Overall, we think this is an epic combo, considering that CenturyLink is on our list of the best internet companies and DIRECTV makes the cut for the best satellite TV providers. But, the question is, which CenturyLink bundle is best for you? We’ll go over our four favorite options in this article. But first, a few tips on how to choose the perfect TV and internet package. 1. Make sure you have enough internet speed Not all high speed internet is created equally. There’s a world of difference between 50 Mbps download speeds and 500 Mbps download speeds. Here are a few guidelines to help you figure out how much speed you really need. Recommended download speed depending on your household size: 2. Compare TV channel options It’s not so easy to parse out which TV package is right for you when there are literally hundreds of channels to compare (not to mention choosing between extra features, like HD DVR and sports channel packages). Still, it’s worth it to look closely at the channel list on each DIRECTV plan to make sure it has everything you need. You might be surprised to see that some favorites—like the NFL network or Sundance TV—aren’t included in lower tiered packages. If you don’t want to sift through all the channels yourself, check out this guide from our TV expert Chantel Buchi. 3. Compare pricing The best way to figure out the best bundle deal is to compare prices with plans from other providers in your area. You can do that by using the zip code tool below, or by reading our roundup of the best TV, internet, and phone bundles. On the TV side of things you’ll have a DIRECTV plan with over 165 channels, including favorites like Disney Channel, HGTV, USA, TNT, ESPN, and CNN. All this for under $120 a month. That’s a pretty darn good deal (though it doesn’t necessarily beat bundle deals from Verizon, Frontier, and other providers). For those who need the best available internet speeds, we recommend the CenturyLink Internet Fiber Gigabit and DIRECTV Choice All included bundle. While DIRECTV’s channel offerings are nothing to sneeze at here, the real appeal of this bundle is CenturyLinks fiber internet connection. It can get you download speeds up to 940 Mbps (and upload speeds that are nearly as fast). Comparing these fiber internet speeds to CenturyLink’s normal DSL internet speeds (or even cable internet speeds from companies like Spectrum) is like comparing a Honda Civic to a Lamborghini. It ain’t a fair race. And with this plan you don’t really end up paying much more than you would for 100 Mbps internet. The big catch is that this super high speed internet plan from CenturyLink isn’t available in most areas. We hope to see CenturyLink expand its fiber coverage in the coming years (In the meantime you can check out other fiber internet providers that may have better coverage in your area). If you answered yes to any of those questions, then we’ve got the perfect bundle for you: DIRECTV Premier All Included and CenturyLink DSL internet. The internet plan that comes with this bundle isn’t the most powerful. It will get you up to 100 Mbps download speeds (depending on where you live and other factors) and won’t have the fast upload speeds that a fiber connection would get you. But this CenturyLink internet should still be plenty for everyday activities, like streaming Netflix and browsing. This triple play bundle gets you CenturyLink’s DSL internet, a home phone plan with unlimited nationwide calling, and a DIRECTV package with over 250 channels, including HBO, Disney Channel, Sundance TV, and so many others. With this bundle you’ll have your entire home outfitted for entertainment and communication for under $170 a month. That’s a darn good deal, when you think about it (just try adding up what you currently pay for the three services separately).
Best Budget Bundle: The DIRECTV Entertainment and CenturyLink internet double play bundle gets you everything you need for less than $120 a month. Best High Speed Internet Bundle: Pick up the DIRECTV Choice and CenturyLink Fiber Internet bundle for incredible data speeds that will keep you gaming, streaming, Zooming, and browsing without lag or buffering. Best Bundle for TV Lovers: If you want hundreds of TV channels, including dozens of premier and specialty channels, then go with the DIRECTV Premier and CenturyLink internet bundle. Best Triple Play Bundle: You can get internet, phone, and TV service for under $170 a month with the DIRECTV Ultimate, CenturyLink internet, and CenturyLink Home Phone triple play bundle.
