XHTML 1.1 - Served as application/xhtml+xml
Getting the Best Satellite TV Service
In the United States, there are primarily two satellite TV service providers competing for your hard earned money: Dish Network and DirecTV. Although the pay television industry has become saturated with much of the same programming, these two companies continue to strive to be the best satellite TV service.
Sales for Dish Network have declined over the years, but DirecTV is still going strong. The truth is that the average customer will have a difficult time distinguishing between the two services. Both offer a huge selection of programming, affordable packages and equipment. Both satellite TV services also make it quick and easy to get your system up and running.
Discerning the best satellite TV service
With so many choices, consumers have expressed a level of confusion. This can all be simplified by deciding exactly what you're looking for, then purchasing the package the suits you best. Most consumers are inclined to go after the best price, but this is something that may actually cause you to waste a lot of time. Industry prices are very competitive, and the equipment and programming selections do not vary as much when it comes to satellite TV service.
Any package offered by Dish Network or DirecTV will suffice for most consumers. Both companies offer a great bang for your buck with the ability to customize and upgrade packages to your liking. When researching these companies, you'll find that each provider will offer you quality digital picture and exceptional sound. This comes in handy with modern technology's HDTV, as it will deliver a crystal picture and great sound on the new television sets. Satellite TV companies have introduced these type of features mainly to keep pace with cable television providers. The fact that millions of customers are switching from cable to satellite TV has enabled these companies to advance quickly. Each company has roughly 15 million customers, with another million or so purchasing service each year.
Additional satellite TV service options
If you want to truly enhance your viewing experience, there are several additional programming options, such as sports packages, movie channels, along with Sirius and XM satellite radio stations. Both companies also offer local programming, although there may be an additional charge for some of those channels.
When comparing satellite TV service, you will find that international programming has also begun to surface. There are now a number of channels available in Chinese, French, German, and more. These packages are a great way to keep up with what's going on in the world and can possibly help you learn another language. The majority of the international packages require an English-based subscription as well.
If you're heavy into high definition, you may also want to check within a particular company to find out how much HD programming they have available. While the delivery of HD is expanding tremendously, not all channels offered support this technology.
Aside from Dish Network and DirecTV, you will find a handful of other companies offering satellite TV service as well. A few of them are reliable, but it's highly recommended to stick with a well known company. If you do take interest in a provider outside of the big two, remember to research the company thoroughly to ensure you get the best deal possible.

