subject: Cable Or Satellite Tv: Whats The Better Fit For You? [print this page] Cable versus satellite TVCable versus satellite TV. That is the big debate these days when it comes to home entertainment services. There are benefits and drawbacks to both types of service, and there are a number of things to consider when deciding which of these competing services is the better fit for you. You will want to look at things like programming variety, premium channel options and specialized sports packages, interactive features, equipment, price, and customer service.
For many people cable is often the automatic choice, if only because it is more common and more familiar. In the past, satellite TV was for the most part just used by people who lived far out in the country where the wires needed for cable service did not reach. But in recent years satellite service has made its way into the urban market, as well, with more and more former city dwelling cable users switching over every year. More and more, people are starting to see the many benefits that come with choosing a satellite package.
There are certain things you can get through satellite service that you cannot get through cable service. For example, because all satellite signals are transmitted in digital format, satellite customers have more high definition possibilities at their disposal than people who use cable, which is just now making the transition to the all-digital standard. Digital transmission also means more interactive features will be available to satellite customers, from on screen programming schedules to DVRs, or digital video recorders. On top of that, there are certain specialized sports packages, such as the NFL Sunday Ticket, MLB Extra Innings, NASCAR Hot Pass, and the Cricket Ticket, that can only be received through satellite service.
Generally speaking, satellite service also comes with more in terms of programming variety than cable TV service does. As a result, satellite packages actually cost less per channel than comparable cable packages. When you add to that the fact that satellite equipment and system installation fees are typically waved by your satellite provider when you sign up to use their service, satellite actually stands out as a very economical choice for people who are concerned about budget and pricing. As mentioned above, cable is just now making the transition to an all-digital standard. Since your current TV may not be equipped to make the most of these digital signals, you may need an extra piece of equipment that is used to convert the signals into something that your television set can understand and display. With satellite service, you do not need to pay extra for this device, but with cable service, you may initially get this device for free but end up paying a monthly rental fee for it after a while.
The bottom line is this: if you are satisfied with your current cable service, then you should keep it satellite TV is by no means the right choice for everyone. But if you are not satisfied with your cable service and want to know what else is out there, it may be time to start examining your satellite options.
