Fubo vs DIRECTV STREAM: Which is right for you?

Fubo vs DIRECTV STREAM content

Fubo boasts one of the most impressive live TV channel lineups. Whether you're a sports buff or a history nerd, Fubo has everything from national and international sports networks to beloved entertainment channels, regional sports networks and local channels. Browse through favorites like Bravo, BET, CNBC, CMT, E!, Food Network, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, Ion, MSNBC, OWN, Syfy, TLC, TV Land, Univision, USA Network, VH1 and Animal Planet. Enter your zip code on the Fubo homepage to get a tailored channel list.

DIRECTV STREAM doesn't come close to Fubo's robust channel count and range, but it's more than enough to appeal to multiple interests. For mainstream entertainment and news, subscribers can access major networks such as NBC, CBS, ABC and Fox, along with CNN for the latest updates. If comedy is more your speed, you will enjoy Comedy Central, while younger viewers can delight in channels like Disney Channel, Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon. National Geographic and Discovery Channel are part of this well-balanced lineup for those partial to nature's wonders and exploration.

Fubo vs DIRECTV STREAM DVR

There are pros and cons to the storage capabilities of both live TV streaming services. DIRECTV STREAM offers unlimited DVR cloud storage, meaning there isn’t a cap on how much content you can record at any given time. But there is a catch. Recordings can only be stored for up to nine months before being deleted automatically. Additionally, you aren’t able to record more than 30 episodes of a TV show. The oldest episode will be deleted first when it hits the maximum limit. In case you can’t keep track, they do provide a seven-day alert as a heads-up before deletion. You can schedule your recordings in advance and record several shows simultaneously. 

It’s not unlimited, but Fubo’s 1000 hours of DVR storage in its English language plans are generous. And unlike other streamers, the recordings never expire. There is also a nifty feature called Lookback, which allows users to go back in time to watch shows that have been aired in the previous three days. Recording is relatively hassle-free. Simply highlight the desired program and hit the record button from the options provided. 

Fubo vs DIRECTV STREAM personalization and user experience

The good news is that you can create up to six user profiles on the Fubo platform, which helps customize your viewing experience. You can select your favorite channels and television series and even have your own stash of recordings. But be mindful that the hours allotted for recordings are shared among users of the entire account. 

Parents will be disappointed to learn that there are no actual parental controls. You can filter the menu to find more appropriate programming for your kids, but there are no passcodes or other restrictive methods as another layer of protection. 

DIRECTV STREAM is much stricter on controlling what your kids watch while unsupervised. You have the option to set a four-digit password to unlock access. Just remember to set them across each device. Speaking of devices, you can stream on unlimited devices at home and three if you’re on the road. One major drawback is the inability to create individual profiles. This oversight might make navigating multiple preferences and recordings a bit difficult.

Fubo vs DIRECTV STREAM for sports fans

Right off the bat, DIRECTV STREAM's plans get you going with the essential sports channels, starting with ESPN, ESPN2, Fox Sports 1, TBS and TNT. Upgrading to the Choice, Ultimate, or Premier plans adds a slew of channels, including the MLB Network, NBA TV, NHL Network, CBS Sports Network, Fox Sports 2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, SEC Network, ACC Network, Big Ten Network and the Tennis Channel.

Soccer fans are kept in the loop with coverage spanning the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, Premier League, Bundesliga and Liga MX. Add-ons include NBA League Pass for out-of-market coverage and a Sports Pack featuring The Outdoor Channel, NFL RedZone, SEC Network, Sportsman Channel and many more.  

For access to Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), a subscription to the Choice plan or higher is necessary. But one notable advantage here is that DIRECTV STREAM does not impose a regional sports fee.

Fubo has built an unassailable reputation as the premier sports platform, providing a front-row seat to must-see events such as the NBA Finals, Super Bowl, World Series, Olympics, College Football Playoffs and the World Cup. Its Pro plan starts you off with channels including ESPN, FS1 and Golf Channel. Upgrading to the Elite and Premier plans, expand your options with NBA TV, NHL Network and various regional networks. Unlike DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo imposes a regional sports network (RSN) fee ranging from $11 to $14 based on your location.

If you are the type of person who lives and breathes sports, the add-ons sweeten the pot. The Sports Plus with NFL RedZone add-on brings niche channels like Fight Network and Racing America into the mix. The Sports Lite add-on, featuring eight channels, including ACC Network, MLB Network and SEC Network, caters to a broad range of sports tastes. Fans of the beautiful game—a.k.a. football or soccer—will find the International Sports Plus add-on particularly appealing, offering channels such as Fox Deportes and ESPN HD Deportes.

FAQ

Is Fubo better than DIRECTV STREAM?

It all depends on your preferences. DIRECTV STREAM has unlimited recording capabilities and offers many premium channels. But Fubo has a clear advantage with a rich channel lineup and a potent sports package. 

Is DIRECTV STREAM better than Fubo for sports?

DIRECTV STREAM and Fubo boast an impressive range of sports-centric channels. DIRECTV STREAM outpaces the competition, including Fubo, by not charging a regional sports fee. However, Fubo built its reputation as a sports lover’s streaming service and has continued to bolster its offerings.  

What is the cheapest live TV streaming service?

With its basic plans starting at $40 per month, Sling TV is often touted as one of the most budget-friendly live TV streaming services on the market. On the downside, its channel pool is not as vast as competitors like DIRECTV STREAM and Fubo.