DIRECTV STREAM Review: Live TV Streaming, No Cable Required

[@ghjcmo]

After YEARS of being a cable customer I finally cut the cord starting in Feb because they simply priced me out of the market ($174 just for cable. Seriously Mediacom?) And I'm so glad I did as I'm going to save over $100 a month. I tried YT TV for a month and then switched to DTV Stream this month. And I'm very pleased with it. the guide and DVR functions are very close to my cable experience with TIVO. YTTV probably has a better channel lineup, but they seriously need to work on their guide and DVR functions.

[@CordCutting]

We are glad we were able to help you make a decision.

[@ambizytl]

Any difference between KZbin TV and DTV stream regarding video quality?

[@ghjcmo]

@@ambizytl I haven’t noticed any.

[@ambizytl]

@@ghjcmo That is surprising in light of CordCutting's review of DTV Streaming service having video quality issues. Maybe DTV has improved their streaming service.

[@ghjcmo]

@@ambizytl Overall I’ve not seen any issues EXCEPT with my local CBS affiliate. So is that DTV Stream or KRCG? Hard to tell for sure but I’ve not had any other issues on any channel. DISCLAIMER I’ve had it for just under 2 months, perhaps I’ll run into something some day, but so far I’ve seen nothing that makes me want to go back to YTTV

[@Jlopeztx]

Great video! I have been wanting to cut the cord from Cable TV for a while and go with all ROKU, Apple TV devices but my wife is Technology challenged. Direct TV Stream is as close as you can get to the standard Cable TV experience while cutting the cord. With cloud DVR it's perfect for our needs.

[@trainroomgary]

I just ordered my DirectTV Stream yesterday - Ordered 3 refurbished boxes. for Living Room, Bed Room and Man Cave basement - Looking forward to cutting the cable. Got the Ultimate Bundle $109.99 140+ Channels. Well done demo, glad it is working out for you. I did keep Comcast for my internet. Gary from Michigan. 🚂

[@marksenterfitt9123]

Beware they will cancel your favorite TV channels when they're arguing about money you will not receive what you pay for they are a joke

[@MSDOGS1976]

I've tried them all and they all have their pros and cons. If you're looking to save money DTV is probably not for you. Sling might be a better choice. But if you want a cable like experience( I do mostly) then this is a good option.

[@Mike-hb4pc]

I've had Direct TV Stream now for almost a year. We will be ditching it and moving on to something else, because for us it just sucks too much. Here is a list of what you can expect in the real world: 1) The cost: they bring you in on an introductory price (one year for us) and then the price goes up substantially. Now why would you penalize a loyal customer and give a new subscriber a deal? Not very fair and a 'F-U attitude'. 2) Your watching a show, you pause it to do something hoping to come back a pick up where you left off and surprise, it drops the show and goes to real time streaming. Very frustrating. 3) Recorded shows don't always end at exactly the correct time. The show might have another 5 minutes to go to the end of the episode. Too bad, it cuts you off before you've seen the end of the show. Frustrating. 4) They will discontinue various shows from your original package, not tell you until you figure out that you can't get a certain show anymore. WTF? I paid for it, now I don't get it anymore? (and your price doesn't get lower either) 5) You set it to record only new shows, but frequently it records older episodes 2 and 3 times. 6) You don't get unlimited recording UNLESS you pay for it extra. It only comes with 25 hours of recording space. 7) And then sometimes you try to record a show you want to watch (which you can watch it in real time) and it gives you a notice that this show can't be recorded because it's not part of your plan. WTF? If the show wasn't in my package, then how the heck am I getting it at all? Doesn't make sense. NOTES: This is what I have personally experienced. Yours may be different. But for me with the cost increase, I'm ditching them. Not worth the money. I really like to record the local broadcasting shows and be able to skip through the commercials. I think we're going to head towards Tivo. Yes, it costs money to buy the setup, but I figure I'll break even in just a few months and then be ahead of the game. PS - I do have antenna, which I already have in case of power outages.

[@talkingwithcars]

If I have a Smart TV...you would recommend using the DirecTV APP on the TV? Are there any disadvantages to using the APP? loss of functions?

[@FairweatherBlues-Band71322]

Great video…… our Internet service is 5G Home Internet service T-Mobile. Will this work with Stream DIRECTV ? Thx

[@mehmd1913]

Please talk about video output, 1080p/i, 4k content and audio (5.1, Atmos), ARC/eARC, etc...

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for the feedback. We will keep it in mind for future videos.

