Many of us grew up watching Ben 10 on Cartoon Network or Monday Night Raw on WWE. These days, it’s more about catching the Champions League or staying updated with international news on Al Jazeera.

Regardless of what you enjoy, one thing’s clear. Cable TV has always played a big role in our entertainment.

A few years ago, paying for cable meant visiting an authorised outlet. But now, thanks to online bill payments, you can sort your Startimes or DSTV payment right from your phone or any mobile device.

This article will walk you through five of the best platforms in Nigeria where you can renew your subscription without ever stepping into a physical outlet.

5 Best Platforms to Pay DSTV and Startimes Subscription in Nigeria

Gone are the days of queuing at outlets just to renew your cable TV subscription. Now, you can pay for DSTV and Startimes in minutes, right from your phone. Below is a quick comparison of five trusted platforms: Cardtonic, MyDSTV, Startimes ON, your Bank App, and USSD, based on transaction charges, discounts, and how easy they are to access.

1. Cardtonic 

Cardtonic isn’t just another bill payment platform. It’s an all-in-one solution built for speed, convenience, and real value. When it comes to renewing your DSTV or Startimes subscription, Cardtonic lets you do it in minutes without stress.

Just log in, tap on “Bills,” select your cable provider, choose a package, enter your smartcard number, and confirm the transaction. That’s it—subscription sorted.

But here’s what makes Cardtonic stand out: beyond fast cable payments, you get zero transaction charges, exclusive discounted packages, and occasional promo offers that reward you just for paying your bills.

It also does way more than cable TV. With Cardtonic, you can pay utility bills online, buy airtime, top up data, trade gift cards, and even manage a virtual dollar card for international payments—all in one clean, easy-to-use app or website.

If you’re looking for a trusted platform that makes bill payments quick, affordable, and rewarding, Cardtonic is your best bet.

2. MyDSTV App

The moment you own a DSTV, you automatically have a MyDSTV account, and you can use it to pay for your DSTV subscription.

You can access MyDSTV by logging in through the website or downloading the app on your mobile device. As a first-timer, you will need to provide essential details like the email address and phone number you used to register your DSTV. You also need to provide your smartcard number and confirm the account via email.

After logging in, scan the app and locate “Subscriptions.” Here, you will see the current subscription package you are on and a list displaying other packages. Make your choice,  click on payment and proceed with the on-screen instructions.

3. Bank App

Many Nigerian banks now have mobile apps that you can use to carry out your online transactions, including paying for cable TV. Whether you want to pay for DSTV or Startimes, the process is entirely the same.

To get started, ensure your bank has a working app and offers utility payments. Use your bank details to log into the app. Search for the main menu or scroll through the dashboard and locate either “Bills or Utility.” Choose Cable TV and finally pick between DSTV or StarTimes. Provide all necessary details, like your smart card number and the subscription package you want.

Within a few minutes, depending on the bank’s network, you should have successfully paid for your cable TV online.

4. Startimes ON App

Startimes ON is a mobile app that allows you to make basic transactions and set up settings for your StarTimes decoder. To use Startimes ON to pay for your cable, you need to log in and link your decoder to the app.

You can link your decoder by inputting your smartcard number and confirming your login details. Afterwards, click on the “Me” icon, and a bunch of information regarding your subscription will be displayed there. Your package and the remaining valid subscription days will also be shown on the screen.

If the subscription has expired, it will also be displayed. In this case, you should click on “Pay” in the top right corner of the app. A list of Startimes subscription prices and packages will appear. Select the one you want and click “next.”

You will be presented with a variety of payment methods. You can decide to finalise your payment using your mobile wallet, like Cardtonic, or your bank card. The speed and efficiency of this payment depend on the network used to carry out the transaction.

5. USSD

Using USSD to pay for cable TV depends on the bank you intend to use and your phone network, Airtel or MTN.

To pay for DSTV or Startimes using USSD, confirm that your bank supports cable TV subscriptions via USSD and ensure your mobile network is active.

To get started, dial your bank’s USSD code and follow the on-screen prompts until you’re asked to choose between DSTV and Startimes. Select your preferred option, pick the bouquet you want, enter your bank PIN, and confirm the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paying Cable TV Subscriptions in Nigeria

1. Can I Top-up My DSTV Subscription Online in Nigeria?

Yes, you can top up your DSTV subscription online in Nigeria. By using online bill payment platforms like Cardtonic, MyDSTV, or your bank app, you can renew your subscription right from your phone.

However, if you pay for a new DSTV subscription package before your current one expires, the new package won’t activate until the existing one ends.

2. What is the Best DSTV Subscription for me?

DSTV has five subscription packages. The best one for you depends on your viewing preference and your budget. To increase viewing channels and cost, you can choose Yanga, Confam, Compact, Compact Plus, or Premium. Each package includes a list of channels you can access, as well as additional benefits. You can visit the DSTV website to get more information.

3. Can I Subscribe to Startimes Using My Phone?

Yes. You can subscribe to Startimes on your phone. With platforms like Cardtonic, you can easily log in, click on cable TV and make payments for your Startimes subscription. Using Cardtonic makes the process fast, easy, and reliable.

4. How Much is Startimes Subscription Per Month?

Depending on the package you are opting for, Startimes Subscription prices per Month range from as low as 2000 Naira to 16000 Naira. The subscription package chosen will determine the number of channels you can access.

      5. DSTV vs Startimes: Which One Should I Go for?

DSTV offers a variety of entertainment, while Startimes is highly affordable. The final choice depends on your preference and budget.

Conclusion

Paying for your DSTV or Startimes subscription doesn’t have to involve queues or a trip to the nearest outlet. With platforms like Cardtonic, MyDSTV, Startimes ON, your Bank App, and USSD, you can sort your cable TV bills right from your phone—anytime, anywhere.

Each option has its own perks, but if you’re looking for speed, zero charges, extra rewards, and an easy way to pay utility bills online, Cardtonic ticks all the boxes. It’s simple, secure, and built to make your life easier.