DirecTV Vs DISH Network

The satellite dish battle comes down to just two names: DirecTV and DISH network. DirecTV and DISH network are incredibly similar products; each offers their own benefits and drawbacks, each even produce very similar results. However, there are some particular differences between DirecTV service and DISH network service that, in my opinion, elevates one over the other.

Beginning with the installation, the technicians for both DirecTV and DISH Network were very prompt and knowledgeable. Both companies did require an upfront investment, but in neither case was it neither unexpected nor padded with any extra miscellaneous fees. With both DirecTV and DISH Network, the equipment was thoroughly checked and double-checked before the technician left. I was very impressed with their performance, especially compared with some cable companies I have previously dealt with.

The performance of both was very, very similar as well. Both DirecTV and DISH Network deliver equal quality in terms of picture, sound and reception. The only issue I had with either was their susceptibility to overcast and rainy days causing interruptions in the service but, for now, that is a common issue with any satellite company.

Another place where DirecTV and DISH Network are practically identical is in programming. When reviewing the available channel listings side-by-side, you would be hard-pressed to come up with any channel DirecTV might offer that DISH Network does not, and vice versa. Each offers the same amount of premium networks with the same types of channels, like HBO comedy et al. In addition, each company offers identical access to regional sports networks, with the same lineup offered by both DirecTV and DISH Network.

With all the similarities, you might ask, where do they differ? Well, in my opinion, the only real difference is in terms of price, and even then, it is relatively minor. Virtually across the board, DISH Network's price is less than DirecTV's price for the same package. For example, DirecTV prices its access to regional sports networks, known as the DirecTV Sports Pack, the same as they charge for HBO and other premium networks. What that means is that DirecTV charges $12 for the first premium, $11 for the second, $10 for the third. DISH Network, on the other hand, charges $5.99 for the Multi Sport Pack; it is not considered part of their premium networks and is priced differently.

Now, if you are the type that would order every single premium network anyway plus the regional sports networks regardless, then truthfully there is really no difference at all. DirecTV charges $99.99 for their Total Choice Premier package, which features every premium offered including the DirecTV Sports Pack. DISH Network's package, the "America's Everything pack," checks in at $89.99. It also includes the Multi Sport pack in that price. The one factor that pulls these two closer together is that DirecTV's Total Choice Premier also includes the DVR subscription price, whereas DISH Network's "America's Everything" does not. For DISH Network, the regular monthly subscription price for DVR service would cost an extra $5.98, bringing the total to just under $96.

Truthfully, I really enjoyed both DISH Network and DirecTV when I had them. Neither DISH Network nor DirecTV had any significant factor that would separate one from the other. The only real difference for me was a minor difference in price. DISH Network allowed me to save a few dollars per month for virtually the exact same product and service. Moreover, it seemed that DISH Network would also offer better and more frequent introductory deals, potentially making the price break even better. However, in the end, you cannot really go wrong either way. I have and would highly recommend either to anyone.