DIRECTV vs Xfinity TV – Which Service is Better in 2024?

TV providers have been vying for our attention and business since cable TV first came to the market. Today, the two big names in the game are DIRECTV vs Xfinity. Both offer a wide range of channels and packages to choose from, as well as additional features such as DVR and on-demand options. However, there are some key differences between the two providers, including pricing, availability, and equipment requirements. It’s important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between DIRECTV and Xfinity.

In this article, we will take a look at both services to help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a provider for your television needs.

DIRECTV

DIRECTV is a direct-to-home satellite television service in the United States, owned by AT&T. It was launched in 1994 and is one of the largest providers of pay television in the country. It operates through three segments: DIRECTV U.S., DIRECTV Latin America, and DIRECTV Sports Networks.

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The company offers a variety of programming packages, including local and national channels, premium movie channels, and sports packages. With its wide range of packages and features, this satellite TV provider rivals many other competitors, including DISH.

In addition, DIRECTV offers DVR service and the ability to watch programming on multiple TVs in the same household. With the merger of AT&T and DIRECTV, you can bundle AT&T services such as the internet or home phone with DIRECTV plans.

Xfinity

Xfinity TV is a television service offered by Comcast, one of the largest cable and internet providers in the United States. The service offers a wide variety of programming options, including live TV, on-demand content, and DVR recordings. Xfinity TV customers can access their programming on their television, computer, or mobile device, and can also use the service to stream live TV and on-demand content to their television using a streaming device such as Roku Streaming Player.

Pros and Cons – DIRECTV vs Xfinity TV

Consumers must decide between two of the leading services, DIRECTV and Xfinity TV. Both are well-known for providing a wide range of programming to fit any viewing preference. But which one should you choose? Here are the pros and cons of both DIRECTV and Xfinity TV to help you make your decision easier.

DIRECTV – Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Access to more than 340 HD channels. 
• Advanced DVR technology to record, pause & rewind television shows.
• Ability to stream live TV & On-Demand content via the DIRECTV app.
• Optional sports packages for dedicated sports fans.
• Easy installation.

Cons:

• Limited availability in rural areas.
• 1-year contract is required

Xfinity TV – Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Wide selection of TV channels to choose from.
• The cost of service is very competitive.
• Provides customers with access to on-demand programming.
• The user interface is intuitive and easy to use for viewers of all ages.

Cons:

• The installation process can be confusing and complicated.
• There are additional hidden fees associated with certain channels & services.

TV Service Comparison – DIRECTV vs Xfinity

When comparing DIRECTV and Xfinity’s TV service, both providers offer a great value for the money. However, when it comes to the number of channels and package options, DIRECTV is slightly ahead of the game. It offers four different plans ranging from $64.99/mo to $125/mo with up to 330+ channels in total. On the other hand, Xfinity offers three plans ranging from $20.00/mo to $59.99/mo with up to 185+ channels in total. 

DIRECTV has more HD channels than Xfinity, but their packages cost more than the competition. Additionally, the contracts for both services are usually a year-long commitment, but Xfinity gives you the option to sign up for no-contract plans at an additional cost of $20 per month. In terms of customer service, both services are fairly comparable. 

However, many customers have reported that DIRECTV provides faster response times than Xfinity. Ultimately, which provider you choose depends on what type of TV package you want, how much you’re willing to pay, and if you prefer a longer or shorter contract.

TV Plans

Both providers offer great channel packages, but depending on your needs, one might be better for you than the other. 

DIRECTV Plans

DIRECTV has a four-tier plan system that offers customers 165+ popular TV channels and starts at $64.99 per month. In addition, they offer a range of broadband services for their customers.

Xfinity TV Plans

Xfinity offers three cable TV plans at affordable prices with remarkable features and channel lineups. Their plans start from $20/mo with 10+ channels to $59.99 with 185+ channels. Xfinity TV offers plans with both no-contract and 1-year contract options. With these options, the main difference between them is the cost – 1-year contract plans come with cheaper prices, while no-contract plans come with an additional $20 monthly price.

TV Channels

One of the most important factors in making this choice is the variety and quality of channels available. The two providers both offer a wide range of channels, from local news and sports to premium channels. 

DIRECTV offers a wider selection of channels, particularly in the higher tiers. The Select package includes over 150 channels, while the Xfinity Starter package only has 10. DIRECTV also has exclusive programming, like NFL Sunday Ticket and NBA League Pass, which aren’t available on Xfinity.