[@lou749]

I have Dtv satellite service. I’m paying upwards of $200 monthly for ultimate package. I want to change to Dtv stream because the wife demands channels in the ultimate package but I want to pay less. Can and where can you buy the streaming hardware for DIRECTV stream, and is it compatible across all the other streaming platforms if I change from DIRECTV in the future. Thanks

[@medardosierra6111]

Thank you for the feed back

[@geoffbucks5803]

Hi Great video review I live mostly in UK but have a US apt with DirectV installed - I have a VPN in UK so how can i get the Directv app on my UK firestick please thanks

[@Tracer414]

I just became a new customer with DirecTV stream. The question I have is, I was told by the representative that I had to commit to a 12-month contract for the streaming service. However I could cancel within 14 days. Did I get taken?

[@MSDOGS1976]

They have a confusing set of options. One for satellite....one for streaming with a contract and one streaming w/o a contract. I ordered mine online and got w/o a contract. I may be wrong but I think that is offered online only.

[@Tracer414]

Thank you@@MSDOGS1976

[@futbol1972]

I've had direct tv for ever but it's pricey. Where can I see the different packages and programing for the direct tv streaming. Also will I be able to record multiple programs? And iam assuming if my internet not reliable then when it goes out direct tv will go UT too.

[@CordCutting]

Here is our full review with what you are looking for: cordcutting.com/services/directv-stream/

[@sjn7220]

Debating switching to this from U-verse. I’m mostly a channel surfer and don’t know if I can take the lagginess compared to the instant channel changing with U-verse.

[@CordCutting]

Let us know how we can help

[@da_jamaican]

Stick to uverse

[@mattvega6941]

Try this its not bad. I had uverse and it was expensive compared to this. Its pretty close to cable in terms if surfing. But get the directv box, dont use a stick, like roku. Its not as easy. I bought my boxes online for $50 each instead of $120 from directv.

[@louiee4837]

As of 2022-23 I think KZbin TV is number one in streaming tv. The channels are what every cord cutter wants in news, locals, and entertainment. There’s great ad ons too . The only con that I have with the service is they run out or commercials and they just stop with the commercials and just put on a well be right back with water noise. For me is not cable like but I try to work around it.

[@legendaryTMNICO]

KZbin tv is the best.

[@brockhines]

No major staples like A&E, History, Lifetime, LMN, NHL Network and Science channel and to top it off no regional sports network NESN? You Tube TV ends up a resounding no here. I find all of those on DTV Stream

[@jayzson30]

I had Direct TV Stream for a week and got rid of it. The set up and boxes were new and nice but to pay those prices and not even get premium channels after 3 mos was a rip off. I now have Spectrum TV with all the premium channels plus internet paying same price for just Direct TV Stream alone. If you are going to pay, make it worth it!

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for sharing with the channel!

[@gabrielblanco9447]

Spectrum is an ok company as well however the price your currently paying with spectrum will go up. Lmk when it does DTV stream has no contract nor etfs

[@tonyjenkins4832]

Enjoy your Spectrum price for now. As the other person said it will be going up and up and up. Ask me how I know…

[@jayzson30]

@@gabrielblanco9447 ...Spectrum TV has no contracts either.

[@gabrielblanco9447]

@@jayzson30 that’s cap I know this because I used to work for spectrum

[@leafsfan71]

I just started the trial of the service and cannot get any programs to record. Doesnt work on browsers or any of my devices (iPad, iPhone, AppleTV, etc). Customer service is absolute garbage. Such a shame as I was really excited to try it...

[@CordCutting]

So sorry to hear this has been your experiance.

[@ghjcmo]

I had that exact same issue. Took a LONG call with customer service but it finally worked and has been flawless since.

[@TonysMusic1974]

How many TVs can I use simultaneously if I pay for the package that includes the regional sports channels? My house has usually three Televisions going at the same time. Are multiple devices part of the regular price?

[@mikecole3899]

Yes, up to 20 streams on your home network I believe.

[@TonysMusic1974]

@mikecole3899 I've been Using it for a year now. I like it except that I use t-mobile home internet and it's a static IP. Any time the hub loses power or gets rebooted, direct TV thinks we are away from hom and limits it to 2 streams. I can only reset the "home" on direct TV stream four times per year.

[@mikecole3899]

@@TonysMusic1974 oh, wow, that kinda sucks!

[@MarioEcheverry2]

I have direct TV streami, is expensive for the cheaper package.. Just I need a locals channels and that's it any advise?

[@CordCutting]

Without knowing exactly which channels you are interested in, that is tough to answer, but if you check out cordcutting.com we have plenty of articles for you to mix and match what you want to watch.

[@mattvega6941]

Try getting a antenna from target, to get local channels. I had to do this because it doesnt get ktla ch 5 here in los angeles.

[@aprilwalls9137]

Everttime I turn my direct tv stream on it makes my wifi go out on all devices any help would be appreciated

[@CordCutting]

Sounds like you need to talk to your ISP. It sounds like a router problem.

