Best Streaming Bundles vs. Satellite TV: What's Right for Dallas?

Posted on: 30 Jul 2025

In Dallas, Texas, where sports fandom runs deep and entertainment options abound, choosing between streaming bundles and satellite TV can feel overwhelming. With teams like the Dallas Cowboys, Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars commanding loyal followings, access to local channels and regional sports networks (RSNs) is a top priority for many residents. Meanwhile, the rise of streaming services has introduced flexibility and affordability that challenge traditional satellite TV. This comprehensive guide compares the best streaming bundles and satellite TV options available in Dallas as of July 2025, focusing on channel selection, cost, features, and local relevance to help you decide which is right for you.

Introduction

Dallas is a vibrant city with a rich sports culture and diverse entertainment needs. Whether you’re cheering for a Mavericks slam dunk, catching up on local news, or binge-watching the latest series, your TV service needs to deliver. Satellite TV has long been a reliable choice, offering extensive channel lineups and robust features. However, streaming bundles have surged in popularity, providing flexibility, no-contract options, and mobile access. But which option best suits Dallas residents? This guide explores the top streaming bundles (DIRECTV STREAM, FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV) and satellite TV providers (DIRECTV, DISH Network), comparing their offerings with a focus on local channels, sports coverage, and overall value.

Satellite TV Options in Dallas

Satellite TV remains a popular choice for its reliability, especially in areas with limited internet access. In Dallas, the two major providers are DIRECTV and DISH Network. Here’s a detailed look at each.

DIRECTV

Overview: DIRECTV is a leading satellite TV provider known for its extensive channel lineup and strong sports coverage. It’s particularly appealing for Dallas sports fans due to its inclusion of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest (formerly Bally Sports Southwest), which broadcasts games for the Dallas Mavericks, Texas Rangers, and Dallas Stars.
Packages and Pricing:
- Entertainment: $64.99/month (125+ channels, including local channels).
- Choice: $84.99/month (185+ channels, including FanDuel Sports Network Southwest).
- Ultimate: $109.99/month (250+ channels, including premium options like HBO Max).
- Prices are subject to a 2-year price guarantee, with potential increases after the promotional period.
Channel Selection: Includes local channels (ABC 8 WFAA, CBS 11 KTVT, FOX 4 KDFW, NBC 5 KXAS, Telemundo 39 KXTX, CW 33 KDAF) and national sports channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and NBA TV. FanDuel Sports Network Southwest ensures coverage of local teams, though blackout restrictions may apply for some games.
Features:
- Genie HD DVR: Record up to 200 hours of content and watch on multiple devices.
- Multi-Screen View: Watch up to four games simultaneously, ideal for sports-heavy days.
- DIRECTV App: Stream live TV and on-demand content on mobile devices.
Drawbacks: Requires a satellite dish and a 2-year contract with early termination fees. Installation can be inconvenient, and weather may affect signal quality.
Streaming Alternative: DIRECTV STREAM offers the same channel lineup without a dish, making it a hybrid option for cord-cutters.

DISH Network

Overview: DISH Network is another major satellite provider, offering competitive pricing and a variety of packages. However, its lack of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest is a significant drawback for Dallas sports fans.
Packages and Pricing:
- America’s Top 120: $84.99/month (190+ channels).
- America’s Top 200: $99.99/month (240+ channels).
- America’s Top 250: $109.99/month (290+ channels).
- Promotional offers may include free premium channels or gift cards for new subscribers.
Channel Selection: Includes local channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC) but does not carry FanDuel Sports Network Southwest due to a carriage dispute since 2019. The Multi-Sport Pack ($13/month) adds national sports channels like NFL Network, MLB Network, NBA TV, and NHL Network but lacks local RSNs.
Features:
- Hopper 3 DVR: Record up to 16 shows simultaneously with 2,000 hours of storage.
- DISH Anywhere: Stream live TV and DVR recordings on mobile devices.
- AutoHop: Skip commercials on select recorded shows.
Drawbacks: The absence of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest makes it less appealing for local sports fans. Like DIRECTV, it requires a satellite dish and a 2-year contract.

Satellite TV Summary: DIRECTV is the stronger satellite option for Dallas due to its inclusion of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest. DISH Network, while feature-rich, falls short for sports enthusiasts.

Streaming Bundle Options in Dallas

Streaming services have transformed TV consumption, offering flexibility, no contracts, and multi-device access. For Dallas residents, the following streaming bundles stand out, particularly for their local channel and sports offerings.