You can see all the channels in the below comparison table:

Sports Channels

DIRECTV is the preferred option for sports fans. It’s the exclusive provider of NFL SUNDAY TICKET, which gives you access to out-of-market games and the NFL RedZone channel. Football fans can get the most benefit with the PREMIER package.

Xfinity may not have a service like NFL SUNDAY TICKET, but you can still get popular sports networks with the Extra and Starter packages. This includes ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, FS1, Fox Sports, NBC Sports Network and more.

Premium Channels & Add-Ons

When it comes to premium channels, both DIRECTV and Xfinity offer great options. With DIRECTV, you’ll get HBO Max included for the first three months of your contract. On top of that, SHOWTIME, STARZ, CINEMAX, and MGM+ are also included in the first three months. After the promotional period ends, you’ll need to pay the current rate to keep them. 

Xfinity offers a lower rate on its premium channels than DIRECTV. Although the difference may seem minor at first, those few dollars can add up if you’re a fan of multiple shows. Xfinity also offers additional discounts on premium channels when they are bundled with other services. 

These are the prices for DIRECTV & Xfinity’s most premium channels.

Streaming Services

Stream service is offered by DIRECTV, one of the largest satellite TV providers in the United States. This streaming service offers consumers access to numerous channels over the internet at a competitive price and with no long-term contracts.

DIRECTV Stream is compatible with multiple devices, including Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV, Android, and iOS. The service offers four plans that cater to different needs. The basic package starts at $69.99 and includes more than 75 channels, such as ABC, NBC, and CBS.

DIRECTV Stream also offers other features such as HBO GO, On Demand movies and shows, local live broadcasts, and sports. Moreover, you can customize your package with add-on packs such as news and entertainment networks, international channels, and Spanish channels. 

Xfinity offers a great streaming option for those who want access to live TV channels, On Demand titles, and several popular streaming apps at a low cost. They provide two streaming service options Xfinity Flex and Xfinity X1. Xfinity Flex is available for free to Xfinity internet customers and provides hundreds of free live channels and access to various paid and free streaming apps. Some of the most popular streaming services available through Flex include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, Hulu, Paramount+, and Tubi.

Who Has Better Coverage Area – DIRECTV or Xfinity?

When searching for a TV provider, one of the most important factors to consider is the coverage area. The two most popular TV providers, DIRECTV and Xfinity offer varying levels of service and coverage areas. Xfinity is available in 39 states across the U.S., providing internet service throughout these states. This includes states such as Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Washington.

On the other hand, DIRECTV utilizes a satellite to transfer data, making it accessible almost anywhere in the country. This means that you can watch high-quality content from DIRECTV practically anywhere in the country. So whether you’re in a big city or a rural town, DIRECTV has you covered.

Who Has Better Customer Service – DIRECTV or Xfinity?

Good customer service is essential for any business. It’s the key to making customers happy and increasing brand loyalty. When comparing DIRECTV &  Xfinity TV’s customer service the main difference between the two providers is the speed at which they respond to customer inquiries. According to a 2016 survey, DIRECTV responded to customers more quickly than Xfinity, on average. This could be beneficial if you require immediate assistance. 

In terms of overall customer service ratings, DIRECTV currently has the edge over Xfinity. The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) recently reported that DIRECTV scored 66, while Xfinity scored 65. Although DIRECTV’s score was higher, both companies fared better than the industry average. 

However, if you need help quickly or prefer a slightly higher satisfaction rating, DIRECTV might be the better choice.

Final Words

In the world of TV providers, there are two heavy hitters: DIRECTV and Xfinity TV. Both services offer a variety of package options to suit consumer needs and budgets. But when comparing DIRECTV vs Xfinity which one is better? After taking a look at some key factors such as cost, available channels, customer service, and more, it’s clear that both providers have their advantages and disadvantages.

When it comes to affordability, Xfinity TV offers more competitive pricing than DIRECTV. The service also has a wider range of channel packages than its rival and allows customers to bundle cable plans with internet services for extra savings. However, while Xfinity boasts thousands of on-demand titles, DIRECTV’s library selection is larger. In terms of customer service satisfaction levels, both providers are fairly close in terms of ratings from consumers and independent reviewers alike.