home and 3 streams on the go.

Is DIRECTV Stream worth it for families?

Yes, it can be an excellent choice for families. It offers a strong selection of kid-friendly channels (Disney, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network), unlimited simultaneous streams on your home network so everyone can watch on their own device, and parental controls. The variety of entertainment and sports channels also caters to all ages.

DIRECTV Streaming Channels – Full Lineup, Packages & Guide

What is DIRECTV Stream?

DIRECTV Stream is a live TV streaming service that delivers a cable-like experience over your internet connection. It provides access to a vast array of live channels, including major broadcast networks, popular cable channels, regional sports networks (RSNs), and premium options. Unlike its satellite counterpart, DIRECTV Stream requires no satellite dish, no long-term commitment, and offers seamless integration with popular streaming devices.

Why Your Channel Lineup Matters

Your channel lineup is the heart of your TV experience. It determines whether you can watch the Sunday night game, catch the latest episode of your favorite drama as it airs, or keep the kids entertained on a rainy afternoon. Choosing a service with the right mix of channels is paramount to avoiding the frustration of missing out. DIRECTV Stream's tiered package system is designed to cater to a wide range of viewers, from casual watchers to the most dedicated sports and entertainment enthusiasts.

A Quick Glance at DIRECTV Stream Packages

DIRECTV Stream structures its DIRECTV Stream channel lineup into four primary packages, each expanding in both channel count and variety:

ENTERTAINMENT: The entry-level plan with 75+ channels, covering all the basics.
CHOICE: The most popular package, boasting 105+ channels and including regional sports networks.
ULTIMATE: A step up with 140+ channels, adding more entertainment and news options.
PREMIER: The top-tier package with 150+ channels, including all the premium networks like HBO Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and more.

DIRECTV Streaming Channel Lineup: A Detailed Overview

Navigating the DirecTV Stream packages is key to finding your perfect fit. Let's break down what each tier offers.

ENTERTAINMENT Package Channels (75+ Channels)

The Entertainment package is your gateway to the DIRECTV Stream service. It’s designed for budget-conscious viewers who still want a solid foundation of live TV.

Local Channels: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS, and The CW (in most markets).
News: CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, NewsNOW, Weather Channel.
Entertainment: TNT, TBS, USA Network, TLC, Discovery, A&E, HGTV, Food Network.
Family: Disney Channel, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Boomerang.
Sports Limited: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN News.

CHOICE Package Channels (105+ Channels)

The CHOICE package is arguably the best value, adding the critical component for many fans: Regional Sports Networks (RSNs). This makes it a powerhouse for DirecTV Stream sports channels access.

Includes Everything in ENTERTAINMENT, plus:
Regional Sports Networks: YES Network, NBC Sports Regional Networks (e.g., NBC Sports Chicago, NBC Sports Bay Area), Bally Sports Regional Networks, and more, based on your location.
Additional Sports: NFL Network, NBA TV, MLB Network, NHL Network, ESPN U, ESPN Deportes.
More Entertainment: AMC, BBC America, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, VH1.
Music: CMT, MTV Live.

ULTIMATE Package Channels (140+ Channels)

For the true entertainment aficionado, the ULTIMATE package significantly expands your horizons with more movie and lifestyle channels.

Includes Everything in CHOICE, plus:
Movie Channels: FXM, Sony Movie Channel, SundanceTV, MGM+.
Lifestyle & Entertainment: Cooking Channel, Discovery Family, Discovery Life, Logo, Science Channel, TeenNick, Universal Kids.
News & Docs: CNBC World, NHL Network, NFL RedZone (availability may vary).

PREMIER Package Channels (150+ Channels)

The PREMIER package is the all-inclusive, top-of-the-line experience. It bundles the vast ULTIMATEDirecTV streaming channels list with a full suite of premium networks.

Includes Everything in ULTIMATE, plus:
Premium Channels: HBO Max®, SHOWTIME®, STARZ®, Cinemax®, and EPIX®. This means you get all the premium content from these providers at a bundled discount.

Local Channels on DIRECTV Stream

One of the biggest advantages of DIRECTV Stream is its robust offering of local channels, an area where some competitors falter.

Major Broadcast Networks

In the vast majority of markets across the United States, DIRECTV Stream provides live local affiliates for ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. This means you can watch prime-time shows, nightly news, and major sporting events like the NFL, NBA Finals, and Olympics as they air. PBS and The CW are also widely available.

Regional Sports Networks & Local News

Beyond the big four, DirecTV Stream local channels also include your regional sports network (like Bally Sports or NBC Sports RSNs) with the appropriate package (CHOICE and above). You also get access to local independent stations and news channels, ensuring you stay connected to your community.

Understanding Market-Based Variations

It's important to note that local channel availability is entirely dependent on your physical location. Using your zip code during the signup process will generate an exact list of the local channels available to you. DIRECTV Stream has excellent nationwide coverage, but always verify using their online tool.

