Dish Network vs DirecTV

Programming Packages

Choosing Between Dish Network and DirecTV

It is difficult to make a choice between the two networks because they offer very similar programming as well as pricing. When it comes to programming the number of movie channels, sports channels, news channels and foreign channels offered by Dish Network and Direct TV is almost the same.

The program pricing for Dish Network is lesser than DirecTV for a comparable range of services. The difference is greater at the lower end of the offer spectrum. The table below illustrates the different channel choices and comparative program pricing of both the networks:

Sports Channels

Certain sports channels and leagues such are available only on DirecTV because they have negotiated exclusive tie up with them. Just recently, the NBA League Pass and the NHL Center Ice package have become available on Dish Network as well. It is possible that over a period, Dish Network will offer similar packaging as DirecTV. However, as of now, DirecTV is superior when it comes to sports channels.

Comparison of HDTV between Dish Network and DirecTV

As the table below shows, Dish Network gives you a better HD TV deal as compared to DirecTV. We expect this will change soon because VOOM subscribers who migrate to DirecTV will demand a better offering.

In summary, basic pricing difference between Dish Network and DirecTV is minor. Both channels will give you adequate parental control over what your children watch. DirecTV also allows you to control your pay per view expenses.

For sports freaks and those who are looking for better deal on sports channels, DirecTV offers a better deal. If it is not, we suggest you consider Dish Network. The difference in pricing for HDTV is too stark to be missed. As the folks at DirecTV put it - here is one dish less to pack!

	Compare Dish Network and DirecTV - Equipment

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