Cable vs. Satellite TV – 2023 Comparison Guide

The dilemma of choosing between satellite or cable TV has been going on for almost two decades, but the dilemma should end, especially during this COVID-19 lockdown. Everyone is isolated and everyone is looking for the best entertainment. Browsing through hundreds of channels that don't offer any kind of new and entertaining content can be quite frustrating.

Since reading this article, you're probably one of the many people in the same situation, stuck at home without quality TV service. The plan that makes the most sense is to consider changing cable companies or switching to another type of broadcast.

However, there is no point in switching back to a new service that will provide you with poor-quality images and content. You will want to make this change once and for all. Something that is rich with all kinds of channels and something that delivers high-resolution images.

To help you decide whether to go with satellite or cable TV, here's a comparison guide for 2023.

Image quality

One of the most important things to consider when signing up for a brand-new TV package is picture quality. What's the point of having thousands of channels if they don't look good at all and tire your eyes, right?

In the past, the resolution of the content we received wasn't that important because most TVs couldn't handle resolutions higher than 720p, commonly known as standard HD. However, today, recently, most TVs on the market are 1080p (Full HD), 2k, or even 4k. The higher the resolution of your TV, the more low-resolution content will appear on your screen. For example, 720p videos on a 1080p TV aren't the best, but they're not the worst either. But, put 1080p content on a 4k TV, and you won't be able to watch for more than fifteen minutes.

So which service has an advantage in this aspect? The short answer is satellite. The long answer is a bit more complicated. Coaxial cable, which is used as a standard by nearly all companies that offer cable services, is limited to 720p. All of the above is impossible. The reality is that most of the content you receive through Excel won't even be 720p. The provider can only transmit a few channels at this resolution.

Satellite also has a limit, but it's more than what cable can do. Most satellites can provide high-definition programming or in other words Full HD (1080p) content. However, there have also been reports of the possibility of 4k video via satellite connection. Keep in mind that we still have a long way to go before we see the general availability of such a feature. If picture quality is a deciding factor for you, you can watch TV movies and install Live TV in no time.

Location, location, location

Another very important factor for both these services is your location. The reality is that not everyone lives downtown, in the suburbs, or near the city. Many people live in rural or remote areas where access to many things is restricted. For example, most cable companies will not be able to provide you with a connection if you are too far away from their offices.

However, satellite TV companies will have no problem setting you up with their equipment because satellites connect from anywhere in the world, wherever you are. With a large enough antenna, you should be able to pick up any signal. This is another point for satellite television.

Pricing

Price is another deciding factor. This is the factor that helps you determine whether or not it's worth paying a few extra bucks a month for the features you get.

Satellite TV companies usually have slightly higher fees than cable companies, but since satellite usually has better picture quality and a more reliable connection, the cost may be worth it. Most basic channel packages start around $45, but they offer a little more content than cable.

Cable companies are a bit cheaper, starting at $20 for the most basic package, but the number of channels is much smaller. We should also mention that you're not obligated to sign a one-year contract with the cable companies, which can be a plus.

Equipment and setup

Both these services will require the installation of different types of equipment. For satellite, you will need a satellite dish that will go on your roof and a receiver box that will need to be connected to your TV. The installation process is usually carried out by professionals sent by the supplier.

For cable, all you need is a receiver that sits right next to your TV. However, your provider will still need to send professionals to provide the connection at your home. This usually means they have to drill holes in your walls to run the cable.

More importantly, we believe there is no clear winner regarding this factor, as both require a bit of work to set up. However, a satellite dish placed on the roof can ruin the aesthetics of your home, which not everyone can handle.

Versatility

We're not sure this is the most decisive factor of the group, but it doesn't hurt to mention it. Your satellite TV provider's receiver can actually be reused even if you're moving house. All you have to do is install the dish in your new home and that's it. With cable, you will need to call the supplier for assistance during installation.

And that's about it. Both these services have pros and cons, but the final decision is up to you. We hope this article will help you make the right choice.

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