I Put DIRECTV STREAM to the Test! Is It Worth It in 2025?

[@MichaelSaves]

📺 Start your DIRECTV STREAM free trial here (affiliate): bit.ly/4eWPWT3 💰 Get the latest deals: michaelsavesdeals.com/ 💻 Find a better internet plan: michaelsaves.com/internet-plan-comparison-tool/

[@shootsnscores-cja]

What great news! Have been thinking about Directv stream and thought that the regular Directv website was the place to find out about it. The presence of a contract and fees there turned me off. Now that I know I was in the wrong place, the information that you provided helps me out tremendously! Thank you.

[@matthewpolster2282]

don't do it!

[@gosman949]

@@matthewpolster2282 why?

[@JCourts2k23]

Ive had DTV Stream going on 3 years, and i love it. I have the DTV streaming boxes with remotes and also use the Apple Tv 4k with DTV app in one room. Love the experience. Only thing i would complain about is if you set the guide to favorites, unlike when you set a favorites list and you got out of a guide, when your scrolling though the channels it goes though all channels, not just the favs you selected. Its not that way from what i remember on DTV satalite or Dish. I dont like that.

[@edphillips8669]

I’ve had Direct TV Stream Choice for over a year now and we love it! I also got the Direct TV box on eBay and it works great. We have Roku also, and I’ve used it for Direct TV, but I like the Direct TV remote for switching to my other apps. Thanks for the updates Michael! 👍🏻

[@gosman949]

what does the direct tv box do?

[@edphillips8669]

@ It’s a more seamless operating system for Direct TV Steaming…the ROKU and remote work fine but navigating around the system is a little more “clunky” and takes more steps, but you don’t need the Direct TV box to enjoy the programming.

[@jameyhaz]

Are you referring to the Gemini box? I like the idea of pushing numbers on the remote. thanks

[@edphillips8669]

@@jameyhaz No, not the Gemini box, the older Direct TV box made by AT&T. I believe the Gemini box only works through a cable system whereas my box takes the WiFi signal to operate. Michael may be able to explain the differences in both boxes.

[@jamessmoot4798]

Thanks for this video. I loved DirecTV Stream, but I hated the cancellation process. I'm so glad they changed it. I will think about returning to them now. I have to price out if it is cost worthy against what I'm already paying for other services first.

[@gosman949]

and what are you using now?

[@jamessmoot4798]

I'm using KZbin TV. DirectTV is too expensive.​@@gosman949

[@Reloadeez]

The plus to it is actual channel numbers. Converting elderly people to streaming live tv without channel numbers is a nightmare, they have been using channel numbers for 50+ years.

[@OscarTorres-br8wl]

Thanks for your videos and website. Love from Puerto Rico

[@spaceghost4474]

Thanks for the info Michael. I have a couple questions that you might be able to help me with. I can't find the answers at their site. 1. How long is the free trial that they offer? 2. Can you pause the service, instead of only being able to cancel? I appreciate your help. 😊

[@MichaelSaves]

Free trial is usually 5 days. That is also what I got. I did not see the option to pause DTV STREAM on the website - only cancel. Maybe I missed it? Interestingly, looks like DTV via Internet has a pause option.

[@MrRogermash]

Thanks.Another great video.I'm happy with Philo core.

[@danram247]

DirecTV Stream is on point with unlimited DVR features. The only thing that is lacking in DVR features is extended time recording for sports games that go to overtime or extra innings. It doesn't let you extend the time.

[@kascnef]

With Fios u can

[@shaunmitchell3892]

It absolutely does extend.