Sports Channels on DIRECTV Stream: A Fan's Paradise

For sports fans, DirecTV Stream sports channels are a primary draw card, often being the deciding factor over other services.

The National Powerhouses

Every package includes a strong national sports foundation:

ESPN Suite: ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN News, ESPNU (in CHOICE+), SEC Network, ACC Network.
Fox Sports: FS1, FS2, Fox Deportes.
NBC Sports: Golf Channel, Olympic Channel, NBC Sports Network.
Others: beIN Sports, Stadium, TVG.

The Game-Changer: Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)

This is DIRECTV Stream's crown jewel. With the CHOICE package and above, you get access to your local Regional Sports Networks. This is where you watch your local MLB, NBA, and NHL teams' regular-season games. This level of access is rare in the streaming world and matches what traditional cable offers.

Specialized Sports Add-Ons

For the superfan, DIRECTV Stream offers add-on packs:

Sports Pack: Provides even more out-of-market and specialty sports channels like NFL RedZone, MLB Strike Zone, NBA League Pass, NHL Center Ice, and numerous college sports networks.
NFL SUNDAY TICKET: The premier way to watch out-of-market Sunday NFL games. (Note: This is a separate subscription exclusive to DIRECTV.)

Comparison with Cable & Other Streamers

Compared to cable, DIRECTV Stream offers a nearly identical sports lineup without the contract. Compared to other streaming services:

vs. YouTube TV: Similar national sports, but YouTube TV has lost many RSNs, making DIRECTV the winner for local team games.
vs. Hulu + Live TV: Similar story; Hulu lacks many RSNs.
vs. FuboTV: Fubo is also strong on sports and RSNs, but lacks the Turner networks (TNT, TBS), which are crucial for NBA and MLB playoffs, giving DIRECTV an edge.

Entertainment & Lifestyle Channels

Beyond sports, DIRECTV Stream boasts a deep and diverse entertainment roster.

Top-Tier Entertainment Networks

You'll never miss a hit show with channels like:

TNT: Animal Kingdom, NBA Playoffs.
TBS: American Dad, MLB Playoffs.
USA Network: Modern Family, WWE.
A&E: The First 48, Live PD.
AMC: The Walking Dead universe, Better Call Saul.

Family-Friendly & Kids Content

Keep every member of the family happy:

Disney Channel: For the latest Disney original series and movies.
Nickelodeon: SpongeBob, PAW Patrol, and Nicktoons.
Cartoon Network: Adventure Time, Steven Universe.
Boomerang: Classic cartoons for nostalgia.
Disney Junior & Nickelodeon Jr.: Perfect for the youngest viewers.

Lifestyle & Reality TV

From home renovation to cooking competitions, find it all:

HGTV: Fixer Upper, Property Brothers.
Food Network: Chopped, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
TLC: 90 Day Fiancé, Say Yes to the Dress.
Discovery Channel: Deadliest Catch, Gold Rush.
BRAVO: The Real Housewives franchise, Below Deck.

News & Educational Channels

Stay informed and expand your mind with a comprehensive news and documentary selection.

24/7 News Networks

Get perspective from across the spectrum:

CNN: CNN, CNN International.
Fox News: Fox News Channel.
MSNBC: MSNBC.
CNBC: World business news.
Bloomberg Television: Global business and finance.
Weather Channel: Local and national forecasts.

Premium Documentary & Learning

High-quality educational content:

National Geographic: Stunning nature and science documentaries.
History Channel: The Curse of Oak Island, Ancient Aliens.
Discovery Channel: As mentioned, it is a leader in non-fiction entertainment.
Science Channel: How the Universe Works, MythBusters.

Premium Channels & Add-Ons

Customize your experience with premium networks and international packages.

HBO, SHOWTIME, STARZ, & More

You can add any premium channel à la carte to any package:

HBO Max®: Get the full HBO Max streaming library along with the live HBO channels.
SHOWTIME®: Live SHOWTIME cast and the SHOWTIME streaming app.
STARZ®: Live STARZ channels and the STARZ app.
Cinemax®: Live Cinemax channels.
EPIX®: Live EPIX channels.

Spanish-Language & International Packages

DIRECTV Stream has exceptional options for Spanish-speaking households and international audiences:

Óptimo Más Package: A comprehensive Spanish-language package with over 65 channels, including ESPN Deportes, Fox Deportes, CNN Español, Discovery en Español, and Univision.
Other International Packages: Add-ons are available for specific communities, including Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese, and South Asian programming.

DIRECTV Streaming Channels by Package: Side-by-Side Comparison

This table provides a clear, at-a-glance comparison of key channel categories across all four main DirecTV Stream packages.