[@ln1one]

I just suscribed with the offer $79.99 for the first 3 months then $89.99. I only watch sports :( I need NESN and CBS to watch the Pats. I live in the Boston Area. Is there any option for me?

[@CordCutting]

DirecTV's customer service will have the best answer regarding available packages.

[@shancole4926]

Super box is the best tv 📺 box

[@vmeloc]

Direct tv is great been paying 25 bucks a month for 7 years already with 100 plus channels.

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for sharing. What are your favorite channels?

[@vmeloc]

@ManInAmerica back then yeah when they were giving out discounts. Im one of the lucky ones still paying 25

[@wshawn45136]

For 104 a month I get hbo in this I had mine for 3 months now and I like the sports

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for sharing.

[@54carlje]

Do I get my local channels? Does it have surround sound? Does it have gb network?

[@bellabear5273]

Yes! Local channels are available on all packages depending on your BILLING zip code

[@bellabear5273]

Yes you can use surround sound and idk what GB is

[@ginginthing]

I've been a directv customer for over 20 years. That fact excludes me from switching to DirecTV Streaming and getting free unlimited cloud dvr. So my question is, since this box has a high speed usb port, can I use that port for an external drive to record the shows the same as a cloud dvr?

[@CordCutting]

Good question! If we have not answered your question within our detailed hands-on review, we suggest reaching out to the company directly to get more information. Thanks for understanding!

[@CFL-TECH]

The unlimited cloud DVR is free for new customers and now I hear it's going to be free for even existing customers. I've had the service for a while now. After they started offering the unlimited DVR to new customers I did contact them to ask for the unlimited DVR. It took a few tries but they did add it. Basically they said it was for like 12 months and had to put the $10 charge on my account and then they had to show it marked out. The rep told me by the 12 months time they were thinking that all customers would get the unlimited DVR included so I wouldn't have to worry about contacting them when the 12 months was up to ask to put it back on. Recently I've read it's going to be free for all. As for connecting an external device via the USB, I don't know how many do this. More than likely they are just using the cloud DVR.

[@ginginthing]

@@CFL-TECH Thx. I'll keep an eye on it. It's only $10/month, and that's the point. Guess us 25 year Directv customers r not worth $10/month to them. So much for all the "Thx for being such a loyal customer for all these years." They have these new "top executives" in there that think they are god's gift to mankind and they aren't smart enough to know they are screwing their own company up with their own personal agendas, screw everyone over before they screw u attiitudes. As soon as another service comes up to equal competetion with D.TV Steaming, Ill move to them just to let them know we don't appreciate their money gluton attitude.

[@marksenterfitt9123]

Don't do it ..... I've had both I have DirecTV now and if you like your local channels well you will lose them at one point or another it's not worth it. They charge you and when they don't have the channels do they do not take the money off you have to demand them too because you're not getting what you pay for DirecTV is the worst

[@zeel4550]

Do you get local channels with their side channels?

[@bellabear5273]

Side channels? You get local with all packages depending on your billing zip code

[@thoughtsofanamericanartist5181]

For future reference when ever u do a review on the box spec it out test the drop frame see if it can handle plex and game on it the price on the box is 120 like Nvidia Tegra x android box so use that as your starting point

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for the tip.

[@timothykramer2551]

Do u have ads

[@lennonade23]

At&t Sales Rep here, the device is called the “gemini air” and we actually don’t sell that one anymore, we still have the remote but the device looks like a chromecast and goes behind your tv. Downgrade imo.

[@shawnflores4020]

Which package has the Dodger games

[@CordCutting]

You'll have to contact one of their sales reps to find out.

[@carlyverdugo5414]

Choice pack

[@bellabear5273]

@@carlyverdugo5414it depends on your Billing zip code as well and channel agreement. PS: research blackouts and channel restrictions

[@putingulan]

Dont ever signed up for a streaming service if 1. Do not know what is streaming. 2. You have not called or talk to someone when it comes to channels. 3. Too demanding for a perfect streaming service 😝😝😝

[@CordCutting]

Good Advice

[@bellabear5273]

Greatttt advice

[@andrewcarey5359]

Just ordered stream Gemini air can’t wait my spectrum internet and cable was $140.82 no thanks.

[@yes350yes]

Directv or any other cable service will go up, plus the fact you get charged for dvr how many tvs you connect to plus broadcast fee and regional sports fees. So the new promotion pushed me to $150 a month tv/internet. I still currently have directv but will be changing, have dropped to the entertainment package but I do some sports channels I want so will be changing. BTW with all thats been said thru the demo you still have to make a decision on internet,,, streaming services dont include internet in their prices. The directv stream does look like a better feel for channel surfers but it is $20-$30 more than other stream services. My thoughts are to first try youtube stream as it does give the actual local channels compared to some other services that make it more difficult or you will need an HD antenna.

