Let’s be real, regular cable can be a hassle. Between ever-increasing costs and channel bloat, many of us are looking for a better way to watch live TV. That’s where live TV streaming services like DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV come in. They’re more flexible, letting you pick your channels and watch on different gadgets. But with so many choices, picking the right one can feel overwhelming.

Here’s the good news: you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll dig into the battle between DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV. We’ll compare channel offerings, pricing, features like DVR and streaming quality, and ultimately help you decide which service reigns supreme for your viewing needs.

The Comparison – DirecTV Stream vs. YouTube TV

Before we compare DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV, let’s first understand what each platform offers in general, and a little bit about the brand itself.

What is DirecTV Stream?

DirecTV Stream, formerly known as AT&T TV, positions itself as a hybrid service that blends the traditional features of satellite TV with the modern benefits of streaming. This service is designed for those who are not ready to completely cut the cord but are looking for more flexibility than traditional satellite offerings.

Key Features:

• Multiple Package Options: DirecTV Stream offers four main packages — Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier. These packages range from 95+ to 185+ channels, catering to various interests and budgets.
• No Annual Contract: Unlike traditional satellite services, DirecTV Stream does not require a long-term commitment, offering month-to-month subscriptions.
• Cloud DVR: Subscribers get 20 hours of DVR storage included, with the option to upgrade to unlimited storage for an additional fee.

Advantages:

• Access to a wide range of channels including local stations, live sports, and premium networks.
• The option to stream on multiple devices simultaneously.
• Includes regional sports networks in higher-tier packages, which is a boon for sports enthusiasts.

What is YouTube TV?

YouTube TV is a live TV streaming service, like cable but delivered over the internet. It lets you watch live and on-demand content from over 130 channels, including major broadcast networks, cable channels, and local sports networks. You can also record shows with unlimited cloud DVR storage and share your subscription with up to 6 accounts in your household.

Key Features:

• Single Package: YouTube TV keeps it simple with one package that includes over 130 channels covering news, sports, and entertainment.
• Unlimited DVR: One of the standout features of YouTube TV is the unlimited DVR storage that allows users to record as much content as they want, which is stored for nine months.
• User-Friendly Interface: Leveraging Google’s expertise in user interface design, YouTube TV offers a clean, intuitive interface that makes navigation and management straightforward.

Advantages:

• Unlimited DVR storage at no extra cost.
• Access to Google’s robust search capabilities and integration with Google Home.
• Offers more flexibility with three streams and six accounts per household, making it ideal for families or shared accommodations.

1. Channel Lineup

YouTube TV Channels List

YouTube TV’s channel offering is designed to cover a broad spectrum of interests, from sports and news to entertainment and children’s programming. It provides access to major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS, which are complemented by other popular channels such as ESPN, CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC. This comprehensive mix ensures that viewers can enjoy a full array of content ranging from live sports to prime-time television shows.

Additionally, YouTube TV offers an extensive list of cable channels and some dedicated sports networks, including SEC Network, Big Ten Network, and MLB Network, making it a prime choice for sports enthusiasts. The inclusion of specialty and regional sports networks varies by location but generally provides substantial coverage for most local sports events.

• Base Plan: Features 135 channels including major networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and a wide range of sports, news, and entertainment channels. It’s designed as a one-size-fits-all package that aims to meet the needs of most viewers.
• Add-on Networks: Subscribers can customize their experience with add-ons like NBA League Pass, and networks such as SundanceTV and Starz.
• Sports Plus Add-on: For die-hard sports fans, this add-on includes channels like NFL RedZone, Fox College Sports, and GolTV among others.

DirecTV Stream Channel List

• ENTERTAINMENT: This base package offers over 90 channels, including major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox, along with popular cable staples such as ESPN, CNN, and Nickelodeon. It’s designed for those who want variety without the commitment to higher-priced tiers.
• CHOICE™: With over 125 channels, the CHOICE™ package adds more sports channels, including regional sports networks (RSNs), and specialty content like BTN and OWN, appealing to more diverse interests.
• ULTIMATE: This package steps up to more than 160 channels, including additional movie channels like Encore and premium sports channels, making it suitable for movie lovers and sports enthusiasts.
• PREMIER: As the top-tier option, PREMIER provides over 185 channels, featuring all premium movie networks such as HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax included in the subscription, tailored for viewers who want the full entertainment package.

Regional Sports & Local Channels

DirecTV Stream

DirecTV Stream excels in providing local channels and regional sports networks, covering a vast majority of local ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox stations. This extensive coverage ensures that subscribers can watch their favorite local shows, live sports, and news without needing an additional antenna.