[@GeoffreyMorrison-xh2eo]

One of my biggest reasons for cord cutting was the tedious channel guide. Also, the bulky and power-hungry equipment was a big turnoff.. Of course, the cost. I cut the cord before my mother died: So, I.moved near my brother. Spectrum/Charter gave me an Arris modem to use. It lasted well, for about 8-years. I went ahead and bought a Netgear modem. Then, I returned their spent modem. I asked them if they recommended their new modem/ router, instead: Emphatically, the guy said "No!" I like using my own equipment, also--I had gotten to that point, with Cox, before I moved. Make certain that you keep your receipts for any returned equipment--actually, make certain that you're buried with them! Except for some antenna-based usage, everything else with my TVs is broadbsnd-based. I got by, until recently, with cheapo, single-band devices. I obtained two new routers--then, I wired them together. Basically now, everything streaming runs with WiFI 5 ("5G"). The PCs and Blu-Rays use ethernet. My smaller Vizio bedroom TV is Android-based: I much prefer Google, Onn, Fire and Roku " dongle" devices: They do indeed run 5G, excepting the cheapo Roku LE device. For some reason, Google won't let TV makers use the streaming-devivce Google Play app version. The Vizio chip won't do 5G, either. Furthermore, switching broadband speed (say, unfavorable atmospheric conditions), requires password re-id🤐 Dumbo! I don,'t know about Roku and Fire TVs: It seems that Chromecast TV users are short-changing themselves by not using a Google Play enabled streaming device, in addition, or instead. The apps certainly are.limited--otherwise.... Yet, I still use it, sometimes--keeping it updated....

[@deephillips9269]

I enjoy YTTV. I am considering DIRECTV stream bc I would like the regional sports channels. That’s the only thing missing.

[@shanagraves2317]

Great review overall, but I think it’s important to mention that you can’t get profiles for different users like you can with other streaming services. I’ve had both Hulu Live and Fubo TV previously and liked how each family member could have their own profile so they could put their own favorite channels and have their own DVR recordings separated from the rest of the family. I just tried DIRECTV stream today after watching your video and was very disappointed that was missing.

[@MichaelSaves]

Yes, profiles are coming soon. The company confirmed to me personally.

[@kylew9138]

When directv stream gemini wireless works, it is Xcellent. However, the wireless gemini needs frequent reboots to work correctly so the TV / Roku smart apps appear to be a better way to go on viewing. . .

[@MSDOGS1976]

I rarely ever have to reboot mine but certainly did with Roku and a Fire Stick. But all environments are not the same.

[@classicmusic2477]

Not much of a price difference between DirecTV stream and KZbin TV. $69 versus $74 I rather have KZbin TV, something I go on my preference more often a lot. Search more. Get more experience more! Thank you for the recommendation. Has other expensive packages on this screen just like fubu to be which is outrageous

[@tkeodouangdy5]

So when you announced the 3 months special with Direct stream I jumped all over it. I picked it up and I absolutely hate it. It kept buffering all the time and my Internet is flawless with speed of atleast 800 mbps. What O loved about KZbin tv was it knew my algorithm, what i mean is, it don't matter what i watch at night, the next morning when i turn on th yv it automatically on my morning news. Direct streams i couldn't get with cause youtube tv controls are very similar to the other stream channel such as Netflix etc. So your mussle memory on the control are totally diffrent all the way around so when i wanted te rewind it change the channel and then when you turn it back to the channel you was on you can't rewind it back to see what you missed. I could prob keep going but I won't. I didn't use it all 3 months. My apologies for the rant, and Thank You for all your video. You really help me alot with all these streaming channels.Between you and The Deal Guy you can save alot. Thank You!!!!!

[@MichaelSaves]

I appreciate your opinions! I do agree that YTTV does way better with recommendations than DTV STREAM. That's a great point.

[@joshacox3110]

@@tkeodouangdy5 that’s really odd. I’ve had the service and watched it every single day for a solid year and never had a buffer problem one single time.

[@mikecole3899]

I had the same frustrating experience with the DTS user interface until the latest update. I like it. Way more user friendly. But, that annoying muscle memory thing still causes me to change the channel unintentionally. YTTV has them beat on UI, but, probably about nothing else as far as the complete service goes.

