What Channels Do You Get With Basic Directv

Basic DIRECTV: Is It Even Worth It? (A Questionable Opinion)

Okay, let’s talk DIRECTV. Specifically, the "basic" package. You know, the one that’s advertised like it's brimming with entertainment gold?

Spoiler alert: It's…well, let's just say my expectations and reality had a major disconnect. Did I get more than antennas, that's great, right?

The Land of "Basic" Channels

So, what exactly do you get? You get the main networks, ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox. Which, let's be honest, you could probably snag with a decent antenna these days, right?

Then there are a smattering of other channels. Think local access, maybe a shopping network, and a channel dedicated entirely to showing static… okay, maybe not entirely static. Sometimes there's a test pattern!

Don't forget C-SPAN! If you're really into following governmental proceedings, you're in heaven. Me? I'd rather watch paint dry.

The "Thrill" of the Guide

Navigating the guide is an adventure in itself. You scroll. And scroll. And scroll some more. All to find… another shopping network. Joy!

It's like a digital treasure hunt where the treasure is always a slightly less interesting version of something you've already seen. Unless you're searching for educational and government channels like PBS.

And the channel numbers! Why are they so high? It's like DIRECTV is trying to make you feel like you're getting more than you actually are. “Look, channel 287! What could that be?” Oh, it’s a looped infomercial for a vegetable slicer. Disappointment.

My Unpopular Opinion (Brace Yourselves)

Here it comes: I think basic DIRECTV is a relic of a bygone era. Back when streaming wasn’t king, and antennas were banished to the attic. Now, it's difficult to see its value.

I know, I know, some people need it for local channels. And I respect that. But for the price? You could probably subscribe to two or three streaming services and have way more to watch. Or just use a digital antenna.

Plus, those streaming services have original content. You know, shows and movies that weren't made in 1982 and haven't been shown a million times already! It is just my two cents though.

Is There Anything Good About It?

Okay, okay, I’m being harsh. There's one good thing. It's a relatively inexpensive way to get local channels if you live in an area where an antenna just won't cut it.

And sometimes, just sometimes, you stumble upon a gem. Like that time I caught a marathon of old episodes of The Twilight Zone on some random channel I didn't even know existed. That was worth it.

But mostly, it's a lot of static, shopping networks, and C-SPAN. So, choose wisely, my friends. Choose wisely.

The Alternatives Are Calling

Honestly, with so many streaming options available, I think basic DIRECTV is about to become a dinosaur. A big, clunky, cable-covered dinosaur.

And who wants a dinosaur when you can have a sleek, streaming velociraptor? (Okay, maybe that analogy got away from me a little bit.)

Do your research. Compare the costs. And ask yourself: Do I really need to watch that many infomercials for vegetable slicers? I think not.

Final Thoughts: A Plea to DIRECTV

DIRECTV, if you're listening, please revamp your basic package. Throw in a few more decent channels. Maybe a streaming service subscription. Give us something to get excited about!

Otherwise, I fear your basic package will continue to be the forgotten stepchild of the television world.

And nobody wants to be the forgotten stepchild. Except maybe Cinderella. But she had a fairy godmother. And I don't think DIRECTV is planning on giving us one of those.