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September 13, 2023
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FYI: Whether you’re looking for ample sports coverage or discounts for internet bundles, we walk through the features of the top cable providers in our roundup of the best TV packages for seniors. You’ll be surprised by some of the packages we cover.
| Plan Name | Price | Number of Channels | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV Entertainment |
|
160+ channels |
|
| DIRECTV Choice |
|
185+ channels |
|
| DIRECTV Ultimate |
|
250+ channels |
|
| DIRECTV Premier |
|
330+ channels |
|
While DIRECTV doesn't offer a senior discount or a specific plan for seniors, our favorite option would have to be DIRECTV CHOICE, which is just a few dollars more per month than their basic DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT package. Considered a step up from the ENTERTAINMENT package, CHOICE is affordably priced at $69.99 per month for 12 months with a 24-month term agreement, and over 185 channels.
For those who don’t have time to watch live shows, you’ll still get the chance to record your favorite shows using Genie HD DVR at no extra cost. For fans of quality programming and live sports, you can enjoy everything from HBO Max to football games with the included NFL SUNDAY TICKET subscription. With that said, there’s a Regional Sports fee of up to $11.99 per month attached to this package, but we think it’s worth it if you’re looking for more channel options and sports coverage.
Currently, DIRECTV doesn’t sell their internet service separately; instead, you can choose from several internet bundle options for both TV and AT&T Internet for seniors. Depending on your location, the most affordable internet and TV package (DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT with AT&T Internet 50) starts at $129.99 per month and features over 160 channels. With unlimited streaming and browsing features, there are no internet usage caps, and HD DVR is included with your DIRECTV subscription.
There are a total of three internet and TV bundle options to choose from, ranging from $129.99 to $154.99 per month, depending on the availability of service in your area:
If you prefer streaming your favorite live shows and local channels on your tablet, smartphone, or other devices, then I’d recommend DIRECTV’s streaming plans starting at $69.99 per month, plus taxes. These streaming plans differ from satellite packages as they are more affordable and don’t require a contract. If you decide to purchase a DIRECTV plan, first-time customers can get $10 off for the first three months of their subscription.
Currently, DIRECTV offers the following streaming plans that let you stream live shows and on-demand content anywhere or when you’re on the go.
DIRECTV offers extra features and add-ons such as DVR, access to NFL SUNDAY TICKET at no additional cost for some satellite TV plans, and additional channels. We’ll go over these in detail, below.
NFL SUNDAY TICKET: If you purchase a CHOICE, ULTIMATE, or PREMIER DIRECTV satellite TV package, you’ll get access to NFL SUNDAY TICKET at no extra cost.
Voice Remote: DIRECTV offers a smart voice remote that features voice control with Google Assistant and access to your DVR library. The remote also lets you access apps and doesn’t require additional remotes.
DVR: Currently, DIRECTV is offering unlimited Cloud DVR storage (valued at $10) for new DIRECTV customers.
DIRECTV App: DIRECTV offers a free DIRECTV app for download. With this app, you can start watching your favorite live shows and movies on compatible devices after you sign up for a DIRECTV plan. A few examples of compatible devices include iPads, iPhones, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Chromecast.
Special offers: DIRECTV is currently offering a special deal for customers who purchase their satellite TV plans. You can get HBO Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and EPIX for free for three months. After the three-month promotion period, the rate will be $53.95 per month for the add-on premium bundles.
First TV connection included: When you purchase a DIRECTV plan, the first TV connection will be included along with one free Genie HD DVR. Additional TV connections start at $7 per month each.
Add-on channels option: If you want to stick with your current satellite TV plan but want more channels, you can easily add more channels to your plan during online checkout. Some of the channels include HBO Max or NBA League Pass Premium for $30 per month during the season.
Spanish-language shows: DIRECTV offers both English and Spanish-language programming options for customers starting at $69.99 per month with over 120 channels. You can also add on specific Spanish-language channels to your existing DIRECTV plans such as DIRECTV Deportes for $4.99 per month or Mexico Plus for $7.99 per month.
If you purchase a DIRECTV plan, I’d recommend going over all of the fine print to make sure you understand any additional fees or costs you may incur. DIRECTV offers 24-month programming commitments for their services. Additionally, you may incur early termination fees if you cancel your service early, as detailed below.
Here’s the breakdown on extra fees from DIRECTV (pricing depends on location and satellite or specific TV plan):
If you were to purchase the DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT Satellite TV package for $74.99 per month for 12 months with a 24-month agreement, you would need to pay $19.95 in activation fees. Additionally, the policies for equipment non-return and additional fees may apply. If you decide to cancel the plan before it ends, you may need to pay an ETF of $20 per month for each month remaining on your agreement. Since the $74.99 per month is a discounted rate, after 12 months, you will be billed the standard rate of $107 per month during the second year of your agreement.
However, for the first 12 months, we think this is still a great deal as you can get three months of HBO Max, Cinemax, SHOWTIME, STARZ, and EPIX for free, along with access to over 160 live TV channels and 45,000 on-demand titles. Included in this plan is the first TV connection for free, and the option of adding more TV connections at $7 per month if needed for additional TVs. If you were to add on the MLB Extra Innings channel for $23.33 per month for six months, that would bring your DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT package up to $98.32 per month. This is still a great deal for the number of channels you’re getting.
Did You Know: For more internet discounts, check out my article, Senior Discounts on the Internet.
While DIRECTV is one of the best satellite providers, there are also alternatives to consider like Xfinity, which offers a contract-free entertainment experience for older adults. If you’re not big on sports or don’t mind skipping out on more premium channels, Cox starts at just $53 per month and still features over 75-plus channels. Additionally, Cox offers plenty of bundles for the internet, cable television, and a Homelife smart device kit for an extra layer of security on top of quality entertainment and internet services.
| Provider | Price | Features | Contracts |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT | Starts at $74.99 per month |
|
2-year contract |
| Xfinity Limited Basic/CHOICE TV | Starts at $30.00 per month |
|
None required |
| Cox Contour TV Starter | Starts at $53 per month |
|
1-year contract |
Overall, DIRECTV is a great option for older adults who want an alternative to cable and more channels to watch. In our experience, their customer service has always been prompt and courteous, addressing each of our issues in a timely manner.
The only downside of DIRECTV is the cost. Its most affordable package is still more expensive than those of Xfinity and Cox. With that said, these providers won’t offer you as many channels (including premium ones) for a similar cost.
No, DIRECTV doesn’t currently offer senior discounts, but you can visit their website to check for ongoing promotions and deals.
DIRECTV is top ranked for customer satisfaction. If you’ve been a loyal customer for many years, there might be some incentives that you can inquire about by calling customer service.
Yes, you may be able to qualify for a discount if you have both DIRECTV and AT&T. Talk to your service provider to inquire about discounts or promotions. In our experience, you can get up to a $15 discount on DIRECTV if you have an AT&T Unlimited Plus Enhanced Plan.
Currently, the cheapest package is the ENTERTAINMENT package, which starts at $74.99 per month for 12 months with a two-year agreement. This package includes 160-plus channels and features Genie HD DVR and three months of premium entertainment.