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 250 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 $49.99. The charge for HDTV receivers is $299.99.
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 255 program channels, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming. Programming packages start at $41.99 per month for 115 channels.
Dish Network offers 256 program channels, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming. Programming packages start at $31.99 per month for 60 channels.
Customer Service
DirecTV has excellent customer service with 24/7 online support, and 24/7 toll-free telephone support.
Dish Network also has excellent customer service with 24/7 online support, and 24/7 toll-free telephone support.
Customer Satisfaction
DirecTV is ranked #2 in customer satisfaction among all the cable and satellite TV providers.
Dish Network is ranked #1 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.
There are definitely a lot of similarities and differences when it comes to both these TV providers so it's always a good idea to check out your research when you pick one. As far as I go I'd go with my TV provider/employer DISH Network any day, especially when it comes to technology. Like for one when it comes to the TV Everywhere aspect. DirecTV has an iPad app right now that lets you watch your recorded programming and some live channels on your mobile but it requires a $149 Nomad while limiting you in your house to watch those 30 or so live channels. When it comes to watching your recorded programming you have to wait the amount of time the show or movie is before it transfers over for you to watch. Basically there is a lot of waiting and money being wasted on something not so great. When it comes to DISH Network and their Sling Adapter and DISH Remote Access app you can watch all your subscribed programming live or recorded on your mobile or computer anywhere you go in the world! It's just one reason why DISH is way better in my opinion, but check out some more details over at dish.com. :)