Satellite TV Service -- Is DIRECTV or DISH Network Better?

Since the demise of Pegasus and VOOM, thereDIRECTV has the most sports program
are just two satellite TV service providers battlingpackages, including NFL Sunday Ticket.
it out for the top spot -- DIRECTV and DISHWhen you order DIRECTV programming, the
Network.system -- satellite TV dish and receivers -- is free
Both companies provide excellent service, all-digitalfor up to four rooms. Installation is also free.
broadcast quality, and great customer service.Program packages start at $41.99 a month for
The main difference between the two companies135 channels (which includes 31 music channels),
is the programming they provide.plus HBO, Showtime, and Starz.
How Satellite TV Service WorksNote: To find out about DIRECTV's latest special
Satellite TV providers such as DIRECTV and DISHoffers and free bonuses, click on the links at the
Network send a broadcast signal carryingbottom of this article.
television programming to a satellite orbiting aboveDISH Network
the earth. The Satellite then broadcasts the signalDISH Network was launched in 1996 and is the
back down to earth.second-largest satellite TV provider with more
This signal is picked up by a satellite TV dish thenthan 12 million subscribers. It is ranked #1 in
transmitted to a receiver where it is amplified andcustomer satisfaction by J.D. Power and
sent to a TV screen.Associates.
Benefits of Satellite TV ServiceDISH Network offers more than 255 channels of
* Satellite TV is broadcast in all-digital format,programming, including movie channels, music
providing the highest quality picture and soundchannels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports
available.packages, and international programming.
* Satellite TV gives you access to hundreds ofDish Network has the biggest variety of movies
different programs, pay-per-view movies, specialand shows and the most HD (high definition)
events, and commercial-free music channels.programming.
* Satellite TV utilizes DVR (digital video recording)When you order DISH Network programming, the
receivers so you can record your favoritesystem -- satellite TV dish, receivers, and
programs and bypass commercials while watchinginstallation -- is free for up to four rooms.
live TV.Program packages start at $31.99 a month for
* Satellite TV is much more reliable than cable or60 channels plus HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax.
over-the-air TV. Broadcast outages average onlyNote: To find out about DISH Network's latest
1% as opposed to 3%-5% for cable.special offers and free bonuses, click on the links
Satellite TV Servicesat the bottom of this article.
DIRECTVBottom Line
DIRECTV was launched in 1994 and was the firstIf you're a sports fan and want the most sports
DBS (direct broadcast satellite) service in thepackages -- including the popular NFL Sunday
world. It is currently the largest satellite TVTicket which allows you to watch almost all the
provider with 14.5 million subscribers. It is rankedNFL football games -- then DIRECTV is the way
#2 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power andto go.
Associates.If you're a movie buff and want the biggest
DIRECTV offers more than 225 channels ofvariety of movies and shows, and the most HD
programming, including movie channels, music(high definition) programming, then Dish Network is
channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sportswhat you're looking for.
packages, and international programming.