Channel Category	ENTERTAINMENT (75+)	CHOICE (105+)	ULTIMATE (140+)	PREMIER (150+)
Price (approx.)	Starting at $79.99/mo.	Starting at $108.99/mo.	Starting at $119.99/mo.	Starting at $154.99/mo.
Local Channels	✓ (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC)	✓	✓	✓
Regional Sports	–	✓	✓	✓
ESPN, ESPN2	✓	✓	✓	✓
NFL Network	–	✓	✓	✓
NBA TV, MLB Net	–	✓	✓	✓
TNT, TBS, USA	✓	✓	✓	✓
CNN, Fox News	✓	✓	✓	✓
HGTV, Food Net	✓	✓	✓	✓
Disney, Nickelodeon	✓	✓	✓	✓
HBO Max®	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	INCLUDED
SHOWTIME®	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	INCLUDED
STARZ®	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	INCLUDED
Cinemax®	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	– (Add-on)	INCLUDED

Note: Pricing and channel availability are subject to change. Always check the official DIRECTV Stream website for the most current information.

DIRECTV Streaming vs. The Competition

How does the DirecTV Stream channel lineup stack up against other popular live TV services?

vs. YouTube TV: YouTube TV offers a solid single package with unlimited DVR. However, it has significantly fewer regional sports networks (RSNs) and lacks A&E, History, and Lifetime channels that DIRECTV Stream includes. DIRECTV wins on channel depth and sports.
vs. Hulu + Live TV: Hulu bundles its live TV with its extensive on-demand library and Disney+ and ESPN+. This is a great value. However, its channel guide is often criticized as being less user-friendly, and like YouTube TV, it lacks many RSNs. DIRECTV offers a more traditional and robust channel experience.
vs. FuboTV: FuboTV started as a sports-first service and has great RSN coverage and 4K streaming. Its major weakness is the absence of the Turner networks (TNT, TBS, CNN), which are missing from its base plans. This is a huge drawback for NBA and MLB playoff fans. DIRECTV includes these channels in every package.
vs. Sling TV: Sling is cheaper but uses a confusing Blue/Orange system to split channels. Its local channel coverage is spotty and requires an AirTV device for integration. It has no RSNs. DIRECTV is more expensive but offers a far more complete and integrated experience.

Device Compatibility: Watch Your Channels Anywhere

A great channel lineup is useless if you can't watch it on your preferred screen. DIRECTV Stream excels here.

Supported Devices: Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Apple TV, Google Chromecast, Samsung Smart TVs, iOS and Android mobile devices, and web browsers.
Simultaneous Streams: The service allows for unlimited streams at home on your Wi-Fi network. You can also stream on up to three devices outside your home network simultaneously. This is fantastic for families.
Cloud DVR: Every package includes unlimited cloud DVR storage, with recordings held for up to nine months.

Core Benefits of DIRECTV Streaming Channels

Massive Channel Variety: From ENTERTAINMENT to PREMIER, the range is vast and caters to all tastes.
No Annual Contract: Cancel anytime without penalty.
Customizable with Add-Ons: Truly tailor your package with premiums and specialty packs.
Superior Cloud DVR: Unlimited storage is a significant advantage over services with caps.
High-Quality Stream: Consistently reliable HD streaming quality.

Who Should Choose DIRECTV Stream?

Sports Fans: Especially those who need their Regional Sports Networks. This is DIRECTV Stream's killer feature.
Families: A great mix of kids' channels, entertainment, and unlimited at-home streams.
News & Entertainment Junkies: The depth of news and basic cable channels is top-tier.
Former Cable/Satellite Subscribers: The package structure and channel lineup will feel familiar and comprehensive.
Viewers Who Want One App: Unlike piecing together services, DIRECTV Stream provides a unified, all-in-one guide and experience.

How to Sign Up for DIRECTV Stream

Getting started is simple:

Visit the official DIRECTV Stream website.
Enter your zip code to confirm local channel availability.
Select your package (consider starting with CHOICE for the best balance).
Choose any add-ons (premiums, sports pack, etc.).
Create an account and enter your payment information.
Download the DIRECTV Stream app on your preferred devices and start watching.

DIRECTV Stream frequently offers a free trial period (e.g., 5 days), allowing you to test the service and the DIRECTV streaming TV guide before you commit.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Positive Feedback: Users consistently praise the extensive DirecTV streaming channels list, the inclusion of RSNs, the high-quality video stream, and the intuitive interface that mimics a traditional cable guide.
Common Complaints: The primary criticism is the cost, as it is one of the more expensive streaming services. Some users also note that pricing can increase after the first year.
Overall Experience: Despite the price, the consensus is that for viewers who want the most cable-like experience without a dish or contract, DIRECTV Stream is a premium and highly satisfying product.

Conclusion: Why DIRECTV Streaming Channels Stand Out

In the quest for the perfect live TV streaming service, the winner is determined by the channel lineup. While other services compromise—lacking sports, or news, or a coherent package structure—DIRECTV Stream delivers a complete, robust, and customizable television experience. Its unparalleled access to Regional Sports Networks, combined with a deep bench of entertainment, news, and family channels, makes it the undisputed champion for viewers who refuse to miss a thing.

If you're ready to experience the gold standard in live TV streaming, with a DIRECTV Stream channel lineup that truly has it all, visit DIRECTV Stream today to find your package and start your free trial.

DIRECTV Streaming Channels