Rated 7+ IMDb · 70%+ RT Little-known finds Curated by humans
Rated 7+ IMDb · 70%+ RT Little-known finds Curated by humans
Updated October 16, 2026 • By Bilal Zouheir
AGMTW score, out of 10
Everything the cable box gave you, priced like the cable bill it replaces.
Value for money9.1
Nothing missing from the lineup, and nothing missing from the bill.
$89.99 a month. The cheapest live TV service in the same category is $82.99 ($7 less). Weighed against what it carries (content 8.9/10), that comes to 9.1 on value.
Content quality8.9
16 of the 20 most-watched cable channels, missing only History, Game Show Network, INSP and A&E.
Carries 16 of the 20 most-watched cable channels. Missing: History, Game Show Network, INSP and A&E.
Apps and devices7.6
Solid app, available on 7 of the 12 major devices.
Rated 4.64 on iPhone and 4.63 on Android. Works on 7 of 12 devices.
Streaming quality8.5
1080p with surround sound; 4K needs the Gemini box and select events.
Base plan streams in 1080p with 5.1 sound. 4K needs the Gemini box and only works on some events.
Best for image quality
Named the “best all-around streaming service for cord-cutters” by Rolling Stone, DIRECTV tries to be all the good things about cable without any of the hassle. It has a big selection of channels, possibly the best stream quality in the market, and great DVR capability. For example, unlike with competitor Youtube TV, your DVR recordings on DirecTV will be the same quality as the live stream (often in 4K). The service also comes with a decent monthly price tag, and Netflix-style practicality that allows you to stream Live TV from anywhere by downloading the app. Within your home, you can stream on up to 20 devices (!), and from outside your home you can stream on up to three devices.
DIRECTV carries 138+ channels, including ABC, ACC Digital Network, AccuWeather, Alien Nation, AMC, Anger Management, and more.
After confusing beginnings that included many names: AT&T TV Now, DirecTV Now, and AT&T WatchTV, AT&T TV, this service, now called DirecTV, is the final Live TV offering from the telecom operator.
DirecTV is a Live TV streaming platform with a twist: you can download the app on any of your existing devices, or for a $120, you can get a box with a custom remote control for the service. But without the box, DirecTV functions like a Netflix or Hulu, allowing you to stream Live TV from anywhere by downloading the app. Within your home, you can stream on up to 20 devices (!), and from outside your home you can stream on up to three devices.
DirecTV is a Live TV streaming platform with a twist: you can download the app on any of your existing devices, or if you choose, you can get a "Gemini Air" box with a custom remote control for the service. But without the box, DirecTV functions like a Netflix or Hulu, allowing you to stream Live TV from anywhere by downloading the app. Within your home, you can stream on up to 20 devices (!), and from outside your home you can stream on up to three devices.
How much does DIRECTV cost?
DIRECTV starts at $89.99/month.
Does DIRECTV have a free trial?
Yes. DIRECTV currently offers a 5-day free trial for new subscribers.
What channels does DIRECTV include?
DIRECTV carries 138 channels, including ABC, ACC Digital Network, AccuWeather, Alien Nation, AMC, and more.
What devices support DIRECTV?
DIRECTV is available on Amazon Fire TV, Android, Android TV, Apple TV, iOS, Roku, Samsung TV.
Can I cancel DIRECTV anytime?
DIRECTV is a month-to-month subscription with no long-term contract. You can cancel at any time without penalty.
Is DIRECTV worth it?
DirecTV is a Live TV streaming platform with a twist: you can download the app on any of your existing devices, or if you choose, you can get a "Gemini Air" box with a custom remote control for the service. But without the box, DirecTV functions like a Netflix or Hulu, allowing you to stream Live TV from anywhere by downloading the app. Within your home, you can stream on up to 20 devices (!), and from outside your home you can stream on up to three devices.
Four criteria, each scored out of 10. The overall score is their weighted average: content 50%, value 20%, apps 20%, streaming quality 10%.
Value for money
0The most expensive service of its kind.
10The cheapest service of its kind, with full content.
Content quality
0None of the 20 most-watched cable channels, or nothing from our recommended list.
10All 20 channels, or the deepest catalog of titles we recommend.
Apps and devices
0A one-star app that runs on none of the 12 major devices.
10Five-star apps on all 12 major devices.
Streaming quality
0Below 720p.
104K on the plan we price.