Satellite HDTV from VOOM |
Cable HDTV |
|
Popularity |
Satellite TV provides more than 30 million people in the U.S. alone with Digital TV. Satellite TV continues to exp. Think about it, even the cable companies have satellite dishes sitting outside. |
Lets face it, cable has been popular for years but without the added benefit of high speed internet cable is quickly losing its luster. |
Equipment |
Satellite dish and receivers. | Requires a set-top box for digital services. |
Reception Quality |
Satellite TV has more channels than cable providers. It offers more international and sports programming. High Definition (HDTV) channels available like HBO and ShowTime and many others. | Cable's Basic and Expanded Basic services are all Analog but you can upgrade to Digital Cable. However, when you upgrade, the analog channels will remain Analog even though you have digital equipment. |
Pricing |
Usually if you add up all of the costs of cable, satellite TV can save you money. In general you get more channels per dollar spent. However, local channel packages are not included. Normally its requires a higher initial costs but if you commit to 12 months of services you can get free equipment and installation. | Cable TV can have a lot of additional costs such as franchise fees, taxes, plus costs for any pay per view services, and equipment costs. Local channels are included. |
Programming |
Satellite TV has more channels than cable providers. It offers more international and sports programming. High Definition (HDTV) channels available like HBO and ShowTime and many others. VOOM offers the most HDTV channels available on the market today. | Digital Cable can support up to 260 channels, option packages along with pay per view services. Cable TV can have more local and community channel options. Cable players are a bit behind in HDTV services. |
Interactive Services |
Has some great features that are not available on Cable. For example, Personal Video Recording (PVR) which allows you to pause and even rewind live broadcasts. Also has features like the Electronic Program Guide, Instant Weather, video on demand | Digital Cable provides an electronic Program Guide. In general has less interactive features. |
Parental Control |
Yes | No |