Quick Answer
Important Clarification: DIRECTV is a television service, not an internet provider, while AT&T offers internet service. This isn't a direct comparison of like services. DIRECTV provides satellite TV programming, requiring you to have separate internet service from a provider like AT&T. If you're looking for internet, AT&T delivers fiber connectivity with speeds up to 5 Gbps starting at $55/mo. For TV service, DIRECTV offers satellite television that works alongside any internet provider.
AT&T (Internet) vs DIRECTV (TV Service)
| Feature | AT&T | DIRECTV |
|---|---|---|
| Service Type | Internet Provider | Television Service |
| Technology | Fiber, DSL, Fixed Wireless | Satellite TV / Streaming |
| Internet Speeds | Up to 5 Gbps | NOT PROVIDED |
| Starting Price | $55/mo | TV packages vary |
| Phone | 1-855-850-5977 | N/A (TV only) |
AT&T - Internet Service Provider
AT&T provides internet connectivity using fiber, dsl, fixed wireless technology across 21 states. The service delivers maximum speeds of 5 Gbps, with plans starting at $55/mo. As an internet provider, AT&T connects your home to the web for streaming, browsing, gaming, and remote work.
Key Features:
- Fastest fiber speeds up to 5 Gbps
- No data caps on fiber plans
- AT&T TV and mobile bundles available
- Wide fiber footprint in major metros
Considerations:
- DSL speeds can be very slow
- Limited availability outside major cities
- Equipment fees apply
- Price increases after 12 months
Contact: 1-855-850-5977
DIRECTV - Television Service Only
DIRECTV operates as a television provider, not an internet service. The company offers satellite TV programming nationwide, requiring a satellite dish installation and set-top receivers. DIRECTV does NOT provide internet service - customers must contract separately with an internet provider like AT&T, Xfinity, Spectrum, or others to get online.
What DIRECTV Offers:
- Premium TV content
- NFL Sunday Ticket available
- Streaming option (DIRECTV STREAM)
What DIRECTV Does NOT Offer:
- Residential internet service or broadband connectivity
- WiFi or modem equipment for internet access
- Standalone internet plans at any speed
Understanding the Difference: Internet vs TV Service
This comparison exists because people often confuse television and internet services, assuming one company provides both. Here's the critical distinction:
AT&T - Internet Connectivity: AT&T provides the internet connection that brings web access to your home. This service allows you to browse websites, stream content from Netflix/YouTube, participate in video calls, play online games, and connect smart home devices. The fiber technology delivers data to and from the internet at speeds up to 5 Gbps.
DIRECTV - Television Programming: DIRECTV delivers TV channels via satellite dish, offering sports, movies, news, and entertainment programming. This is one-way content delivery - you receive TV signals but cannot browse the internet, check email, or stream from websites. DIRECTV requires a separate internet connection for any online features or streaming options like DIRECTV STREAM.
If You Want Both TV and Internet
To have both television and internet service, you have several options:
Option 1: AT&T Internet + DIRECTV TV - Get internet service from AT&T (starting at $55/mo) and television from DIRECTV. You'll have two separate bills, two installations, and two customer service contacts. This combination works well if AT&T offers the best internet in your area and you prefer DIRECTV's TV programming.
Option 2: Bundle from Single Provider - Many internet providers offer their own TV services. AT&T provides TV bundles combining internet and television in one package, potentially saving $10-30/month versus separate services. Single-provider bundles simplify billing and customer service.
Option 3: Internet + Streaming Services - Get internet from AT&T and skip traditional TV entirely. Use streaming services like YouTube TV ($73/mo), Hulu Live ($77/mo), or Sling TV ($40/mo) instead of satellite. This requires only internet service and often costs less than traditional TV packages. DIRECTV STREAM is also available but requires internet from another provider.
Pricing Considerations
Understanding costs for separate services versus bundles helps with budgeting:
AT&T Internet Costs: Plans start at $55/mo for entry-level speeds, with higher-speed tiers costing more. Add equipment rental ($10-15/mo), installation ($50-100 one-time), and potential post-promotional price increases. Expect total internet costs of $60-150/month depending on speed tier and promotions.
DIRECTV TV Costs: Satellite TV packages typically range $75-150/month for standard channel lineups, plus equipment fees, installation, and often a 24-month contract. Premium channels, DVR service, and additional receivers add $10-40/month. DIRECTV is NOT an internet service, so these costs are separate from internet bills.
Combined Monthly Cost: Choosing AT&T internet ($60-150) plus DIRECTV TV ($75-150) results in $135-300/month in total bills. Compare this to bundled alternatives from providers offering both services, which might cost $100-200/month with promotional discounts.
Coverage and Availability
AT&T Internet Availability: Service reaches 21 states, but availability varies dramatically by specific address. Fiber technology concentrates in urban/suburban areas with limited rural coverage. Check exact availability at your street address.
DIRECTV TV Availability: Satellite TV reaches anywhere with clear southern sky view (in the Northern Hemisphere). Unlike internet providers limited by infrastructure, DIRECTV serves rural areas, apartments, and urban homes equally. However, buildings, trees, or mountains blocking the southern sky prevent installation.
