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Compare DISH Network vs Direct TV (DirecTV),
and decide which one offers the satellite TV service that is right for you.
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The services offered by both digital satellite TV providers are of exceptional quality; therefore choosing between these two is an issue that should be based simply on identifying the channel line-up (and price), that best suits your needs. |
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Are there any differences between the two major digital satellite TV service providers in the US?
The fierce competition in the US between DISH Network and DirecTV has unfortunately led to a lot of misinformation. In particular, online information by some of their affiliates is often misleading.
The truth is that you need to keep an open eye as both service providers maybe in a position to satisfy your needs.
It is all a question of the programming packages that you would like to have, as well as the price you are ready to pay. After all, the offered services 'per se' are very similar - even the 'free' offers are almost identical, and the real differences are mainly an issue of the programming bundles and subscription fees.
At the same time, this implies that it is very important to be fully aware of the basic differences that exist between DirecTV and DISH Network before taking the Satellite TV route.
We therefore hope that this 'DISH Network vs Direct TV' comparative list would come handy when making your choice for a satellite TV service provider.
DISH Network vs Direct TV - Similarities and Differences
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Free Offers: Both DirecTV and Dish Network offer new customers free equipment packages, which include an appropriate satellite dish, a number of satellite receivers, multi-room installation (typically covering up to four rooms) by a professional, and possibly a few months of free programming as well. |
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Lowest-Priced Programming Bundle Offer: DirecTV: $29.99 per month for 45 channels. Local channels are included. HDTV programming access is provided as an add-on to your subscription package for an extra $9.99 per month. The number of HD channels will depend on the programming package you subscribe to starting with 9 HD channels for the basic package. DISH Network: $19.99 per month for 40 channels. Local channel package is $5. HDTV programming packages start at an extra $10 a month to your basic pack and brings 28 HD channels. More information on the actual differences between Dish Network and DirecTV HD programming is available in our Satellite HDTV Guide. Note: Both services have their advantages depending on what you like to watch, so you should thoroughly research their websites to determine the right provider and programming package for you. |
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Installation Times: Typical 3 to 7 days for both service providers |
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Local Channels Support: Both but check programming packages. |
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Foreign language Programming: Both |
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'Customer Support: Both companies are well-established and have great customer service departments. |
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The Bottom Line:DIRECTV offers more than 260 channels of programming, including movies, music, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, news and weather channels, and international programming. In this respect, DIRECTV has the most HD channels and the most sports program packages, including the popular NFL Sunday Ticket. DISH Network offers 350 channels of programming with a similar portfolio to that of DirecTV but DISH Network has the biggest variety of programs, the most music channels, and the most pay-per-view movies. Thus, if you are looking for the most HD programming and the most sports packages, then DIRECTV is the way to go. If you want the biggest variety of movies and shows, the most foreign programs, the most music channels, and the most pay-per-view movies, then DISH Network should be your way forward.
But as we have stated in our guide
to Satellite HDTV
...in view of the constant changes in satellite
programming package deals on offer by both service providers, it is advisable to
check with the respective service providers for their latest packages and
channel bundles.
For more information on DirecTV and Dish Network, please check the following articles under this same section: DirecTV Satellite TV
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Programming Bundles and Free Satellite TV System Offers
Check out for the latest bundle offers from DirecTV and DISH Network - including free satellite TV receivers for multiple room installation and free satellite dish installation by a professional. Just visit one of their many online retailers, including Circuit City and Best Buy for DirecTV, and VMC Satellite and AllSat for DISH Network.
Note: Please note that DirecTV and DISH Network satellite TV services described in this website are available to customers in the United States only.
...return from 'Dish Network vs Direct TV (DirecTV)'
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Last Update:
26th
June, 2008
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Digital Satellite TV Guides: |
Others articles under this section
Introduction to Digital Satellite Television
Satellite or Cable Television?
Satellite Dish Installation Guide
Choosing Your Satellite Decoder
Glossary of Satellite Television Terms and Definitions
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Satellite TV Programming |
Recommended Satellite TV Magazines
OnSat
Issues: $49.95 for 12 issues/12 months
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Satellite Orbit Magazine, formerly Satellite Entertainment Guide Magazine, is the preferred |
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| guide among C-band, DISH Network. and 4DTV customers. | |
It offers a most complete source of listings, with an all grid format, adult section and entertaining editorial, while providing updated information on the latest movements.
Issues: $49.95 12-issues per year from Magazine City
Eligible customers may enjoy FREE satellite TV system installation complete with satellite receivers and DVR options for up to four rooms from DISH Network.
