- 1). Consider what is available in your area. Satellite TV is available everywhere, although it does not carry some local stations in some cities and towns. The two main satellite companies are the DISH network and DirecTV. In Denver, Comcast is the only true cable television service available. Qwest, another television provider in Denver offers TV bundles with DSL Internet, but uses DirecTV for its TV bundles.
- 2). Consider your price range. Satellite is typically cheaper because companies don't have to pay the local taxes that cable companies do, allowing them to offer more options and channels for less. Satellite packages range from $24.99 to $84.99 for their most basic packages. In Denver, as of September 2010, Comcast Cable ranged from $57.94 to $129.99 for TV only packages. Comcast, however, offers bundled packages with Internet and phone services that might provide a better value than a TV only service option.
- 3). Compare programming options. In Denver, Comcast cable offers hundreds of digital channels depending on your package, as well as your local stations. Comcast's top TV package offers more than 200 digital channels, with On Demand options allowing you access to thousands of movies, and premium channels such as HBO and Showtime. With their HD cable box, you have access to all the HD channels available. DISH Network's best package offers nearly 300 digital channels along with all premium channels, and all HD channels with their HD receivers. DirecTV offers a comparable package that includes NFL Sunday Ticket, giving football fans access to every game playing across the country. The downside with satellite programming, however, is that they might not be able to provide you with all of your local stations, so be sure to ask them which local channels they do offer.
- 4). Compare equipment. Satellite TV uses a satellite dish that needs to be installed on the outside of your house, and satelitte receivers for every television in the home. Depending upon the package you choose, DISH Network and DirecTV might provide installation charges for free and up to three receivers for free. If you have a lower package, however, you will have to pay for the installation and the receivers for each television, which can get expensive. Satellite TV is also subject to weather interruptions. You might have trouble receiving your channels in a snowstorm or heavy rain. Cable typically only needs a cable box that comes with the price of your cable packages. You might, however, have to pay extra for an HD DVR box.
- 5). Ask your neighbors. Get a consensus on what your neighbors are using. Ask them if they've had any major problems with their satellite service and about overall customer service in the area. Find out how they feel about the programming they have with their TV service. Neighbors often have the same television service based on past experiences on what works best in general in the neighborhood. Consider their advice, but the decision should be based upon the needs of your family and your budget.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -