Comcast TV Options

by Katherine Hartman, Demand Media

Comcast Corporation is one of the nation's largest providers of cable, home Internet service and home telephone service. The company offers services in 29 states and in the District of Columbia. Comcast offers several different television options to choose from; research the options and consider your family's desires before choosing a package.

Basic Cable

The Basic Cable package is the least expensive option and is designed for families who occasionally watch television. All local programming is offered with the Basic Cable package, including local news, kids' programs, weather and sports. Subscribers to this package can enjoy programs on major television networks such as ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX. No antenna is needed for this service.

Digital Starter

The Digital Starter package is the next step up from the Basic Cable package and features more options. Along with all local programming, the Digital Starter package also includes 80 digital cable channels, 45 commercial-free music channels and simple-to-use parental controls so you can better monitor what your children watch. The package also boasts Comcast's On Demand feature, which allows you to choose from thousands of movies and shows to play when it's convenient for you. The on-screen program guide allows users to scroll through a list of programs without having to clumsily flip through channels.

Digital Preferred

The Digital Preferred package is for families who love watching television and want the most options possible. With the Digital Preferred package, you'll get more than 100 digital cable channels, including movie channels such as Encore and Reelz. Like with the Digital Starter package, you'll also have access to On Demand and an on-screen program guide.

Add-ons

Once you have decided on a package, you'll also need to consider if you want to purchase any add-ons. It's important to note that if you opt for the Basic Cable package, you will not be able to purchase these add-ons. The first add-on option is to upgrade your standard cable box to an HD receiver or an HD DVR. With an HD receiver, you'll be able to enjoy the crisp, clear picture offered with high-definition television. DVR allows you to record one show while watching another. You can connect up to 10 televisions to the HD receiver or the HD DVR for additional rental fees. You can also add premium movie channels to your package, including HBO, Starz, Cinemax or Showtime.

References

  • Comcast: Customize
  • Comcast: Products
  • Comcast: About Comcast Corporation

About the Author

Katherine Hartman started writing professionally in 2008, covering topics such as film, theater architecture and environmental issues. She has contributed to "Cleveland Magazine," "Southeast Ohio Magazine" and "Building Design and Construction" magazine, among other publications. Hartman graduated from Ohio University's E.W. Scripps School of Journalism in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in journalism.