[@Retro_Gamer_Since_The_90s]

I have had KZbin TV had it for years and I really enjoy it.

[@JohnWill-i1z]

Well, I'm a DIRECTV satellite customer have been for over two decades. I have tried going to the Directv stream service as recently as a month ago, and I have to say while the application as you mentioned has made leaps and bounds the absolute absence of recording options makes it unacceptable. You cannot extend a programming record time. There are absolutely no way to schedule a manual program, which is the only way to get around shows that don't register Weather are they are first time airing or not. Example a news program on a news channel might air five times a day at different hours. The only option with Directv is to select that news program and then you will get five recordings and you can't even limit it to one recording. These are programming issues. There's nothing preventing them from implementing them other than actually devoting development time to do it. So while I think the application is great and I think the service is good if not overpriced for what you get,the overly simplified and limiting recording options make this a no go at least for me and the way I use Directv.

[@michaelj4427]

Very helpful, thanks

[@garykilgore9909]

Hi Michael, I tried the Direct TV link and it didn't work. Also went to your website and I couldn't get that to work, either.

[@MichaelSaves]

That's strange. Maybe try a different browser? If my link doesn't work, you can always go directly to streamtv.directv.com.

[@George-hl2xm]

Direct stream is my favorite

[@bobsimmons1470]

So is there a picture quality difference between stream and internet?

[@abc456f]

I have it. Their 4k channels don't look like 4k. Many people complaining about this.

[@drugemp1]

Michael...it looks as though DirecTV Stream has upped their game. I'm just wondering how their 720p and 1080p quality compares to KZbin TV? I know last year before YTTV became the new home of the NFL Ticket, they upped their bitrate to improve picture quality and I immediately noticed the improvement. Is DirecTV' Stream's picture quality as good by comparison?

[@MichaelSaves]

Always very subjective, so I hate to say one way or another. I think it’s on par, but I also tested YTTV during the recent improvements and can’t say I saw much of a difference. Maybe other users can weigh in.

[@mikecole3899]

I’d definitely say it’s on par if not BETTER! I believe most would agree based on reviews I’ve read. Most being on Reddit.

[@biblebelter9772]

Very informative. Much appreciated. I had to smile when you said that Direct has dropped A&E. That is a network that YTTV doesn't carry either. ATT never had any original thinkers making decisions, they are always reacting and copying. As a nine month a year sub to YTTV, I have the following comment. I, too, am looking to move on from YTTV. But I think I'll go the skinny bundle root with Sling Orange. Sling Orange has its limitations like no locals, one device limit, and DVR limits, but I cut the cord over 8 years ago and I understand the ins and outs, in part thanks to a You Tuber like yourself.

[@MichaelSaves]

Yes, so for some more context on A&E. In addition to people who want RSNs, I would sometimes recommend DIRECTV STREAM to people who wanted both A&E Networks and AMC Networks because KZbin TV lacks A&E and Hulu Live lacks AMC. DIRECTV STREAM had both in the Entertainment plan until recently. Good luck with Sling! Definitely a good cost-cutting solution.

[@MrAcer505]

I love Directv stream, i wish they have PIP like Fubo Tv. I miss that

[@JohnCochraneJr]

Loved this video. I’ve been singing the praises of DirecTV Stream’s DVR for a long time. Way better than KZbin TV. Glad to get some validation.

[@markj9267]

I can't get on their website if I have my VPN on... why is that? Do they block VPNs? Thank you.

[@MichaelWalker-wu2pq]

I think so. Companies seem to be getting better at somehow detecting VPN usage.

[@calvinreichelderfer7989]

For the price I would not leave my cable tv company which provides great services with TiVo stream. Plus being able to call the cable company and speak to someone anytime is great.

[@brockhines]

Please let me know how you get a live person and one that the solution to every problem isn't "unplug and plug back in your cable box."

