The world is rapidly shifting towards streaming platforms, but TV services are still widely used in America. Several cable, fiber, and satellite TV providers are available in the country for people who enjoy traditional TV experiences. But who is the best TV provider among all of these choices? The solution depends on your budgetary and lifestyle requirements.
Spectrum and DIRECTV are two well-liked TV service companies in America. If we compare their most prominent qualities, Spectrum TV is renowned for being reasonably priced, while DIRECTV is well-known for offering a vast collection of sports and movie channels. If these providers are the only alternatives in your region, you should read our Spectrum vs DIRECTV comparison before choosing between them.
Spectrum TV
Charter Communications is a leading player in the telecommunication market due to its Spectrum trademark. The company’s stellar services help to build a solid reputation. Spectrum also offers a cable television service called Spectrum TV. This service reaches millions of homes across 41 states using a coaxial cable network that it shares with Spectrum internet. As a result, it is known as a leading cable TV provider.
Pros
- Contract-free service
- Customizable TV packages
- Vast collection of On-Demand titles
- Reasonable price
- All channels are in HD
Cons
- Price increases by $25 after 12 months
- Low DVR storage compared to DirecTV
DIRECTV
Based in California, DIRECTV is a top multichannel video programming provider in the country. Besides the TV service, the company also offers IPTV and live TV streaming services. DIRECTV’s satellite technology counts for this provider’s nationwide availability, making it easier to access every location. This provider is an excellent choice for traditional TV lovers who want to access their favorite content without geographical restrictions.
Pros
- Nationwide availability
- Multiple options to choose from
- Excellent sports and movie networks
- 2-year price guarantee
- The freedom to access all the DIRECTV plans via your existing internet connection
- 200 HD hours of DVR with DIRECTV plans connected via satellite, unlimited storage with DIRECTV plans connected via your internet connection
- Premium channels included in the DIRECTV Premier plan
- Special offer on premium networks with other options
Cons
- Expensive plans
- Require a 2-year contract
- Susceptible to bad weather
TV Service Comparison – Spectrum vs DIRECTV
| Features | Spectrum TV | DIRECTV |
| Type of Service | Cable TV | Pay-TV |
| Number of Plans | 3 | 4 |
| Price Range | $39.99/mo. – $74.99/mo. for 12 mos* | $69.99/mo. – $159.99/mo. for 24 mos. |
| Maximum Channels | Over 170 | Over 185 |
| On-Demand Titles | 85,000+ | 60,000 – 90,000+ |
| Streaming Services | Yes | Yes |
| Bundle Deals | Yes | Yes |
| Contracts | None | Yes (2 years) |
| Additional Charges | A one-time fee of $65.00 for professional installation | Advanced Receiver Services fee is $15.00/mo. |
| A one-time activation fee of $30.00 | A one-time activation fee of $19.95 (satellite only) | |
| A broadcast TV service charge of $25.75/mo. | Regional Sports Fee of $15.99/mo. (optional) | |
| The late payment fee is $8.95 | The late payment fee is $6.25 | |
| Coverage Area | 41 states | Nationwide |
| Contact Provider | Call Now | Call Now |
Spectrum and DIRECTV provide television services through different technologies. While the latter relies on a fleet of satellites to serve its consumers, the former does so via coaxial wires. Both suppliers have distinctive qualities and conditions. Spectrum TV is an outstanding choice for those who don’t want to pay a lot for their subscription. On the other hand, DIRECTV is excellent for people who prefer variety and the flexibility to access the same plans through their internet connection.
Let’s discover which TV provider delivers the best service by evaluating Spectrum and DIRECTV plans, prices, channels, and bundle options.
TV Plans – Spectrum vs DIRECTV
The decision between Spectrum vs DIRECTV ultimately comes down to your preference, whether you prefer having more variety or saving some money. While DIRECTV offers several packages with incredible promos and perks, Spectrum TV gives you two decent options. Let’s take a closer look at what their TV plans have to offer.
Spectrum
While Spectrum does not give you various options like DIRECTV, it gives you a solid channel lineup through its Spectrum TV Select Signature plan. This contract-free plan includes more than 150 popular channels, all in HD, and has a lower starting cost than DIRECTV’s entry-level option, ENTERTAINMENT. TV Select Signature plan has a basic monthly fee of $59.99, with add-ons and premium channels available for an additional cost. Additionally, if you are interested in local sports networks, you can upgrade to Spectrum TV Select Plus for a few extra dollars. Spectrum TV brings all your favorites together, offering a vast library of over 85,000 On-Demand titles and a Spectrum TV app to make things even better.
Spectrum TV Select
- 125+ HD TV Channels
- Thousands of On-Demand Choices
- Unlimited Streaming with Spectrum TV App
The company also offers a Spanish TV plan, Mi Latino. This plan caters to Latino customers as it delivers a large selection of more than 75 Spanish channels, along with 70 popular English networks. Mi Plan Latino offers the best Latin American content from Mexico, Spain, and North America and is designed for pure entertainment.
| Spectrum TV Plans | |||
| Plan | Starting Price | TV Channels | Contact Spectrum |
| Select Signature | $64.99/mo. | 150+ | Call Now |
| Select Plus | $74.99/mo. | 160+ | Call Now |
| Mi Plan Latino | $39.99/mo. | 170+ | Call Now |
**Limited time offer; subject to change
***Advertised price is without broadcast and other extra charges
Similarly to its internet service, Spectrum also offers this TV service at an introductory rate for 12 months and applies regular rates after that.
DIRECTV
DIRECTV gives you more choices but at a higher cost. You can choose from four diverse plans, accessible through satellite or your existing internet connection. It is up to you to decide which option works best for you.
Apart from differences in equipment, promotions, and channels, there is minimal distinction between the plans. The number of channels remains consistent, regardless of whether you choose to connect via satellite or the internet. All DIRECTV plans have various channel counts and include a top-notch DVR. Storage capacity is another point of contention; customers connected via satellite receive 200 HD hours of storage, while those connected via the internet enjoy unlimited cloud storage that expires after 9 months. Additionally, DIRECTV imposes an unavoidable ARS fee, which makes its plans pricier than Spectrum TV.
Unlike Spectrum TV, DIRECTV plans also require a 2-year commitment but guarantee a fixed price throughout this period, easing concerns about price hikes in the second year. Furthermore, DIRECTV does not provide all networks in its channel lineup in HD, which further distinguishes it from Spectrum TV. Hence, every DIRECTV plan has a different number of HD channels.
| DIRECTV Plans | |||
| Plan | Starting Price | TV Channels | Contact Providers |
| ENTERTAINMENT | $69.99/mo. | 90+ | Call Now |
| CHOICE™ | $84.99/mo. | 125+ | Call Now |
| ULTIMATE | $114.99/mo. | 160+ | Call Now |
| PREMIER | $159.99/mo. | 185+ | Call Now |
**Mentioned prices do not include the $15 Advanced Receiver Services fee
***RSNs are available on Choice and higher packages for an additional fee of $15.99/mo.
TV Channels – Spectrum vs DIRECTV
Do the number of channels matter? Well, a plan with a higher channel count may seem tempting at first, but eventually, it forces you to pay for the channels you’ll never watch. Most providers structure their plans in such a way that they include your favorite networks in their most expensive packages, compelling you to choose them.
However, Spectrum takes a reasonably straightforward approach because its TV plan contains all the most popular channels. Let’s examine the channel lineups of Spectrum and DIRECTV.
Popular TV Channels
American networks have a significant impact all over the world. Their channels’ content is watched globally even nowadays when streaming services are gradually replacing traditional TV. The largest American networks are still producing millions of viewers every day. The most watched TV channels in America include CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox, Fox News, ESPN, MSNBC, Ion, HGTV, and Univision.
Here is how Spectrum and DIRECTV compare in terms of popular TV channels.
