Satellite Dish Vs. Cable
Deciding between cable and satellite television providers can be tough. Satellite offers a wider range of channels at a lesser cost, but cable requires minimal additional equipment. Cable may be more reliable in bad weather but may not be available in your area. Here are some of the important distinctions between the two.
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Cost
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Because satellite providers pay lower taxes and require a less costly infrastructure, they are often cheaper than cable providers. As of 2009, satellite providers are offering 120 channels with 55 HD channels for around $25 a month, while a similar price from a cable provider gets you only 80 channels and none in HD.
Content
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While the two services offer many of the same major channels, satellite providers typically offer a greater number of channels and more high-definition channels.
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Equipment
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To receive cable service you need only a line to your house and a set-top box, and if you have a TV with a QAM tuner you may not even need a box. Satellite service requires placement of the satellite dish on your roof, with an unobstructed view of the sky to receive signals, as well as a set-top box attached to each of your televisions.
Reliability
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Satellite outages typically result from bad weather and may require you to periodically remove snow, dirt or debris from the dish. Cable outages typically result from line problems and can take a few hours for the cable company to fix.
Availability
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Cable service is only available where the cable provider has built an infrastructure. Consequently, satellite service may be more readily available in rural areas.
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References
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Comments
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jasons132
Jan 27, 2011
I love reading comparisons. Cable has it perks, as does Satellite. Cable you have the wire under the ground, so weather usually isn't going to be a problem, although DISH installed correctly work except during heavy storms, mine has gone out once in 2 years. Working for DISH I had an advantage, I did it myself, so I had no one to blame but myself. Content wise, online content is offered by both cable and satellite. DISH offers sling technology, you can watch live tv on your phone or laptop anywhere. Cable will be coming out with that ability but only within your own home.
