DIRECTV vs Cox

Are you an entertainment lover who enjoys flipping through TV channels from the comfort of your drawing room? Despite the influx of new streaming platforms, traditional TV still holds a special place in the hearts of many American viewers. So if you are one of them, you can kick your television viewing experience up a notch by choosing between two industry giants: DIRECTV and Cox TV.

In this detailed comparison of DIRECTV vs Cox TV, we’ll examine the two industry giants in the TV market, who have been fiercely competing for the top spot in the entertainment world for quite some time now. While DIRECTV is known for exclusive sports packages and an extensive channel lineup, Cox TV provides customizable plans and cutting-edge technology. So, get ready to learn everything about these top TV providers!

TV Service Comparison – DIRECTV vs Cox 

Features	Cox Contour TV	DIRECTV
Type of Service	Cable TV	Satellite TV
Number of Plans	4	4
Price Range	$56/mo. – $139/mo.	$64.99/mo. – $154.99/mo.
TV Channels	250+	340+
Streaming Services	No	Yes
Bundle Deals	Yes	Yes
Contracts	Yes	Yes
Wide Coverage Area	No	Yes

DIRECTV

DIRECTV has become one of the largest and most popular satellite TV service providers in the United States by evolving with time and attracting a large customer base. In addition to its satellite TV offerings, DIRECTV provides a streaming service that enables users to watch their favorite shows and movies on various devices.

DIRECTV’s popularity stems not only from its wide availability but also from the vast array of channels it offers. With plans offering 165 to 340 channels, DIRECTV caters to every type of audience. It also offers exclusive sports packages that give fans access to live games and events that may not be available through other providers.

Moreover, DIRECTV’s use of cutting-edge technology further adds to its popularity. Overall, DIRECTV is a popular choice for entertainment lovers who desire access to a wide range of channels, exclusive add-ons, and user-friendly streaming options.

Pros

• Nationwide availability
• Vast channel lineup
• 2-year price guarantee
• Impressive collection of regional sports networks
• 200 hours of DVR storage included

Cons

• Higher prices than other options
• 2-year contract
• Weather conditions may affect the satellite signal

Cox TV

Cox is a telecommunications company that provides internet, TV, and phone services to residential and business customers in the United States. Established in 1962, it has grown to become one of the largest cable TV providers in the country, with millions of subscribers.

Its TV service, Cox Contour TV, is a favorite among entertainment lovers. Cox uses digital cable technology to provide viewers with a high-quality viewing experience. But it is not the sole reason for its popularity. Its customizable packages add to its fame, as customers can choose from a pool of TV packages that cater to different viewing preferences, from basic cable to premium packages with hundreds of channels. They can also add features like DVR service or premium channels like HBO and Showtime.

Overall, Cox stands out due to its customizable plans, cutting-edge technology features, and digital cable technology.

Pros

• Excellent bundle options
• Various DVR options

Cons

• Limited availability
• Smaller channel lineup compared to DIRECTV

TV Plans – DIRECTV vs Cox TV

Interestingly, DIRECTV and Cox offer the same number of TV plans, but with different pricing structures, channel offerings, and other policies. For instance, each provider may have its own set of fees for equipment, installation, and other add-ons. Let’s explore these features in detail.

Price – DIRECTV vs Cox

Price is often the most crucial factor when choosing a new television service. However, finding the perfect plan that meets both budget and entertainment needs can be rather challenging. Let’s compare how both providers fare in this regard.

DIRECTV

While DIRECTV packages are more expensive than Cox TV, with the most basic plan starting at $64.99, they offer unparalleled value for your money. With an extensive channel lineup, a 2-year price guarantee, 200 hours of DVR storage, and a range of incredible perks, DIRECTV is a top choice for those who want the ultimate entertainment experience.