YouTube TV

YouTube TV also offers a robust selection of local channels, including major networks. It further enhances its sports coverage with access to various regional sports networks, a crucial feature for sports fans who follow local teams.

Both services allow users to check available channels in their area through their respective websites, using a zip code as the search criterion. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring that specific local content and sports coverage are available before committing to a subscription.

Key Points:

• Both services provide comprehensive local channel and regional sports network coverage.
• Zip code-based search tools on both platforms help users verify channel availability in their area.

2. Cloud DVR Capabilities

DirecTV Stream’s DVR Features

DirecTV Stream offers a Cloud DVR service that initially includes 20 hours of recording space, which can be upgraded to unlimited hours for an additional fee. This flexibility allows users to customize their DVR needs based on their viewing habits. However, it’s important to note that recordings on DirecTV Stream are stored for a maximum of 9 months, which could be a limiting factor for those who prefer to keep their recorded shows for extended periods.

• DVR Storage Space: The service starts with 20 hours of DVR storage in its base plan, which can be upgraded to unlimited for an additional fee. This flexibility allows users to choose a DVR option that fits their viewing habits.
• Set-top Box Price: While DirecTV Stream can be accessed via various apps on smart devices, it also offers a set-top box for a more traditional TV experience. This box costs up to $49.99 per month, adding a hardware element to the service.
• DVR Fee: There is a DVR fee that can go up to $10.00 per month, depending on whether you opt for the expanded storage option. This fee is in addition to the monthly subscription cost.

YouTube TV’s Unlimited DVR

Contrastingly, YouTube TV offers an unlimited DVR storage capacity as a standard feature, with no additional costs. This unlimited storage is particularly appealing as it allows users to record and store shows for up to nine months without any restrictions on the number of simultaneous recordings. This feature is a significant selling point for YouTube TV, especially for heavy DVR users.

• DVR Storage Space: Unlimited DVR storage is one of YouTube TV’s standout features. Subscribers can record unlimited shows simultaneously, with recordings stored for up to nine months.
• Set-top Box Price: There is no need for a specific set-top box with YouTube TV, as the service is built to work seamlessly across all supported devices, which reduces the overall cost and setup complexity.
• DVR Fee: The cost of DVR service is included in the monthly subscription price, with no additional fees. This all-inclusive approach is highly attractive for users looking to manage their budget while enjoying extensive DVR capabilities.

Key Points:

• DirecTV Stream offers a flexible DVR upgrade but includes a base limit and additional costs.
• YouTube TV provides unlimited DVR storage with a longer retention period, enhancing its value proposition for users.

3. Compatible Devices

DirecTV Stream Device Compatibility

DirecTV Stream supports a wide range of devices, ensuring that subscribers can access content whether they are at home or on the go:

Computers (Browsers)

• Google Chrome: Version 68+
• Microsoft Edge: Version 114+
• Apple Safari: Version 13+

Phones and Tablets

• Android: Version 7.1+
• Fire Tablets: Fire OS 7+
• Apple (iPads, iPhones, iPod Touch): Version 14+ (Unsupported below this)

Devices

• Amazon Fire TV and Fire Stick: 2nd Gen or higher
• Amazon Fire TV Edition Smart TV: 2nd Gen or higher
• Amazon Fire TV Cube
• Apple TV: Version 15+
• Vision Pro
• DIRECTV (Gemini and Gemini Air)

Google

• Chromecast: OS 1.56.275994+

Roku

• Roku Software: Version 9.4+
• Roku Streaming Stick® Models: 3600X, 3800X
• Roku Streaming Stick+ Models: 3810X, 3811X
• Roku Express Models: 3700X, 3900X, 3930X
• Roku Express+ Models: 3710X, 3910X, 3931X
• Roku Premiere Models: 3920X, 4620X
• Roku Premiere+ Models: 3921X, 4630X
• Roku Ultra Models: 4640X, 4660X, 4661X, 4670X
• Roku LT Model: 2700X
• Roku 2 Model: 4210X
• Roku 3 Models: 4200X, 4230X
• Roku 4 Model: 4400X
• Non-4K Roku TV Models: 5000X, 8000X
• 4K Roku TV Models: 6000X, 7000X, A000X, C000X, C000GB
• Roku Smart Soundbar Model: 9100X

Smart TVs

• Google and Android TV devices: Software version 9+
• Roku TV: Software version 9.4+
• Samsung TVs: Software version 3.0+

YouTube TV Device Compatibility

YouTube TV’s device support is designed to be highly inclusive, catering to a modern audience that uses a variety of streaming devices:

Game Consoles

• PlayStation 5: 1 model
• PlayStation 4: 1 model
• Xbox Series X: 1 model
• Xbox Series S: 1 model
• Xbox One X: 1 model
• Xbox One S: 1 model
• Xbox One: 1 model

