DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT Package Review

DIRECTV’s first plan, ENTERTAINMENT is one of the lowest-priced packages in the satellite industry. That’s not to say it’s content-thin or undervalued, though. In fact, DIRECTV has done a remarkably strong job at including the majority of the top channels and networks in this package. If you’re switching from cable (or DISH) or just want to maximize your savings, give this plan a serious look.

Entertainment Plan Features

• Over 165 all-digital, high-demand channels
• All-Included price of $64.99/mo (Free HD, DVR and receivers for up to 4 rooms)
• Free HBO, SHOWTIME, STARZ and Cinemax for 3 full months
• Free Genie DVR system + 3 Genie minis for additional TVs
• Over 4,000 On Demand shows and movies included
• Free Local Channels
• Standard Professional Installation included

Ideal for…

Folks that don’t watch a lot of TV or new DIRECTV customers that want to start slow. The ENTERTAINMENT package hasn’t been around as long as DIRECTV’s other packages — they launched it a few years ago to compete with DISH’s America’s Top 120 plan ($79.99/mo for 190 ch)… and they hit the nail square on the head. With roughly the same programming (when you subtract about 60 Sirius XM radio channels from DISH), it’s neck-and-neck between the two plans.

Total Cost (no extra fees)

$64.99/mo (discounted pricing for 2 years)

Final Thoughts

If you’re new to DIRECTV (or, for that matter, satellite TV), figuring out which plan suits you the best isn’t all that easy. On top of that, if you’re on a budget, your options get a bit more limited. Well, that’s where the DIRECTV ENTERTAINMENT Plan fits in well for a lot of subscribers. It’s the second-most inexpensive of the lot and at 150 all-digital channels, it doesn’t compromise (e.g., the Flex Plan from Dish Network starts at a very low $29.99/mo, but only includes 50 channels). Bottom line, DIRECTV makes it very easy to upgrade or downgrade plans, so if you’re uncertain, save some cash by going with the ENTERTAINMENT package and, in a month or two, decide if you need more channel options.

What does Entertainment really cost?

Since it's the smallest plan and it doesn't have regional sports networks (RSNs), it's also the only DIRECTV plan that doesn't included an added RSN fee. So, the only fee that applies is an Advanced Receiver fee of $15/mo. You can save an easy $10/mo if you setup autopay with paperless billing. Here's the pricing for Entertainment with 1 TV and autopay...