YouTube TV vs DirecTV Stream: Best Choice?
When looking at streaming comparison options, YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream stand out in the U.S. They both have key points, like their channel lists and pricing, that attract different viewers. YouTube TV has a huge lead with over 8.5 million subscribers compared to DirecTV Stream’s 788,000. The price difference between them is small, with YouTube TV at $82.99 and DirecTV Stream at $86.99.
YouTube TV offers 134 channels, way more than DirecTV Stream’s 80. This makes YouTube TV great for those wanting many options. Both have trials and unlimited DVR, but YouTube TV allows 3 streams at once. On the other hand, DirecTV Stream lets you stream on 20 devices at home.
DirecTV Stream scores higher in overall ratings with 9/10, while YouTube TV has 7/10. YouTube TV works on more devices, making it better for variety and device use. DirecTV Stream is better for families needing to stream on many devices at once.
Choosing the best service depends on what you’re looking for. Do you need lots of channels, device options, or the ability to stream on many devices? Both YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream are strong contenders in the battle of satellite TV vs online TV
Overview: DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV
When looking at YouTube TV vs DirecTV Stream, it’s important to think about their popularity, pricing, and how well they work with different devices. This helps us decide correctly.
Popularity and Subscription Numbers
YouTube TV is more popular, with 8.5 million people signed up. DirecTV Stream has 788,000 subscribers. These numbers show that more people choose YouTube TV.
Price Comparison
YouTube TV’s basic plan is $82.99 a month. DirecTV Stream’s similar plan is $87. YouTube TV adds $9.99 a month for 4K streaming, totaling $92.98 each month. On the other hand, DirecTV Stream doesn’t charge extra for 4K. This makes YouTube TV the cheaper choice if you don’t want 4K.
Device Availability
Device compatibility is better with YouTube TV. It works on PlayStation consoles and many smart TVs. DirecTV Stream works with most streaming devices but might not support some old smart TVs or phones. YouTube TV’s wider device availability makes it more flexible for different homes.
Price Breakdown and Subscription Options
Making an informed choice about streaming services means understanding their costs and subscriptions. This section breaks down the pricing and subscription models for DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV.
DirecTV Stream Pricing
DirecTV Stream has different subscription plans to fit various needs. The basic plan is $87 a month. For more regional sports channels, the “Choice” package is $94.99 monthly for the first three months, then it goes up to $114.99. The Entertainment + Sports Pack is priced at $101.98 monthly. Before deciding, customers can try the service free for 5 days.
YouTube TV Pricing
YouTube TV offers a more affordable basic plan at $83 monthly. It includes 78 of the top 100 popular cable channels, making it a good deal. Plus, for $11 more each month, you can get a sports package. YouTube TV also has a 7-day free trial, letting people check out the service first.
Free Trial Periods
DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV both have free trials to win over new subscribers. DirecTV Stream’s free trial lasts 5 days. On the other hand, YouTube TV’s trial is 7 days long. These trials help people compare and decide which service suits them best.
When looking at streaming costs, it’s also good to look at other services. Hulu + Live TV costs $82.99 a month with ads and $95.99 without. Fubo TV’s Pro plan starts at $79.99 monthly. The cheapest is Philo, at $28 monthly. Even with unique features elsewhere, DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV stand out for their quality channels and competitive prices.
| Service | Monthly Cost | Free Trial Period |
|---|---|---|
| DirecTV Stream | $87 | 5 days |
| YouTube TV | $83 | 7 days |
| Hulu + Live TV (ad-supported) | $82.99 | – |
| Hulu + Live TV (ad-free) | $95.99 | – |
| Fubo TV | $79.99 | – |
| Philo | $28 | 7 days |
| Sling TV | $45.99 | – |
Channel Lineup Comparison
Choosing between YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream means looking at what each offers. They have unique channels, plus many they share. So, everyone can find something they like.
Unique Channels on DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream has some channels you won’t find anywhere else. For example, there’s AccuWeather and ESPNU. With 80 channels in total, it caters to fans of news, sports, and more.
Unique Channels on YouTube TV
YouTube TV, on the other hand, has even more channels—134 to be exact. It includes special ones like BBC World News and the NFL Network. This is great for those who love following sports or want global news.
Channels Available on Both Services
Despite their differences, YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream still share many channels. They both offer ESPN, NBC, and FOX. This means viewers won’t miss out on major sports, news, or shows.
| Service | Unique Channels | Total Channels |
|---|---|---|
| DirecTV Stream | AccuWeather, ESPNU | 80 |
| YouTube TV | BBC World News, NFL Network | 134 |
| Both Services | ESPN, NBC, FOX | – |
Device Compatibility
YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream both support many devices. This is key when choosing between YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream.
