So you are ready to make the switch from either cable or broadcast television to satellite, but now you do not know if you should get DirecTV or DISH Network. Both companies are very similar in that they are satellite companies that offer many high definition (HD) channels, DVD-quality picture and sound, and other benefits. But which company is better? Here I will review DISH Network.

DISH Network offers approximately 350 channels of programming (compared to 265 for DirecTV), with 120 of them HD channels. Though it has a Sports Pack, most of its channels are featuring college sports and they do not have anything comparable to NFL Sunday Ticket or MLB Extra Innings. Therefore, for the sports nut, DirecTV may be the better way to go. Like DirecTV, DISH Network has many premium channels, from the standards like Showtime and Cinemax to adult channels like Club Jenna. In addition, it has a great deal of pay-per-view movies – more than DirecTV.

Like DirecTV, there is a feature where you can access your box to record a show even if you are away from home. DISH Network, like DirecTV, requires a one-year contract.

Both companies have very similarly priced plans, so what seems to set them apart is the customer service. It is here that DISH Network definitely comes out on the wrong end. Whereas DirecTV received a B rating from the Better Business Bureau, DISH Network got a big fat F.

The low rating was given due to “13384 complaints filed against business” and “Government action(s) against business.” Wow. While I recognize that the BBB is not the be-all end-all of company ratings, getting a score that low from them definitely does not look good. Before singing a contract with DISH Network, I would advise asking around and getting feedback from their customers.