DISH Network vs. DirecTV for High Definition

Dish Network and DirecTV are America's leading satellite television providers and pioneers in high-definition (HD) programming. Both have a growing selection of HD content, which includes sporting events, local and foreign channels and movies, all presented in pristine quality. Though both Dish Network and DirecTV have many similarities, there are a few differences that are important for customers to note, such as the amount of HD programming available along with choices in DVR products.

Function

For those who own HD televisions, HD programming offers viewers clear pictures, fantastic sound and an overall great experience. Thanks to the rise in Blu-ray players and a consumer base now wanting high definition for their TV content as well, both DirecTV and Dish Network now offer 1080p--the highest resolution--for some programming. Both companies will install their HD dish for free and provide standard receivers. Many times DirecTV and Dish Network will upgrade your SD receivers to HD at no cost to you but will charge for an HD DVR.

Features

The HD service from Dish and DirecTV both offer high-quality service with no discernible difference in terms of quality. Where it may matter is through each company's hardware and on-screen guides, receivers and DVR consoles. Dish Network's ViP722 HD DVR and DirecTV's HR23 HD DVR both offer large hard drives and room for hours upon hours of shows, both SD and HD.

Differences

While both HD packages are similar, DirecTV has always offered more HD programming with Dish Network quickly making ground. The amount of HD channels through each provider seemingly changes every day. It is important to note that DirecTV may offer an HD version of a channel that Dish Network does not offer and vice versa, so viewers should practice due diligence when researching if their favorite channel is in HD.

Benefits

For football fans, DirecTV may be the way to go thanks to its NFL Sunday Ticket service, but depending on the originating feed of the game, it may or may not offer HD. Dish Network has offered its own set of HD football programming, called NFL RedZone, to lure those customers away from DirecTV's high priced Sunday Ticket.

Both companies offer competitive HD packages for NHL, college football, NASCAR and baseball.

Expert Insight

The price of Dish Network's lower-tier packages is alluring and provides slightly more channels when compared to similar packages from DirecTV. Reviews for Dish Network's DVR products like the ViP722 rate higher than DirecTV who has struggled to build quality DVRs since they ended their contract with DVR-pioneer Tivo.

References

• Ask Dave Taylor; Dish Network or DirecTV for HD programming?; Dave Taylor; 2007
• EndgadgetHD; Ask Engadget HD: DISH Network or DirecTV?; Darren Murph; Jan. 12, 2008