One of the most crucial decisions to make for all TV lovers is to pick between cable TV and satellite TV providers. It is surely a tough choice to make when it comes to deciding whether you want to go for a cable TV provider or subscribe to a satellite TV provider. Among the satellite TV providers out there, DIRECTV truly has a lead of its own. You cannot deny the high-quality services it offers its users at the most cost-effective pricing. However, competitors like Xfinity also offer attractive cable TV plans with the option to bundle multiple services with Xfinity bundles in a single package to make it a better deal for the customers.
We understand it is a tough decision to make. Therefore, to simplify the process for you, we will discuss the key factors that can help you differentiate between cable TV and satellite TV packages.
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Availability
The availability of service is also one of the main factors to keep in mind. Cable TV services may not be available everywhere, especially in rural areas. On the other hand, satellite TV like DIRECTV has a much wider availability, which means that there are brighter chances of satellite TV coverage in rural areas.
Cost
The pricing mainly depends on the amount of money the subscriber is willing to pay. Both cable TV and satellite TV providers offer a variety of plans that come at different prices. The money you pay reflects on the quality of services, features, and the channel list you will get to enjoy. The higher the price, the better the facilities you get to experience.
Satellite TV usually provides cheaper packages as compared to cable TV providers. However, it depends solely on the provider and the plan you choose. For instance, DIRECTV provides packages starting from $29.99 per month. Cable TV providers like Xfinity offer services starting from $49.99 per month. However, the number of channels and features will vary depending on the plan you avail of and the price you pay.
Variety of Channels
Satellite TV like DIRECTV comes with a higher bandwidth as compared to cable TV. This, in turn, means that they are likely to offer a greater number of channels including more variety of HD channels, sports channels, and a greater number of regional channels.
Quality of Picture
The picture quality is also one of the basic aspects to consider when choosing your TV provider. DIRECTV is likely to provide somewhat better picture clarity as compared to cable TV and there is a reason behind it. The picture quality in the case of cable TV might be a little lower because of the signal compression that occurs before the signals are sent to the cable network.
Bundle Offers
Cable companies offer bundled services more commonly as compared to satellite TV providers. For instance, Xfinity provides a wide range of exciting bundle offers including double play and triple play plans where you can pair up TV services with internet and/or phone services. This allows you to save a considerable amount of money while enjoying the convenience of managing multiple services under one bill.
Installation
You can seek expert help for the installation of your cable TV but self-installation is always an option. For instance in the case of Xfinity, if you are availing of its internet service and the cable line is already installed in your home, then self-installation of its TV service becomes much easier.
On the other hand, satellite TV installation involves placing a satellite dish usually on your rooftop while ensuring that the dish faces towards the south. Thus, self-installation of a satellite dish is much difficult and you may require technical help.
Service Comparison
Both DIRECTV And cable TV provide equivalent services to the users. However, when it comes to bad weather conditions like storms or any obstructions, DIRECTV is more likely to be affected causing signals to distort and drop temporarily. Cable TV is immune to such weather changes.
Final Words
Cable TV and satellite TV services differ in many ways. You need to decide the basic criteria to pick the most appropriate TV provider that suits your needs to the fullest. As far as installation and weather conditions are concerned, cable TV should be preferred over satellite TV. However, when it comes to picture quality, availability, or variety of channels, DIRECTV leads the game. Therefore, the ball is in your court, choose the one that matters to you the most.