Cable service providers use digital cable boxes to provide more digital features than could be possibly be offered over traditional cable, such as on-screen channel guides, DVR recording and digital music stations. Cable providers typically offer many different makes and models of cable boxes, and choosing the right one for your needs can sometimes be prohibitively confusing. With some careful preparation, however, you can choose a cable box that satisfies both your needs and your budget.
HD Support
The question of which cable box is best is an entirely personal and subjective one and should be based primarily on what kind of TV viewing experience you desire. If you have a high-definition TV, for instance, you'll likely want a cable box that supports HD picture formats to maximize your TV experience. If this is the case, specify to a sales representative at your cable provider when scheduling an install for your cable box that you want to use an HD cable box.
DVR
A second important consideration to make when deciding what cable box is best for you is support for additional features. Digital video recording, for example, is a feature on many cable boxes. If you plan on using DVR frequently, request a cable box with multi-tuner capabilities -- allowing for multiple simultaneous recordings -- and a larger hard drive. On the other hand, if you don't plan on using your DVR all that much, the best DVR for you is one that doesn't necessarily have a large hard drive or maybe lacks DVR features altogether.
Audio/Video Connections
Deciding the best cable box should also be done in light of the types of audio and video connections you plan to use to attach the box to your television. Typical connections on cable boxes include RCA, component, coaxial, HDMI, S-video, optical audio and DVI. HDMI offers the highest quality picture and sound of all of these connection types as of 2011, so if you plan to get the most out of your cable-viewing experience, the best cable box for you is one that offers full HDMI support. If picture quality isn't a concern, you can get a box without HDMI or component support.
Other Considerations
There are many other, more minor considerations to make when choosing the best cable box for you. The space in which the cable box is to be installed, for example, can have a major impact on the cable box you choose. Cable boxes need to not only fit inside the shelf space you reserve for them but also have enough room to ventilate so that they don't overheat. Other factors, such as the aesthetics of your home and the user-friendliness of the box controls, should also factor into the determination of what type of cable box is best for you.
