Cable vs Satellite in Quality Service:  Satellite TV brings you hundreds of channels in crystal-clear, 100% digital-quality picture and sound via state-of-the-art satellite technology. The innovative onscreen channel guide provides in-depth program descriptions, so it's easy to search for your favorite entertainment. According to J.D. Powers & Associates, satellite tv beats all cable providers in customer satisfaction. So with all the benefits & features and with a price LESS than cable, it's no surprise then that in the cable vs satellite pay tv battle, satellite wins "hands down"!

Most cable providers offer a hybrid analog/digital service. Digital Cable cannot be considered "100% Quality Digital" because it is generally a fourth or fifth generation signal that is relayed from sub-station to sub-station before it reaches your residence. This relay of the digital cable signal reduces the overall quality of your picture and sound. Satellite signals are considered the highest quality digital service as they are "first generation" signal direct from the broadcasting station to your dish. Also, keep in mind, even if you subscribe to digital cable, the analog channels will remain "analog" even though you have digital equipment. Why pay MORE for lower quality entertainment?

 Cable vs Satellite in Technology:  Satellite tv is better in state-of-the-art technology features when comparing cable vs satellite. Some of the latest features included with satellite tv are electronic program guides (EPGs) , parental-control locks, automated timers, and interactive features such as instant weather, video on demand (VOD), and personal video recording (PVR). Satellite TV currently have promotions for FREE DVR receivers for recording programs without videotape, up to two at a time, ability to pause live tv, and even skip commercials. Some cable providers offer this service, but it usually has less features and is subject to local availability. Cable offers parental control, but only in digital cable (not analog). Also, Cable providers are more behind in HDTV services than satellite. Satellite providers are a step ahead of cable with more HD programming available and more coming soon. To get HD via cable, you must subscribe to digital cable and rent an HD-capable cable box or CableCard for each HDTV. Satellite companies currently offer FREE HD receiver upgrades for new customers. When comparing cable vs satellite in technology, satellite wins again!

CABLE VS SATELLITE COST COMPARISON

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Note: Features and costs of cable services varies by provider & location. Check w/ your local cable company for services & fees.
*Based upon figures provided by FCC as of July 1, 2002. Other cost estimates based on sampled data.
**Note: You must have a high definition TV to view HDTV broadcasts.
¹Ranked #1 among all pay-TV providers in the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI).