Major Differences Between Cable and Satellite

Cable TV started out in 1948 in the U.S. Its popularity has increased a lot since then. Cable uses a coaxial cable or fiber optic cable to deliver television programming to your home. Satellite TV services are sent from communication satellites and then transmitted by a smaller satellite dish installed on the customers home. Satellite TV and cable TV providers are direct competitors in the U.S. Let's compare the channels that are offered by each provider and the customer service that cable and satellite companies give.

Channels

Both satellite and cable offer a lot of channels for you to select form. Satellite television has more international programming than cable offers. Cable programming includes more local stations than some satellite providers offer. As with any service you have to sacrifice either way. The most important thing is to decide what is more important to you. If you have an HDTV, you will want to consider the programming options that are available from both providers as well. Satellite TV typically offers more HD channels than cable television does. HD programming gives you the best picture and sound quality in the industry, so if you have an HDTV, you need to consider your provider carefully.

Customer Service

As is typical of any industry, it isn't hard to find negative customer service reviews for both cable and satellite companies. However, satellite does have an advantage in terms of customer service. Overall, satellite television packages are cheaper than the options offered from cable companies. And cable fees and programs vary a lot between different service providers. With a lot of providers it is hard to keep track of packages and pricing. Satellite companies are very similar in programming and packages, and have low end packages for around thirty dollars per month and going up from there based on the program options you select.

Depending on your personal preferences and existing equipment, it may be a difficult decision which provider to go with. Satellite packages definitely have the high-tech consumer in mind with their channel offerings and equipment.