How does Cox TV compare to DIRECTV STREAM?
Instead of leaving it to a coin toss to decide which TV service you should purchase, it makes more sense to analyze what Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM have to offer in order to get the most out of your TV viewing experience. At a glance, Cox TV may be a great, budget-friendly option for people looking to access a wide variety of channels. DIRECTV STREAM is slightly more expensive, but its robust sports programming, international channels, and movies may make it worth it for TV lovers.
We’ve gathered facts, prices, and professional reviews for Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM to help you get to know each provider better and make the right choice for your home.
- Who Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM are for
- Key considerations
- What others say about Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM
- How do Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM plans compare?
Who Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM are for
DIRECTV STREAM is one of the most popular TV providers in the country. It offers a wide variety of programming the whole family can enjoy, like news, movies, and international channels. For sports fans, the Choice package gives users access to must-have sports programming (NFL Sunday Ticket, MLB Network, NBA TV, etc.) and other regional sports networks for $89.99/month.
Cox TV is perfect for channel surfers on a budget. Its most basic plan gives you access to essential programming, but you can top it off with add-on channels like HBO Max, Cinemax, STARZ, and more. You can also add exclusive packs to get your sports and movie fix. If you want to get all the best programming available on Cox TV, you can get its most premium plan, Ultimate for $138/month.
Key considerations
Price
DIRECTV STREAM prices range from $69.99 to $149.99/month for 65 to 140+ channels. By comparison, Cox TV plans range from $53 to $138/month with 75 to 250+ local and cable channels.*
Channels
DIRECTV STREAM gives you access to unlimited in-house streaming that you and your family can watch on big or small screens or from their exclusive app. On the other hand, Cox TV plans give you access to top networks (NBC, CBS, etc.) and apps (Netflix and Peacock). If you want to stream shows and movies from your favorite apps, Cox TV offers a $5/month add-on plan that gives you access to Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and more.
Devices
The DIRECTV STREAM set-top device gives you access to programming from your TV for $5/month or you can purchase it upfront for $120. Unlike DIRECTV STREAM, Cox TV’s Contour HD box is included in all of its TV plans for free. You also have the option to view programs from your plan by downloading the Cox Contour TV app on your mobile devices.
DVRs
You get access to DIRECTV STREAM’s unlimited cloud digital video recorder (DVR) storage with all of their plans. With this service, you can record multiple shows at once and watch them later at your convenience. Cox TV’s Record 1 Starter DVR allows you to record from 250 to 1,000 hours of content.
Contracts
Cox TV requires a 12 month contract for new customers, and with DIRECTV STREAM you’ll pay month-to-month with no long-term contract requirements.
What others say about Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM
DIRECTV STREAM
U.S. News & World Report gives DIRECTV STREAM 3.4/5 stars based on their most recent review. The publication also ranks it as the sixth-best live-TV streaming and fifth-best sports streaming service of 2022. Reviewers say that DIRECTV STREAM is ideal for people who need to stream from multiple screens simultaneously. As an added bonus, DIRECTV STREAM offers a lot of international channels from South Korea, Brazil, and others, making it valuable for people with ties to those countries.
PC Mag gives DIRECTV STREAM a score of 3/5 stars. In addition to citing DIRECTV STREAM’s varied channel options and extensive sports programming, the reviewer enjoyed its parental control and restriction options, features not all TV providers offer. However, its price may be a bit high for people looking for an inexpensive TV service subscription.
Cox TV
According to CNET, Cox has some of the most affordable internet and TV bundles available. However, the base Cox Starter bundle only offers 75+ channels, consisting of mostly local and home shopping networks. While this package may not provide enough variety for all households, leveling up to the Preferred package provides 140+ channels, including regional sports and one premium channel.
How do Cox TV and DIRECTV STREAM plans compare?
Compare the top TV providers in your area
*Pricing varies by location and availability. Speeds may vary. All prices subject to change; for current pricing and availability visit our TV service page. Prices as of 3/11/22.
Disclosure | Updater articles are based on our own data and research, independent from partner relationships. We are not compensated by partners for information and opinions presented here. Our Editorial Terms of Service can be found here.
Internet and TV tips
Switching providers and don’t know where to start? We can help.
DIY kitchen makeover: easy, cost-effective tips and tricks
18 July 2024
What to photograph during a move-in or move-out inspection
12 July 2024
