I don’t think any one company that offers HDTV packages or satellite etc can really say they are the better than the other. It’s all in personal preference, what is available in your area, cost comparison, equipment used, etc. There are many differences and similarities between companies and their satellite TV packages. So I’m going to break it down for you and make it easy.
In comparison DIRECTV has more high definition channels included in the price of their more expensive packages and local channels are included. With a DISH Network you have to pay $5 per month for your local programing channels. Another thing to look at is package deals currently going on. For example, right now DIRECTV is offering a few different options. From five months free, to free Sunday NFL ticket channel for five months and a free high definition DVR upgrade, a $199 value. Depending on the package that would best suit your needs you can expect to pay anywhere from $29.99 a month to $59.99 per month for 5 months which is their best deal currently (at the time of this writing.) That $59.99 per month package is about 1/2 the regular price.
DISH Network’s satellite TV packages are currently for a year at $15 off per month. Meaning you could get their packages for anywhere from $29 to over $100 per year. And that doesn’t include local channels. However it does include premium movie channels. DISH Network also has over 220 channels available but DIRECTV has over 285 in their premium package.
In comparing prices this is difference you can expect to pay between the two packages
DIRECTV: DISH Network:
150+ channels $58.99 120+ $39.99
210+ channels $63.99 220+ $54.99
225+ channels $68.99 260+ $64.99
285+ channels $114.99 300+ $99.99
As you can see the DISH Network is cheaper and offers more channels than the DIRECTV, but just remember the DISH Network does not include local channels. Before choosing satellite TV packages you would want to decide what channels you want to watch and use the comparison charts (see the links on the right side of this page) to see which company has those channels for the best price. Be aware that most promotional prices are for new hookups only and are usually only good for a short period of time.
