With the rise of telecommunication options like Internet and TV comes the rise of questions and concerns over which plan and provider is the best. While most providers offer similar services, there are advantages and disadvantages that you may want to consider before deciding on a provider.
If you’re looking at subscribing to pay-TV services through AT&T®, keep in mind that the company offers two TV options: DIRECTV® and AT&T U-verse® TV. One service isn’t necessarily better or worse than the other — they just serve different functions for different consumers. To help you determine whether U-verse TV or DIRECTV is the right provider for you, we’ve put together a quick overview of both options.
The Main Differences between DIRECTV and AT&T U-verse
Both AT&T U-verse TV and DIRECTV provide an entertaining viewing experience, but beyond that the two services are fairly different. Here’s a look at what separates these pay-TV providers.
Delivery Method and Installation
U-verse TV is transmitted over a fiber-optic connection, meaning that the TV programming is essentially transmitted through the same channels as Internet data. Though relatively durable, fiber-optic infrastructures require a lot of time and resources to build out. As a result, the setup process may take longer to work through, depending on the wiring currently available on your premises.
DIRECTV is AT&T’s satellite service option. This means that subscribers receive their TV service through a small satellite dish installed on or around their home. The dish installation process can be more involved than what’s required for wired services, but professional technicians can usually handle most setups without any issues.
Availability
One of the first things that AT&T asks customers when they sign up for service is their address and ZIP code because different areas have different coverage options. The package offerings available for one subscriber may be drastically different from those available to a subscriber just a few streets away.
Currently, AT&T U-verse TV is available in 21 states. If you can have U-verse Internet service in your area, you will likely be able to get U-verse TV as well. Because AT&T U-verse TV relies on a growing series of fiber-optic networks, you’re more likely to have access to the service in a metropolitan area.
In comparison, DIRECTV is more widely available — the provider’s plans are available in all 50 states. Customers simply need to have a clear view of the southern sky for their satellite to work. If you live in a more remote area or an area where AT&T U-verse TV isn’t an option, DIRECTV will be your best bet.
Reliability
Because U-verse TV runs through a fiber-optic connection, you can likely expect a fast and reliable viewing experience. HD offerings will come through clear and crisp, and you won’t have to worry about fuzzy static inhibiting your viewing.
Some DIRECTV customers experience problems with their satellite service if they live in areas with large storms or inconsistent weather. Satellite dishes receive their connections from the sky, so if your dish can’t establish a clear signal, the service will be affected.
Programming
Both services offer hundreds of high-definition channels, access to sports coverage, premium content through networks like HBO® and SHOWTIME®, and On Demand programming. AT&T U-verse TV, though, puts a lot more emphasis on the quantity of channels available than DIRECTV. U-verse TV offerings are generally quite broad, and the number of specialty channels it provides won’t disappoint.
Sports lovers, on the other hand, will likely prefer DIRECTV’s programming. The company offers NFL SUNDAY TICKET, an add-on that lets customers keep up with out-of-market games, get real-time stats and standings, and follow their favorite players. It also offers a split-screen option, which allows viewers to watch up to eight games at once.
Pricing
Depending on where you live — and on which channels you want — pricing will vary for both services. AT&T U-verse TV, for example, starts its well-advertised packages at $50 per month for 12 months with a 12-month contract, giving users up to 200 channels and apps. At the other end of the spectrum, the U450 plan provides up to 550 channels and apps for just $125 per month for 12 months with a 12-month contract.
The general pricing structures for both services are similar, though DIRECTV has fewer channel offerings and more service levels to choose from. The company’s lowest well-advertised plan — the Select™ package — starts at $50 per month for 12 months with a 24-month term and includes over 145 channels, while the larger Premier™ plan provides over 315 channels for $125 per month for 12 months with a 24-month term.
Bundles
Because AT&T U-verse TV is part of a larger network of fiber-optic packages, it can be easily bundled with a U-verse Internet or U-verse Voice service. For example, subscribers can get up to 360 channels and apps with the U200 TV package, Max Turbo Internet with speeds up to 24 Mbps, and unlimited nationwide calling for just $119.99 per month for 24 months with a 12-month agreement.
DIRECTV can also be paired with AT&T Internet and phone services. For instance, a bundle combining the DIRECTV Select™ package, Internet speeds up to 6 Mbps, and unlimited U.S. calling runs about $89.99 per month for 24 months with a 24-month TV agreement and a 12-month Internet agreement.
The Bottom Line
Both providers serve different demographics, so to pick the best one for you, you’ll need to carefully look at your viewing needs. If you’re looking for lots of channels and a reliable fiber-optic network, AT&T U-verse TV will probably be a better option. If, however, you live in a remote area or really love to keep up on sports, DIRECTV will have you covered.
When it comes down to U-verse vs. DIRECTV, both are good choices. They both provide On Demand programming, HD DVR services, extensive channel listings, and premium networks. Depending on where you live, you may have one or both services to choose from. Use an online provider locating tool and enter your ZIP code to see what services are available for you.
*Pricing and speeds are current as of writing. Pricing and speeds are subject to change. Not all offers available in all areas.
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