Choosing the Right DStv Package in 2026

Updated January 2026 by DSTV Installer Centurion

DStv offers several subscription packages at different price points, each with a different channel lineup. Choosing the right one depends on what you watch, how many people in your household need entertainment, and your budget. Here’s a practical overview to help you decide.

DStv Package Overview

DStv Premium: The full package. Every channel DStv offers, including all SuperSport channels, all movie channels (M-Net, kykNET, etc.), international entertainment, documentaries, kids’ channels, and music. This is the package for households where sport is non-negotiable and multiple family members have different viewing preferences.

DStv Compact Plus: A solid mid-range option that includes most popular entertainment and movie channels, some SuperSport channels (but not all — notably missing some Premier League and rugby channels), and a good selection of local and international content.

DStv Compact: Good value for general entertainment. Includes popular channels like 1Magic, Mzansi Magic, Lifetime, Discovery, and some sport. Missing the premium movie and sport channels.

DStv Family: Budget-friendly package focused on local entertainment, kids’ programming, and basic international channels. Good for households that mainly watch local content and kids’ shows.

DStv Access: The entry-level package. Limited channel selection but very affordable. Includes SABC channels, e.tv, and a small selection of entertainment and kids’ channels.

Our Advice

The best package is the one that matches your actual viewing habits, not the one with the most channels. We see many households paying for Premium when Compact Plus would cover everything they actually watch. Start with a package you think suits your needs — you can always upgrade or downgrade month to month through the MyDStv app.

One important note: your DStv package choice is completely independent of your decoder type and installation. Whether you have a basic HD decoder or an Explora Ultra, any package works on any decoder. The decoder determines your features (recording, streaming, etc.) while the package determines your available channels.

If you need help with any DStv installation in Centurion, from new setups to upgrades and repairs, contact us on 060 018 0602.