For years, DSTV has been the dominant player in Nigeria’s pay-TV market, offering a wide range of channels and exclusive content. However, its high subscription fees have left many Nigerians seeking DSTV Alternatives in Nigeria.
Multichoice, on Wednesday, April 17, increased the prices of its offerings in Nigeria four months after its last increment. The new prices took effect on May 1, 2024. With the latest price hike, the DStv Premium package increased from N29,500 to N37,000. Similarly, the DStv Compact+ went up from N19,800 to N25,000 while the Compact package increased from N12,500 to N15,700. Furthermore, the Confam package moved from N7,400 to N9,300.
The Yanga package moved up from 4,200 to N5,100 while the Padi package increased from N2,950 to N3,600. In addition, HDPVR was increased from N4,000 to N5,000, the Access Fees package from N4,000 to N5,000, and XtraView moved from N4,000 to N5,000.
Gotv Supa+ package moved from N12,500 to N15,700, the Supa package from N7,600 to N9,600, and Max package from N5,700 to N7,200. Finally, the Jolli package was increased from N3,950 to N4,850, the Jinja package moved from N2,700 to N3,300, and the Smallie package from N1,300 to N1,575.
With the rise of digital technology and streaming services, Nigerians now have access to a plethora of options that offer quality entertainment, sports, and news at a fraction of the cost. From local cable TV providers to international streaming platforms, the choices are endless.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best DSTV alternatives for Nigerians, exploring their features, pricing, and package offerings. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, movie buff, or news junkie, we’ll help you discover affordable options that meet your viewing needs.
Some of the key alternatives we’ll discuss include:
1. Star Times
2. Satellite Television (SLTV)
3. Android TV Box
4. Amazon Fire Stick
5. The Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)
Join us as we explore the world of affordable pay-TV options in Nigeria and discover how you can save money without sacrificing quality entertainment.
1. Star Times
Star Times is a subscription-based television service that has revolutionized the Pay Television industry in Nigeria. StarTimes Nigeria provides televised content via a Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) Network service that supports both the Terrestrial TV (DTT) Service and Satellite TV (DTH).
The company, a major player in the Asian country’s Pay-TV market, has a considerable market share in some African countries, including Nigeria and Kenya. The company has also recently secured the non-exclusive broadcast rights for the Spanish topflight league, LaLiga EA Sports and LaLiga Hypermotion, for the next five seasons.
You Can Also Read: How To Sell Products On Tiktok / Make Your Business Profitable
Star Times is known for its diverse channel offerings, including news, music, movies, and football content, Star Times presents a viable alternative to DStv with its considerable market share in Nigeria. Now, let’s check out the features of Star Times.
Key Features of Star Times
- Digital quality picture
- Digital quality audio
- Fully DVB-t2 and DVB-t Compliant
- Digital quality picture
- Simple remote control
- Friendly user interface
- Automatic software upgrade
- It has the ability to edit your favorite channels
- Parental control
- Easy to use
- HD capable
StarTimes packages and channels: It is categorized into two major packages which are the Star Times antenna bouquet and Star Times disk (DTH) bouquet:
a. StarTimes antenna bouquets:
The StarTimes antenna bouquets offer customers three (3) bouquets to choose from using antenna signal transmission:
i. Nova Bouquet – ₦1,500 per month: The Nova Bouquet costs 1500 Naira per month and is the cheapest StarTimes antenna bouquet. Here are the StarTimes channels available for Nova bouquet subscribers:
AMC, AWA TV, CGTN, CNC World, Dove TV, Emmanuel TV, E-Stars, Farin Wata, Galaxy TV, Iqraa, Jimjam, Liberty, Nigbati TV, NTA Hausa, NTA Igbo, NTA Knowledge, NTA News 24, NTA Yoruba, Orisun, Plus TV Africa, Rave TV, ST Dadin Kowa, ST Guide, ST Kungfu, ST Real Time, ST Sports Focus, TVBC, TVC NG, WAP TV, Wazobia TV.
