Hardware FAQs
How does the DStv Explora Ultra compare to previous models of the DStv Explora (2A/3A)?
How does the DStv Explora Ultra compare to previous models of the DStv Explora (2A/3A)?
| Differences | DStv Explora (Model 2A/3A) | DStv Explora Ultra | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name & Model | DStv Explora (Model 2A/3A) | DStv Explora Ultra | |
| Recommended Retail Price | R999 (without installation) R1999 (with installation) |
R2,499 (without installation) R3,699 (with installation) |
There are also options to get the decoders on contract. Visit the website for available offers |
| Decoder Insurance | R35 per month. NMS Insurance Services (SA) Ltd is a licenced microinsurer and authorised financial services provider. FSP License Number 47754. A subsidiary of MultiChoice Group Ltd. |
R39 per month. NMS Insurance Services (SA) Ltd is a licenced microinsurer and authorised financial services provider. FSP License Number 47754. A subsidiary of MultiChoice Group Ltd. |
|
| Physical appearance | Black Smartcard slot on the side DStv Explora (Model 2A/3A) appears on front panel No front panel display |
Black No smartcard DStv Explora Ultra appears on the front panel No front panel display |
|
| Packaged with | MMini smartcard inserted into the decoder HDMI cable Power supply A7 remote with batteries |
HDMI cable Power supply A9 remote with batteries |
|
| Recording capacity | Up to 110 hours | Up to 110 hours | Total recording space may vary depending on mix of HD and SD recordings. |
| Features (with no internet connection) | Pause Live TV for 2 hours Catch Up BoxOffice 8 day TV Guide Parental Control Interactive apps (SuperSport, News24, Weather) |
Pause Live TV for 2 hours Catch Up BoxOffice 8 day TV Guide Parental Control Interactive apps (SuperSport, News24, Weather) |
Explora models are the same when not connected to the internet. The Ultra includes richer recommendations (via the HOME button) |
| Features (when connected to the internet) | All the Catch Up for your package Showmax (separate subscription required) |
DStv app (with all the Catch Up content for your package & live streaming of channels) Showmax, Netflix and Prime Video (separate subscription required) |
Although both have Showmax, the Ultra has the Showmax App with full features. |
| XtraView | Requires no heartbeat cable if linked to selected (newer) decoders via a DStv Smart LNB. Requires heartbeat cable to the original DStv Explora or older decoders even if installed with a DStv Smart LNB. |
Requires no heartbeat cable if linked to selected (newer) decoders via a DStv Smart LNB. Requires heartbeat cable to the original DStv Explora or older decoders even if installed with a DStv Smart LNB. |
|
| Installation | 80cm dish, DStv Smart LNB | 80cm dish, DStv Smart LNB | |
| Internet Connection | Via external USB DStv WiFi Connector or Ethernet cable | Built in WiFi Can also be connected via Ethernet cable |
|
| Video quality | Supports 720p, 1080i | Supports 720p, 1080i, 4K, HDR | Where available. |
| Audio quality | Dolby Digital | Dolby Atmos | Where available. |
| User Bands | 32 | 32 | |
| Plug | 2 pin plug | 2 pin plug | |
| USB Ports | 2 | 1 |