Cox Cable vs DirecTV – Our Comparison 2024

Cox and DirecTV are arguably two of the best cable tv providers in the TV landscape, and with both companies delivering excellent services, deciding which of them comes top will be pretty tough, but that’s what we are here for. As you already know, we don’t shy away from any challenge. Read on as we explore these big guns and see how they both stack up against one another.

Hopefully, today’s post will provide you with all the information that will help you decide for sure which TV provider is right for you. Let’s get on with it, shall we?

Cox Cable TV

Cox is not your regular TV service provider, as they have set the bar pretty high. As the third-largest cable provider in the US, Cox boasts of having over 6 million subscribers and rake in revenue from three million customers every month.

Besides their impressive TV service, which has earned them a lot of accolades in this industry, Cox is also renowned for delivering impeccable internet and phone services.

Just recently, the company launched a powerful Contour TV product that lets users’ record six shows simultaneously while allowing you to stream on Apple’s iPad. Let us also add that Cox recently commenced selling wireless services through Verizon.

Featuring seven impressive packages including the cheapest, TV Economy, and the most expensive, Advanced TV Ultimate, Cox TV customers are in for a fantastic time. And thanks to their reasonable pricing, you’ll find a package that works for you. Their base package costs $34.99 per month for 260 channels and goes as high as $143.99 per month for 390 channels.

Also, keep in mind that you’ll incur extra cost for equipment and add-ons. The icing on the cake is that most Cox TV plan grants you access to HD channels. However, with their Economy plan, you’ll not get access to on-demand titles or their Whole Home DVR service.

For people who never fancy the idea of signing a contract or just don’t want a satellite dish installed on their roofs, you’re welcome to give Cox cable TV a try.

Pros and cons

Cox TV has a lot of amazing things going on for them. That said, they also have a couple of letdown you should know. Here, check out some of their pros and cons.

Pros

• Massive Channel selections
• Does not require a contract
• Reliable TV provider with wide coverage

Cons

• It’s a tad more expensive than the competition
• Isn’t as available as DirecTV

DirecTV

DirecTV has built an impenetrable fortress in the TV industry; and as long as they continue offering brilliant TV services to their customers, they will remain a force to reckon with in the TV landscape. As one of the largest satellite TV providers in the United States, DirecTV is trusted by over 20 million subscribers. That said, DirecTV owns the exclusive right for NFL Sunday Ticket, this explains why the company has become the number one choice for sports enthusiasts who don’t want to miss a single game from their favorite team.

But while DirecTV’s claim to fame revolves around their excellent sports programming, the company still features lots of impressive channels that air diverse content. And let’s not forget to add that DirecTV boasts of having the most HD channels. This has made them the go-to choice for Hi-def fans with a knack for the sharpest image quality.

Like Cox, DirecTV offers lots of exciting packages. With five amazing plans up for grabs, we are sure you’ll find one that works for you. Their basic package starts from $29.99 per month, with their premium package going for as high as $99.99 per month. Here is a list of all the packages offered by DirecTV, along with the channels they offer;

• Entertainment, 140 channels
• Choice, 150+ channels
• Extra, 205 channels
• Ultimate, 205 channels
• Premiere, 285 channels

Please keep in mind that the prices we have mentioned above are exclusively for every package and does not cover for the cost of equipment and add-ons.

Pros and cons

Without mincing words, DirecTV has built a solid reputation for offering impeccable TV services to its customers. But guess what, they also have a few glitches you should know. Read on as we explore some pros and cons of DirecTV.

Pros

• Fantastic sports programming
• Massive coverage area
• Reasonable pricing, better than the competition

Cons

• Requires customers to sign a contract
• Potential price hike after the first year
• Prone to weather interruptions

Cox vs. DirecTV: Installation and bundling

Cox Installation process

When it comes to the installation process, Cox puts the power right in your hand as they provide you with two options for installing their services in your home or office. You can either opt for their professional installation services or do it yourself. And remember that you can purchase Cox from a location close to you or order online and have their equipment shipped to you.

