Compare cable TV and satellite TV offers

Popularity

Without doubts, cable TV is the old school when it comes to paid TV services. They had been in the market for a very long time and satellite TV, which started in the mid 90s, is no where near to the cables when it comes to popularity.

Reputation & Awards

Both Dish Network and DirecTV are listed top in J. D. Power customer satisfaction surveys for several years.

Online customer support

Both cable TV and Dish Network offer online services such as viewing current and prior statements, adding packages and making payments to your account.

Installation

Dish TV setup is cheaper, faster, and more convenient when compare to the cables.

Coverage

Satellite TV services are available round the globe - as long as you have a clear view on the north sky.

Programming

Both cable and satellite TV support up to 250 channels. However, Dish Network serves comprehensive International programming; while DirecTV is famous of their exclusive sports broadcast.

Thus, we conclude that satellite TV are better in term of programming choices.

Picture quality

Dish Network and DirecTV offers 100% digital video and audio; whereas only digital channels in cable comes in digital quality.

Pricing

Dish Network base package starts at $29.99/mo; DirecTV $39.99/mo.

Charges for cable TV: Cable service fees plus additional costs such as franchise fees, taxes, plus costs for any pay per view services, and equipment costs - which normally yields more than $50/mo.

Equipments

A tie for both cables and satellite TV.

The cable TV providers normally offer a "lease" model whereby consumers pay a small percentage of their monthly bills to "lease" the set top box.

On the other hand, satellite TV users normally get free satellite TV system but they will need to commit to 12 - 18 months on subscription contract.

Reviewing on the cost vs long term commitment, we think it would be fair to give a tie.

HDTV

Cable still is facing problems delivering HDTV.

Both Dish Network and DirecTV offer HDTV programming. DirecTV, with its single LNB (the receiving end on the Satellite Dish) will experience bandwidth problems as programming increasingly switches to HDTV. Dish Network has planned ahead and has launched innumerable programs to ensure unlimited bandwidth capabilities.

Parental Control

Both satellite TV and cable TV providers give excellent features when it comes to parental control functions.

Internet Connection

Cable Internet connection is faster, cheaper (in bundle packages), and more stable.

Extra Features & Bundle Services

Cable earns more point in term of extra features and bundle services. Most large cable systems offer telephone, Internet and video services all bundled together and give huge convenient for their users.

On the other hand, satellite has less to offer when it comes to extra features or bundle services like phone. Satellite Internet is available but due to technical constrains, the service is not popular till now.

Moving/Reinstall of system when you move

Dish Network customers are protected by Dish Home Protection Plan, where your Dish system can be reinstalled in your new home when you move.

Scores

Satellite TV score: 11 ; cable TV score: 6.

While satellite TV wins big by looking at the score sheet. Shoppers should be aware that both cable TV and satellite TV services have their own advantages.Satellite TV offers more advantages (HD channels, programming choices, pricing, etc) in term of TV entertainment; while cable TV's bundle services (phone/broadband/TV) allow cable users to save more on home bills.

Thus, we believe cables are best for those who don't enjoy TV that much but would like to save more on their overall homebill; satellite TV on the other hand, are for those who likes TV or live sports game a lot.

• Visit cable TV officials online: Comcast.
• Satellite TV officials online: DirecTV, Dish Network.