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Comparing Cable and Satellite TV Service

When comparing cable and satellite, evaluating the pros and cons of each helps you decide on the service that best fits your needs.

Equipment

Cable vs. Satellite

Cable generally requires one receiver per television and you can choose to add a digital video recorder (DVR) as well. Usually cable equipment must be returned upon disconnection of service. With satellite you will need a dish that faces the Southen sky. Each TV will need a receiver and DVR is also available. Upon termination of service, satellite providers sometimes require the equipment to be returned.

Channels

Cable offers about 300 channels in digital quality. You can get your local channels, plus pay-per-view and on-demand options with cable. Most cable companies are now offering HD channels. Satellite offers about 250 channels but offers less local programming. They are adding more local channels and they also have HD programming.

Price

In general, satellite service is thought to be cheaper, but may not always be true depending on what programming you want with your service. You should check the providers' prices for whatever extra programming or services you want to include to see if satellite or cable service is cheaper in your case.

Signal Quality

Since both cable and satellite TV companies offer digital channels then the quality is about the same. Sever weather can affect both. If you lose power with cable you will have to wait for the cable company to send out a technician.