| Famous TV Channels | Spectrum TV | DIRECTV |
|---|---|---|
| A&E | ✔ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| ABC | ✔ | ✔ |
| ACC Network | ✔ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| AMC | ✔ | ✔ |
| American Heroes Channel | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| Animal Planet | ✔ | ✔ |
| BBC America | Available on Select Signature & Plus packages | ✔ |
| BET | ✔ | ✔ |
| Boomerang | Only available on Mi Plan Latino | ✔ |
| Bravo | ✔ | ✔ |
| Cartoon Network | Only available on Mi Plan Latino | ✔ |
| CBS | ✔ | ✔ |
| CBS Sports Network | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| CMT | Available on Select Signature & Plus packages | ✔ |
| CNBC | Available on Select Signature & Plus packages | ✔ |
| CNN | Available on Select Signature & Plus packages | ✔ |
| Comedy Central | ✔ | ✔ |
| Cooking Channel | ✗ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| C-SPAN | ✔ | ✔ |
| C-SPAN2 | ✔ | ✔ |
| C-SPAN3 | ✔ | ✗ |
| Destination America | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| Disney Channel | ✔ | ✔ |
| Disney Junior | ✗ | ✔ |
| Disney XD | ✗ | ✔ |
| Discovery Channel | ✔ | ✔ |
| Discovery Life | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| E! | ✔ | ✔ |
| ESPN | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| ESPN2 | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| ESPNEWS | ✗ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| ESPNU | ✗ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| Food Network | ✔ | ✔ |
| FOX Business Network | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| FOX News Channel | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| Freeform | ✗ | ✔ |
| FS1 | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| FS2 | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| Fuse TV | ✗ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| FX | ✔ | ✔ |
| FXM | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| FXX | ✗ | ✔ |
| Hallmark Channel | ✔ | ✔ |
| Hallmark Movies & Mysteries | ✔ | Available on Entertainment and Premier Packages |
| HGTV | ✔ | ✔ |
| HLN | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| HSN | ✔ | ✔ |
| IFC | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| Investigation Discovery | ✔ | ✔ |
| Lifetime | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| LMN | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| MLB Network | Only available on Select Plus | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| MotorTrend | ✗ | ✔ |
| MSNBC | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| MTV | ✔ | ✔ |
| MTV Classic | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| National Geographic | ✔ | ✔ |
| Nat Geo Wild | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| NBA TV | Only available on Select Plus | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| NBC | ✔ | ✔ |
| NFL Network | Only available on Select Plus | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| Nickelodeon | ✔ | ✔ |
| Nick Jr. | Only available on Mi Plan Latino | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| Oxygen True Crime | ✔ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| OWN | ✗ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| QVC | ✔ | ✔ |
| QVC2 | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| Reelz Channel | ✗ | ✔ |
| Smithsonian Channel | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| Sundance Channel | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| Syfy | ✔ | ✔ |
| TBS | ✔ | ✔ |
| TeenNick | ✗ | ✔ |
| TLC | ✔ | ✔ |
| TNT | ✔ | ✔ |
| The Science Channel | ✗ | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| Travel Channel | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| TruTV | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | Available on Choice™ and higher packages |
| TV Land | Only available on Mi Plan Latino | ✔ |
| Univision | Only available on Mi Plan Latino | ✔ |
| Universal Kids | ✗ | Available on Ultimate and Premier Packages |
| USA Network | ✔ | ✔ |
| VH1 | ✔ | ✔ |
| WE tv | Available on Select Signature & Plus Packages | ✔ |
| Learn More | Call Now | Call Now |
**The availability of these channels may vary when accessing DIRECTV’s plans via your existing internet connection.
Premium Channels & Add-Ons
TV providers are slowly giving up their dominance over viewers by offering customizable plans. Spectrum and DIRECTV, for instance, provide a range of premium channels as add-ons for an extra monthly fee (particularly on most DIRECTV plans).
However, DIRECTV distinguishes itself by offering a special offer on these channels. It includes most premium networks for free for the first three months. Moreover, these networks are a part of the DIRECTV Premier Plan at no additional cost. Hence, subscribers can enjoy excellent content without paying more charges every month.
Here is a breakdown of the most premium channels’ prices by Spectrum and DIRECTV.
| Premium Channels | Spectrum TV | DIRECTV |
|---|---|---|
| MAX | $15.00/mo. | Free for 3 mos., then $15.99/mo. |
| CINEMAX | $10.00/mo. | Free for 3 mos., then $11.00/mo. |
| SHOWTIME | $10.00/mo. | Free for 3 mos., then $11.99/mo. |
| STARZ | $9.00/mo. | Free for 3 mos., then $11.00/mo. |
| MGM+ | $6.00/mo. | Free for 3 mos., then $6.00/mo. |
| Contact Provider | Call Now | Call Now |
Sports Channels
Americans are crazy about their sports, which is why both providers offer something special to sports enthusiasts. If we compare both providers, DIRECTV has a greater channel lineup for sports than Spectrum. Additionally, DIRECTV offers exclusive passes during gaming seasons, allowing you to watch regular-season out-of-market games. Currently, it is offering an NBA LEAGUE PASS PREMIUM to all customers connected via the internet or satellite for an additional monthly fee.
DIRECTV Sports Channels
All DIRECTV plans include the Sports Pack for a month at no additional charges, giving you access to local and international action-packed content. You can expect the following sports channels with DIRECTV.
| Big Ten Network | CSB Sports Network |
| ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN3 | ESPN Classic |
| ESPNU | Fox Deportes |
| Golf Channel | MLB Network |
| NBA TV | NBC Sports Network |
| NFL Network | NHL Network |
| Tennis Channel | Sportsman Channel |
| Universal Sports |
In contrast, Spectrum TV does not include many sports channels. However, it does offer a Sports View add-on that gives you access to 20+ sports channels like MLB Strike Zone, NFL RedZone, and more.
