Satellite TV Provider Showdown: DISH Network vs. DIRECTV

Overview of Satellite TV Providers

DISH Network

DISH Network, launched by EchoStar Communications in 1996, boasts 12 million subscribers. It has consistently ranked #1 in customer satisfaction among all cable and satellite TV providers, according to J.D. Power and Associates.

DIRECTV

DIRECTV, the pioneer in direct broadcast satellite (DBS) TV, was launched in 1994 by General Motors. With 14.5 million subscribers, it holds the #2 spot in customer satisfaction, as per J.D. Power and Associates.

Feature Comparison

Programming

• DISH Network: Offers 290+ channels, including movie channels, pay-per-view programs, and sports packages. It also provides 70+ SiriusXM music channels.
• DIRECTV: Provides 330+ channels, including movie channels, pay-per-view, and sports packages. It offers 40+ music channels.

International Channels

• DISH Network: Offers a wide array of international channels, including Armenian, Asian, Chinese, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Israeli, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, South Asian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Urdu.
• DIRECTV: Provides international channels in Chinese, Filipino, Italian, South Asian, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

Pay-Per-View Movies and Special Events

Both providers charge $3.99 per pay-per-view movie. Special event programming prices vary based on the event.

Pricing

• DISH Network: Packages start at $64.99 for 190 channels and go up to $99.99 for 290+ channels, including premium channels like HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax.
• DIRECTV: Packages start at $64.99 for 160+ channels and go up to $134.99 for 330+ channels, including HBO, Showtime, and Starz.

Activation Fee

• DISH Network: $49.99 activation fee, refunded with the first bill.
• DIRECTV: $50.00 activation fee, refunded with the first bill.

Satellite TV System

Both providers offer a free satellite TV dish and up to 4 free receivers with universal remotes upon subscription. Installation is free.

HD Receivers

• DISH Network: Offers free HD receivers with service orders.
• DIRECTV: Charges $199 per HD receiver.

DVR Receivers

• DISH Network: Provides two free DVR receivers. Video-on-Demand service is free with the America's Everything Pak or $4.98/month with other packages.
• DIRECTV: DVR receivers are free after a $99 rebate. TiVo service is free with the Total Choice Premier package or $4.99/month with other packages.

Warranty

Both providers offer a one-year warranty on their satellite TV systems.

Installation Times

Installation typically takes one to five days from the time an order is placed.

Customer Service

Both DISH Network and DIRECTV offer 24/7 online and toll-free customer service.

Bonus Gifts

Both providers offer special programming deals and free gifts to attract new customers. For the latest offers, visit their respective websites.

Interesting Stats

• According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), satellite TV providers serve approximately 30% of the U.S. pay-TV market.
• A study by Leichtman Research Group found that the average American household spends about $107 per month on pay-TV services.

Conclusion

Both DISH Network and DIRECTV offer compelling packages and services. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, such as the variety of channels, international programming, and additional features like DVR and HD receivers. For more detailed information and the latest offers, visit the DISH Network and DIRECTV websites.

This article provides a comprehensive comparison of DISH Network and DIRECTV, helping you make an informed decision based on your preferences and requirements.