Smart TVs

• Fire TV Edition smart TVs: 4 brands (Toshiba, Insignia, Element, Westinghouse)
• Hisense Smart TVs: (select models)
• LG smart TVs: (2016+ models only)
• Roku TVs: (all models)
• Samsung smart TVs: (2017+ models only)
• Vizio SmartCast TVs: (select models)

Streaming Devices

• Android TV: (TVs running a mobile version of Android may not be supported)
• Apple TV: (4th generation & 4K)
• Chromecast with Google TV: 1 model
• Fire TV Stick: 4 models (3rd Gen, Lite, 2nd Gen, 4K)
• Fire TV Cube: 2 models (including 1st Gen)
• Google TV: (All models and streaming media devices)
• Peloton: 1 device
• Roku Devices: 14 models (including various types of Streaming Sticks, Ultra, Ultra LT, Soundbar, Express, Premiere)
• TiVo Stream 4K: 1 model
• Xfinity Flex devices: 1 device

Key Points:

• DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV both offer extensive device support, covering most popular browsers, mobile devices, and streaming hardware.
• YouTube TV includes game consoles in its compatibility list, which might be a decisive factor for gamers.

4. Pricing and Value:

The cost of a streaming service is a major consideration for most consumers. Both DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV offer different pricing structures that cater to varied budgets and viewing preferences. Understanding these can help you decide which service provides the best value for your investment.

DirecTV Stream Pricing Plans

DirecTV Stream’s pricing is structured around four main packages, each escalating in price with the addition of more channels and features:

• ENTERTAINMENT Package: Priced at $69.99/month, it offers over 90 channels, making it suitable for those who want a basic array of news, sports, and entertainment.
• CHOICE™ Package: At $84.99/month, this package adds more than 35 additional channels, including regional sports networks, making it a good option for sports enthusiasts.
• ULTIMATE Package: For $94.99/month, subscribers get over 160 channels, including more niche sports and movie channels.
• PREMIER Package: The most comprehensive option, priced at $139.99/month, includes over 185 channels with premium networks like HBO and Showtime included.

YouTube TV Pricing

YouTube TV keeps its pricing simple with a single base plan and optional add-ons for expanded content:

• Base Plan: Costs $64.99/month, providing access to over 85 channels including local news, sports, and entertainment.
• Add-ons: Subscribers can enhance their viewing experience with additional networks such as HBO Max, Showtime, and more sports channels at varying additional costs.

Key Points:

• Simple and straightforward pricing with one base package.
• Unlimited DVR is included at no extra cost, adding significant value for users who record a lot of content.

DirecTV Stream vs. YouTube TV – Which Is Better?

After a detailed comparison of DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV across various factors like channel lineup, device compatibility, DVR capabilities, and pricing, it’s clear that each service offers distinct advantages that cater to different viewer preferences. Here’s a summarized breakdown to help you decide which service might be the best fit for your viewing habits and budget:

DirecTV Stream: Ideal for Detailed Customization and Premium Content

DirecTV Stream shines for users who prefer a more traditional TV experience with the flexibility of modern streaming. Its tiered package system allows for specific customization based on what you most enjoy watching, such as premium channels and sports.

Advantages:

• Offers a range of packages from basic to comprehensive premium options.
• Excellent for sports enthusiasts due to the extensive coverage of regional sports networks.
• Provides a familiar cable-like experience with modern streaming benefits.

Best For:

• Viewers who want specific channel lineups tailored to their interests.
• Households that value having access to a broad range of content, including premium movie channels and sports.

YouTube TV: Simplicity and Value for General Viewers

YouTube TV is a robust all-rounder that appeals to a broad audience, offering a single comprehensive package that includes the most popular channels and exceptional DVR capabilities.

Advantages:

• Simplified single-package offering makes decision-making easy.
• Unlimited DVR storage is a standout feature, ideal for heavy DVR users.
• Excellent device compatibility and a user-friendly interface enhance the viewing experience.

Best For:

• General audiences looking for a straightforward, easy-to-manage TV solution.
• Families or shared households, thanks to the generous DVR and user account allowances.

FAQs

• Choose DirecTV Stream if you desire a tailored viewing experience with options for detailed customization and don’t mind paying extra for premium content and features.
• Opt for YouTube TV if you value simplicity, comprehensive coverage for a flat fee, and excellent DVR capabilities, making it a great all-in-one option for most users.

Ultimately, the best streaming service for you depends on your specific needs and viewing habits. Consider what aspects of a TV service are most important to you—whether it’s the depth of content, the flexibility of watching on multiple devices, the ability to record an extensive amount of shows, or the overall cost—and choose the service that best aligns with your preferences.