Americans spend longer hours watching TV year after year. That's why cable and satellite TV providers work hard in giving the best service possible. For those who can choose any type of provider, let's compare satellite TV against the cable TV service to gather which one's the better.

Cost of Watching Television

Comcast and Time Warner Cable are two good examples of cable providers who have strong subs count in the US. Their price ranges vary dramatically from $29.99 to over a hundred bucks, depending on the location of every subscriber. They may get 40 to more than 150 program channels according to their viewing preferences and monthly TV allowances. Cable providers charge the installation on every room, equipment and other charges which may be an additional $40 (for each room).

Satellite TV offers [http://www.dish-network-vs-direct-tv.com/satellite-tv/satellite-tv-info/dish-network-and-direct-tv-programming-comparison.html] are basically cheaper because of the more up-to-date technology they use. For instance, Dish Network and Direct TV can offer a minimum of 120 channels for $20 to $25 each month. That's with free installation charges, free of the satellite TV dish and free satellite TV receivers which the subscriber can choose from HD DVR, HD, DVR or standard receiver, depending on the chosen package.

Programming Choices

The selection of channels varies according to the program package being used. Cable TV used to broadcast analog and OTA formats only; however now they offer digital cable as well because of the growing demand for digital channels - which can easily be offered by the satellite TV providers.

Getting a digital cable service from a cable provider means paying an extra $10 or more every month. That's because digital cable is a premium product of cable companies unlike satellite TV providers who offer them at normal base prices. Satellite TV providers, like Dish Network and Direct TV, offer more than 120 channels up to 285 and more.

Limitations

Considering the basics, Satellite TV is clearly the better choice. However there are other factors at stake which need to be considered before choosing a provider. These factors include the location, viewing preferences and finances.

If the subscriber lives in a built-up area, satellite TV reception may be poor. The subscriber may live in a location where there are cable companies monopolizing the market, in which case cable TV may be the easier choice.

If the subscriber wants a cheap package where analog format and fewer programs are acceptable, then cable TV is the obvious short-term alternative. Ultimately, satellite TV is still the cheaper option if this subscriber wants to save money on TV viewing.