What's the Big Difference Between Satellite Television Companies Anyhow?

On the surface, the two big satellite television companies, DirecTV and Dish Network look a lot alike. And in many ways they really are similar. But that doesn't mean there aren't great reasons for choosing one company over the other.

The biggest factor overall will probably be the package selections. When it comes right down to it, you want to receive the channels you want to watch, and if one company offers them and the other doesn't that's the way you should go.

This can be challenging, however. Sometimes each company will have slightly different channels, and what you would want most is a mixture of the two. In that case you will have to decide based on other factors.

For example, if you love sports, can't get enough, Dish Network has some great sports packages. But DirecTV offers more basic packages, which gives you greater flexibility on the basics you may want.

Equipment and equipment cost can be a big factor too. It's not that hard to find offers where you get at least some of your satellite television equipment free. But as a general rule, Dish Network offers more free equipment than DirecTV.

One factor that can be hard to figure out without actually checking with the companies is what exactly is offered in your area. Most areas have local channels available, although you may have to pay an additional fee for these. Available sports channels also vary by location.

Both companies of course offer a variety of addons, such as movie channels, the aforementioned sports channels, and HDTV. If these are the packages you want, their exact composition could be the deciding factor for you.

At the time you are searching, it never hurts to check for ongoing offers. This is especially nice when you come to the conclusion that it doesn't much matter to you which you get, such as when the offers for your needs are much the same. But don't make a decision you will regret just to save a little at the start. You want to be happy with your decision.

The differences between these two companies are slight in many ways, but they can be important when it comes down to your overall satisfaction with your satellite television service. Don't compromise on your overall satisfaction just to save a few dollars; pick the company that closest meets your needs. There are few frustrations like that of not being able to watch something you love because you don't get the right channel.

About the Author

Stephanie Foster runs http://www.comparesatellite.info/ to allow people to take a good look at which satellite television is right for them. Visit her site to compare satellite television services.