DISH Network vs. DirecTV

DirecTV and Dish Network are the two main competing providers of satellite television in the United States. While both provide all the basic cable/satellite channels in the country, they do have slight differences in their content as well as rates and service contracts. There are also differences in how their dishes are positioned to capture satellite signals.

Channels

DirecTV's least expensive package offers more than 150 channels that includes local channels at no extra charge. Dish Network's least expensive package offers more than 100 channels. Both providers' most prominent packages offer more than 200 television channels and 50 satellite radio channels.

Content

DirecTV is best known as the choice for sports fans. DirecTV offers nine sports packages versus Dish Network's seven, including the NFL Network, NBA League Pass, MLB Extra Innings and NHL League Pass. While Dish Network is expanding its sports options, it is still known as the choice for movie watchers, showing an average of 75 pay-per-view movies per month compared to DirecTV's 60.

Price

DirecTV and Dish Network's prices can fluctuate over time. However, both providers have a basic service start-up price at around $35 a month with their priciest packages averaging a monthly cost of $85 to $90. Other options like access to high-definition channels will add an extra $10 to $11 and Dish Network charges $5 a month for local channels. These rates are often fixed for a period of at least one year. Dish Network also offers a $9.99 per month offer for the first six months. The rates for both providers can increase after the first term of service expires.

Equipment

The equipment for both providers is essentially the same. Both offer a dish antenna with up to four receiver boxes standard. This equipment can be professionally installed at no charge and is considered to be leased by the subscriber. They both offer digital video recorders where the device itself is free but requires an additional $5 monthly charge for its service.

Positioning

Both providers have their satellites in geosynchronous orbit on the equator due south of the United States. The exact position of their satellites determines the horizontal angle your dish must be turned. DirecTV's three satellites are all positioned between 101 and 119 degrees longitude. Dish Network has five satellites positioned between 110 and 119 degrees, but they also have two more at 148 degrees and another at 61.5 degrees.

References

• TheSatelliteTVGuide.com
• Satellite TV Choice