Spectrum TV Sports Channels
Spectrum TV offers the following sports channels in its Select and Mi Latino plans
| ESPN | Fox Sports 1 |
| ESPN2 | Fox Deportes |
| ESPN Deportes | SEC Network |
| BeIN Sports | AyM Sports |
| Tennis Channel |
With its Sports View add-on, you can get some of these channels.
| Big Ten Network | Fox Soccer 2 |
| CBS Sports Network | MLB Network |
| ESPNU | MLB Strike Zone |
| ESPNEWS | NFL Network |
| Fox Soccer Plus | NHL Network |
Streaming Services – Spectrum vs DIRECTV
More people are cutting the cord due to the growing number of streaming services. These platforms are quickly becoming more popular due to their affordability. As a result, many traditional TV companies now provide streaming services to remain in business. Some such companies include Spectrum and DIRECTV, but which one offers the best streaming content? Let’s investigate.
DIRECTV Stream
DIRECTV Stream allows its consumers to enjoy the same number of channels as DIRECTV but without the filler networks and the obligation to sign a 2-year contract. This service is compatible with multiple devices, and you can use it on Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV, Android, and iOS.
This streaming service offers four plans, with the basic package starting at $79.99 per month, and includes over 75 channels and many other benefits. Currently, there is an amazing $50 discount available on DIRECTV Stream’s plans if you add the Sports Pack to your package.
| DIRECTV Stream Plan | Promotional Price | Live TV Channels |
|---|---|---|
| ENTERTAINMENT + Sports Pack | $69.98/mo. + tax for 2 mos. | 75+ |
| CHOICE™ + Sports Pack | $83.99/mo. + tax for 1 mo. | 105+ |
| ULTIMATE + Sports Pack | $94.99/mo. + tax for 1 mo. | 140+ |
| PREMIER + Sports Pack | $139.99/mo. + tax for 1 mo. | 150+ |
**Sports Pack is included for 1 month on Choice and higher packages for free, after which a monthly fee of $14.99 will apply
Spectrum TV Choice
Spectrum Internet customers can access a live streaming service called Spectrum TV Choice. This service is cheaper than DIRECTV Stream as it only costs $29.99 a month for 12 months (excluding the broadcast surcharge of $23.20) and offers a tailored streaming experience. Spectrum TV Choice gives you 65 channels and a personalized experience by allowing you to choose at least 15 networks in the lineup.
Spectrum TV Choice offers a hassle-free way to watch your favorite shows, without the need for a cable box. With no long-term contracts to worry about, a 7-day risk-free trial, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, Spectrum TV Choice is fully committed to delivering customer satisfaction. It’s a cost-effective and customizable streaming option for anyone looking for an enjoyable viewing experience.
| Streaming Service | Price | Channel Count |
|---|---|---|
| Spectrum TV Choice | $29.99/mo. | 65 |
**Limited time offer; subject to change and available to only new customers
***Price is mentioned without broadcast fee
****Channels are available based on the level of service in an area
This live streaming service is contract-free and includes popular channels like:
| A&E | HGTV |
| ABC | HISTORY |
| Animal Planet | Lifetime Movie Network (LMN) |
| Bravo | Oxygen |
| CBS | Paramount Pictures |
| Comedy Central | STARZ ENCORE |
| Discovery | TBS |
| Food Network | TNT |
| FOX | USA |
| Hallmark Movies & Mysteries |
Spectrum TV Essentials
TV Essentials is another live TV streaming plan by Spectrum. This low-cost plan provides a cordless solution to every individual’s entertainment requirements, offering access to over 65 networks at just $24.99 per month for 12 months. This valuable streaming plan is available to all residential and business Spectrum Internet customers, making it an affordable alternative to DIRECTV Stream.
| Streaming Service | Price | Channel Count |
|---|---|---|
| Spectrum TV Essentials | $24.99/mo. | 65 |
Coverage Area
There are multiple types of TV internet providers, but cable and satellite TV suppliers dominate the market due to wider availability. DIRECTV and Spectrum are the leading TV providers in America due to this reason. Since Spectrum uses the same cable network to deliver cable and internet services, you can easily find this provider in 41 states, excluding Rhode Island, Alaska, Iowa, Arkansas, Delaware, Oklahoma, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Utah.
In contrast, DIRECTV utilizes a satellite to transfer data, making it accessible across the country. As a result, you can watch high-quality content from these TV providers practically anywhere in the country.
