Sling TV vs DirecTV Stream
It’s a close call. The right pick depends on your priorities — see the breakdown below.
Sling TV vs DirecTV Stream at a glance
| Feature | Sling TV | DirecTV Stream |
|---|---|---|
| Our editorial score | 8.6 / 10 | 8.7 / 10 |
| Starting price | $40/mo | $87/mo |
| Free trial | None (occasional promos) | 5 days |
| Channels | 30+ (Orange) | 75+ |
| Simultaneous streams | 1 (Orange) / 3 (Blue) | Unlimited at home |
| Cloud DVR | 50 hours included | Unlimited |
| Devices | 11 platforms | 10 platforms |
| Best for | you want the cheapest route into live sports and news and don't rely on local broadcast channels everywhere | you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams |
Price and value
Sling TV: $40/mo. The cheapest way into live sports and news, with a build-your-own channel approach.
DirecTV Stream: $87/mo. The most cable-like service, and the strongest for regional sports networks.
Channels and sports
Sling TV offers 30+ (Orange), including ESPN, CNN, AMC, Disney Channel, Food Network and TNT.
DirecTV Stream offers 75+, including ESPN, Regional sports networks, Local channels and TNT.
Lineups vary by ZIP code — check your exact channels.
DVR and simultaneous streams
Sling TV: 50 hours included DVR, 1 (Orange) / 3 (Blue).
DirecTV Stream: Unlimited DVR, Unlimited at home.
Which should you choose?
- Choose Sling TV if you want the cheapest route into live sports and news and don't rely on local broadcast channels everywhere.
- Choose DirecTV Stream if you want a cable-like experience with regional sports networks and unlimited in-home streams.
Sling TV
Visit official siteOpens Sling TV’s official site
DirecTV Stream
Visit official siteOpens DirecTV Stream’s official site
Frequently asked questions
Is Sling TV or DirecTV Stream better?
Sling TV and DirecTV Stream sit at opposite ends of the price scale. Sling is far cheaper for a slimmed-down sports and news lineup, while DirecTV Stream is the most cable-like service with deeper tiers and strong regional sports coverage. Choose Sling to save money; choose DirecTV Stream for a full channel lineup and regional sports networks.
Which is cheaper, Sling TV or DirecTV Stream?
Sling TV starts at $40/mo and DirecTV Stream starts at $87/mo. Prices change, so confirm the current price on each provider’s site.
Can I try Sling TV and DirecTV Stream before paying?
Trials vary. Sling TV: None (occasional promos). DirecTV Stream: 5 days. Check each site for current offers.