DIRECTV STREAM

Overview: DIRECTV STREAM is the streaming version of DIRECTV, offering the same robust channel lineup without the need for a satellite dish. It’s a top choice for Dallas sports fans.
Packages and Pricing:
- Entertainment: $74.99/month (75+ channels).
- Choice: $99.99/month (105+ channels, including FanDuel Sports Network Southwest).
- Ultimate: $109.99/month (140+ channels).
Channel Selection: Includes all local channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, Telemundo, CW) and FanDuel Sports Network Southwest, ensuring coverage of Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars games. National sports channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and NBA TV are also included.
Features:
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage.
- Stream on up to 20 devices simultaneously.
- No contract required, offering flexibility to cancel anytime.
Drawbacks: No free trial, and higher-tier plans can be expensive compared to other streaming services.

FuboTV

Overview: FuboTV is a sports-centric streaming service, making it a favorite for Dallas residents who prioritize local teams. It includes FanDuel Sports Network Southwest and a strong lineup of national sports channels.
Packages and Pricing:
- Pro: $74.99/month + $10/month RSN fee (150+ channels).
- Elite: $84.99/month + RSN fee (200+ channels).
- Premier: $94.99/month + RSN fee (250+ channels).
Channel Selection: Includes local channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, Telemundo, CW) and FanDuel Sports Network Southwest. Additional sports channels include ESPN, NFL Network, NBA TV, and MLB Network.
Features:
- 1,000 hours of cloud DVR storage.
- Stream on up to 10 devices simultaneously.
- 7-day free trial for new subscribers.
Drawbacks: The RSN fee increases the cost, and some users report occasional streaming issues during peak times.

YouTube TV

Overview: YouTube TV offers a user-friendly interface and a strong selection of local channels but lacks FanDuel Sports Network Southwest, limiting its appeal for local sports fans.
Packages and Pricing: $72.99/month (100+ channels).
Channel Selection: Includes local channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC) and national sports channels like ESPN, NFL Network, and NBA TV. No FanDuel Sports Network Southwest.
Features:
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage.
- Stream on up to 3 devices (or 6 with the 4K Plus add-on for $9.99/month).
- 7-day free trial.
Drawbacks: Lack of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest is a significant drawback for Dallas sports fans.

Hulu + Live TV

Overview: Hulu + Live TV combines live TV with a vast on-demand library, bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+. However, it does not carry FanDuel Sports Network Southwest.
Packages and Pricing: $76.99/month (90+ channels, includes Disney+ and ESPN+).
Channel Selection: Includes local channels (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC) and national sports channels like ESPN and NFL Network. No FanDuel Sports Network Southwest.
Features:
- Unlimited cloud DVR storage.
- Stream on up to 2 devices (or unlimited on home network with add-on).
- 3-day free trial.
Drawbacks: No FanDuel Sports Network Southwest and a higher price point compared to some competitors.

Sling TV

Overview: Sling TV is a budget-friendly option with flexible plans but lacks FanDuel Sports Network Southwest, making it less ideal for local sports fans.
Packages and Pricing:
- Orange: $40/month (30+ channels).
- Blue: $45/month (40+ channels, includes ABC, FOX, NBC in Dallas).
- Orange + Blue: $55/month.
Channel Selection: Includes local channels in Dallas (ABC, FOX, NBC) but no FanDuel Sports Network Southwest. National sports channels like ESPN are available with the Orange plan.
Features:
- 50 hours of cloud DVR (upgradable to 200 hours for $5/month).
- Stream on up to 3 devices.
- No contract required.
Drawbacks: Limited local channel availability and no FanDuel Sports Network Southwest.

Streaming Summary: DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV are the top streaming choices for Dallas due to their inclusion of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV are better suited for general viewing but fall short for local sports.

Comparison: Streaming Bundles vs. Satellite TV

To help you decide, here’s a detailed comparison of streaming bundles and satellite TV based on key factors relevant to Dallas residents.

Factor	Streaming Bundles	Satellite TV
Cost	$40–$110/month, no contracts. Additional fees (e.g., RSN fees) may apply.	$65–$110/month, 2-year contracts with potential early termination fees.
Channel Selection	DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV include FanDuel Sports Network Southwest; others do not.	DIRECTV includes FanDuel Sports Network Southwest; DISH does not.
Local Channels	Most services include ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC in Dallas.	Both include local channels, but availability may vary by zip code.
Sports Coverage	DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV are best for local sports; others focus on national sports.	DIRECTV is strong for sports; DISH lacks local RSNs.
Flexibility	No hardware required, multi-device streaming, easy to cancel.	Requires satellite dish, less flexible due to contracts.
Features	Cloud DVR, multi-device streaming, free trials (except DIRECTV STREAM).	Advanced DVR, multi-screen viewing, but tied to physical equipment.
Reliability	Depends on internet quality; may buffer during peak times.	Reliable signal, but weather can disrupt service.

