UPDATE: DirecTV is now offering customers 50% off for their first 12 months, and free HD for life – you can sign up here.

Verdict: DirecTV is currently our top choice for Satellite TV service because of its affordable packages and great content. If your looking for the most affordable way to get all of the channels you love then DirecTV is the way to go.

DirecTV has come a long way in the last few years. After heavy competition from Dish Network they’ve overhauled their channels and service, now providing close to 300 digital and HD channels. If you are a big sports fan you probably want to go with DirecTV because they have superior sports packages including NFL Sunday Ticket. NFL Sunday Ticket is exclusive to DirecTV meaning that it’s not available on Dish Network or Comcast. DirecTV also has excellent customer service and support.

DirecTV now also offers free professional installation, so there are no hidden fees like with some cable companies. The sign up process through their website is pretty streamlined and allows you to customize your package, and equipment. The sign up process basically works like this – you click the link below, choose your programming package and equipment and then schedule a time for a technician to come out and install your DirecTV system. We’ve found that in most cases the DirecTV techs can be out to your house to have you up and running just a few days after you call up to order.

Verdict: Dish Network is also a solid choice for Satellite TV with more affordable packages than many cable companies currently offer.

We recommend Dish Network over cable because you simply get more bang for your buck Dish Network currently has a ton of channels in HD (Although they have recently been surpassed by DirecTV) and great family content. Dish Network is also cheaper than Comcast and many other cable companies. Overall Dish Network can save you hundreds of dollars a year over cable or even other satellite companies.

Like DirecTV, with Dish Network you get free installation, so there are no extra or hidden fees when signing up. This takes the hassle out of having to install a satellite dish yourself. The sign up process is very straightforward and only takes a few minutes – you just call up, pick your package and schedule an installation date. In many cases the technicians can be out to your home to install your satellite service the next day.