Best Cable Companies and Satellite TV Providers

1. Check channel availability

Cable TV providers offer a large selection of channels and programs for customers; however, these companies must make arrangements with individual broadcast networks to gain access and curate deliverable content for their subscribers. Some channels may not be provided in your area or can be “blacked out” because of a pricing dispute. As you shop, make sure the company you are considering can provide you with the content you want. Along with availability, you should also discuss

• Standard channel packages: Different service providers contract with different networks and customers should make sure to get a package that covers the standard television channels they enjoy, including the traditional network channels.
• On-Demand availability: Most paid television service providers include on-demand content as part of their package. Customers can choose to pay extra and gain access to a variety of television shows and movies when they want to enjoy the entertainment.
• Sports: If you are a sports fan, make sure you have the option to watch your favorite team or league in your area. Many cable and satellite providers offer devoted stations as an extra option so you won’t miss a single game.
• Movie exclusives:After movies leave the theater, and before they hit DVD release, they may show up on a provider's pay-per-view option. Customers should check out the title selection on these streaming rentals to find exclusive access to popular new movies.

2. Make sure they are reliable

Local weather, satellite placement and the number of customers using a provider's internet or cable feed can have an impact on reliability. Blank TV channels and slow connections can shape the reputation of a company's reliability.

• Weather interference: Both cable and satellite television services can falter during bad weather, although it is more common with satellite providers.
• Equipment failure: Some providers routinely use refurbished equipment, which can cause more frequent service outages.
• High-quality service: Some cable and satellite providers provide high-quality service and equipment that will not falter, regardless of the weather or how many people use the provider feed.

3. Study the company’s contract terms

The majority of cable and satellite TV providers offer customers packaged deal pricing on a contract basis. Generally, rates are locked in for two or more years, although companies may include an increase in cost after six or 12 months. Customers should ensure they do research about their contract and what it entails before locking in service with one company.

• No-contract service: Some service providers don't make customers sign a contract, but service pricing is subject to change when the company decides to alter prices.
• Standard contract service: TV contracts typically run for at least a year, although some offer multi-year contracts with pricing guarantees.
• Equipment costs: In addition to contracts that lock in television pricing and plan time length, contacts may also including information about the cost or price of other related equipment and services, like installation costs or equipment rental fees.

4. Look into additional services

Many cable and satellite TV providers also offer extra services; for instance, they may offer television and music channels in addition to the basic package.

• Foreign language channels: The major players in the premium television space may offer content in a variety of different languages, especially Spanish.
• Music stations: Most satellite and cable providers have a multitude of music-only channels, where you can select a melodic ambiance to a party or play in the background while unwinding at the end of the day.
• Live recording services (DVR): In addition to on-demand services, most premium TV providers also offer equipment that allows subscribers to record shows for later playback.

5. Ask for package deals

Cable and satellite TV companies often package these related services together in bundles. Consumers can save by subscribing to TV and internet through the same company, for instance.

• TV plus internet: This is the most common package deal since premium television services often depend on a broadband internet connection to deliver channels.
• TV plus telephone: Some companies offer a package of television and internet service together, which provides users with a home phone line and cable television.
• TV plus telephone plus internet: Combining all three telecommunications services through one provider could net viewers a discount.

Cable and satellite TV providers provide a range of services and packages, and thus, the cost of television for customers can vary. On average, expect to pay $85 a month for cable and $100 a month for satellite services. Many companies are known for providing budget services, while others offer premium content at a higher price. However, there are a few things you can do to reduce the cost of your service plan.

• Look for locked-in pricing: Some providers offer a price guarantee that lets new subscribers lock in their price for the duration of an extended contract.
• Ask about pricing tiers: Most providers have levels of service that include different channels based on price, and customers have the ability to choose the tier that best suits their budget and watching needs.