When it comes to picking the right TV package, it can get overwhelming, particularly if you’re looking for the best combination of sports, movies, and other entertainment. The DIRECTV Ultimate package is a top-rated premium TV package from DIRECTV, aimed at those who need more than the standard channels. In this in-depth guide, we’ll outline everything you need to know about the DIRECTV Ultimate Package Channel List, cost, features, and we’ll compare DIRECTV Ultimate vs Choice (2026).
What Is the DIRECTV Ultimate Package?
The DirecTV Ultimate package is a premium TV package, ranking between the Choice and Premier packages. It comes with more channels, particularly sports and movies.
According to DIRECTV:
- 160+ channels (DIRECTV via Internet/streaming version)
- Up to 270+ channels (satellite version depending on region)
- Price: $124.99 per month for 24 months (typical price)
- This may be lower for limited-time offers
This is a great TV package for families, sports enthusiasts, and film buffs looking for a more comprehensive entertainment package.
DIRECTV Ultimate Package Channel List (What You Get)
The DIRECTV Ultimate Package Channel List builds on the Choice plan, offering more specialised entertainment, movie and sports channels.
Entertainment & Movie Channels
You get more movie and/or entertainment/lifestyle channels, including:
- FX Movie Channel
- Lifetime Movie Network
- Discovery Family
- National Geographic Wild
These make the Ultimate package more attractive to consumers who love films and documentaries.
Sports Coverage (Major Highlight)
The DirecTV Ultimate package’s biggest draw is sports. It includes:
- NHL Network on DIRECTV Ultimate
- CBS Sports Network
- FS2 (Fox Sports 2)
- Golf Channel
You get live coverage, postgame shows and more. For fans of hockey, college, and other lesser-known sports leagues, this is far superior to lower packages.
Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)
This plan’s biggest perk is coverage of Regional Sports Networks (RSNs), essential for local sports teams.
- Included with Choice and up
- Coverage depends on your ZIP code
- Local NBA, MLB and NHL games
For many viewers, RSNs are the key element, particularly if you want to watch your local teams without worrying about blackouts.
Pricing & DIRECTV Price Lock 2-Year Guarantee
Cost is a major consideration for TV packages. The DIRECTV price lock 2-year guarantee means you’ll have the same base subscription price for 24 months.
| Plan | Monthly Price | Channel Count |
|---|---|---|
| DIRECTV Choice | ~$94.99/month | 125+ |
| DIRECTV Ultimate | ~$124.99/month | 160+ |
| DIRECTV Premier | ~$160+/month | 185+ |
What the Price Includes:
- Base channel lineup
- Cloud DVR access
- Streaming on multiple devices
Additional Costs:
- Regional sports fee
- Taxes and surcharges
- Optional premium channels (HBO, STARZ etc.)
Price guarantee is reassuring, particularly as TV costs keep rising.
DIRECTV Ultimate vs Choice 2026 Comparison
Knowing what the plans are is important. Here’s a brief DIRECTV Ultimate vs Choice 2026 comparison:
| Feature | Choice | Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 125+ | 160+ |
| Regional Sports Networks | ✔ | ✔ |
| Movie Channels | Basic | Expanded |
| NHL Network | ❌ | ✔ |
| CBS Sports Network | ❌ | ✔ |
| Overall Value | Budget-friendly | Content-rich |
Key Takeaway:
Ultimate is great for those looking to have more sports and movie channels, while Choice is good for those seeking to save money.
Features That Add Value
The DirecTV Ultimate plan is not only about channels but features as well:
- Unlimited Cloud DVR – Record and watch what you want
- Multiple simultaneous streams – Ideal for family viewing
- Large on-demand library
- Available on smart TVs, mobile devices and streaming devices
These factors make it a versatile and user-friendly entertainment option.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wide variety of channels
- Excellent sports channels, including DIRECTV Ultimate’s NHL Network
- Includes CBS Sports Network
- Access to Regional Sports Networks
- Price lock for 2 years
Cons
- More expensive monthly fee than Choice
- Extra fees may apply
- Premium channels require add-ons
Final Words
DIRECTV Ultimate is a comprehensive premium TV package for those seeking an enhanced television experience. It is particularly great for sports enthusiasts, as it includes Regional Sports Networks, a dedicated NHL Network on DIRECTV Ultimate and the CBS Sports Network. A side-by-side comparison of the DIRECTV Ultimate vs Choice 2026 plans reveals that Choice is the more affordable option, but Ultimate offers more content and sports coverage.
FAQs
Ans – It has up to 160 channels with more sports, film and entertainment channels.
Ans – Yes, the Ultimate package includes NHL Network.
Ans – It guarantees your monthly starting price for 24 months.
Ans – Ultimate has additional movie channels and sports channels such as CBS Sports Network.
