DIRECTV vs. DISH Network

The Satellite Battle Is On

So you've finally decided to jump all-in with a satellite network, but you haven't a clue about which service you should subscribe to? ConnectMySatellite is here to help with a list that highlights the particulars of each of two of the top satellite providers— DIRECTV and DISH Network.

DIRECTV

History and Overview

DIRECTV:
In 1994, DIRECTV® began delivering all-digital, high-power, multi-channel TV programming service via an 18" satellite dish. With its national reach, DIRECTV continues to offer consumers an alternative to cable. They have contributed to the evolution of TV with their electronic program guide (EPG), digital video recorder (DVR) services, interactive features, HD programming and quality customer service.

DISH:
DISH Network is owned by EchoStar Communications. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, EchoStar Communications Corporation is a public company with approximately 21,000 employees. DISH Network is the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service.

Equipment

DIRECTV:
DIRECTV requires a receiver box for every television in the home. Also, you will need a satellite dish that can be placed somewhere that has a clear view of the southern sky. In most if not all cases, the equipment will be leased from DIRECTV and returned upon disconnection of the service.

DISH:
DISH Network requires a receiver box for every television in the home. Also, you will need a satellite dish that can be placed somewhere that has a clear view of the southern sky. In most if not all cases, the equipment will be leased from DISH Network and returned upon disconnection of the service. DISH Network also offers dual tuners, which allow you to connect one receiver to two TVs.

Digital Video Recording Services

DIRECTV:
Upon ordering DIRECTV service, you will be able to get a Digital Video Recorder (DVR). Currently, most packages include a free DVR upgrade after a $100 mail-in rebate.

DISH:
DVR services are available with DISH Network. Several DISH Network plans offer a free DVR receiver upgrade.

Programming

DIRECTV:
DIRECTV offers several programming packages and has tons of channels to choose from. Also, DIRECTV offers a number of sports packages, including the coveted NFL Sunday Ticket.

DISH:
DISH Network has a number of programming options to choose from and they start for as low as $19.99 for 80 channels. With hundreds of channels to choose from, their packages are put together to give you choice and value.

Sports Packages

DIRECTV:
The jewel of DIRECTV's sports package is the NFL SUNDAY TICKET. With the NFL SUNDAY TICKET, you can follow your favorite football team no matter where you live. You can pick up to 14 games every Sunday.

DISH:
DISH Network offers a variety of season ticket packages, including the MLB Extra Innings Package, the NBA League Pass, the ESPN Full Court, the ESPN GamePlan, the NHL Center Ice and the MLS Direct Kick Soccer 2006.

International Programming

DIRECTV:
DIRECTV offers a wide variety of international programming. Consumers looking for Spanish-language programming can choose from Selección Extra, Selección Más and Selección Ultra. Other international packages include: Caribbean, Chinese, Filipino, Italian, Korean, Russian, South Asia, Ukrainian, Vietnamese and International Sports.

DISH:
DISH Network offers over 20 international programming options, including African, Arabic, Armenian, French, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, German, Greek, Korean, South Asian, Italian, Polish, Urdu, Farsi, Israeli, Portuguese, Filipino and Ukrainian. In addition, DISH Network offers several levels of DishLATINO, their Spanish-language package.

Music

DIRECTV:
DIRECTV offers up to 73 XM satellite radio channels, including music, news, entertainment and lifestyle audio programming. In addition, DIRECTV offers CD USA, which is an exclusive weekly music show with live performances and interviews.

DISH:
With DISH Network, you can get 60 channels of 100 percent commercial-free music 24/7, courtesy of SIRIUS satellite Radio. SIRIUS Music channels are available with several DISH Network packages, including America's Top 120, America's Top 180, America's "Everything" Pak, DishHD Silver, DishHD Gold, DishHD Platinum, DishLatino Dos, DishLatino Max and DishLatino "Everything" Pak.

Pay-Per-View Services

DIRECTV:
Pay-Per-View is available to all DIRECTV services. It is a convenient, easy and inexpensive way to enjoy hit movies and big events.

DISH:
DISH Network offers Pay-Per-View Services to all of their customers. The most popular Hollywood movies as well as the biggest games and matches are available on DISH Network Pay-Per-View.

Price

DIRECTV:
Price for DIRECTV is generally thought to be higher, but in most cases, they offer larger packages with more channels, making the comparison not completely correct. New, residential DIRECTV lease customers can now get discounted prices on their most popular packages.

DISH:
DISH Network offers small packages for very low prices as well as fairly comprehensive packages with higher price tags, allowing consumers to choose exactly what channels they want and what they want to spend. To find out if you can get either of these great services in your area, enter your address in the address bar on the right-hand side of the screen.