[@ajobis1881]

I have two Samsung smart tvs they both have the universal remote. Who can I set the remotes up to put in the channel numbers? Or is that not an option. I can use the volume and channel up and down. Just not the numbers.

[@wmassey683]

The 49.99 deal is back. Would you suggest it, I’m currently with Sling and pay 67.00 per month also are DTV stream no commitment?

[@MichaelSaves]

Yes, I have a video that's uploading right now with my opinion.

[@JimGEDDIS3000]

I remember DirecTV satellite, so with the via Internet do you have to download the on demand content like you do with their satellite ? I'm debating about going to KZbin TV or DirecTV stream or is it via Internet? Only because AT&T wants way too much for U-Verse and I actually like it for the most part, however I am not a fan of the price tag.

[@MichaelSaves]

The on demand content is available on demand from its own section. You don’t download it.

[@JimGEDDIS3000]

@@MichaelSaves Okay thanks. I am not sure why AT&T just didn't expand on their U-Verse TV, I mean they can make it a streaming service and all. I guess they didn't want to capitalize on that.

[@markj9267]

The website you provided is not working. Did they get hammered by the Windows update?

[@MichaelSaves]

The link/website absolutely works. Are you using any sort of ad blocking?

[@robharper2078]

Small suggestion: Allow people to pay for your coffee with PayPal.

[@MichaelSaves]

Thank you! And thank you for contributing.

[@mv8167]

Which TVs can we use the Stream app? Samsung, SONY, Vizio, LG, Amazon, TCL? I ask as with Charter, we can only use Sasung an not Sony

[@MichaelSaves]

You need a compatible device like a Roku: michaelsaves.com/streaming/directv-stream-review/

[@edwightman7132]

I have three gemini remotes and boxes and under no contract? I use the stream system not dish.

[@michelinesantucci4474]

How do you do the 72 hours playback on Directv?

[@MichaelSaves]

Several services do this for recent on-demand content. Here's more: www.directv.com/support/article/000082921

[@JoseLopez-fh5sh]

Michael if I wanna watch the Colorado Rockies and choose this service what plan do I need?

[@MichaelSaves]

RSNs are in Choice or above!

[@JoseLopez-fh5sh]

@@MichaelSaves even if I live in Illinois?

[@MichaelSaves]

@JoseLopez-fh5sh No. The RSNs are based on your market. Have you checked out MLB.TV?

[@brianortiz6385]

can you use the remote to power on and power off a Roku Smart TV or do you need two separate remotes

[@MichaelSaves]

I have a Roku that I use with a smart TV and you can sync up the remotes so you only need the Roku remote to control power and volume.

[@redsoxfan26401]

Yes you can use the remote supplied with the Gemini to control your TV.

[@MichaelSaves]

@@redsoxfan26401 Gemini is for DTV via Internet, not DIRECTV STREAM - which is now BYOD.

[@SonicFanaticEthan]

I might get a direct tv device but I don't have a physical TV unless i has tv on my PC hooked up to HDMI. or I use the direct TV stream

[@sandywilson8169]

Tried it, signed up, looking t switch from another cable provider. I see we can sort Channels by Number, but can't find any way to actually select a channel by it's Number. After years of a service where this is the easiest way, and a family to train to what ever we switch to it could sway the decision differently. Is this possible ?

[@MichaelSaves]

DTV Via Internet (not DTV Stream) comes with a Gemini remote with a number pad. They no longer offer this remote to DTV Stream users. I have heard that some people buy them on eBay to use with DTV Stream.

[@bigkevsfbaypromoters814]

Can you sign up for DIRECTV through your phone or TV because I download the DIRECTV stream for my phone and it won’t let me do anything tells me I need a username and password

[@MichaelSaves]

I signed up on the website.

[@markfogle8322]

Today was the first day the DirecTV didn't go out. WOW.....

[@blackobsidian0]

can i give my friend who isnt in my area my login and he can use it ?

