Each of these companies broadcast channels directly to your home. Your choice of providers may depend in part upon where you live, because some providers such as DirecTV cater to individuals living in rural vs. suburban areas. When choosing a provider you might consider the following:
- What you want to use your service for. For example, if you plan on using satellite primarily for internet connection and don't live in an area where you can get cable, you should seek out the provider that is going to offer you the best service and best deal with respect to your internet connection.
- Your viewing preferences. If you are an avid sports fan and want to see more live sporting events, compare providers to see which offers the best pricing plan.
- Number of receivers. How many receivers do you think you will need? This may affect your decision to go with one provider vs. another. Most providers will offer up to four different receivers, meaning you can watch TV in four different rooms while viewing different changes.
- Affordability. Satellite TV is a good option for consumers looking to maximize their TV viewing potential without spending hundreds of dollars on a system. You can purchase satellite TV package for pennies on the dollar, and still have the option of watching more than 200 channels at any given time. Satellite TV is often a preferred choice for viewers operating on a budget.
Of the major online satellite TV providers, DirecTV is the most well known and largest, but not necessarily the best. It does provide service to both urban and rural areas.
Benefits of Satellite TV
What are the benefits of satellite TV? There is ongoing competition between cable TV and satellite TV providers about which is better. Satellite TV for the most part offers many of the same benefits as cable service. In addition, by buying satellite TV from online sources, consumers can take advantage of a number of "freebies" often thrown into a package to encourage customers to purchase satellite TV. Among the more common freebies include:
- Satellite TV dish
- Receivers
- Access Cards
- Remote Controls
- Cabling
- Installation
- Multi-system packages
Many satellite TV providers will provide equipment for multiple TV hook ups for free, but this offer is sometimes reserved for first time customers only.
Other benefits of satellite TV include access to local channels in major metropolitan areas and even in rural areas with an off air antenna. Satellite TV also offers international programming. In fact, Dish Network is the leading provider of foreign language packages and channels.
Myths and Misconceptions
There are some myths and misconceptions that abound regarding satellite TV that deserve clearing up.
Myth 1 - You have to watch the same programs on all TV sets in the house when you have satellite.
False!
You can watch different channels in each of the rooms satellite is set up in, you simply need separate satellite receivers to do this. And most companies will offer additional receivers for free, especially if your buying satellite TV from online sources.
Myth 2 – The weather consistently affects the quality of programming. |
