Which Is Better Satellite TV: DirecTV or Dish Network?

Dish Network offers six standard television packages that range from 60 to more than 260 channels. The Dish America package, the most basic one available, includes basic and local channels. The next level up is America's Top 120 which includes 120 of the most popular channels. The top package is America's Everything, which includes the most digital channels plus access to 30 commercial-free movie channels. DirecTV offers four packages: Choice, Choice Xtra, Choice Ultimate and Premier. These packages range from 150 channels with the Choice package to more than 285 with the Premier. All packages include local channels.

Outside of promotions, Dish Network's packages are priced between $35 for Dish America and $105 for America's Everything package, as of June 2011. The America's Top 120 package is $45 but for an extra $5 you can add access to regional sports channels. The mid-range packages are priced at $60 and $70 per month. DirecTV's packages begin at a regular price of $61 for the Choice package and go all the way up to $115 for the Premier package. The Choice Xtra package is priced at $66 and the Choice Ultimate at $71.

Dish Network customers can add high-definition programming to an existing package for $10 per month. DVR service can be added for $6 per month and you may pay $6 for the protection plan, which includes equipment replacement, technical support and discounted in-home service. DirecTV customers may add DVR service for one TV for $7 per month and may add HD programming to any package for $10 per month. Keep an eye out for promotions including free HD and a free HD DVR upgrade with a qualifying 24-month agreement. Both DirecTV and Dish Network provide access to pay-per-view programs and an On Demand library.

Dish Network customers can subscribe to HBO for $16 per month and Showtime, Starz and Cinemax are $13 each, as of June 2011. For $24 a month, you can subscribe to two premium movie channels or to three channels for $33. DirecTV customers can subscribe to HBO for $16 per month and to Starz, Cinemax, Showtime or Sports Pack for $13 per month. Customers who subscribe to one premium channel can add a second for $11, a third for $10 and a fourth for $8 per month.

Both Dish Network and DirecTV frequently run free equipment and installation promotions and both companies lease their equipment to you. All equipment must be returned upon cancellation of the service or fees may apply. Installation typically takes several hours and may require additional wiring to be run through the home from the satellite dish to the television. Connecting the DVR to the Internet may require additional time. In some cases it takes a second visit from a service agent to find the right position for the satellite dish.