Making the Right Choice
Since DIRECTV doesn't provide internet, your decision focuses on choosing an internet provider and separately deciding on TV service.
Choosing Internet Service: If AT&T is available at your address, evaluate whether fiber technology meets your speed needs. Compare AT&T against other available providers (Xfinity, Spectrum, Verizon, etc.) based on speed, price, data caps, and contract terms. The fastest technology available at your address usually provides the best experience.
Choosing TV Service: DIRECTV satellite TV works with any internet provider. Decide between traditional TV (satellite or cable), streaming services, or no TV service based on your viewing habits and budget. Many households now skip traditional TV entirely, relying solely on internet-based streaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DIRECTV provide internet service?
No. DIRECTV is exclusively a television provider. The company does not offer internet service, WiFi, or any form of internet connectivity. To get online, you must contract with a separate internet service provider like AT&T, Xfinity, Spectrum, or another ISP available in your area.
Can I use AT&T internet with DIRECTV TV?
Yes, absolutely. AT&T internet and DIRECTV TV are completely separate services that work together without any compatibility issues. You'll have two separate accounts, bills, and customer service contacts, but the services operate independently. Many customers use this exact combination.
Are there bundle discounts for AT&T and DIRECTV?
Generally no, because they're separate companies. AT&T and DIRECTV don't offer joint bundle pricing. However, AT&T offers its own TV service that bundles with internet for potential savings, or occasionally one company may run promotions for customers of the other. More commonly, you'll save money by choosing a single provider that offers both TV and internet.
What internet speed do I need for streaming?
If you're using AT&T internet for streaming services instead of DIRECTV TV, aim for at least 25 Mbps for HD streaming on one device, 50+ Mbps for 4K, and 100-200 Mbps for households with multiple simultaneous streams. AT&T's 5 Gbps maximum speed far exceeds streaming requirements, providing headroom for multiple users and devices.
Which is better: satellite TV or streaming?
DIRECTV satellite TV offers extensive channel lineups with traditional programming, while streaming requires only internet (from AT&T or others) and offers more flexibility. Satellite typically costs $75-150/month versus streaming services at $40-80/month. Satellite works without internet, while streaming requires reliable broadband. Choose based on viewing habits and available internet quality.
Do I need both AT&T and DIRECTV?
You don't "need" both - they serve different purposes. You need internet from some provider (AT&T or a competitor) to get online. You may or may not want traditional TV from DIRECTV, depending on whether you prefer satellite programming or streaming services. Many people choose internet-only service and stream all content.
How do I set up both services?
Contact AT&T to schedule internet installation (or use self-install kit if available). Separately, contact DIRECTV for satellite TV installation. The installations happen independently - AT&T technician sets up internet modem/router, while DIRECTV installer mounts satellite dish and configures receivers. Expect two separate appointment times.
Who Should Choose AT&T vs. DIRECTV?
Choosing between AT&T and DIRECTV often depends on your household's specific internet usage patterns and priorities. Here is a breakdown of which provider fits different user profiles best.
AT&T is the better choice for: Households that prioritize nationwide fiber expansion and bundling options with wireless. With fiber and DSL technology delivering speeds up to 5 Gbps (fiber), 100 Mbps (DSL), AT&T is well-suited for heavy streaming, online gaming, and homes with multiple connected devices running simultaneously. Additional perks include HBO Max included on select plans, AT&T ActiveArmor security suite.
DIRECTV is the better choice for: Customers who value unmatched sports coverage including NFL Sunday Ticket. DIRECTV offers satellite and streaming TV with internet bundles service with speeds up to Streaming service available; internet via partner providers, making it a solid option for everyday browsing, video calls, and standard-definition or HD streaming. Subscribers also benefit from Cloud DVR, simultaneous streams on multiple devices, Gemini voice remote.
Is AT&T or DIRECTV better for remote work and video conferencing?
For remote work and frequent video calls, upload speed and connection stability are critical. AT&T provides fiber and DSL connectivity with upload speeds that support HD video conferencing without interruptions. DIRECTV offers satellite and streaming TV with internet bundles service that can also handle video calls, though upload speeds may differ. If you regularly participate in video meetings, cloud-based collaboration, or upload large files, compare the upload speeds on each provider's plans in your area before deciding.
Can I bundle TV or phone service with AT&T or DIRECTV?
AT&T offers bundling options that may include TV, phone, and internet services depending on your service area, often at a discounted rate compared to purchasing each separately. DIRECTV also provides bundle deals in many markets. Bundling can reduce your overall monthly bill and simplify billing into a single statement, though standalone internet plans sometimes offer better value if you do not need additional services.
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1-855-980-1839Disclosure: InternetProviders.ai is an independent review site supported by referral fees from internet providers. We maintain editorial independence, and our assessments are not influenced by compensation. DIRECTV is a television service provider and does not offer internet service. AT&T provides internet connectivity.