In the sphere of satellite TV providers in the United States, there are two primary competitors, namely Dish and DirecTV. On the surface, they have appeared to provide similar channels, equipment as well as pricing plans. However, if you peel the onion skin, certain areas of divergence may make one more suitable than the other based on user requirements. In this guide, we will dissect the Dish vs DirecTV fight in terms of their offers in terms of channel line-up, DVR, and price, so you can determine which one is cheaper and better for your family.
Channel Lineups
ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox are available on Dish and DirecTV as part of the basic programming packages offered to subscribers. Although the name suggests that there are 100 channels, the number of channels may vary in your region because of licensing issues. Here’s a quick look at the entry-level packages from both:
DIRECTV Essentials is a package that has over 155+ channels.
Dish America’s Top 120 - 190+ channels
Although Dish America’s Top 120 offers more channels, the offerings with each of these two packages do not deny you the chance to watch some of the most popular cable networks including ESPN, TNT, USA, and TBS, among others. Where Dish is somewhat superior to DirecTV is the packages that they have when it comes to catering to the specific interests of certain individuals such as movies, sporting events, and international viewers.
For instance, Dish has movie packages on top of their basic packages such as Epix and others that offer original series and films. The target audience might consider its Multi-Sport Pack beneficial as it comprises channels that are dedicated to cycling, motorsports, college sports, etc. Dish also again offers more international plans with China, the Middle East, India, and more regions.
List of Difference of DVR and Satellite Receiver
New customers of Dish are offered a satellite dish and the same goes for the new customers of DirecTV for access to and recording of the programs. The only key difference in hardware is that Dish employs Hopper receivers, while DirecTV employs Genie.
The primary benefit in favor of the Hopper over the DirecTV Genie is that the former can simultaneously record up to 16 programs and has 3TB of storage space. This helps true TV enthusiasts, big families, or people who watch multiple soccer matches record fewer shows by using this feature. The Hopper also has the advantage of enabling users to fast-forward commercials using its feature known as Auto Hop. However, DirecTV is ahead of other services since they provide high-quality video and sound on their Genie receiver with 4K HDR programming and Dolby Vision HDR compatible with ultra-HD screens.
Availability and Contract Differences
As we know, Dish and DirecTV are satellite-based companies unlike cable-based companies; therefore your location can also be an issue. Basically, in terms of geographic coverage, DirecTV has the upper hand because it has coverage across all the states including the rural areas. Dish has targeted primarily cities and suburbs as the areas with high population density so you will need to check if they operate in your locality.
Contracts are never a problem at Dish; you don’t need to sign one, and this has made it favorable to newcomers who are easily scared by contracts. DirecTV generally requires its new customers to commit to a 24-month agreement to take advantage of its promotional offerings for new subscribers. But DirecTV also frequently offers no-contract promos Basically, there seems to be no shortage of promotional offers from DirecTV.
Pricing and Fees
Satellite TV’s pricing does not only entitle you to your programming package but also other costs. You also have to consider equipment, which also includes premium channels, regional sports fees, DVR service fees, and state and local tax charges. It quickly adds up.
Looking at the per month cost base package plus fee comparisons between Dish and DirecTV, Dish is about 15% cheaper on average. For instance, with 190+ channels with DVR plus one receiver, Dish charges approximately $90 per month. That is relatively cheaper compared to DirecTV, which offers its Choice plan at $105 monthly with 185+ Genie Channels and DVR. But still, Dish has had some fierce offers like $100 Visa gift cards for new customers this year.
A More Suitable Candidate:
In Dish Network versus DirecTV showdown, there is truth in the adage of different strokes for different folks because there are merits for each depending on a consumer’s preference. Dish is cheaper for the clients through offering lower tariffs, choosing the programs of a special interest and not demanding too much commitment from the clients. In turn, DirecTV offers better opportunities for broadcasting, especially in the sphere of sports, greater geographical accessibility, better equipment, the same channels’ amount, and similar offers.
If you want to compare them for yourself and see what current new customer offers are available, we recommend starting with these promos pages:
DirecTV Coupons – Offers for First-Time Customers
Dish Network offers its deals to customers who have never subscribed to its services before.
In any case, for the trial period, we would suggest that you give them a risk-free trial so that you can experience a live test in your home. Also, investigate all early termination fees in case the network requires a long-term contract. This shall ensure that satellite TV services continue to meet your streaming services in the new age of cord-cutting and give you the most value for your money.
Transform your viewing experience with DirecTV! Call us today at +1 855-213-2250 to explore our plans and find the perfect package for you. Our experts are ready to assist you and get you set up with top-notch entertainment. Don’t wait—contact us now!
