There are commercials everywhere outlining the battle between satellite television providers and cable TV companies. Both claim they are the best choice for your entertainment value. Let’s get down to it now, which one really is the best? Is satellite TV really the winner?

Well, it depends on your situation.

Satellite TV Pros

Improved Picture Quality

Basically, a digital signal means a better quality picture. Cable TV can compete with this somewhat by offering ‘digital quality’ picture, but it won’t be the same. From my personal experience, there is not much difference. Don’t choose satellite over cable based solely on perceived picture quality. There are other factors which are more important.

More Programming Flexibility

With satellite television, there are more channel packages available from which to choose. Some offer ‘packs’ or sets of channels relating to one thing (i.e. sports, movies) and you can choose the add-ons that suit your needs most.

Cheaper per Channel

Basically, with satellite you get more bang for your buck. A cable programming package with 400 channels will cost significantly more than the satellite version. But think hard, do you really need a zillion channels? Think of all the time you’ll spend flipping through unwanted channels to get to those you want. How much different kinds of TV do you really watch? These are just a few questions to consider.

Cons of Satellite TV

Availability of Local Channels

Not all of your local channels will be available with your new satellite program. You may trade these local channels which do not provide satellite signals, although this situation is becoming rare. Research what local channels the satellite company does carry.

Signal Fades During Rain/snow

Every time, without fail, my satellite goes out during rain or other kinds of heavy weather involving clouds (snow, ice). Because cable is generally underground, it is not affected by atmospheric weather. If you live in an area with lots of violent weather, satellite is not for you. If you depend on your television for emergency reports, then satellite is not for you.

More Expensive Overall

Prices on installation and equipment have declined in recent years, but the fact still remains that cable television generally requires no equipment or installation fees. Per channel, cable is more expensive, but satellite packages are generally very large, and therefore a 400 channel package could be the same cost as your old cable package.