Customer Service
Customer service can make or break a brand. Therefore, providing excellent customer service is essential for converting potential clients into devoted ones, particularly now that technological advancement has hastened the cord-cutting trend. Every year, several well-known customer reviewers publish their annual assessments of the best TV providers based on several criteria, including HD image quality, mobile app, and more.
So, Spectrum vs. DIRECTV? Which provider is known for its customer service? This year’s ACSI report on subscription TV services reveals that while DIRECTV managed to score above the industry average, Spectrum TV’s score is equal to the industry. Although Spectrum has shown improvement from the previous year, it ranks second to last in ACSI’s subscription TV service list for customer satisfaction.
| ACSI Ranking | Spectrum TV | DIRECTV |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 65 | 67 |
| 2022 | 63 | 66 |
Bundle Options – Spectrum vs DIRECTV
Looking for market-competitive bundles? We all know that bundling provides a hassle-free way to enjoy all your services. Spectrum and DIRECTV both offer some of the best bundles deals for TV, internet and phone with tempting perks.
Spectrum TV
If you are a Spectrum customer, you can combine your Spectrum TV, Spectrum Internet, and Spectrum Voice services to pay one price for these connectivity and entertainment services. Spectrum bundles come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and introductory rates for 1 year. The company applies the standard charges after 12 months.
Spectrum bundles allow you to enjoy a high-speed internet plan of your choice, top-quality TV service, and a home phone with more than 28 features at market-competitive rates. Plus, the provider also gives you a free Xumo Stream Box for 12 months with these packages.
| Spectrum TV Bundles | |||||
| Bundle | Price | Internet Speed | TV Channels | Home Phone | Contact Spectrum |
| TV Select Signature + Internet | $109.98/mo. | 300 Mbps | 150+ | – | Call Now |
| TV Select Signature + Internet + Voice | $124.97/mo. | 300 Mbps | 150+ | Unlimited Calling | Call Now |
| TV Select Signature + Internet Ultra | $129.98/mo. | 500 Mbps | 150+ | – | Call Now |
**Limited time offer; subject to change
***Advertised price is without broadcast and other extra charges
****Internet speeds, including WiFi, may vary
DIRECTV
DIRECTV, in contrast, works with internet service providers like AT&T and CenturyLink and lets you combine its services with their internet packages. However, its packages are pricier and come with a 2-year contract. DIRECTV bundles are still a top option for many individuals thanks to their extensive channel lineup, excellent DVR, and high-quality AT&T internet service.
| DIRECTV Bundles | ||||
| Bundle | Starting Price | Internet Speed | TV Channels | Contact AT&T |
| DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT + AT&T Fiber Internet 300 | $124.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | 75+ | Call Now |
| DIRECTV CHOICE + AT&T Fiber Internet 300 | $139.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | 105+ | Call Now |
| DIRECTV ULTIMATE + AT&T Fiber INTERNET 300 | $169.99/mo. | 300 Mbps | 140+ | Call Now |
| DIRECTV PREMIER + CenturyLink Internet | $214.99/mo. | 100 Mbps | 150+ | Call Now |
| DIRECTV ULTIMATE + CenturyLink Internet | $169.99/mo. | 100 Mbps | 140+ | Call Now |
**RSNs are available on DIRECTV Choice and higher packages for an additional fee of $15.99/mo.
***CenturyLink Internet’s speeds go up to 140 Mbps in some areas
****CenturyLink Internet is $50/mo. in MT, ND, and WA
Additional Charges
Before signing up with either DIRECTV or Spectrum, you should be aware of the extra fees imposed by both providers with their TV packages. Therefore, we have compiled a list to help you understand what else will be included in your monthly TV bill in addition to your TV plan.
| Additional Fee | Spectrum TV | DIRECTV |
| Activation Fee | $24.99 | $19.95 |
| ETF | None | Up to $480 |
| Additional Receiver Fee | $9.99/month | $15.00/month |
| Broadcast TV Fee | $22.20/month | N/A |
| DVR Service Fee | 1 DVR Receiver: $12.99 | Included |
| 2 to 4 DVR Receiver: $19.99 | ||
| Regional Sports Fee | N/A | $13.99/month |
Final Verdict
Despite the rapid shift towards streaming platforms, many Americans still prefer to sit with their families and enjoy television the traditional way. This is why numerous cable, fiber, and satellite TV providers still offer their services in the country. And while Fiber TV is a top service, its limited availability leads many people to trust the widely available cable and satellite TV providers. We have produced this Spectrum vs DIRECTV guide specifically for people who enjoy a classic TV experience.