DIRECTV Plans
TV Plan	Starting Price	TV Channels	Contact DIRECTV
ENTERTAINMENT	$64.99/mo.	165+	Call Now
CHOICE™	$84.99/mo.	200+	Call Now
ULTIMATE	$109.99/mo.	270+	Call Now
PREMIER	$154.99/mo.	340+	Call Now

*with tax & fees for 24 mos.
* All prices include a $10 Autopay & Paperless Bill discount

Cox Contour TV

Cox TV’s starting prices range from $56 to $139, making them more attractive than DIRECTV. However, these plans have a smaller channel lineup than DIRECTV, and customers have to pay separately for DVR service. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the prices advertised by Cox TV are introductory rates, and the provider increases the price after a year of subscription.

While Cox TV may seem like a more affordable option initially, customers should carefully consider the additional costs and the eventual price increase before choosing a plan.

Cox TV Plans
TV Plan	Starting Price	TV Channels	Contact Cox
Contour TV Starter	$56.00/mo.	75+	Call Now
Contour TV Preferred	$99.00/mo.	140+	Call Now
Contour TV Preferred Plus	$119.00/mo.	170+	Call Now
Contour TV Ultimate	$139.00/mo.	250+	Call Now

Channels – DIRECTV vs Cox

One of the standout features of traditional TV services like cable and satellite TV is their massive channel lineups, which offer viewers an unparalleled selection of programming options. Hence, many people still prefer these services in an era dominated by streaming.

DIRECTV has an impressive channel lineup ranging from 165 to 340 networks. In comparison, Cox Contour TV has a smaller selection of channels. However, you can customize its packages according to your preferences with incredible add-ons. Overall, DIRECTV is a better option for those who crave variety and want to explore a vast range of programming options.

Popular TV Channels

Let’s look at the detailed comparison of some of the most popular networks offered by DIRECTV and Cox TV.

Popular Channels	DIRECTV				Cox Contour TV
	ENTERTAINMENT	CHOICE	ULTIMATE	PREMIER	Starter	Preferred	Preferred +	Ultimate
A&E	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
ACC Network	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
AccuWeather	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
AMC	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
American Heroes Channel	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Animal Planet	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Aspire	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
BabyFirst TV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
BBC America	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
BBC World News	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
BET	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Big Ten Network	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
Bloomberg TV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
Boomerang	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
BounceTV	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Bravo	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
C-SPAN	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
C-SPAN2	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Cartoon Network	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
CMT	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
CNBC	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
CNN	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Comedy Central	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Cooking Channel	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Destination America	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Discovery Channel	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Disney Channel	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
E!	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
ESPN	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
ESPN2	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
ESPNews	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
ESPNU	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Food Network	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
FOX Business Network	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Fox News	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
FS1	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
FS2	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Freeform	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Fuse	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
FX	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
FXM	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
FXX	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
FYI	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Galavisión	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Golf Channel	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Hallmark Channel	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
HGTV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
History	✘	✘	✘	✘	✘	✔	✔	✔
HLN	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
HSN	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
IFC	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Investigation Discovery	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Jewelry TV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Jewish Life TV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Justice Central	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Lifetime	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
LMN	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Magnolia Network	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
MLB Network	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
MotorTrend	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
MSNBC	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
MTV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Nat Geo WILD	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
National Geographic	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
NBA TV	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
NFL Network	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
NHL Network	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Nick Jr.	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Nickelodeon	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Nicktoons	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
OWN	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Paramount Network	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
PBS	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
QVC	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Science	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Scientology Network	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
SEC Network	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
Smithsonian Channel	✘	✘	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
SundanceTV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Syfy	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Tastemade	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘
TBS	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
TeenNick	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Tennis Channel	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
TLC	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
TNT	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Travel Channel	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
TruTV	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
TV Land	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
USA Network	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
VICE	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✔
WE tv	✔	✔	✔	✔	✘	✔	✔	✔
Weather Channel	✘	✔	✔	✔	✘	✘	✘	✘

As you can see from the above table, you can find the most popular networks in DIRECTV’s channel lineup. While Cox TV also offers some decent options at a more affordable price, you’ll have to purchase separate add-ons to access popular networks.

Premium Channels

Premium networks are a popular and significant feature of many TV services, as they offer access to exclusive and high-quality programming unavailable on regular channels. Both DIRECTV and Cox TV have distinct methods of providing these premium networks to their customers. However, DIRECTV is widely considered the ultimate winner thanks to its impressive selection and special deals. For example, its first three packages include three months of promotional offers on most premium networks. Meanwhile, its PREMIER package has these networks in its channel lineup.

