Satellite TV versus Cable TV
Steve Sweeney

Satellite TV versus Cable TV
Which one really is better?

If you listen to the ads on the radio and TV you are probably more confused than ever regarding the services offered by Satellite and cable TV providers.
The following is an honest comparison of these services that will hopefully help you in deciding which is best for you.

Price
When comparing Satellite TV and cable TV the prices are about the same with Satellite having a slight edge over cable. For comparable packages Dishnetwork usually is the lowest averaging approximately $9.00 less per month for their basic package than cable or DirecTv.

Service
Cable TV is generally made up of analog or "hybrid" analog/digital signal.
Both Dishnetwork and DirecTv are all digital video and audio.
HDTV broadcast are available from both however it requires additional equipment and an HDTV television or monitor.
Satellite broadcast are generally better quality due to the fact that they are received directly from the satellite to your home where cable is received at their location and then relayed through their network of cables to your home.
Internet access is available in one form or the other through both Satellite and cable in most area''s. Cable companies that provide internet access over the cable have the edge on cost and speed. DirecTv offers internet access through the satellite connection however it is slower and usually more expensive than the cable connection. However if you live in an area that does not offer cable internet or DSL the DirecTv internet is far superior to dial up and can be used anywhere that you can receive DirecTV satellite broadcast. Dishnetwork has partnered with Earthlink to provide an internet access option.

Hardware
Cable requires a cable be connected to your home from their network and you usually will lease the set top boxes necessary to receive their signal. Most cable companies will charge a fee for installation of cable to your home which varies widely depending on the provider and the installation.
Both DirecTv and Disnetwork require a small satellite dish be installed on your property and the set top boxes are purchased rather than leased. Both DirecTv and Dishnetwork generally offer the installation up to four rooms and the set top boxes and dish at either no charge or greatly reduced prices when you sign up for their service.

Quality of service
Contrary to popular belief Satellite signal is generally more reliable than cable signal. According to J.D. Powers Satellite loses signal approximately 1% of the time versus 3 to 5 % for cable. J.D. powers also rates both DirecTv and Dishnetwork much higher in overall customer satisfaction than any cable provider.

Summary
If your main concern is the quality of the picture and sound you receive then Satellite is superior in quality and generally less expensive than cable.
Satellite also offer more programming choices than most cable providers.
If you are concerned with the best internet connection or cannot have a dish installed on your property then cable is your best choice.


About the author:
Steve Sweeney
I am a 32 year veteran in electronics repair with experience in fixing all aspects of consumer electronics.
http://www.DiscussElectronics.com