Cost

Streaming: Services like Sling TV start at $40/month, while premium options like DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV range from $74.99–$110/month. No contracts mean you can cancel anytime, and free trials (3–7 days) are common for most services except DIRECTV STREAM.
Satellite TV: DIRECTV and DISH start at $64.99–$84.99/month, with promotional pricing for the first two years. Contracts and equipment fees (e.g., dish installation) can increase costs.
Verdict: Streaming is more cost-effective for those who value flexibility, but satellite TV may offer better value for bundled services (e.g., TV + internet).

Channel Selection

Streaming: DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV provide the most comprehensive channel lineups for Dallas, including local channels and FanDuel Sports Network Southwest. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are strong for local channels and national sports but lack RSNs. Sling TV is limited in channel variety.
Satellite TV: DIRECTV offers a robust lineup with local channels and RSNs, making it ideal for sports fans. DISH’s lack of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest is a major drawback.
Verdict: DIRECTV STREAM, FuboTV, and DIRECTV are the best for local sports; other streaming services are better for general entertainment.

Flexibility

Streaming: No hardware or contracts make streaming highly flexible. You can watch on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and more, with cloud DVR for recording.
Satellite TV: Requires a satellite dish and long-term contracts, limiting flexibility. Streaming options like DISH Anywhere are available but less seamless than pure streaming services.
Verdict: Streaming wins for flexibility and ease of use.

Features

Streaming: Cloud DVR (unlimited for most services), multi-device streaming, and mobile apps enhance the viewing experience. Features like FuboTV’s multi-game viewing are tailored for sports fans.
Satellite TV: Advanced DVR systems (e.g., Hopper 3) and multi-screen viewing are strong, but they’re tied to physical equipment. Weather can disrupt satellite signals.
Verdict: Streaming offers more modern, user-friendly features.

Dallas-Specific Considerations

Sports: FanDuel Sports Network Southwest is critical for watching Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars games. DIRECTV STREAM, FuboTV, and DIRECTV are the only options that include this RSN.
Local Channels: All major services (except Sling TV in some cases) offer Dallas local channels, ensuring access to news and events.
Internet Reliability: Streaming requires a stable internet connection (at least 25 Mbps for HD streaming). Rural Dallas residents may prefer satellite TV for consistent service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch local channels with streaming services in Dallas?
Yes, DIRECTV STREAM, FuboTV, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV offer local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC in Dallas. Sling TV includes ABC, FOX, and NBC in the Blue plan.
Which streaming service is best for sports in Dallas?
DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV are the best for local sports, as they carry FanDuel Sports Network Southwest for Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars games.
Does DISH Network carry FanDuel Sports Network Southwest?
No, DISH Network has not carried FanDuel Sports Network Southwest (formerly Bally Sports Southwest) since 2019 due to a carriage dispute.
Are there free trials for streaming services?
Yes, FuboTV (7 days), YouTube TV (7 days), and Hulu + Live TV (3 days) offer free trials. DIRECTV STREAM does not currently offer a free trial.
Can I bundle streaming services with internet in Dallas?
Some providers, like AT&T, offer bundles with internet and streaming services (e.g., DIRECTV STREAM). Check with local ISPs for specific deals.
What about blackout restrictions for sports?
Blackout restrictions may apply to local games on FanDuel Sports Network Southwest, depending on national broadcast agreements. Check with your provider for details.
Is satellite TV better for rural Dallas areas?
Yes, satellite TV (DIRECTV, DISH) is more reliable in areas with limited internet access, as streaming requires a strong connection.
Can I watch Cowboys games with these services?
Cowboys games are typically on local channels (FOX, CBS, NBC) or national networks (ESPN, NFL Network), available on all listed services. Out-of-market games may require NFL Sunday Ticket (available via DIRECTV).

Conclusion

For Dallas residents, the choice between streaming bundles and satellite TV hinges on your priorities. If local sports are a must, DIRECTV STREAM and FuboTV stand out for their inclusion of FanDuel Sports Network Southwest, ensuring you catch every Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars game. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV are excellent for general viewing, offering local channels and on-demand content, but they lack RSNs. Sling TV is a budget-friendly option but falls short for sports fans.

Among satellite providers, DIRECTV is the clear winner over DISH Network due to its RSN coverage. However, satellite TV’s long-term contracts and equipment requirements may deter those seeking flexibility. Streaming services offer no-contract options, free trials, and multi-device access, making them ideal for modern viewers.

Consider your budget, internet reliability, and viewing preferences when choosing. For sports enthusiasts, DIRECTV STREAM or FuboTV are likely the best fit. For general entertainment, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV provide robust options. Visit directv.com, fubo.tv, or dish.com to explore current promotions and start watching today!