Cox TV is also a decent option for those looking for premium entertainment. It provides premium channels as add-ons in its first two packages and includes them in the channel lineup of its later two packages. Whether you prefer DIRECTV’s special deals or Cox TV’s more flexible approach, both providers offer a great selection of premium networks for your enjoyment.

Premium Channels	DIRECTV				Cox Contour TV
	ENTERTAINMENT	CHOICE	ULTIMATEE	PREMIER	Starter	Preferred	Preferred +	Ultimate
HBO Max™	$14.99/mo.	$14.99/mo.	$14.99/mo.	Included	$15.00/mo.	$15.00/mo.	Included.	Included
CINEMAX®	$11.00/mo.	Promo Available	Promo Available	Included	$12.00/mo.	$12.00/mo.	Included	Included
SHOWTIME®	Promo Available	Promo Available	Promo Available	Included	$11.00/mo.	$11.00/mo.	Included	Included
STARZ®	Promo Available	Promo Available	Promo Available	Included	$9.00/mo.	$9.00/mo.	Included	Included

On-Demand Options

Both DIRECTV and Cox offer a wide range of On-Demand options, catering to different preferences and viewing practices. However, the significant difference between them is the number of shows they offer. While DIRECTV’s library ranges from 45,000 to 75,000 titles depending on the plan, Cox TV offers an extensive library of over 150,000 On-Demand titles.

DIRECTV provides On-Demand content from premium networks such as HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime, making it an excellent option for avid TV and movie watchers. In contrast, Cox TV’s On-Demand library includes popular TV shows, movies, and original programming. However, your Cox TV plan must have premium channels like HBO Max and SHOWTIME to access these titles at no additional cost. Cox On Demand also offers various free titles, including TV shows, movies, and kids’ programming.

Ultimately, the choice between these two providers depends on individual needs and preferences. If having access to a vast selection of On-Demand content is a priority, Cox may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for access to premium networks and a more curated selection of titles, DIRECTV may be the way to go.

DVR

Recording your favorite TV shows and movies has become an integral part of modern entertainment, and DIRECTV and Cox offer their own set of DVR options to help you do just that. DIRECTV provides a Genie HD DVR with all plans that come with 200 hours of storage. The Genie HD DVR also allows you to record up to five shows simultaneously, meaning you never have to worry about missing any of your favorite programs.

On the other hand, Cox provides three different DVR packages to cater to varying storage and simultaneous recording needs. The Cox Record 2 DVR package costs $13.5 per month and allows you to record up to two shows simultaneously with up to 250 hours of storage. For more simultaneous recording capabilities, the Cox Record 6 DVR priced at $20 per month, also offers 250 hours of storage but allows you to record up to six shows simultaneously. If you need more storage and recording options, the Cox Record 24 DVR lets you record up to 24 shows simultaneously with up to 1000 hours of storage. However, this package is the most expensive, as it costs $30 a month.

Contract

Both DIRECTV and Cox have different policies for contracts. Cox does not require a long-term agreement, but if you want to lock in a monthly rate, it has options for 1-year or 2-year service agreements. This provides flexibility to customers who are hesitant about committing to a long-term contract.

On the other hand, DIRECTV requires new customers to sign a 24-month contract, and they charge $20 per month for the remaining duration if you decide to breach the contract. So, while Cox offers more flexibility in terms of agreements, DIRECTV has a stricter policy that comes with a penalty for early termination.

Streaming Services – DIRECTV vs Cox TV

DIRECTV and Cox offer different options when it comes to streaming services. DIRECTV provides DIRECTV Stream, a service that allows you to watch live TV, sports, and On-Demand content from your favorite networks on various devices such as mobile, smart TVs, and streaming devices. DIRECTV Stream also offers unlimited cloud DVR storage.

On the other hand, Cox does not offer a dedicated streaming service for live TV channels. Instead, it provides the Contour Stream Player that grants access to other popular streaming apps such as Netflix, YouTube, or Pandora on your TV, mobile device, or computer. The Contour Stream Player also comes with a voice remote and cloud DVR capabilities, allowing you to store your favorite shows and movies for later viewing.

