For years, the decision television customers faced was between cable and satellite TV. Now, in addition to cable and satellite television services, there is also digital and fiber optic television. When choosing a television service, many consumers debate between satellite television providers such DirecTV and digital or fiber optic providers such Verizon FiOS TV. These two providers offer excellent television service but small differences may determine which service is right for you.
What is DirecTV?
DirecTV is a satellite television service that transmits programming to its customers via individual satellite dishes installed on the customer's house or property. Because the service relies on satellite transmission, customers may experience interruptions in service because of weather conditions. In addition to having access to hundreds of local and digital channels, DirecTV customers may also choose to subscribe to sports and movie packages that some cable companies are unable to offer. DirecTV offers its customers over 170 HD channels, often free, and access to new movie releases via DirecTV Cinema plus thousands of free movies and shows.
What is Verizon FiOS?
Verizon FiOS television use fiber optic technology to bring its customers HDTV with fewer interruptions and less weather interference than satellite TV. Television signals travel through standard broadcast video signals to the Optical Network Terminal, the customer's FiOS set-top box, and converted into video format. Whereas satellite TV relies on the ability of the satellite dish to receive signals from the satellite, Verizon's fiber optic technology broadcasts the signal to a Video Hub Office then distributes it to individual customers.
Packages Available
DirecTV offers its customers a choice of four television packages ranging from 150 to more than 285 channels. All four packages include free HD and a free HD DVR upgrade when ordered online. DirecTV offers most of its new customers promotions such as monthly rebates for the first 12 months, free installation and free access to premier movie channels for a limited time. Verizon FiOS TV packages include access to between 195 and 350 channels including a variety of commercial-free music channels. All Verizon FiOS TV packages include free installation, promotional pricing for the first year, and the activation fee is waived if the service is ordered online.
Additional Features
Both DirecTV and Verizon FiOS offer their customers additional features including online access to the television and DVR via a home computer or web-enabled mobile device. DirecTV offers free access to over 170 full-time HD channels and, while Verizon FiOS only offers around 130, the picture quality is more reliable during bad weather. Both DirecTV and Verizon FiOS offer HD and Multi-Room DVRs but, whereas DirecTV includes the DVR in all but its most basic packages, Verizon FiOS charges a monthly fee for its DVR service.
Service and Customer Satisfaction
The Verizon FiOS website states that, according to the 2011 American Customer Satisfaction Index, Verizon FiOS TV was awarded the top ranking in value, quality, and customer satisfaction for two years in a row. On the 2010 Residential Television Service Satisfaction Survey compiled by J.D. Power and Associates, Verizon FiOS was ranked the highest though DirectTV scored slightly higher in Offerings and Promotions and Customer Service. Both companies were ranked among the best in Overall Satisfaction.
References
- Direct TV: English Packages
- Verizon: Why FiOS?
- J.D. Power; 2010 Residential Television Service Satisfaction Study
Photo Credits
- Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images