DirecTV vs. DISH Network
Ok, so you're fed up with your cable provider. They charge you for everything they can, and their customer service is terrible. You want to go to a dish, but which dish service do you go to?
The short answer is that it's pretty close, but there is definitely a clear winner. The big two, DirecTV and DISH Network offer packages that are pretty comparable across the board, from equipment and installation to programming and DVR service, but DirecTV just has a little extra edge.
Both services offer free installation and a four-room satellite TV receiver system. This basically means you can have the satellite service in four separate rooms in your home without paying an extra fee.
The most common programming packages are pretty much even. DirecTV offers 134 channels, 66 XM Radio Channels, three months of Showtime and Starz, HD channels and DVR Service for $54.99 per month. Local channels are included, unlike the DISH Network program, which features 136 channels (locals are $5 per month extra) 34 music channels and 60 Sirius Satellite radio channels plus three months of free movie channels for $44.99 per month.
Another big draw for satellite TV subscribers is the sports packages that are available. The most popular choice resides with DirecTV, the NFL Sunday Ticket. For an extra fee, subscribers can watch up to 14 games every Sunday. DISH Network has claim to a similar package with Major League Baseball and they also offer ESPN Full Court, the college basketball plan.
DirecTV gains it's edge with its programming package. Local channels, HD channels and DVR service are included with their $54.99 per month package. With DISH Network, that is all extra cost. In the end the prices are comparable, but DirecTV makes life easier for the consumer.
So when you're ready to ditch your digital cable, DirecTV will make the satellite life a little easier.