[@MichaelSaves]

I believe the service is intended for a single household, but it allows 3 streams outside of the home -- including two TV sets. As a result, I know that a lot of people share with this service.

[@danram247]

Oh yeah and you can split the cost...🤫 😁

[@NoCaping]

​@@danram247 yes u can I did it b4

[@patbates1763]

Is ever service was free which one will you get gor pick one

[@MichaelSaves]

Good question! Among live TV services, probably DIRECTV STREAM Choice or KZbin TV

[@patbates1763]

@@MichaelSaves good answer because I got DirecTV stream these day's not even close in my eyes DirecTV streaming works better I love new features adding channels great choice package is great

[@gabrielalamberti5860]

Is Sling Freestream included in the Orange or Blue packages?

[@MichaelSaves]

Sling Freestream is free, so you can get it with or without the paid plans. You access it from the same Sling app!

[@NormanF62]

@@MichaelSaves DirecTV on its app: - the satellite one offers a free tier service similar to that offered by Philo and Sling. Eventually, there should emerge a low cost paid tier available similar to what their competitors offer. You can now watch what’s on the free tier without being required to sign a contract or get the standard paid tier which is too much for most people.

[@bobmccue3802]

Can you use a Gemini air device on the Directv stream service (no contract) - if you buy the Gemini air from a 3rd party

[@MichaelSaves]

People have done that -- in fact, for this review I hooked up an old DIRECTV STREAM Device (now called Gemini)

[@joek1978atyahoo]

I thought u also quit posting on KZbin??

[@MichaelSaves]

Still posting, but just posting elsewhere. Quit KZbin TV.

[@toneloc79]

wish it wasn't so costly I would take it

[@andrewhenseleit1304]

Just sub'd to DirecTV Stream from YTTV, most of it is better. There are issues (at least on my apple tv) with the On Demand content. When you finish one episode and start another, the new program starts at the same time point as you left the previous. For example, I watch a show until there's 30 seconds left. Start the next program and it starts with 30 seconds left! I have to rewind all the way to the beginning as the "Start Over" feature doesn't work. I haven't tested the DVR recordings to see if the same happens or not.

[@markfogle8322]

I take it back, the DirecTV just went out, again.

[@patrickm977]

They do have a contract now.

[@MichaelSaves]

Not DTV Stream. That’s DTV via Internet.

[@donannsmith5574]

Nothing could suck me back into the black hole that is DirectTV.

[@neko77025]

so if you have a Directv stream box C71KW ... will it still work with Directv Stream ? (my old ass parents, still need a number pad)

[@MichaelSaves]

I was able to hook up my old DIRECTV STREAM device and it worked, but it had the old user interface. You cannot buy a new one from DIRECTV STREAM, but I think some people buy them on Ebay.

[@nathanielenochs1843]

It’s not worth it if you’re trying to cut costs

[@MichaelSaves]

100%

[@timpatz7241]

No. Direct TV SUCKS!!! It is endless buffering. Sunny. 70. No whatsoever. Buffering. What's even better, especially when it's the end of a game: 'Sorry. We ate having trouble streaming this show. Please retry' It sucks. Period.

[@NoCaping]

Your clearly talking about directv satellite this isn't satellite service it's streaming over internet

[@kevanbarter]

No, not a fan of DirectTV Stream. KZbin TV imo better than DirectTV Stream. Also KZbin TV just needs to add more regional sports imo

[@mknightstalkerx]

If they do that. It would be the same cost as DirecTV stream.

[@danram247]

That's the whole difference between Directv Stream and KZbin TV...More regional sports channels and also has a few more cable networks than KZbin TV.

[@markfogle8322]

Well, today the DirecTV went out 3 times so far. It's only 10:29 am. Worst TV provider on the planet. The DirecTV just went out as I'm typing this....

[@user-zx8de8op9l]

My mom has this.