Perks – Cox vs DIRECTV

Both providers offer a range of perks to their customers.

Cox

• A variety of TV plans with customizable channel lineups to fit your preferences.
• Easy search and navigation with Contour Voice Remote
• Extensive On-Demand library

DIRECTV

• Free Genie HD DVR with all plans, allowing you to record up to five shows simultaneously and store up to 200 hours of content
• 2-year price lock for new customers with no additional fees or charges, ensuring your monthly bill remains the same for the duration of your contract
• DIRECTV app for managing your account and services on-the-go

TV Apps – Cox vs DIRECTV

DIRECTV and Cox TV offer TV apps to enhance your viewing experience. With the DIRECTV app, you can stream live TV and On-Demand shows and movies on your mobile devices. You can also set your DVR to record your favorite programs. Similarly, the Cox Contour app allows you to stream live TV, access On-Demand content, and manage your DVR recordings from your mobile device. Both apps offer a convenient way to watch TV.

Which One is More Widely Available, Cox vs DIRECTV?

DIRECTV is a satellite TV provider that is widely available throughout the country, making it a good option for those living in rural areas or places with limited cable TV options. On the other hand, Cox TV is only available in 19 states, including Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, and Virginia. It means that outside these states, you’ll have to settle for some other TV option. It is better to check the availability of these providers in your area before making your final decision.

Which one has Better Customer Service, Cox vs DIRECTV?

Customer satisfaction reveals the reliability of a provider. DIRECTV takes pride in its customer service and has an above-average rating in ACSI’s Subscription TV Service rankings. The company has a professional and qualified team to address any issues or concerns their customers may encounter. Meanwhile, Cox TV ranks below the industry average, with a score of 61, one point less than 2021.

ACSI – Subscription TV Service	DIRECTV	Cox	Industry Average
2022	73	61	66
2021	74	62	65

Bundle Deals – DIRECTV vs Cox?

We all know that bundling is a great way to simplify your bills, and both DIRECTV and Cox offer bundling options for their services. So, which TV provider has the best bundles? Let’s find out!

DIRECTV

DIRECTV does not have its own internet service, but it offers bundling options with various providers to offer you a complete package. However, the most premium DIRECTV bundles are with AT&T, giving you access to high-speed AT&T internet plans and the best TV service under one manageable bill.

Bundle	Starting Price	Internet Speed	TV Channels	Home Phone
AT&T Fiber 300 + DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT	$119.99/mo.	300 Mbps	165+	–
DIRECTV CHOICE + AT&T Fiber Internet 500	$149.99/mo.	500 Mbps	200+	–
DIRECTV PREMIER + AT&T Fiber Internet 300 + Phone Unlimited	$234.98/mo.	300 Mbps	340+	Unlimited calls

Cox TV

Cox offers a range of bundles that let you combine its Contour TV service with high-speed internet, phone service, and home security, providing a convenient one-stop shop for all your needs. However, the most popular Cox bundles include its TV and internet services, allowing you to tailor your entertainment experience with high-speed internet.

Bundle	Starting Price	Internet Speed	TV Channels	Home Phone
Cox Internet Preferred 250 + Contour TV Preferred	$148.99/mo.	250 Mbps	140+	–
Cox Internet Preferred 250 + Contour TV Preferred + Voice Preferred	$168.99/mo.	250 Mbps	140+	Unlimited calls to U.S. and Canada

Is DIRECTV Better than Cox?

So, which TV provider should you choose? This DIRECTV vs Cox shows that while Cox is a solid choice for many, DIRECTV is the better option for avid TV enjoyers. Its reliable and high-quality TV service offers various packages with a vast channel lineup, free Genie HD DVR, two years of price lock guarantee, and top-rated customer service. Plus, you can bundle DIRECTV with internet from various providers, including AT&T.

On the other hand, Cox’s limited availability, below-average customer service, and lack of a standalone streaming service put it a little behind DIRECTV. However, the final choice depends on what you prefer. So, it is better to analyze all the details before narrowing down your option.