DirecTV Stream vs YouTube TV
Our pick: YouTube TV for most viewers. Your best choice still depends on the channels and features you need most.
DirecTV Stream vs YouTube TV at a glance
| Feature | DirecTV Stream | YouTube TV |
|---|---|---|
| Our editorial score | 8.7 / 10 | 9.3 / 10 |
| Starting price | $87/mo | $83/mo |
| Free trial | 5 days | Varies |
| Channels | 75+ | 100+ |
| Simultaneous streams | Unlimited at home | 3 |
| Cloud DVR | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Devices | 10 platforms | 12 platforms |
| Best for | you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams | you want a broad, mainstream lineup with unlimited DVR and reliable local channels in most areas |
Price and value
DirecTV Stream: $87/mo. The most cable-like service, and the strongest for regional sports networks.
YouTube TV: $83/mo. The best all-round cable replacement: broad channels, unlimited DVR and reliable apps.
Channels and sports
DirecTV Stream offers 75+, including ESPN, Regional sports networks, Local channels and TNT.
YouTube TV offers 100+, including ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX and ESPN.
Lineups vary by ZIP code — check your exact channels.
DVR and simultaneous streams
DirecTV Stream: Unlimited DVR, Unlimited at home.
YouTube TV: Unlimited DVR, 3.
Which should you choose?
- Choose DirecTV Stream if you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams.
- Choose YouTube TV if you want a broad, mainstream lineup with unlimited DVR and reliable local channels in most areas.
DirecTV Stream
Visit official siteOpens DirecTV Stream’s official site
YouTube TV
Visit official siteOpens YouTube TV’s official site
Frequently asked questions
Is DirecTV Stream or YouTube TV better?
DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV both aim to replace cable. YouTube TV is cheaper at its base price with unlimited DVR and excellent apps, while DirecTV Stream offers deeper, more cable-like tiers and stronger regional sports coverage. Pick YouTube TV for value and simplicity; pick DirecTV Stream for regional sports networks and a traditional lineup.
Which is cheaper, DirecTV Stream or YouTube TV?
DirecTV Stream starts at $87/mo and YouTube TV starts at $83/mo. Prices change, so confirm the current price on each provider’s site.
Can I try DirecTV Stream and YouTube TV before paying?
Trials vary. DirecTV Stream: 5 days. YouTube TV: Varies. Check each site for current offers.