[@krispepicello8413]

Very informative video. We are new to streaming. Do we need a device to access the channels, we have two Samsung smart tvs and a Sony smart tv? Thanks for helping us out.

[@MichaelSaves]

See the list of supported TVs here. If you don’t have one, you can get a Roku or Fire TV Stick: www.directv.com/support/article/000066174

[@krispepicello8413]

Will the tv remotes work or do we need different device to access Direct TV Streaming

[@dmb851290]

I subscribed for 7 years. The app is available on Samsung TVs (not sure about the Sony). However the app is kinda bulky and lags a bit on the TV. It works better on a streaming device.

[@George-hl2xm]

Direct stream has channels that KZbin doesn’t have

[@danram247]

More bang for your buck I always say...lol. DirecTV Stream also has local regional sports networks... KZbin TV does not.

[@MickF04]

I really don't get the continued interest and audience in the cable news networks. My only guess is people like being lied to. There is not one truthful news network anywhere.

[@ricgrupe]

No doubt!

[@jigglypuff52]

Local interest stories and emergency weather. That and not having to choose my own programing when I don't want to.

[@matthewpolster2282]

Directv is horrible!! Expensive and cancellation fees. Terrible customer service. DO NOT DO IT!

[@MichaelSaves]

DIRECTV STREAM has no contract, but DIRECTV does. I explain in the video.

[@matthewpolster2282]

@@MichaelSaves Wrong. I just cancelled and they are charging me $380... from my chat thread this AM (090724) You said, "what is the exact cost of my cancellation?" Business said, "The cost is $380.00"

[@jessemikell8379]

No NFL RedZone...

[@MichaelSaves]

They do have Redzone in the Sports Pack add-on

[@ricgrupe]

DTV sucks in all forms. Mike is just POed at KZbin TV, which is still by far the best option

[@MichaelSaves]

I still recommend KZbin TV to most people, although I will not use the service. I think this was a fair review.

[@averycolnite3561]

No. Not when you consider that most channels they (or any other cable or satellite service) offer can be picked up FOR FREE with an antenna, it's not worth it. Not these days. 😶

[@MSDOGS1976]

You can pick up espn, FX, AMC, TNT, HGTV, CNBC, Fox Bus, TV Land etc etc on your antenna? No you can't.

[@averycolnite3561]

​@MSDOGS1976 Of course not, no. But a host of local, nearby, shopping, and public access channels can be. And the cable and satellite companies are more than happy to take your money for them, in addition to the ones you mentioned. 😐.

[@MSDOGS1976]

@@averycolnite3561 I'm more than happy to pay for what I get from those channels. If a person does not.....great.

[@GeoffreyMorrison-xh2eo]

Your antenna is limited by your locale. I do use antenna, sometimes: I do use boxes for that, even though I could wire them to my TVs. With them, you get DVR--along with better channel info.

[@GeminieCricket]

Not every area can use an antenna!

[@bionicwoman9884]

not worth it to me

[@paulmorgan5988]

Sports suck tv sucks companies suck

[@markfogle8322]

Worst TV provider on the planet. Today the DirecTV only went out 14 times

[@paulmorgan5988]

They are garbage

[@markfogle8322]

DirecTV is out again. Worst TV provider on the planet.

[@MichaelSaves]

Hi Mark. You don't have to keep commenting the same thing on this channel. My review is of DIRECTV STREAM. If there is an outage of DIRECTV STREAM, I recommend checking your internet connection. Then, contact DIRECTV STREAM's support. If you are a DIRECTV Satellite customer, contact support for the legacy DIRECTV service.

[@skydancerforever]

Who cares about sports networks?

[@MSDOGS1976]

Many.

[@bionicwoman9884]

I don't

[@MSDOGS1976]

@@bionicwoman9884 Good. But the various networks that pay well over a billion of $$ wouldn't do so if there were just a few eyeballs on the NFL. Same with the other sports coverage.

[@Astorian]

Who doesn't?