DirecTV Stream vs. Amazon Prime Video in 2024

In this day and age, on-demand video streaming is a must-have. But between DirecTV Stream and Amazon Prime Video, which one is worth a fraction of your monthly income?

On the one hand, there’s DirecTV Stream with up to 150 channels to enjoy. It’s an internet TV streaming service introduced by DirecTV—a well-established satellite TV cable provider. On the other, there’s Amazon’s content streaming platform: Amazon Prime Video with over 100 channels.

But channel count is just the tip of the iceberg. Both services have a mountain of features to enjoy. So let’s examine which streaming platform will give you the best bang for your buck.

Side-by-side of the two video platforms

DirecTV Stream vs. Amazon Prime Video: Plans & pricing

At its base price, you can enjoy DirecTV Stream’s 75+ channels. Add to that, you’re also getting unlimited cloud DVR, ensuring you never miss your favorite TV moments.

And if that doesn’t satisfy your entertainment cravings, you can subscribe to the highest tier Premier package. With it, you’re getting over 150 channels, local channels and regional sports networks, and access to premium channels like HBO Max and Showtime.

But when it comes to budget streaming options, you’ll get your money’s worth with Amazon Prime Video. In fact, if you’re a frequent online shopper, you might already have Prime Video without even knowing it, as it comes bundled in with an Amazon Prime account's monthly fee.

For that low monthly fee, you’re getting all the benefits of Amazon Prime, like same-day delivery. And also the massive Prime Video on-demand vault with over 24,000 movies and 2,100 TV shows. And if that’s not enough for you, Prime Video offers channel add-ons for a small monthly fee that includes channels like Cinemax, REELZ, MLB.TV, and NBA League Pass.

DirecTV Stream vs. Amazon Prime Video: Channels & shows

When it comes to channels, DirecTV Stream provides you with a treasure trove of entertainment options.

When you’re in the mood for Hollywood favorites, you’ve got channels like TNT to keep you occupied. Alternatively, if you’re feeling a little behind with the times, you can catch up on the latest events from news channels like CNN.

In contrast, Amazon Prime Video doesn’t offer traditional TV channels. Instead, they curate content and release a channel selection based on the genre.

For instance, if you’re a crime nut, you can tune in to Forensic Files to catch up on the latest crime-solving techniques and unsolved mysteries. Alternatively, there are channels like Wipeout X that showcase the best episodes of the game show Wipeout.

However, that doesn’t mean Prime locks you out of your favorite channels. For example, you can subscribe to the HBO package to enjoy the entire lineup of the HBO family of stations.

Local channels compared

DirecTV Stream has your back if you need updates on the local weather or news. In fact, on the platform, you can expect to find all your local Fox and CNBC outlets. That way, you’ll never be caught by a sudden shower without an umbrella handy.

On the other hand, you’re out of luck if you expect to find local news coverage on Amazon Prime Video. Unlike services like DirecTV Stream, Prime Video has no access to local channels.

Sports channels compared

Sports fans won’t feel left out with DirecTV Stream. You can expect to find all the best sports networks like ESPN and CBS Sports. Additionally, you’ll also get access to regional sports networks, allowing you to keep updated on the standings of all your favorite teams.

Alternatively, Amazon Prime Video won’t lose out on sports channels. Namely, you’ve got options for including add-on sports networks to your Amazon Prime Video Account.

For example, you can catch America’s favorite pastime thanks to MLB.tv. Or if you’re in the mood for hoops, NBA League Pass is available. The only downside of Prime Video is its lack of regional sports networks.

DirecTV Stream vs. Amazon Prime Video: On-demand libraries

Between DirecTV Stream and Amazon Prime Video, they both have a healthy on-demand vault. However, if we pick one over the other, Prime wins out.

It’s hard to beat Amazon’s industry-leading on-demand content. For one, Amazon Prime Video has original programming under its belt, like Invincible and The Boys. Plus, Prime Video has one of, if not the most extensive content vaults on the market. In fact, you can spend a year or 2 browsing the library and still not run out of content, thanks to having over 24,000 movies and over 2,000 TV shows.

Not sure what to watch on Amazon Prime Video? Check out our list of best films on the platform.

DirecTV Stream vs. Amazon Prime Video: Free trials

Both DirecTV Stream and Amazon Prime Video offer free trials. The difference, however, is in length.

DirecTV Stream provides a 5-day trial period. In contrast, you can sample Amazon Prime Video for 1 month. Sure, you can test every feature of DirecTV Stream during those 5 days. But with Prime, you can binge a couple of movies and series before your trial period lapses.

You can learn all the info about Amazon Prime Video’s free trial from the Amazon help page.

DirecTV Stream vs. Amazon Prime Video: Other features

Besides channels and trial periods, there are more features to consider when choosing a streaming platform. In the next section, we put DirecTV Stream and Amazon Prime Video head-to-head in categories like device support. Here’s how they compare:

Cloud DVR compared

DirecTV Stream provides unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing you to save any content you wish. On the other hand, Amazon Prime Video has minimal DVR support. To illustrate, only select live streams allow DVR access, such as sports broadcasts.

Thanks to the better DVR features, DirecTV Stream is the better option for streaming on the go, thanks to getting access to your cloud DVR library from anywhere.

If you want to learn more about Cloud DVR, you can check out the Xfinity breakdown of the feature.

Simultaneous streaming compared

DirecTV Stream has the upper hand in this category. On DirecTV Stream, you can enjoy simultaneous streaming across unlimited devices. On the other hand, you’re limited to just 3 devices in Amazon Prime Video's corner.

DirecTV Stream is best for families thanks to its robust simultaneous streaming features.

Device support compared

Both platforms offer support for a variety of devices. On DirecTV Stream, you’ve got support for most modern devices like Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and game consoles.

In comparison, Amazon Prime Video has similar support, including devices like Amazon Fire TV, Roku, Chromecast, smartphones, and Sony and Microsoft consoles.

Our verdict: DirecTV Stream is better than Amazon Prime Video

DirecTV Stream wins out on Amazon Prime Video thanks to increased simultaneous streaming and cloud DVR features. You also get access to local channels and regional sports networks on DirecTV Stream.

But Amazon Prime Video subscribers don’t need to feel bad. With the platform, you’re getting one of the deepest on-demand libraries. You’re also getting an industry-leading streaming service for a fraction of DirecTV Stream’s cost.

If you need more info about DirecTV Stream, check out our head-to-head review of it against Youtube TV.

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