N
The Daily Insight

What are the advantages of DStv Explora?

Author

Robert Guerrero

Updated on February 24, 2026

Our DStv Explora gives you total control – record up to 110 hours, pause live TV for 2 hours, rent blockbusters on BoxOffice and use Catch Up for the latest shows! And when you connect it to the internet, you'll discover even more Catch Up entertainment plus box sets on Showmax.

Also asked, do you pay more for DStv Explora?

The Access Fee of R90 is also being increased to R95 per month that subscribers must pay if they want to use a personal video recorder (PVR) decoder like the DStv Explora.

Also, what is the best DStv decoder? While all other PVRs have 20 hours of content (with series and sports highlights available), the DStv Explora has much more on offer including movies, kids' shows, documentaries and other genres of entertainment on DStv Catch Up. The DStv Explora also offers more series on DStv Catch Up.

Likewise, people ask, what is the difference between DStv Explora and HD decoder?

Firstly the main difference between the two decoder options is the PVR function. PVR is an abbreviation of Personal Viewer Recorder. Therefore the main difference between the DStv Explora and the DStv HD decoder is the recording function. The recording function does affect the pricing of the DStv Explora.

What is the difference between DStv Explora and DSTV Explora 2?

DStv's new Explora 2 decoder is much smaller than the its predecessor, but it also comes with a smaller hard drive. The original Explora had a 2TB drive, while the new one will have a 1TB drive. This will not impact the amount of BoxOffice and Catch Up on-demand content available on the decoder, thanks to the new H.

Related Question Answers

Do I need a new dish for Explora?

Equipment needed

In order to successfully connect your Explora decoder, you will need to have the following tools and accessories: An 80cm satellite dish. A smart LNB. A DStv Multiswitch if you are using a twin LNB or you are using a communal dish.

Does the DStv Explora have WiFi?

The DStv WiFi Connector is a device that links your DStv Explora to the router in your home. It does so easily and wirelessly. By linking your DStv Explora to the internet, you get access to Connected Services – namely DStv Catch Up Plus and Showmax (separate subscription required).

How do I activate DStv Explora catch up?

To access DStv Catch Up Plus, press CATCH UP (you'll go to the usual DStv Catch Up screen), then press CATCH UP again to switch to DStv Catch Up Plus. (The catalogue needs a few minutes to download once you've connected your DStv Explora to the internet).

How much is DStv Explora premium?

The DStv Explora is currently being sold at Multichoice offices in Lagos for a retail price of N45,000 (without installation) and N35,000 (with installation). Commercial bouquet is currently N1,850 .

Can I trade in my old DStv decoder?

You will keep accessing DStv for as long as your older Single View decoder is still working. You can, however, trade-in your active Single View decoder at any of our service centres or agencies for a brand new DStv HD Decoder for only R349.

Can DStv Explora record when off?

The next cool feature we've introduced is called Remote Recording. Basically it lets you schedule recordings when you're away from home, using your laptop, smartphone or tablet, so that you never miss out on your favourite shows. And that's just the beginning – so go on, connect your DStv Explora today.

What is the purpose of the USB port on the DStv Explora?

Basically it lets you schedule recordings when you're away from home, using your laptop, smartphone or tablet, so that you never miss out on your favourite shows. And that's just the beginning – so go on, connect your DStv Explora today.

How do I lock my DStv Explora price?

If you're a new DStv customer and are applying for Price Lock, please submit the following documents:
  1. A completed Subscription Agreement Form, found at our Service Centres or DStv Agency.
  2. A South African ID.
  3. Proof of residence.
  4. Payslip or proof of income.
  5. Valid bank account details.

Can I use my DStv smartcard in another decoder?

You will need to contact the MultiChoice Call Centre to have your smart card force-married to the decoder you want to use. The owner of that decoder will not be able to use their smart card until they contact the MultiChoice call centre to override your smart card's marriage to their decoder.

Does DStv HD decoder have catch up?

All our HD PVRs include DStv Catch Up capability.

What is the latest DStv Explora model?

The new DStv ExploraModel 3A – went on sale in November 2018 at a recommended retail price of R999 excluding installation, and R1,699 with installation. The Explora 3 features 110 hours of recording space, and does away with the front panel where the channel number would normally be displayed.

How much is DStv Explora decoder in Nigeria?

NGN45,000. The DStv Explora makes the best viewing experience even better. the DStv Explora makes the best viewing experience even better.

Does DStv Explora support 4k?

The DStv Explora Ultra PVR will allow customers to stream third-party content providers' services in 4K resolution. In addition to 4K, the Explora Ultra supports Dolby Atmos.

How do I upgrade from explora to HD decoder?

Upgrade your existing single view installation to an EXPLORA decoder By changing the LNB to a SMART LNB from R1,350
  1. Replace your existing single LNB with a SMART LNB and maximize signal.
  2. Remove your old single view decoder and replace with your new EXPLORA decoder.

What is DStv HD decoder?

The DStv HD Single View Decoder (DStv HD Decoder) is HD capable, Dolby Digital 5.1 Capable and comes with a brand new user interface (all the screens and menus you use when watching TV).

Can I have 2 DStv Explora?

Yes, your DStv Explora can be added to another one or two decoders in XtraView. Please chat to your local DStv Accredited Installer for more information on available decoder combinations and any changes that may be required to your installation.

Does the new DStv decoder without smart card?

What is missing in the latest DStv single view HD decoder and their implications. The most prominent absentee is the “smart card” the Latest DStv single view HD decoder has no smartcard slot like the old HD decoder. By implication, this means you will subscribe to your packages via an IUC like GOTV.

How many extra views can I have?

Extra view works by linking one or two secondary decoders to a primary decoder. This enables the decoders to share a single subscription. But, you can only link a maximum of two secondary decoders to a primary decoder.

Does PVR work with DStv Compact?

DStv Compact users can now also enjoy the 24-hour BoxOffice offering. BoxOffice is available via the HD PVR and Explora decoders to Premium, Extra and Compact customers, while BoxOffice online is available to all customers - DStv subscribers and non-subscribers.

How much power does a DStv Explora use?

The Explora's maximum power consumption is 45w (3.75 amps).

How do I connect a second TV to my DStv Explora?

Wire from the dish goes into decoder as per normal. Connect the tv closest to the decoder via the hdmi / av cables to that tv. Take the out cable at the back of the decoder to the other tv, no splitter needed. Use normal co-ax.