Cox charges a one-time professional installation fee of $60. But if you think this is too much for you to bear, then we advise you to explore their self-installation option that costs only $30. Also, keep in mind that you’ll pay an extra $5 for every device, and that includes HD receiver, Whole Home HD Receiver, and CableCard.

We would also like to add that Cox offers free installation for some bundled services, so for people who want to keep things on a low, we advise you to explore this option.

DirecTV installation process

DirecTV’s installation process can be quite technical, and unlike Cox, DirecTV doesn’t offer a self-installation option. Meaning you’ll have to get a pro to help set everything up for you. But the good part is that DirecTV doesn’t charge you anything for installation, so you don’t have to worry about incurring extra cost for installation.

Our major issue with DirecTV is that you can experience poor signal quality due to bad weather. More so, you may live in a rented apartment where the landlord doesn’t let tenants install equipment on his/her property. Put that aside, and DirecTV will still come top.

Cox cable vs. DirecTV: Bundled services

There are a lot of things that no matter how much we complain, we can’t avoid it. Things like taxes, wrinkles, paying your monthly TV, internet, and phone bills can be quite unavoidable. But while utility bills may be unavoidable, you can make the process smooth and less stressful by bundling services together.

Thankfully, both Cox and DirecTV offer their customers lots of incredible bundle deals they can’t refuse. As one of the largest cable and internet companies in America, Cox lets you bundle TV, internet, and phone services, making paying your monthly utility bills a stroll in the park. If all you have ever wanted is to be able to pay all your bills in one place, then rest assured that Cox has you covered.

Like Cox, DirecTV lets you bundle TV and internet services. And although the company is primarily focused on offering quality satellite TV service, its partnership with AT&T means they now offer amazing bundle deals you’ll love. With DirecTV, you can bundle quality TV service with a flawless internet connection. And the cool thing about bundling services is that it comes with lots of amazing discounts that help you save more.

In terms of bundling, Cox stands taller, as they offer more bundling deals than you’ll ever get on DirecTV. So if bundling is your thing, then Cox has you covered.

Cox vs. DirecTV: Channel Comparison

When it comes to channel selections, DirecTV’s rise to fame is centered on its impeccable sports programming. Today, DirecTV offers its customer exclusive access to a massive selection of sports channels, including exclusive rights to the famous NFL Sunday ticket you’ll not get on other TV service providers.

For football lovers, NFL Sunday Ticket offers the best football programming you’ll ever come across, and we doubt you’ll want to pass on this amazing offer. And if you aren’t a sports fan, DirecTV still has you covered as they feature a healthy channel count where you can watch all your favorite TV shows and movies. Not just that, DirecTV also grants you access to some of the best premium channels, including Cinemax and HBO.

For channel surfers, we are sure that you’ll fall in love with Cox, especially after learning that Cox has more channel count than DirecTV. And we love the fact that Cox offers its customers a lot of variety to choose from. From news to movies to lifestyle to sports and more, Cox offers brilliant channel selections you’ll love.

But while Cox doesn’t have an exclusive right to NFL Sunday Ticket, Cox still offers its customers a brilliant selection of sports channels, including big names like MLB Network, NFL Network, and even Tennis channel. That’s not all; Cox also features a remarkable selection of premium channels, including HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime. And for people who want to get the best out of their TV subscription, we are happy to let you know that Cox offers access to thousands of on-demand titles you can watch all day long.

Overall, there aren’t a lot of complaints regarding Cox channel selections, and we are sure you’ll love everything they offer.

Cox TV vs. DirecTV: Packages

With Cox, there is a plan for everyone. So if you’re on a budget but still want to catch up with your favorite TV programs, you’ll find their TV Starter package worth giving a try. This amazing package starts at $25 per month and unlocks access to 75 channels. And you know what, there is a special three months promo you can jump on.