Devices Supported by DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream works with a lot of well-known devices. This means you can watch what you like on many platforms. Users can enjoy their shows on:
- Amazon Fire TV
- Apple TV
- Roku
- Android devices
- iOS devices
DirecTV Stream lets you stream on up to 20 devices at home. This is great for families with many devices.
Devices Supported by YouTube TV
YouTube TV is also great at working with different devices. It supports the usual devices plus:
- Google TV Streamer
- LG TV
- Xbox
- Android devices
- iOS devices
YouTube TV allows streaming on 3 devices at once. This makes it good for families or anyone with different gadgets. It’s easy to access on many platforms, giving a smooth streaming experience.
| Feature | YouTube TV | DirecTV Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Fire TV | Yes | Yes |
| Apple TV | Yes | Yes |
| Roku | Yes | Yes |
| Google TV | Yes | No |
| LG TV | Yes | No |
| Xbox | Yes | No |
| Android Devices | Yes | Yes |
| iOS Devices | Yes | Yes |
Streaming Quality and DVR Functionality
Both YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream give viewers high-definition content. YouTube TV stands out with over 100 live channels and clear streams, starting at $73 a month. Adding NFL Sunday Ticket makes it even better for sports fans.
Streaming Quality
YouTube TV is known for its high-definition resolution. This makes it great for those who want clear visuals without interruptions. DirecTV Stream offers HD quality too, across its 75+ channels starting at $70/month.
DVR Features
Both services offer great DVR options. YouTube TV lets you record lots with unlimited DVR storage, so you don’t have to worry about space. The quality of your recordings stays high. DirecTV Stream also has unlimited DVR storage, keeping your videos in HD.
Here’s how they compare in key areas:
| Service | Base Price | DVR Storage | Streaming Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | $72.99/month | Unlimited | HD |
| DirecTV Stream | $70/month | Unlimited | HD |
YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream both have great on-demand video choices. Whatever you prefer, high-quality streams or lots of DVR space, they’ve got you covered.
Specialty and Niche Channels
Many viewers look for a service that provides a wide variety of niche channels, sports, and programs from around the world. DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV offer special channels that cater to unique interests.
Sports Coverage
DirecTV Stream shines in sports streaming with channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and local sports channels. YouTube TV competes well, offering popular channels such as CBS Sports Network and NBC Sports. They both make sure fans can watch every game, from the big names to the lesser-known sports.
International Channels
DirecTV Stream excels in offering channels from many different countries for those who love international content. YouTube TV keeps up by providing channels that cover international news and entertainment. They both offer a wide selection, whether you’re into Japanese anime or European cooking shows.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
DirecTV Stream has a lot to offer in lifestyle and entertainment, including channels like HGTV and the Food Network, plus niche channels for specific interests. YouTube TV also reaches a wide audience by including both popular and niche lifestyle channels. They ensure there’s something for everyone, from DIY enthusiasts to documentary lovers.
| Service | Channel Count | Base Price | Max Streams |
|---|---|---|---|
| DirecTV Stream | 90+ | $101.98/month | Unlimited on Wi-Fi |
| YouTube TV | 85+ | $72.99/month | 3 |
| Hulu + Live TV | 90+ | $82.99/month | 2 |
| Sling TV | 35+ | $45.99/month | 1-4 |
| Fubo | 214+ | $79.99/month | 10 |
User Interface and Experience
Choosing between YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream involves looking at their user interfaces and streaming experiences. Each service has features that meet different user needs.
Navigation and Search Functions
YouTube TV offers easy-to-use navigation and search features, much like the original YouTube. This makes finding favorite shows quick and simple. On the other hand, DirecTV Stream’s search feature is strong but some find the interface tricky, affecting how easily users can navigate.
Parental Controls
YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream both have parental controls, yet YouTube TV’s are more detailed. Parents can set up unique profiles and choose what their kids can watch. This makes YouTube TV safer and more customizable for families. DirecTV Stream has controls too, but they’re not as adjustable.
Customization Options
YouTube TV really shines in customization, allowing six profiles per account. Each profile gets its own recommendations and DVR. This makes watching TV a more personal experience for everyone. DirecTV Stream offers customization as well, but it doesn’t go as far as YouTube TV does.
| Aspect | YouTube TV | DirecTV Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation and Search | Intuitive and user-friendly | Less straightforward |
| Parental Controls | Extensive customization | Basic features |
| Customization | Up to 6 profiles, personalized recommendations | Limited personalization |
When comparing YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream, it’s clear YouTube TV tops in ease and customization. It stands out for those who value a simple, personalized streaming experience.
