Patience is a virtue. But, no one wants to be patient when it comes to watching TV. We want devices that respond to our touch quickly and efficiently. That’s why this article exists. You might be getting ready to upgrade and speed is on your mind. Or, you may just be curious. So, let’s dig in, but first there’s something I want to say:
Why this article doesn’t have test data
I believe in data. I’m a big believer in it. But in this case, the data isn’t as relevant as experience. Every DIRECTV installation is different. Even if I set up all of this equipment and tested it on the same bench, with the same cable lengths, doing the same things and even under the same weather conditions, that wouldn’t really give you results you could count on. Every installation is different. Cable lengths are a big factor, and both distance and obstructions can be problems in wireless installs. Not only that, some of the older equipment just acts different from box to box because of its age. So I’m giving you general guidelines based on what I’ve observed and what our support team observes every day.
Slowest performance: Legacy H24, HR24, and H25 receivers
It’s probably going to surprise no one that this trio from the early 2010s is coming in last performance-wise. These receivers were considered speed demons when they came out a decade ago, but the world has moved on. These receivers use the older menu system which isn’t as efficient, and they just have slower processors in them. A lot of people like these devices because they have non-SWM systems, and the H24 and HR24 will work that way. H25s are also one of the standard choices for commercial customers. But if you want speed, there are better options.
Slowest performance in a modern system: Wireless Genie Mini Client (but there’s a disclaimer)
Theoretically, a wireless client should perform just as well as a wired one. And, disclaimer: many of them do. In order to have great performance from a wired client, you only need a low-latency connection with 25Mbps sustained throughput. That’s not a lot to ask of a wireless device in 2022. However, there are going to be challenges in a wireless setup that just aren’t there with wired setups. Sometimes the home has a lot of metal in the walls. Sometimes you’re at the far end of the approved distance for these clients. So, while the wireless client isn’t automatically the slowest, it can be and that’s worth considering.
Good performance: Wired HD Genie client
DIRECTV’s workaday Genie client has been around for a decade. It hasn’t changed a lot, because it hasn’t needed to. Newer boxes aren’t necessarily faster than older ones. Most people find that its performance is “just fine” and don’t need to go further. When you combine good speed with a silent box that’s so small it can sit anywhere, it’s a good choice.
Better performance: Genie 4K client
DIRECTV’s 4K client edges out the HD client by just a little bit. There have been a lot of little improvements to the operating system in these boxes, and they do increase the processor load just a little bit. The 4K client has been able to adapt to these chances a little more than the HD client.
Best performance: HR54 Genie DVR
The top of the line in performance is DIRECTV’s HR54 Genie DVR. It is a true DVR, meaning that it does the recording and also connects to a TV. Because of its self-contained nature, it ends up being the fastest device in the DIRECTV stable. However, the HR54 only supports three clients while the Genie 2 supports seven. If that’s an issue for you, you might want to sacrifice a little speed for some capability.
Ready for an upgrade?
If you aren’t happy with your DIRECTV system’s performance, there are options! It may be that you’re ready for an upgrade, or you may need a tech to come out to tweak things. No matter what you need, you’ll find the best service from one place.
Shop at Solid Signal for the same parts and accessories that installers have on their trucks, and whole lot more. If you need personal attention — and who doesn’t — call the experts! We’re here for you during East Coast business hours. The number is 888-233-7563 and we’re ready to help! If it’s after hours, fill out the form below. We’ll get back to you, usually within one business day.
