DStv Premium is dropping to R799, but where is the catch?

A new DStv Premium deal lowers the monthly cost for satellite customers who agree to a fixed term. Before signing, check whether two years fits your budget and viewing habits.

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DStv Premium gets a new satellite price from September 17, and R799 a month sounds a lot nicer than R979. The catch is simple. You only get the lower price if you sign a 24-month contract, while the standard satellite option stays at R979 month-to-month.

You do not have to switch if you already have Premium. Your current subscription can continue as is, which means the new deal is something you choose, not something DStv automatically puts you onto.

Two years is where the decision gets more personal. A lower debit order can look attractive, especially if Premium is already part of your household budget, but a fixed-term contract gives you less freedom if your budget, viewing habits or household change before the contract ends.

A discount can be worthwhile when you already know you want the service for the long haul. The important part is not getting distracted by the lower monthly amount and forgetting how long you are signing for. Two years is a commitment, even when the monthly saving looks good.

You also have another option if you want Premium without the satellite contract. DStv Stream Premium costs R799 a month on a month-to-month basis, although you need a suitable internet connection to watch. If you stream over mobile data or a capped connection, your data use becomes part of what the service costs you each month.

Before you sign anything, look at what else already leaves your account every month. Streaming services, cloud storage, apps and other subscriptions can pile up, and a monthly money check can help you decide whether DStv Premium still fits comfortably into the mix.

Signing for two years also does not mean you can never cancel early. The Consumer Goods and Services Ombud explains that section 14 of the Consumer Protection Act allows consumers to cancel fixed-term agreements with 20 business days’ written notice, although a reasonable cancellation penalty can apply.

The cheaper price is only half of the deal. The other half is giving up month-to-month flexibility for two years. If you are comfortable with both, you know exactly what you are signing up for.

A lower monthly price can be worthwhile if Premium is something you already plan to keep. Two years can also feel very different six months from now if your budget or viewing habits change. Look past the discount and decide whether the commitment still works for you.