With over 12 million customers, DIRECTV is the nation's largest provider of satellite TV service. Available in all 50 states (Hawaii residents have a smaller selection of channels, and customers in Alaska may need a larger satellite dish), DIRECTV claims to offer the "most channels for your dollar."

While DIRECTV does offer slightly fewer overall channels than the Dish Network, it features exclusive sports packages like the NFL Sunday Ticket and Mega March Madness that are not available from any other satellite provider. Local channels are available in most major US cities and their surrounding areas, giving more than half of DIRECTV's customers access to local programming via satellite.

For customers with high definition TV sets, DIRECTV offers a high definition package that feature four channels of high definition programming (ESPN, Discovery, HDNet, and HDNetMovies) as well as select high definition programming on HBO and Showtime. Customers who choose to install a standard TV antenna in addition to their dish can also enjoy high definition local programming where available. Receiving high definition satellite signals requires an HD-compatible dish and receiver, which are available from DIRECTV at an extra cost.

DIRECTV also offers satellite internet service through its partner HughesNet. Click here for specific information regarding HughesNet satellite internet.

DIRECTV at a Glance

Total Available Channels (excluding digital music channels): 150+, depending on plan
Sports: 30+ sports networks, plus multiple subscription options including the NFL Sunday Ticket, Mega March Madness, and many more.
Foreign Language Programming: Spanish & Chinese
HDTV Channels: Up to 8 channels, depending on location and equipment
Local Channels: Available in approximately 126 local markets by the end of 2004
Monthly Cost: $33.99 to $87.99 for base packages, premium subscriptions cost extra
Geographic Availability: All 50 US States

Click here to see DIRECTV's channel lineup.

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