Cable, Satellite, Or Antenna - You Make The Call

In the ongoing debate on which is better between cable service, satellite service, or over-the-air service with an antenna, you just might find that the end result is usually about a tie between all three. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best service is simply the one that pleases the individual the most. If you are unsure of which type would be best for you and you don't want to waste your time trying out each one, here is some basic information and a quick list of the pros and cons of each type.

Cable utilizes a network of cable wires to deliver the video to your screen. For a monthly fee that can run anywhere from $30 to $100 per month depending on which channels you opt for and whether or not you qualify during a special promotional period, cable offers a wide variety of specialty channels, such as the Discovery Channel, Spike TV, Nickelodeon, and premium channels, such as HBO, Cinemax, and Starz.

Satellite service offers the same channels as cable service does and is also available for a monthly fee. Satellite utilizes over-the-air signals in the same way as a digital TV antenna does but with an extra step. Satellites that hover in the atmosphere pick up the signals that are broadcast from the network television stations' transmission towers and then channel them to the mini satellite dishes that is mounted on your rooftop, balcony, wall, or eave. Like cable, satellite service offers specialty and premium channels.

The obvious disadvantage with both cable and antenna service is that it can get downright expensive. If you're paying a special promotional price, then do not be surprised to see the monthly fee jump as much as 100% more the next month.

A digital TV antenna utilizes over-the-air signals to bring the video to your television. Because televisions were meant to be watched with OTA signals, it is said that the picture quality with an antenna rivals that of cable and satellite. Local channels and those transmitted in HD are available at no cost to you, which is the TV antenna's biggest advantage over its competitors. Aside from the initial investment fee, you do not have to pay a monthly fee. The TV antenna's downfall, however, is that you will not have access to specialty and premium channels. Unless you do not care to receive these channels, then the antenna is for you.