Satellite TV Guide

Here's a rundown on the programming, equipment, and services provided by DISH Network and DIRECTV so you can decide for yourself which satellite TV provider is the best one for you.

Programming

Programming Packages

* DISH Network programming packages start at $19.99 for 40 channels and go up to $74.99 for 350 channels.

* DIRECTV programming packages start at $41.99 for 155 channels and go up to $96.99 for 250 channels.

Local Channels

* DISH Network charges $5 a month to add local channels.

* DIRECTV charges $3 per month to add local channels.

Music Channels

* DISH Network offers 52 commercial-free music channels and 60 Sirius radio channels.

* DIRECTV: Offers 67 commercial-free XM radio channels.

Pay-Per-View

* DISH Network charges $3.99 per movie, while sports and special event prices vary with each event.

* DIRECTV: Movies cost $3.99 per movie, sports and special event prices vary.

Sports Packages

* DISH Network offers 7 sports packages including NFL, MLB, NBA, and MLS packages.

* DIRECTV offers 9 sports packages including NFL, MLB, NBA, MLS and NFL Sunday Ticket.

International Programming

* DISH Network offers 21 international channels, including Asian, Chinese, and Spanish programming.

* DIRECTV Network offers 7 international channels, including Asian, Chinese, and Spanish programming.

Service Commitment

* DISH Network requires a one year service commitment and charges a fee for early cancellation.

* DIRECTV requires a one year commitment and charges a fee for early cancellation.

Equipment

Satellite TV System

* DISH Network gives you a free satellite dish, up to four free receivers, and free installation when you sign up for their service.

* DIRECTV gives you a free satellite dish, up to four free receivers, and free installation (shipping and handling for the system is $19.95).

DVR (digital video recorder)

* DISH Network will give you a free DVR.

* DIRECTV will give you a free DVR after a $99 mail-in rebate.

HD (high definition) Receiver

* DISH Network offers a free HD receiver.

* DIRECTV offers a free HD receiver after a $99 mail-in rebate.

Protection Plan

* DISH Network has a free 18 month protection plan.

* DIRECTV's protection plan is $5.99 per month.

Conclusion

If you want the most satellite TV channels for the least amount of money, the biggest variety of programming, the most international channels, the most pay-per-view movies, and the most commercial-free music channels, then Dish Network is the obvious choice.

If you're looking for the most sports packages and don't mind paying the extra money for programming, then DIRECTV is what you're looking for.