At first glance DIRECTV an DISH Network satellite TV service look pretty similar. But there are differences you should be aware of. Here's a comparison of DIRECTV and DISH Network's services.
Programming
DIRECTV has 265 satellite TV channels, while DISH Network has 355 channels. These channels run the gamut of entertainment including network channels, movie channels, sports channels, news and weather channels, special interest channels, and international channels.
DIRECTV prices start at $29.99 a month for 45 channels, which includes local channels - ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and The CW channel. DISH Network prices start at $19.99 a month for 40 channels, and local channels are $5 a month extra.
Movie Channels
Both companies offer 31 movie channels from HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz. Package prices start at $11.99 a month for 10 Showtime channels and go up to $14.99 a month for 8 HBO channels.
Pay-Per-View Service
With pay-per-view you can have a recently-released movie sent to your receiver so can watch a movie without having to go to a video store to get it. DIRECTV features 60 movies per month, plus sports and special events, with prices starting at $3.99 per movie. DISH Network features 75 movies per month, plus sports and special events, with prices starting at $3.99 per movie.
Music Channels
DIRECTV offers 73 XM satellite radio channels, while DISH Network offers 52 of their own music channels plus 60 Sirius satellite radio channels. Both company's music channels are commercial free and are broadcast in digital audio for CD quality sound.
Equipment
Both satellite TV companies will give you a free 4-room satellite TV system, including installation, when you order one of their program packages. You also have the option of getting a free HD receiver so you can watch your shows in high def, or a free DVR receiver so you can record your shows. You can even get a combination HD/DVR receiver.
Customer Service
If you experience problems with your system, or just have questions on how to use it, both companies have a 24-hour toll-free customer hotline and an online customer service feature so you can get help when you need it.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to equipment, DIRECTV and DISH Network's dishes and receivers are similar in quality and design. However, I find DISH Network's remote and their program guide to be a little more user friendly than DIRECTV's.
When it comes to programming, DIRECTV has the most sports channels, including th popular NFL Sunday Ticket, while DISH Network offers the most movies, music, international channels, and pay-per-view movies.
DIRECTV has slightly more HD (high definition) channels, but DISH Network is catching up.