Add-On Options and Extra Features
YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream are great for extra streaming options and features. They have 4K video, premium channels, and unique things that make watching better.
4K Streaming
They both offer 4K streaming for top-quality views. You can watch some shows in amazing clarity. This is perfect for sports and action-packed shows.
Premium Channel Add-Ons
For premium channels, both have a lot to choose from. YouTube TV has about 50 add-ons like HBO Max and Starz. DirecTV Stream has packages with local sports and more. This lets you pick what you like to watch.
Multiview Features
YouTube TV has a cool feature called Multiview. You can watch several shows at once on one screen. It’s great for sports fans. DirecTV Stream doesn’t have Multiview but has other good features.
| Feature | YouTube TV | DirecTV Stream |
|---|---|---|
| 4K Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Premium Channel Add-Ons | Nearly 50 options | Various packages |
| Multiview Features | Yes | No |
YouTube TV vs DirecTV Stream: Best Choice for Sports Fans
Sports fans looking for the best experience can’t ignore the YouTube TV vs DirecTV Stream debate. Each service has special features for sports enthusiasts. Yet, they differ in what they offer.
Sports Networks Offered
YouTube TV has over 100 channels, including sports giants like ESPN and ESPN Deportes. This means fans get wide coverage of both national and regional sports.
DirecTV Stream has a MySports plan for $70 a month with 44 sports channels. A discount cuts this to $50 for the first three months.
Recording and Watching Games
YouTube TV leads with its unlimited DVR storage. Recordings stay for nine months. Fans also get 6 profiles per account and 3 streams at once.
DirecTV Stream offers good DVR but not as much as YouTube TV. Yet, it still has enough space so you won’t miss important sports moments.
Unique Features for Sports Enthusiasts
YouTube TV introduces a multiview feature to watch up to four channels at once. It’s great for live sports, especially when many events happen together.
DirecTV Stream boosts its value with 17 free channels, including in MyFreeDIRECTV. This ensures fans have access to essential sports content outside the main plan.
When comparing sports streaming, each platform has its strengths. Whether you prefer YouTube TV’s DVR options or DirecTV Stream’s sports coverage, both are great for live sports fans.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
When comparing YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream, customer reviews are very telling. People enjoy YouTube TV’s wide range of channels and easy interface. They like how easy it is to find what they want to watch, despite it being a bit pricey. However, some note that it sometimes has streaming issues and costs more.
DirecTV Stream gets praise for its smooth streaming and classic TV feel. Viewers love finding special channels like C-SPAN that other services don’t offer. Yet, they point out its interface could be more user-friendly. They also wish it worked on more devices.
Looking at both, each service has pluses and minuses. YouTube TV is great for its usability and selection. DirecTV Stream stands out for reliability and a traditional experience. People’s choice between the two depends on their specific streaming needs and preferences.
FAQs
Which service has more subscribers, YouTube TV or DirecTV Stream?
YouTube TV leads with 8.5 million subscribers. DirecTV Stream has 788,000.
How do the prices of YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream compare?
YouTube TV costs a month. DirecTV Stream begins at monthly.
What devices are compatible with YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream?
YouTube TV works with devices like PlayStation, Google TV Streamer, LG TV, and Xbox. DirecTV Stream supports Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Roku.
What are the unique channels offered by each service?
DirecTV Stream gives you channels like AccuWeather and ESPNU. YouTube TV has BBC World News and NFL Network.
What free trial periods do YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream offer?
YouTube TV provides a 7-day free trial. DirecTV Stream has a 5-day trial.
Are there differences in DVR services between YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream?
Yes, YouTube TV’s DVR keeps quality after recording. DirecTV Stream has unlimited DVR but keeps recordings in high quality.
Which service provides better sports coverage?
Both services excel in sports coverage. YouTube TV offers special features like a multiview option for watching games. DirecTV Stream offers a wide variety of sports content.
What unique features does YouTube TV offer?
YouTube TV’s special features include Multiview, an easy interface, lots of customization, and parental controls. It makes watching TV easy and fun.
How do customer reviews compare between YouTube TV and DirecTV Stream?
People tend to prefer YouTube TV for its channel variety and user-friendly interface. DirecTV Stream fans like the stream quality but want a better interface and more device options.