However, if this package doesn’t do it for you, you can try the Cox Contour Flex package. While this package is very similar to what you get with the TV Starter package from Cox, it bundles TV and internet service. With this package, you’ll unlock access to 75 channels, along with a 30 Mbps internet speed. Looking at what you get with this package, you’ll agree that $69.99 isn’t too much to pay.

To take things up a notch, you can explore the all amazing Contour TV package that unlocks access to 140 exotic channels. Along with premium channels like HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz, and more, this package has everything you love, plus it only costs $64.99 to get plugged.

Saving the best for the last; the Contour TV Ultimate package is the game-changer and offers lots of unique channels you’ll love. With over 390 channels up for grabs, including top premium channels, this package is just what you need to keep up with your favorite TV programs. For only $125.99 per month, you can start enjoying this plan right away.

DirecTV also has a base plan that is perfect for people who are on a budget. With DirecTV’s Select plan, you’ll unlock access to 155 channels you can start streaming right away. Amazingly, this package is not expensive and sells for only $59.99 per month. The cool thing with this package is that you can watch some of your favorite TV shows and movies in crisp HD quality. Out of the 155 channels on this package, you can watch 50 of them in HD. Also, this package unlocks free access to premium channels like Starz, HBO, Cinemax, and Showtime for three months. It doesn’t stop there as you also get to enjoy a free Genie upgrade.

While this deal is mouthwatering, please keep in mind that additional fees for equipment and services apply, so you should have this at the back of your mind before you subscribe.

For people who love lifestyle programs, the Entertainment package from DirecTV has everything you want to explore. This package offers you a complete viewing experience with more than 160 channels jam-packed with excellent programming. Thankfully, the package isn’t on the high side and sells for $64.99 per month.

If you’re a sports fan who wants to keep up with your favorite sporting event, you can check out DirecTV’s Choice package. This awesome package grants access to the famous NFL Sunday Ticket. With over 185 channels available to stream, the Choice package from DirecTV will make a decent choice for avid sports lovers.

Other packages from DirecTV include the Xtra, Ultimate, and Premier packages.

Contour TV vs. DirecTV: On-demand content

Contour TV is on top of its game when it comes to offering quality on-demand content. With Contour TV on-demand, you can relax and enjoy an amazing night all by yourself or with your loved ones. Thanks to Cox Movies on-demand, you can now order trending releases along with your favorite classics without ever leaving the comfort of your couch. Amazingly, Cox On-demand is big on variety, so you’ll definitely find a movie for yourself and your loved ones. With access to thousands of movies, Cox on-demand ensures they are up to date with the latest releases as many of their titles are available even before they hit Netflix or Redbox.

Like Contour TV, DirecTV also boasts of a massive library of on-demand content. With more than 50,000 on-demand titles waiting for you, you and your loved ones can relax and enjoy a lovely evening. More so, DirecTV does an impressive work of keeping its on-demand content fresh, meaning you’ll find the latest releases as they hit the cinemas.

DirecTV vs. Cox: Price Comparison

DirecTV and Cox have a lot going for them. From brilliant channel selections to excellent DVR and more, these two big shots are doing everything possible to stay ahead of the competition. That said, both of these providers offer some of the most competitive pricing you’ll see in this industry. Read on as we compare pricing and packages offered by both providers and see which of them come top.

Cost of TV services

Before deciding which of these TV providers is what giving a try, it’s important to consider the cost of TV service. Thankfully, both TV providers offer amazing packages with reasonable pricing you can explore. For Cox TV, their base package starts at $25 for their TV starter package and go as high as $125 for the Contour TV Ultimate package.

For DirecTV, their packages range from $59.99 to $134.99. Check out a detailed breakdown of packages offered by these two providers along with their unique pricing.

