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RV Lifestyle 101: How do I choose a satellite TV company?
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You’ve heard me talk a lot about DirecTV, mostly because it’s what I know best. This doesn’t mean DirecTV is better than Dish Network, it just means it meets my needs the best. However, everyone’s needs are different when it comes to satellite TV. Here’s some information about each to help you make an informed decision. There are also other articles on my page to help you find a satellite signal, and learn about local channels.
In full disclosure, I was a Dish Network customer for a year. I was always a cable TV subscriber, however, satellite TV was the only option available when we moved into our house 8 years ago. Dish Network was the first to appear at our doorstep on moving day with an offer. However, we found that we tolerated Dish Network because we were under contract. By the time our 1 year agreement was fulfilled, the cable company was connected to our neighborhood, so we switched to cable. It wasn’t until we began to RV that satellite TV became a consideration again. At that time, based on the advice of friends, we selected DirecTV.
For us, the best part of DirecTV is the product, meaning the receivers, the on-screen guides and the quality of the picture. Their customer service and tech support leaves a LOT to be desired, but I believe their product is superior.
We subscribe to Choice XTRA + HD DVR through DirecTV. This gives us 200+ channels, local channels, DVR service, HD service and 65 music channels. The cost is $75.99/month. We have 2 HD DVRs and a standard receiver in the house. We also have a standard DVR in the motor home. The
| DirecTV | Dish Network | |
| Programming | $75.99 | $67.99 |
| HD Service | N/A | $10.00 |
| DVR Service | N/A | $12.00 |
| HD Extra | $4.99 | N/A |
| Extra Receivers | $15.00 | N/A |
| Premiums | $36.00 | $31.00 |
| Totals | $131.98 | $120.99 |
| ($10.99) |
I priced similar programming and equipment through Dish Network. The Classic Gold Package with DVR is $67.99/month. HD Service is an additional $10/month. This is $77.99 and includes 260 channels of music and programming, comparable to DirecTV. Dish Network charges $5.98 per month per DVR. After configuring the same number of HD and/or DVR receivers that I currently have, the total quote came out to $120.99, not including sales tax. I could not find an option on Dish Network to subscribe to the MGMHD, HDNet Movies and Universal HD programs, and they are not included in the normal programming list.
One big advantage of Dish Network compared to DirecTV is that the King-Dome satellite antenna that mounts on the roof of your RV is capable of receiving HD signal for Dish Network. The King-Dome is not capable of receiving HD signal for DirecTV. In order to receive HD programming in your RV with DirecTV, you have to have an oval dish. Whether crank up, or portable on a tripod, this is the only option on the market for receiving HD programming in the RV for DirecTV.
Now that you have the facts, I would encourage you to visit both companies and compare pricing and programming. Another important step is to ask your friends. Everyone has an opinion about their satellite TV provider and knows what they like or would like to change about their preferred provider. You’ll then have all of the information you need to make a choice. I wish you all the best in making this decision!!
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