ii. Basic Bouquet – ₦2,600 per month
At 2,600 Naira a month, the StarTimes Basic bouquet sits right between the Nova and Classic bouquets. Here are the channels that the Basic Bouquet subscribers get:
You Can Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide On How To Export Agricultural Produce From Nigeria to Overseas
All Nova bouquet channels, Africa News, Al Jazeera, AMC Movies, AMC Series, Area Ten, Arewa 24, BBC World News, Border TV, CGTN Documentary, CNBC, D. TV, ESPN, EWTN, FOX Life, Isi Mbido, Love Nature, NGW, Nickelodeon, Nigezie, Nina TV E, NTA E, Sky News, ST Gospel, ST Kids, ST Naija, ST Novela E, ST Rise, ST SA Music, ST Sino Drama, ST Sports Arena, ST Sports Life ST Yoruba, ST Zone, Star Life, TA Parliamentary, TBN, TNT Africa, Toonami, Trace Mziki, TVC News, Zee Cinema.
iii. Classic Bouquet – ₦3,800 per month
The classic bouquet is the priviest of all StarTimes antenna packages. This bouquet costs 3,800 Naira to subscribe to. Subscribers get 28 extra channels in addition to those available on the Basic and Nova bouquets.
Here is a look at the Classic Bouquet’s channel list:
All channels on Nova and Basic, Baby TV, CBeebies, Colours TV, Discovery Family, DreamWorks, E!, ESPN 2, Eurosport News, Fashion One, Fine Living, Fox, Fox News, Investigation Discovery, MTV Base, National Geographic, National Geographic Wild, Smithsonian Channel, ST Adepa, ST Bollywood, ST Movies Plus, ST Nollywood Plus, ST Novela E Plus, ST Soul, ST Sports Premium, ST World Football HD, Star Gold, Star Plus.
b. Dish (DTH) bouquets
Dish (DTH) bouquets offer customers four (4) bouquets to choose from using satellite (dish) signal transmission:
i. StarTimes Chinese – ₦13,000 per month: The bouquet, whose subscription retails at ₦13,000 per month, comes with 12 channels mostly dedicated to Chinese content. These channels offer content that includes movies, news, series, and Chinese educational programs under one package.
Here is a look at the StarTimes Chinese bouquet channel list:
CCTV 13, CCTV 6, CCTV 5+, CCTV 9, China Movies Channel, Hunan World, Phoenix Info, CCTV 4, CTI Asia, ST KUNGFU, 江苏卫视, 福建卫视, 浙江卫视, CCTV 娱乐, 东方卫视, 北京卫视, 天津卫视, 凤凰CNE, 南方卫视, 中国影视.
ii. StarTimes Super – ₦6,500 per month
The StarTimes Super bouquet is the second-priciest package under the satellite transmission.
Here is a look at the channels accessible to subscribers on this bouquet:
Baby TV, Bloomberg, CBeebies, Classica, Colours TV, DreamWorks, Ebony Life, ESPN 2, FOX, Fox News, Fuel Tv, ID, MSNBC, MTV Base, NGC, Smithsonian Channel, ST Bollywood, ST Movies Plus, ST Nollywood Plus, ST Novela E Plus, ST Soul, ST Sports Premium, ST World Football HD, Star Gold.
iii. StarTimes Smart – ₦3,500 per month
The Smart bouquet has over 35 channels and costs ₦3,500 per month.
Here is a list of the channels under the StarTimes Smart package:
All channels on StarTimes Nova. Africa News, Al Jazeera, AMC Series, Area Ten, Arewa 24, BBC World News, Dove TV, DW, E!, ESPN, EWTN, Fashion One, Fine Living, France 24 E, Isi Mbido, Jimjam, Love Nature, NDTV 24×7, NGW, Nickelodeon, Nigezie TV, Nina TV E, Sky News, ST Adepa, ST Africa, ST Kids ST Naija, ST Novela E, ST Rise, ST SA Music, ST Sino Drama, ST Sports Arena, ST Sports Life, ST Yoruba, Star Life, Star Plus, TNT Africa, Toonami, Trace Mziki, Zee Cinema.
iv. StarTimes Nova – ₦1,500 per month
At ₦1,500 per month, the Nova bouquet is the cheapest of all dish options provided by StarTimes.