Contour TV packages

• TV starter package: Features over 75 channels and cost just $25 to get started.
• Contour Flex: The unique thing about this package is that it bundles internet and TV services. With this package, you’ll enjoy access to 75 channels along with a decent 30 Mbps internet connection. The package sells for $69.99
• Contour TV: With over 140 exotic channels waiting for you when you choose this package, you can keep up with your favorite TV programming. And you know what, it only cost $65 per month to subscribe to this package.
• Contour TV Ultimate: The Contour TV Ultimate package sells for $125.99 and offers access to 390 channels, including premium channels like HBO, Cinemax, and more.

DirecTV packages

• Select package: This package from DirecTV my not be the best in the industry, but it offers access to fantastic channels you’ll love. Priced at $59.99, this package has over 155 channels; you can start watching right away.
• Entertainment package: Finally, you can watch TV the way you have always wanted. With this powerful and cheap cheap DirecTV plan, you’ll enjoy over 160 channels for just .99.
• Choice package: For avid sports lovers, this is the package for you. Thanks to this package, you can now watch your favorite sporting events, including the famous NFL Sunday Ticket. With over 185 channels on this package, you’ll never run out of what to watch. Plus, it only cost $69.99 to subscribe to this package.
• Xtra package: This is another brilliant package from DirecTV. The Xtra package from DirecTV features well over 234 channels and cost just $79.99 per month.
• Ultimate package: DirecTV has listened to their customers cry for more and launched the Ultimate package that offers users access to 250+ unique channels. Like other packages from DirecTV, this package is affordable and costs just $84.99 per month.
• Premier Package: This top tier package from DirecTV offers users exclusive access to over 330 quality channels and costs only $134.99

DirecTV vs. Cox: Cost of Equipment and DVR

Still on the issue of pricing, DirecTV has been pretty upfront with its customer regarding extra charges. And unlike other providers that require their customers to pay extra for receivers, DirecTV includes the price of its main receiver as part of the price you initially paid for their services. That said, if you want additional receivers, you’ll have to pay an extra $7 per month for every additional receiver.

On the flip side, Cox Contour TV charges a slightly higher fee than DirecTV for its receivers. With Cox, you’ll pay an extra $8.50 for every additional receiver.

When it comes to DVR, DirecTV offers users access to its flagship Genie DVR. With this powerful DVR, you can record up to 6 shows simultaneously. Plus, their DVR service is free, so you don’t have to worry about paying an extra DVR service fee.

With Cox, there are two DVR options you can explore. There is a unique DVR that lets you record six shows simultaneously and another that lets you record two shows at a time. The former will cost you $21.49 per month, while the latter costs $28.49.

Contracts and cancellation

One of the things we don’t admire about DirecTV is that they require their customers to sign a two-year contract. And if you ever decide you’re no longer interested in their services, you’ll be required to pay an early termination fee, which can sometimes be as high as $400, depending on the number of months remaining on your contract.

With Cox, there is no contract, so you don’t have to worry about paying an early termination fee if you decide you’re no longer interested in their services. But make sure you return their equipment to avoid paying equipment fees.

Frequently asked questions

Does DirecTV offer its customers contracts?

Just like many TV service providers in the TV landscape, DirecTV offers its customers a two-year contract.

Is DirecTV good for sports?

DirecTV offers some of the best sports channels you’ll see in the TV industry. They are renowned for offering their customers’ access to the famous NFL Sunday Ticket.

Does Cox offer on-demand content?

Cox features brilliant on-demand content you can’t get enough of. With thousands of on-demand titles available to stream, you’ll always have something to watch.

Does cox have sports content?

Cox isn’t lacking when it comes to sports. The company has a lot of amazing sports channels, including two special sports paks you can add to your regular Cox package.

Conclusion

Contour TV and DirecTV remain a force to reckon with in the TV landscape. With lots of exceptional channels, along with decent DVR and reasonable pricing, you’ll find it pretty tough deciding which of them to opt for. To decide for sure which of these providers is perfect for you, we suggest you take your time to explore all they have to offer.