DirecTV Stream is referred to as an OTT (over the top) streaming service. That means you can gain access to over 120 live channels without the need for a major satellite or cable provider like DirecTV, Dish Network, Comcast, Time Warner, or others. You can stream to mobile devices, computers, or other media players. The service works well if you are located in the US. However, if you are traveling abroad or don’t live in the US, you would need a VPN.
| Rank | VPN Service | Price | Visit | Server Locations | No Logs | Browser Extensions | Smart DNS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | $6.67 |  | 160 |  | | |
| 2 |  | $3.49 | | 87 | | | |
| 3 |  | $2.19 | | 110 | | | |
| 4 |  | $3.99 | | 73 | | ||
| 5 |  | $3.66 | | 46 | |
When compared to other services like Sling TV or fuboTV, DirecTV Stream has a good deal starting at only $35/mo. USD. Sadly, the service only allows for 2 streams at the same time. Though it is possible that number may increase in the future, we do not know if that is likely. Remember if you are streaming on your phone, you want to be near a Wifi connection or have an unlimited data plan.
Let’s take a look at some of the great American channels you have access to for the basic price.
- A&E – Live and VOD (Video on Demand).
- ABC – VOD
- Animal Planet – Live
- BET – Live and VOD
- BBC America– Live and VOD
- Cartoon Network – Live and VOD
- CNN – Live and VOD
- Discovery – Live and VOD
- Disney Channel – Live and VOD
- ESPN – Live and VOD
All of these channels and many more are available in the basic package they offer. There are 3 more levels that go up in price. Each package upgrade increases the number of channels by at least 20. In addition, you can add other popular channels like HBO, Cinemax, and Starz to any package you choose. That is great for those that enjoy a certain medieval style show found on HBO or any other shows found there. Strangely, there are a few channels that are only available on the lowest level.
If you live outside the US or you live there and are traveling abroad, you would need a VPN. That is because of geo-restrictions enforced by companies. Due to licensing reasons, DirecTV Stream is only available in the US and the US territories. By connecting to a server there, you can sign up for service. You would also need to connect to a server there to be able to use the service.
Which VPN service you choose depends on your goals. There are some good suggestions we have that will make things simple. If your goal is to only make sure you can watch all the channels, have a look at ExpressVPN MediaStreamer. Their Smart DNS service will help you unblock any geo-restrictions you may encounter without any encryption overhead. If your goal is more security oriented, you’ll still want to check out ExpressVPN. They have a kill switch feature, and they do not keep any activity logs. You will have full access to both services and can switch between them anytime.
Both of these options will still unblock content. The ones we just mentioned are great options. We chose them based on speed, server locations, reliability, functionality, and even price. You’ll also want to make sure you can easily connect and stream before you travel. Feel free to check out our top 10 VPN services list for other choices.