Directv Vs. Dish Network -- Which Is Better?

The satellite TV systems and services offered by DirecTV and Dish Network are almost identical -- both offer more than program channels, all-digital programming, HDTV (high definition TV) options, and DVR (digital video recording) capabilities. So when you compare DirecTV to Dish Network you'll discover the biggest differences between them are the subscription fees and programming. Here is a blow-by-blow comparison of DirecTV vs. Dish Network ... Satellite TV Equipment Direct TV offers free satellite TV equipment (the dish and receivers), and free installation in up to four rooms of your home. If you want a DVR receiver you will be charged an additional $.. The charge for HDTV receivers is $.. Dish Network gives you free satellite TV equipment and free installation in up to four rooms of your home. You can get a DVR receiver or an HDTV receiver at no charge. Satellite TV Programming DirecTV offers program channels, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming. Programming packages start at $. per month for channels. Dish Network offers program channels, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming. Programming packages start at $. per month for channels. Customer Service DirecTV has excellent customer service with / online support, and / toll-free telephone support. Dish Network also has excellent customer service with / online support, and / toll-free telephone support. Customer Satisfaction DirecTV is ranked # in customer satisfaction among all the cable and satellite TV providers. Dish Network is ranked # in customer satisfaction among all the cable and satellite TV providers. The Bottom Line Both DirecTV and Dish Network offer top-of-the-line satellite TV equipment and all-digital programming for the best picture and sound available. Dish Network's basic programming package is cheaper than DirecTV's, but DirecTV's Total Choice has a more channels. Dish Network has more movie packages and foreign programming, while DirecTV offers more sports packages.