How to bundle DIRECTV (Satellite-free) with internet

When bundling TV and internet services, a high-speed, stable, wired connection is essential. Without it, you may experience common frustrations like slow speeds, low video quality, buffering and jittering, especially during live events or big games.

These issues often stem from weak or inconsistent connections, not your streaming service.

Moreover, while 5G home internet might seem like a convenient option, it’s often less reliable than a wired connection, particularly during peak usage times or in buildings with signal interference.

In contrast, a wired fiber or cable Ethernet connection provides consistent speed and performance, which is critical for smooth, high-resolution streaming. In addition, it’s important to optimize your WiFi network so it can effectively deliver your WiFi internet speed to your connected devices.

Mesh WiFi, like those powered by eero, have significantly improved whole-home coverage and helped reduce dead zones. Still, when performance matters most, like streaming live TV or sports, an Ethernet cable connected directly to your device remains the fastest and most dependable solution.

Before switching TV providers, it’s important to think about what kind of viewing experience you and your household want.

Looking for flexibility, an all-in-one app and a personalized viewing experience?

DIRECTV offers all three—live TV, streaming apps and smart recommendations — bundled seamlessly to match how you watch.

DIRECTV offers a range of smart features designed to make watching TV easier, more flexible and tailored to you. From convenient DVR storage to advanced streaming tools, these features work together to give you more control over how, when and where you watch.

Cloud DVR

DIRECTV’s Cloud DVR lets you record live TV and watch it anytime, with unlimited storage included. Recordings are stored in the cloud and accessible from any device, so you can pause, rewind or fast-forward your favorite shows.

Gemini streaming device

The Gemini device is DIRECTV’s all-in-one streaming box that brings live TV, on demand content and your favorite apps together in one place. With 4K support, built-in casting and no need to switch inputs or remotes, it simplifies how you watch.

Gemini voice remote

The Gemini voice remote, powered by Google Assistant, lets you search channels, launch apps and control playback with simple voice commands, making it faster and easier to find what you want.

DIRECTV mobile app

The DIRECTV app lets you stream live TV, on demand shows and Cloud DVR recordings on your phone, tablet or streaming device—so everyone at home can watch what they love, anywhere they go.

Stream all your favorite channels—live, local and on demand—together in one place, with no need to switch apps or inputs.

Live TV

Enjoy a variety of entertainment, lifestyle and general-interest channels, including: A&E, AMC, FX, Bravo, HGTV, Food Network and Comedy Central.

Local channels

Access to local channels and networks is included, featuring: ABC, CBS, CW and FOX.

News

Stay informed with a selection of local channels, national and international news channels, such as: CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, CNBC, Bloomberg TV and BBC News.

Sports

For sports enthusiasts, DIRECTV provides extensive live sports coverage through channels like: ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports, CBS Sports Network, NBA TV, MLB Network, NHL Network, GolfPass, Tennis Channel, SEC Network and the Big Ten Network.

Pay Per View

Access a variety of pay-per-view content, including:

• DIRECTV Cinema: Latest movie releases available for rent or purchase.
• Live events: Special events such as boxing matches, wrestling and concerts.

Available titles for purchase or rent are displayed with a “$” shown underneath the title.

Whether you’re watching live TV or switching to streaming apps, DIRECTV makes it easy to move between everything you watch in one place.

Bring your favorite streaming apps

DIRECTV lets you access top streaming services like Netflix, Max, Prime Video, YouTube and more from the same streaming device. You can launch them without ever leaving your TV input. It’s a simple way to bring your subscriptions together without extra steps.

One integrated experience

Instead of bouncing between separate platforms, DIRECTV unifies live TV, on demand titles and streaming apps into a single, organized interface. With everything accessible in one place, you can browse, search and switch between content types effortlessly — all controlled through one remote.

DIRECTV offers a range of packages designed to fit different viewing needs, with flexible pricing and options.

DIRECTV’s plans are contract-free, giving you the flexibility to cancel anytime without long-term commitments.

Many packages come with two-year price guarantees, helping you avoid sudden bill increases during your initial term.

Because there’s no contract, there are no early termination fees—you can stop service whenever you choose without penalty. However, if you do cancel your service, you must return your streaming device to avoid further charges.

Be aware that device fees, regional sports fees and broadcast TV surcharges may apply. These can add up, so it’s important to review the full monthly breakdown to understand your total cost.

DIRECTV often runs introductory deals or discounts on select plans. These can provide real savings up front. Always check how long the promotion lasts and what your new monthly cost will be after the promo period ends.

Choosing the right DIRECTV package doesn’t have to be complicated. With options designed around how you watch, you get the flexibility to stream live TV, on demand content and access your favorite apps in one place.

Whether you want a few essentials or a full lineup with premium channels, each package is built to personalize your entertainment experience from day one.

Let’s review DIRECTV’s TV options below:

Starting at $79.99 a month, CHOICE is the mid-tier package from DIRECTV with 125+ channels, including expanded sports access. It’s perfect for families and sports fans looking for a broader channel selection, including the Big Ten Network, SEC Network, MLB Network and NBA TV.

The CHOICE package includes everything in the ENTERTAINMENT package as well as regional sports, more news and lifestyle content, but does not include premium channels like HBO, STARZ and Cinemax. CHOICE Price includes a $10/month discount for Astound Internet customers.

Starting at $84.99 a month, ENTERTAINMENT is the starter package from DIRECTV with 90+ channels, including entertainment staples and local networks. It’s perfect for casual viewers who want core channels without the extras, including local channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX and national favorites like AMC, CNN, ESPN and HGTV.

The ENTERTAINMENT package includes Cloud DVR, the Gemini device with voice remote and access to streaming apps, but does not include specialty sports channels like NFL Network, MLB Network or some regional sports networks.

Starting at $109.99 a month, ULTIMATE is the premium-tier package from DIRECTV with 160+ channels, including live sports and an expanded movie selection. It’s perfect for people who want to make the most out of their package, including CBS Sports Network, NHL Network, FX Movie Channel and STARZ, along with local broadcast channels.

The ULTIMATE package includes everything in the CHOICE package, as well as full live TV access and extended sports and movie offerings, but does not include top-tier premium networks like HBO or SHOWTIME. ULTIMATE Price includes a $10/month discount for Astound Internet customers.

Starting at $154.99 a month, PREMIER is the most comprehensive package with 185+ channels, including all premium networks. It’s perfect for households who want everything—sports, movies, news and premium content, including everything in ULTIMATE, plus Max, SHOWTIME, STARZ, Cinemax and more.

The PREMIER package features full premium access, and maximum channel variety. PREMIER Price includes a $10/month discount for Astound Internet customers.

Once you’ve selected the right DIRECTV package for your home, the next step is choosing an internet plan and selecting an internet service provider to power your experience.

To get DIRECTV’s satellite-free service, your internet provider must have a partnership with DIRECTV—like Astound, which offers fiber-powered speeds.

To make the process easier, we’ve provided a quick guide that walks you through what to look for, including connection speed, reliability and customer support, so you can build the right bundle with confidence.

Getting the right internet speed for your home is essential, especially when bundling with a TV service like DIRECTV. With average data usage on the rise due to streaming, smart devices and working from home, underestimating your speed needs can lead to buffering, lag or dropped connections.

If you’re trying to make sense of the speed options, then check out our internet speed calculator to build the ideal plan based on your household size and usage habits.

Most homes streaming HD or 4K content should aim for a speed of at least 1 Gbps, depending on the number of connected devices.

For more detail on what speed is best for streaming, check out our full streaming speed guide.

Once you’ve determined the speed that suits your household’s needs, it’s crucial to compare internet providers to ensure you’re getting the best value and performance.

Here are key factors to consider:

• Customer testimonials: Reading reviews can provide insights into current or past customers’ experiences.
• Reliability and speed: Consistent and fast internet is essential. Astound has been recognized for its reliable service, with customers reporting satisfaction in speed and connection stability.
• Likelihood to recommend: Providers that are frequently recommended by current users often indicate a higher level of satisfaction.
• Awards and recognitions: Find a provider that consistently receives awards or recognitions for excellence in customer satisfaction, speed and reliability.
• Customer service: Responsive and helpful customer support can make a significant difference.

Once you’ve compared your options, it’s time to choose an internet plan that fits your needs and budget.

To get started, build a plan to create your perfect internet and DIRECTV bundle in just a few clicks.

To get the most value, you may also want to combine your internet with mobile service. See how much you could save by using our mobile savings calculator.