Here are the channels available with this bouquet:
AIT, AMC Movies, Border TV, CCTV 4, CGTN Documentary, CGTN F, Channel Ten, Channels, CNC World, Da Vinci, E. TV, Emmanuel TV, E-Stars, Farin Wata, Iqraa, Mindset Learn, NBS, Nigbati TV, NTA Sports 24, Orisun, Plus TV Africa ,ST Dadin Kowa, ST Gospel, ST Kungfu, ST Sports Focus, ST Swahili, ST Zone, TVC News, WAP TV.
2. Satellite Television (SLTV):
SLTV is a premier satellite television company based in Nigeria. This direct-to-home satellite TV platform is operated by Metro Digital Limited.
Metro Digital SLTV has over 50 HD channels with 10 Sports channels that show live football matches from the Premier League, Champions League, Laliga, Seria A, and UEL among others with a monthly subscription ranging from N5,000 and N2,500.
Over the past few years, SLTV (Satellite TV) has emerged as a compelling alternative to DSTV and GOTv for Nigerians seeking high-quality television entertainment at an economical price point. As the cost of traditional pay-TV services continues to rise, this innovative platform offers a diverse range of channels for various interests, all while providing significant savings. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look into SLTV, examining its features, channel offerings, subscription packages, and pricing structure, enabling you to make good decision about your home entertainment needs.
Key Features of SLTV
1. Dual USB ports: This functionality allows users to easily connect external hard drives or flash drives, turning the decoder into a multimedia player capable of handling various file formats.
2. Connectivity: the SLTV decoder doesn’t skimp on options. With HDMI, AV, and antenna inputs, it’s equipped to work with a wide range of television sets, from the latest 4K models to older CRT TVs that might still be in use in some homes.
3. Ability to pause and play live TV. This functionality, often associated with more premium services, allows viewers to take a break without missing a moment of their favorite shows.
Packages of SLTV Decoder:
As of today September 27, 2024, the average price of an SLTV decoder in Nigeria is 35,000 naira. However, SLTV offers two primary subscription packages: Basic and Gold.
1. The Basic package of SLTV is priced at NGN 2,500 per month and serves as an entry-level option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality. This package includes a wide range of channels, free updates, access to both HD and SD channels, premium channels, a TV Guide (EPG) for easy browsing, and 24/7 customer support. Summarized as follows:
Basic: 2500 Naira
- Movies & TV Shows
- Free Updates
- HD & SD Channels
- Premium Channels
- TV Guide (EPG)
- 24/7 support
2. Gold Package: Elevating Your Viewing Experience
For those seeking an even more immersive entertainment experience, the Gold package of SLTV is priced at NGN 5,000 per month and offers an expanded selection of premium content and additional perks including the premier League. In addition to the features included in the Basic package, the Gold package provides access to a broader range of channels, ensuring that every member of the family can find something to enjoy:
Gold: 5000 Naira
- Movies & TV Shows
- Free Updates
- HD & SD Channels
- Premium Channels
- TV Guide (EPG)
- 24/7 support
SLTV Channels List
SLTV offers over 50 high-definition channels which is categorized into the following:
1. Sports Fanatics Rejoice
For sports enthusiasts, SLTV’s channel lineup is nothing short of a dream come true. Boasting an impressive array of sports channels, including dedicated streams for major leagues like the English Premier League, Champions League, La Liga, Serie A, and Europa League, SLTV ensures that you never miss a moment of the action.
You May Also Read: 5 Self Development Mobile Apps(1OS and Android)
2. Movie Buffs and TV Show Aficionados: SLTV’s channel selection extends far beyond the realm of sports, catering to movie buffs and TV show aficionados alike. From Hollywood blockbusters to locally produced Nigerian films, SLTV offers a diverse array of movie channels, ensuring that there’s always something captivating to watch.
3. News Junkies and Documentary Enthusiasts: For those seeking a well-rounded viewing experience, SLTV provides access to a range of news channels, keeping you informed about the latest happenings both locally and globally. Additionally, documentary channels offer a window into the world of knowledge and exploration, satisfying the curiosity of lifelong learners.
