DirecTV Now Logo
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4.2

Overall Score

Author: Kaitlyn Short

LAST UPDATED: September 12th, 2023

DIRECTV NOW is a streaming service owned by AT&T that offers 120+ live TV channels, premium programming options and access to more than 40,000 On Demand shows* live sports channels, and on-demand movies. A cheaper alternative to cable, DIRECTV NOW offers a free trial, no annual contract and no TV satellite needed. New subscribers can receive a Roku streaming stick when prepaying for 1 month of service or prepay for 4 months of service and get an Apple 4k TV.  

DIRECTV NOW suggests these internet speeds for optimal streaming service:

  • 150 Kbps - 2.5 Mbps - Minimum broadband connection speed for mobile devices
  • 2.5 - 7.5 Mbps - For HD quality

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The Good

  • Enhanced DIRECTV NOW
  • Compatible Streaming Devices
  • Plans and Pricing
  • Premium Channels

Enhanced DIRECTV NOW

Recently, DIRECTV NOW improved navigation and added a few new features. DIRECTV NOW subscribers can add a third simultaneous steam for just $5/mo, watch local channels when traveling out of market, and bookmark shows to find later. There is also the ability to record their favorite shows through the DIRECTV NOW True Cloud DVR. 

Compatible Streaming Devices

DIRECTV NOW is compatible with several devices including PC and Mac computers, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV,  TV Chromecast, Roku TV, Samsung Smart TVs, Android phones and tablets, iPads, iPhones, and iPod Touch. On these devices, subscribers can stream On-Demand shows and movies, as well as stream live TV in English and Spanish. Users can also download the DIRECTV NOW app on the iPhone app store or Android’s Google Play. 

Plans and Pricing

DIRECTV NOW offer five plans starting at $40/month; although the company has offered several deals to entice people to use its streaming services.

Live A Little

  • $40/month
  • 65+ Channels

Just Right

  • $55/month
  • 85+ Channels

Go Big

  • $65/month
  • 105+ Channels

Gotta Have It

  • $75/month
  • 125+ Channels

Todo Y Más

  • $45/month
  • 90+ Channels

Premium Channels

DIRECTV NOW offers select premium channels:

  • HBO for $5/mo
  • CINEMAX for $5/mo
  • SHOWTIME for $8/mo
  • STARZ for $8/mo
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The Bad

  • Auto Billing
  • Limitations of Services
  • Help Center

Auto Billing

DIRECTV NOW offers new subscribers a free 7-day trial to test out its service. However, at the end of the trial subscribers will be enrolled in the Live A Little package for $40/mo. Subscribers not wanting to enroll in the package will need to cancel their subscription before the end of the trial period.   

Limitations of Services

DIRECTV NOW only allows subscribers to stream what is aired on their television service. This includes live television and On-Demand TV shows and movies. Since DirecTV is not a traditional streaming service, they do not show:

  • Exclusive original series - DirecTV does not create any of their own content.
  • Subscription shows - If subscribers want to enjoy HBO or Showtime content, they have to purchase them separately.
  • Movie Restrictions - The movie library is always shifting, so movies will not be available for long.

Help Center

 Located on the website is the DIRECTV NOW Help Center. Subscribers can look for answers to basic questions about billing and account management, troubleshooting, or watching DIRECTV NOW. However, the support link on the DIRECTV NOW page leads to the support center on the AT&T site. This can be frustrating for those who wanted to stay on the DIRECTV NOW site as they are directed to another webpage. 

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The Bottom Line

DIRECTV NOW offers live TV streaming services that allow subscribers to watch on-demand shows and movies and participate in on-demand video streaming. Customers looking to replace their cable or satellite tv, DIRECTV NOW is a decent option. With a number of streaming packages and over 40,000 channels, users can find something that fits their streaming service needs. Subscribers can watch their favorite shows on a multitude of platforms, just download the app, TV app or watch from a smart TV. Potential customers should be aware that when signing up for the 7-day free trial it will automatically enroll customers in the Live A Little package. At this time, NFL Sunday Ticket isn't available as a premium option for DIRECTV NOW.

 

*Requires subscription to top package and all premium channels.

**Local Channels: Limited availability. Channels vary by package & billing region

We recommend reviewing the top rated companies before making a final decision.

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Star Rating

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3.7

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31 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

39%

4 grade

23%

3 grade

19%

2 grade

3%

1 grade

16%

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Robert Horn II Pahrump, NV

DirecTV Now is a good streaming service with a lot to offer. It has a wide range of channels, high-quality picture and sound, and a generous cloud DVR. I would recommend DirecTV Now to people who are looking for a streaming service with a large selection of channels and high-quality video.

1 year ago

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Carlos Agosto

I have Direct TV by a year and never see any problem at all I have Latin Channels and the price is the best !!! I paid only $39.99 is soo cheap highly recommended!!!

1 year ago

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Nick Hansen Eagle Mountain, UT

We first started using Direct Now based on a promo through AT&T. The DVR functionality has nothing but improved over the years unfortunately the price has incrementally increased over the years.

5 years ago

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Amanda Montebello, CA

When using DirectTV to stream shows, I’ve had good experiences because they work really fast. Also, I’m sometimes able to watch and download shows soon after they’ve premiered.

5 years ago

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Misty Peoples Independence, MO

Love the wide variety to choose from. One of my family favorite for movies and more. Favorite way to watch tv

1 year ago Edited July 3, 2023

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Mirna Hanna Tallahassee, FL

Great movie collection for all ages! It is perfect for family movie nights or binge watching. We enjoy using it

5 years ago

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April aphe8493 Castle Rock, CO

Direct TV Now was nice to use. It was nice being able to watch it on my phone when I couldn't watch on my tv. It was very user friendly.

5 years ago