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for your input. We really appreciate it.

[@victorfontaine4943]

I’m just having a hard time justifying $100 per month for the 4 channels I’ll watch out of 120… These companies keep coming up with new business tactics to bleed customers dry while the cost of everything else keeps going up all at the same time. How much are bad CGI movie remakes and scripted “reality shows” really worth?..

[@CordCutting]

That's an interesting perspective.

[@gabrielblanco9447]

I agree and a lot of people felt the same way until they found out that they were paying 200-275$/ month for tv & internet with other companies like cox xfinity comcast spectrum so and so forth

[@bellabear5273]

YOU CANNOT GET A CONTRACT WITH DTV STREAM IF YOU SIGN UP WITH INTERNET. That’s a big lie. DTV stream does not offer contracts

[@7777shayna]

No 4K content?

[@CordCutting]

Most streaming services offer 4k.

[@Slush23]

@@CordCutting not DIRECTV Stream !

[@legendaryTMNICO]

@@Slush23 KZbin tv has some 4K content.

[@bellabear5273]

Not for DTV stream

[@itsyaboiherman]

Shit....thats one expensive service, I think I'll pass sadly

[@StevenTorrey]

This is hardly an economic alternative to cable TV.

[@CordCutting]

Depends on how much TV you and your household are currently watching. The Average house hold pays more than $200 a month for channels and packages that they don't want most of the time.

[@StevenTorrey]

@@CordCutting Thank you. My understating about "cutting the cord" is to reduce money spent on cable TV. But add on the cost of streaming channels (@ $12/month/subscription) the viewer ends up paying as much for subscriptions as the cost of cable. Looking at the cost of various Streaming devices, Roku as free clearly beats all the others which charge.

[@AMSOLIS1106]

I dropped that rip-off Directv years ago for Slingtv for $55.00 per month.

[@dougspry6278]

Way too expensive. Cord cutting is starting not to be any cheaper than cable.

[@Dr.StraightGutta]

That got-damn shit is waaaay too fucking expensive!!! They aren’t even trying to be remotely competitive with the market.

[@bionicwoman9884]

nope I'll use my antenna and my Roku TV where I get free cable like channels and I will skip this service

[@joeretired4552]

Not NBC LOCAL

[@michaeldawson4331]

Hulu with live tv gives u all the same stuff plus Hulu for 65

[@CordCutting]

Thanks for sharing with the channel!

[@damontroch4765]

Hulu live tv absolutely sucks . Their UI is terrible their channel placement is abc order and that includes the locals which is dumb. The bill is never $65 I was paying $98 for commercial free which never was completely a rip off.

[@dirkjanvanhemmen6463]

Iam not fan of streaming

[@daproyaknow7056]

I pay 5 bucks a month for 10000 channels with my IPTV provider.......LooooooooooooooL

[@drivecfl]

They can shut down at any time and the quality may not always be monitored. Anything cheap doesn't last forever and it usually will be too good to be true. I'd rather pay for legal services that You know we'll have customer service when you need it and will fix an issue because you're paying enough money for it.

[@kevinenglish3055]

What's it called?

[@daproyaknow7056]

Rebel hosting...They have a review on KZbin

[@PaulSmith-gb3ke]

Streaming services are dead when you charge 6999 and You you have lost the cheaper service it's just just cable

[@drivecfl]

There's something for everyone. Just because you may not like it doesn't mean the guy next to you is not interested in the service. It's good there's choice for everyone If you want to pay $6.99 to use Discovery Plus then so be it. KZbin TV is $64.99 and some people like that experience as well for the live channel cable like experience without dealing with the cable company.

[@theuncreatedlight4717]

@@drivecfl Exactly. You also don't have all the stupid fees to pay on top of the base price...like extra fee for DVR, extra fee for box rental, extra fees for RSN & broadcast TV fees, etc,... People who go by the intro bundle price of cable aren't considering all o f these fees, plus the intro price expires and jumps at least $20 after a year anyway.

[@damontroch4765]

I’ve never seen a Cable tv Package in my area that was $69. Try $120. $50 with get you locals and shopping channels. And that just live tv not DVR or on demand or even HD

[@legendaryTMNICO]

You’re just bias towards streaming subscriptions.

[@marksenterfitt9123]

DirecTV is garbage do not use will not get your channels you pay for. special if you like sports you will not get your local they will stop broadcasting them when they're arguing because that's what everybody's about money so you lose at the end of of the day when you're paying for something that you do not receive when you're trying to watch your favorite sports team and playoff games that's when daylight to cut your channel off but you need to call them and tell them to give you your money back for them channels and they will then cancel them and go but do not get dish or DirecTV