4. Kid-Friendly Entertainment: Recognizing the importance of age-appropriate content, SLTV has dedicated channels specifically tailored for children. These channels feature a wide array of cartoons, educational programs, and family-friendly entertainment, ensuring that even the youngest members of the household have access to engaging and enriching viewing experiences.
3. Android TV Box
Still on best DSTV alternatives for Nigerians. Android TV Box is an entertainment equipment (tool) that is connected to a TV set that allows you to enjoy your favorite films, videos, series, live programs, and games.
These versatile devices can stream content to your television, play locally stored files, video games, and more. The devices are affordable, with options to pay for streaming services of choice. An Android TV box connects to a TV through the HDMI connection on the back. Various streaming services and apps may then be viewed on your TV rather than on a tablet or laptop. An Android TV Box can run almost any app because it has access to the entire Google Play Store and Amazon App Store
In today’s digital age, Android TV boxes have revolutionized home entertainment, offering a cost-effective solution for accessing a wide range of content on the big screen. That is, Android TV Boxes offer flexibility and affordability, catering to diverse entertainment preferences.
Features of Android TV Box
1. High-Resolution Video Support: When it comes to Android TV boxes, high-resolution video support is a critical feature that significantly enhances the viewing experience. Understanding the significance of video resolution in these devices can help consumers make informed decisions when selecting a budget-friendly TV box.
2. Ample Storage Space: In the realm of Android TV boxes, storage plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless access to a myriad of entertainment options. Understanding the significance of storage and how it influences the overall performance of these devices is essential for consumers looking to make an informed purchase.
3. User-Friendly Interface
Navigating Your Android TV Box with Ease: When it comes to a budget-friendly Android TV box, having a user-friendly interface is paramount for a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience. But what exactly makes an interface user-friendly, and how does it enhance the overall usability of the device?
4. Connectivity Options
In the realm of Android TV boxes, connectivity options play a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless and versatile entertainment experience. The importance of robust connectivity cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the device’s ability to access online content, interact with other devices, and provide a comprehensive viewing experience.
5. Access to a Wide Range of Apps
Expanding Your Entertainment Options: When it comes to budget-friendly Android TV boxes, access to a diverse selection of apps is essential for expanding entertainment options and catering to varying user preferences. The availability of popular apps for streaming, gaming, productivity, and more significantly enhances the versatility and utility of these devices.
Android TV Box Packages and Channels
1. M98-M9 Android 10 TV Box: 8+128GB, 4K, 5G, and home video capabilities, priced around N110,000
2. XIAOMI MI BOX S Series Android TV Box: 4K, Android TV, and voice control, priced around N35,000 – N45,000.
3. Airtel Flat Airtel Android Smart TV Box: Inbuilt router, unlimited browsing for a month, and Android TV, priced around N43,950 – N47,990.
4. Smart Android TV Box MXQ PRO: 5G, 4K, wireless keyboard, and Android TV, priced around N55,000.
5. T95Z Plus Android 12.0 Smart TV Box: 4GB+64GB, Allwinner H618, and Android TV, priced around N165,000
Some popular brands offering Android TV Boxes include:
– Google (Chromecast with Google TV).
– Nvidia (Shield TV).
– Xiaomi (Mi Box, Mi Box S, Mi TV Stick).
– TCL (Android TV).
– Onn (Streaming Box).
4. Amazon Fire Stick
Amazon Fire Stick is a streaming device that plugs into your TV’s HDMI port and gives you access to a variety of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max. This is another best DSTV alternative for Nigerians.
It’s interesting to know that, You don’t need to pay a monthly fee to use the Fire TV Stick itself, but Prime membership increases its value.
You May Also Read: How To Buy and Pay Later on Jumia
First introduced in November 2014, Amazon’s Fire TV Stick devices are a cheap and easy way to connect Smart and not-so-smart TVs to WiFi and download, install, and run third-party apps on your TV. They’re about half the size of most TV remotes and plug into your screen’s HDMI port.
