Satellite TV Statistical Comparisons

The Three Satellite Service ProvidersSky AngelDish NetworkDirecTVProvider Stats.(DirecTV) Launched in 1994, DirecTV was the first programming service to be broadcast in an entirely digital format. They currently have the largest customer base with over 15 million customers to their credit. They are rated number two in overall customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and associates, just behind Dish Network.(Dish Network) Launched in 1996 just two years behind DirecTV, Dish Network currently holds the distinction of being the fastest growing satellite TV service in the U.S. They currently have a total,of 12 million subscribers and are ranked number one in overall customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and associates.(Sky Angel) This programming service holds the distinction of being the only entirely Christian satellite broadcasting service on the planet and although current member numbers aren't available they are well received by Christians across the U.S. Sky Angel was launched in 1981 by Dominion Video Satellite Inc. and has been growing in size and popularity ever since. Programming Critical ReviewDirecTVs channel number now stands at 250 standard channels, although they do have a wide selection of cross cultural programming channels as well. Their programming package series is called “Total Choice” and it has three standard package selections in it. It begins with their Total Choice package that contains 155 channels, continues on to their Total choice plus pak with 185 channels and ends up with their Total Choice premier package that has all of their standard channels in it. DirecTV also features a pay per view service along with a choice of 72 high definition programming channels. They also feature free XM radio with their programming packages.Dish Networks channel number currently stands at 375, which puts them ahead of the pack in terms of total channel numbers. They are arranged in five programming packages that they call their “Americas Top” package series. It begins with their 40 channel entry package called Dish Family and ends off with their 375 channel Americas Everything package. While Dish Network has the most standard channels they come in second in HD with 38 high definition programming channels. They also have a pay per view and the most multicultural programming channels available anywhere that covers all four corners of the planet.Sky Angel is an entirely Christian satellite service that offers a wide variety of programming for the whole family. While they don't have the most channels, they do hold the distinction of featuring the most Christian programming channels. They also feature Christian radio channels as well. They have 20 programming channels and 16 radio channels and no high definition or pay per view.