[relaxitup]

I haven't tried the Spectrum TV streaming service. I'm recently on the one month DTVN trial, and I've actually been quite happy with the mix of channels offered by DirecTV Now, whilst no DVR, and half way decent on demand (although not even close to the on demand provided by the corresponding individual channel TVEverywhere app). It offers ESPN1/2, all the Viacom channels, a good news lineup, OK locals (depending on your region) and a pretty good lineup for the younger kids (Disney Jr, Nick Jr etc), plus essentials like AMC, AE, TNT, et al, all on their entry level $35 plan. The quality of picture and streaming consistency has been excellent on the Roku 3 app, and haven't noticed any buffering problems aside from the normal few seconds when you load a channel. You can access the app away from home (excepting locals if out of region), and you can use DirecTV Now as authentication for any TVEverywhere channel app for which is included in your plan. HBO (or Cinemax) is $5/mo, and you get access to HBO Go with that. I don't have any affiliation with DirecTV Now, I just think it's gotten kind of a bad wrap with the likely premature rollout of the service where most everyone complained of near useless functionality and constant buffering etc. I just haven't seen any of that. Yes there is no DVR, and the UI leaves a lot to be desired and lacks polish, but I think it's the best bang for your buck for a TV service for the entire family, where everyone gets most of what they want, for a very competitive price point.