Features of Amazon Firestick
We will categorize the features of Amazon Firestick under subheadings for clarity’s sake:
Hardware Features:
1. Processor: Quad-core or Octa-core processors
2. RAM: 2-4GB
3. Storage: 8-128GB internal storage, expandable via microSD
4. Graphics: Mali or PowerVR graphics processing units
5. Connectivity: HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
Software Features:
1. Operating System: Android TV (based on Android 10 or later)
2. User Interface: Customizable home screen, navigation bar
3. App Support: Google Play Store, Amazon Appstore, side loadable apps
4. Voice Control: Google Assistant integration
5. Multi-device Control: Control other Android TV devices
Media and Entertainment:
1. 4K Resolution: Support for 4K video playback
2. HDR: High Dynamic Range (HDR) support
3. Streaming Apps: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, YouTube
4. Game Support: Android games, controller compatibility
5. Music Apps: Spotify, Google Play Music, and more
Connectivity and Sharing:
1. Screen Mirroring: Cast content from mobile devices
2. DLNA: Stream content to other devices
3. Bluetooth: Connect keyboards, gamepads, headphones
4. Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi for stable connectivity
5. Ethernet: Wired internet connectivity
Other Features:
However, there are also other interesting features of Amazon Firestick, let’s explore them one after the other:
1. Parental Controls: Restrict access to certain content
2. Voice Search: Find content with voice commands
3. Recommendations: Personalized content suggestions
4. Automatic Updates: Stay up-to-date with latest software
5. Support for Multiple Languages
Advanced Features (varies by model):
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration
2. Machine Learning (ML) capabilities
3. Enhanced gaming features (e.g., NVIDIA Shield TV)
4. Integrated DVR functionality
5. Support for VR/AR content
Amazon Fire Stick Packages
1. Amazon Fire Stick Lite is the most affordable Firestick model, the Lite is a great option for streaming 1080p content. Another notable difference is in its remote, which lacks the power, mute, and volume controls included with more expensive models–the Lite remote can only control the media player. It doesn’t support 4k resolution apps and relies on the older WiFi 5 standard. If you just want to stream movies and TV shows, you can get by with the Lite. Its specifications include:
- Best for: Basic HD streaming
- Storage: 8GB
- RAM: 1GB
- Price: $29.99
2. Amazon Fire TV Stick (from $39.99, 3rd generation):
This one’s easy. Besides the price, the Fire TV Stick is exactly the same as the Lite, except it has 3rd Gen Alexa Voice Remote and can control your TV power, channels, and volume. Which, let’s face it, is much easier than shoving your arm down the back of the sofa for the remote. If you’re an audiophile, the vanilla Fire TV Stick comes with Dolby Atmos while the Lite doesn’t, but the dimensions and internal specs of the two Sticks are otherwise identical. It is best for its:
- Basic HD streaming + TV control
- Storage: 8GB
- RAM: 1GB
3. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (from $39.99, 2nd generation): The same price as the vanilla model, the 4k variant is the safest choice when picking a Fire TV Stick. It also includes more RAM, with 2GB, making it possible to run more resource-intensive apps, like ScreenCloud. Finally, the Fire TV Stick 4k uses the WiFi 6 standard, which can deliver significantly faster data transfer speeds, if your network hardware can accommodate it. It is best for its:
4K Ultra HD streaming + background apps
Storage: 8GB
RAM: 2GB
4. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max (from $59.99, 2nd generation):
If performance is important to you, the Max has a few things going for it. Despite being the exact same size as the non-Max 4k Stick, the Max has a faster processor (Quad-core 2.0GHz vs Quad-core 1.7GHz), faster GPU, double the storage space, and is compatible with the slightly improved WiFi 6E. It is, without question, the best Fire TV Stick for turning an old TV into digital signage or digital bulletin board. It is best for its:
4K Ultra HD streaming + local storage
Storage: 16GB
RAM: 2GB
5. Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)
An “Internet Protocol Television(IPTV)” is a technology that delivers video content in real-time over the Internet. Unlike traditional TV, which uses antennas, satellite dishes, or cables, it streams television content through the Internet.
The Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has also provided another option for consumers of live TV and on-demand content across multiple devices.
It has become a necessity for many households because it offers a variety of foreign and live local channels and streaming services without the limitations and difficulties associated with traditional cable or satellite setups.
You May Also Read: How To Get Jobs in Canada From Nigeria and Migrate
In recent years, traditional TV has declined due to changing global trends and advanced technology. The widespread availability of the Internet has transformed many aspects of our lives, including how we watch TV. Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)has come up with a solution, allowing us to enjoy our favorite shows and movies on demand. In today’s world convenience is the key where IPTV has become popular because of its better user experience.
Key features of Internet Protocol Television
1. On-Demand Content: Choose what to watch and when with access to extensive libraries of content that are available instantaneously.
2. Live Broadcasting: Stream live events and television programming with minimal delay.
3. Interactive Services: Engage with content through features like pause, rewind, and forward, which are not typically available with standard broadcast television.
IPTV packages
IPTV packages range from:
a. Basic Packages: $10 to $30 per month, often including a limited selection of channels.
b. Mid-range packages: $30 to $60 per month, offering a broader range of channels, including some premium options.
c. Premium Packages: $60 and above per month, which may include all available channels, sports, and on-demand content.
Let’s delve properly into some of the packages, each of their features, and places where they are popular:
Smart IPTV is popular in Europe and North America, providing secure payment channels and a buyer-friendly refund policy. Its affordable pricing makes it accessible to everyone. This IPTV service is known for its reliability and extensive channel lineup.
Features
Over 16,000+ live TV channels with features like catch-up and EPG.
Automatic weekly updates for channels and services.
Automatic sales and service delivery processes.
24/7 support via online chat and ticket creation.
Subscription Price
€14.99 for 1 month, €34.99 for 3 months, €54.99 for 6 months, €74.99 for 12 months.
You May Also Read: Top 4 Buy and Pay Later Services In Nigeria
TobigoTv is most popular in the USA and Canada, supporting a wide collection of TV channels suitable for sports, news, cartoons, movies, and series. It offers daily updates for the best movies and TV shows and provides full access to a vast content database.
Features
16,000+ TV Channels and 22,000+ online channels.
4K Ultra HD Quality.
Anti-Freezer Technology.
PPV and Sports Events.
Live TV and EPG Guide.
Compatible with all devices.
Subscription Price
€14.99 for 1 month, €34.99 for 3 months, €54.99 for 6 months, €74.99 for 12 months.
Live player IPTV is widely used in Europe, offering a seamless streaming experience with thousands of channels, VPN support, and extensive device compatibility. This service is known for its extensive library of on-demand content and high-definition streaming capabilities.
Features
High-definition and 4K streaming.
13,000+ channels catering to various preferences.
Inbuilt VPN for global access.
Adult content channels.
20,000 on-demand content items in multiple languages.
24/7 commercial and technical support.
Subscription Price
$19/month – $128/two years.
StreamTVUniverse
For the entertainment-enthusiasts like you, StreamTVUniverse can be the best choice. It has exclusive sports channels across the globe which you can enjoy without any freezing. Additionally, the high-picture quality will level up your experience as it offers 4k, FHD, and HD streaming quality.
Features
Over +22,000 TV channels and +150,000 movies and series are present.
It has 99.9% server uptime.
Compatible with all devices.
Subscription Price
$12.99/monthly – $69.99/yearly.
IPTV Channels List:
Apollo Group TV, Bing TV, Decoded Streams, Hoopla, Hotstar, HUTV, Iconic Streams, IMDb TV, IPTVGang, IPTV Trends, Kanopy, King TV, Kodi, The Matrix IPTV, Necro IPTV, Vision TV, Perfect Player, Players Klub IPTV, Popcornflix, RocketStreams, Snap.tv, Sportz TV, Tubi, Vudu, YeahIPTV.
These are lists of best DSTV alternatives for Nigerians with their prices, features, channels, and packages duly considered. However, DSTV alternatives are not limited to the list mentioned above.