DIRECTV vs Charter Spectrum
DIRECTV is a good satellite provider with introductory prices, best for sports fans. How does it compare to Charter Spectrum? Read our comparison chart below.
DIRECTV is a popular favorite because of its exclusive NFL Sunday Ticket.
While Charter Spectrum is a no-contract, cable TV provider.
Compare DIRECTV with Charter Spectrum, side-by-side. Read on for an in-depth look, including ratings, reviews, pros and cons.
DIRECTV | Charter Spectrum | |
|---|---|---|
Compare DIRECTV Packages - | Charter Spectrum Deals | |
Benefits and Features | ||
| DVR | Genie HD-DVR can record up to 5 simultaneous recordings. 1 TB storage space for 200 hours of HD or 800 hours of SD recording. Paired with receivers (Mini Genie) to connect up to 8 TV sets, however only 4 active viewings at one time. | Two DVR models, Motorola and Cisco/SA. Motorola can record and store up to 21 HD hours. Cisco/SA with 80 GB hard drive can record and store between 30 and 50 hours. Models with a 160 GB hard drive can store up to 90 hours of SD. Records up to 2 channels simultaneously. One box needed per TV. Connects up to 8 TVs. |
| Packages | Select ($49.99/month): 150+ channels. Entertainment ($54.99/month): 155+ channels. Choice ($59.99/month): 185+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket. Xtra ($69.99/month): 230+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket. Ultimate ($74.99/month): 245+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket. Premier ($124.99/month): 325+ channels, NFL Sunday Ticket, DIRECTV Sports Pack. | TV Select ($64.99/month): 125+ channels TV Silver ($84.99/month): 175+ channels, HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, Digital Tier 1. TV Gold ($104.99/month): 200+ channels, HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, The Movie Channel, Starz, Starz Encore, Digital Tier 1, Digital Tier 2 |
| Cancellation | Early termination fees are $20 for each remaining month left in contract. All equipment is leased and must be returned, unreturned equipment fees apply. | No early termination fees. All equipments must be returned upon termination. Unreturned equipment fees apply. |
| Contract | User agreement requires a base TV package of $29.99/month for a 24-month contract minimum. Promotional pricing only applies for first 12 months; regular pricing applies after. | No contract. |
| Installation | Standard professional installation included in up to 4 rooms only; additional installations cost extra. | Standard professional installation included for up to 6 rooms. Additional installations cost extra. |
| Autopay | $5/month discount for the first 12 months if you sign up for DIRECTV autopay feature. Autopay can be setup with bank account, debit card, or credit card. | Sign up for autopay feature online through TWC's account portal. |
| Receiver Fee | Equipment rental fee of $7/month for each receiver on account. | Spectrum Receiver & Remote ($5.99/month), DVR Service for 1 DVR receiver ($12.99/month). Additional DVR receivers up to 4 ($19.99/month). CableCARD ($1/month). Secure Connection per CableCARD ($1/month). |
| Regional Sports Fee | Up to $7.29/month may apply (varies depending on location) | No regional sports fee. |
CreditDonkey® Reviews | ||
| Sports |  |  |
| Price | | |
| Selection | | |
| Contract | | |
| Pros & Cons | Pros:
| Pros:
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| Bottom Line | Good satellite provider with introductory prices, best for sports fans... | No contract cable TV provider with premium networks... |
 | | |
DIRECTV: Pricing information including fees, features and contract length was obtained on December 6, 2017 from published websites and is believed to be accurate, but not guaranteed. Charter Spectrum: Pricing information including fees, features and contract length was obtained on April 12, 2018 from published websites and is believed to be accurate, but not guaranteed. | ||
Which is Better: DIRECTV or Charter Spectrum?
Still need help deciding which tv is better? Read the in-depth reviews below. You may also be interested in comparing DIRECTV or Sling.
In short: DIRECTV's sports is outstanding. Charter Spectrum's contract is outstanding.
Articles on DIRECTV
DIRECTV Reviews
DIRECTV is the largest satellite TV provider, offering a strong channel lineup and low introductory prices. But is it a good value? Read on.
Directv Retention
Struggling with your DIRECTV phone, TV, or Internet service? Follow our step-by-step guide to contact DIRECTV and resolve your issue as quickly as possible.
Directv 4K Channels
4K resolution is the latest trend in TV. Sometimes known as Ultra HD, it refers to programs and TVs that have a higher resolution than High Definition. It has about 4 times the number of pixels onscreen compared to regular HD. This makes for deeper colors and better overall picture quality.
DIRECTV Installation
You've done the research and decided to subscribe to DIRECTV. Maybe it's their extensive HD channel line-up, or their NFL Sunday Ticket, or even their 1TB DVR storage which won you over.
DIRECTV Customer Service
Need customer service? DIRECTV has multiple contact options. Whether you prefer phone or online support, DIRECTV helps you keep in touch. Read on to learn the best way to contact DIRECTV.
DIRECTV Premier Package Channels
The PREMIER package is DIRECTV's biggest package. It features a massive 330+ channel lineup, and it includes all the premium networks as part of its subscription. Enjoy channels like HBO, Showtime, CINEMAX, and Starz all year-round without having to pay additional fees.
DIRECTV Ultimate Package Channels
The ULTIMATE package is DIRECTV's second largest package (just under the PREMIER package). It has 250+ channels, with dedicated movie channels for the movie enthusiast. If you love movies, the ULTIMATE package is for you.
DIRECTV Choice Package Channels
The CHOICE package brings more variety in terms of channels. It's got about 30 more channels than the ENTERTAINMENT package. It's also the first package where you get the NFL Sunday Ticket for free, making it a prime choice for football fans.
DIRECTV Packages
Compare DIRECTV TV packages to get the channels you want to watch without overpaying. Find the best plan for you here.
DIRECTV Xtra Package Channels
The XTRA package is DIRECTV's most popular package. It's their mid-tier plan, with more than 235+ channels. If you want a good mix of channels without spending too much, the XTRA package is for you.
DIRECTV Entertainment Package Channels
The ENTERTAINMENT package is DIRECTV's second lowest-priced plan. The extra few dollars buy you a bit more sports content. It's great for those who need their sports fix.
DIRECTV Select Package Channels
The SELECT package is DIRECTV's lowest priced plan. It features 150+ channels, with a range of programs for the casual TV user. However, if you're a fan of sports, this package isn't for you.
Articles on Charter Spectrum
Charter Spectrum
Charter Spectrum is a no-contract cable TV provider with three package options: Select, Silver, and Gold. At the highest tier, it has 200+ channels. Is it worth the subscription? Read on to find out.
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