Compare Comcast, Verizon, DirecTV and Others

When it comes to cable there are many providers to choose from. You have Comcast, Verizon, AT&T U-Verse, and Charter. Each one of these companies are obtainable by region. Each has similar channel line-ups, with similar features such as HD service/DVR's and OnDemand. The biggest differences between them is customer service, pricing, and features.


When shopping for TV, internet and phone services it's always a good idea to deal with outside sales reps. Sales reps are not the same as customer service. Sales reps are able to offer better deals than contacting the company directly in most cases. Some do charge for their consulting, but you can always call my offices at 1(888)349-3949 and I'll be happy to assist free of charge.


Each plan you'll see below is based on about 200 – 220 channels with 1 HD/DVR box at each company's initial promo rate. Prices listed below may NOT be current and are subject to change. This is for illustration purposes only.

For 225 channels and 1 HD/DVR ($19.99 per box each month!) with the ability to watch recorded shows on any TV, and over 17,000 programs on OnDemand, you're looking at $84.98. Verizon does have great customer service and are reliable. Verizon's best deals come through their bundle packages, Get Verizon High Speed Internet + TV + Phone starting at $84.99/mo for 1yr w/term agmts. - + FREE Wireless Router Ends 7/21 So if you're considering them, bundles are the way to go.

AT&T is almost tying with Verizon. The only reason I put them 2 is because of the buzz Verizon gets in areas where it's available. U-Verse isn't available in Verzion FiOS areas that I've found so that makes shopping for cable easy! For 200 channels and 1 HD/DVR (DVR free! $10 per month for HD!) You're looking at $77 per month. Less than Verizon but also a few less channels. AT&T Bundles - Phone, Internet, TV and Wireless are on average about $30 more than Verizon's bundles. AT&T also gives the ability to watch DVR recordings on more than one TV. They also have excellent customer service.

Satellite Providers:

The only real competitors in the satellite dish arena is DirecTV and Dish Network. So again, here is the same break down used previously. is the TV giant. Many of the popular companies get their programming from DirecTV satellites. They offer more regular and hd channels than anyone else, and have NFL Sunday ticket. DirecTV is currently offering FREE HD FOR LIFE! For over 210 channels, an HD/DVR ($7 flat fee per home per month), you're looking at $42.99. DirecTV's DVR also gives you the capability to watch recorded shows on any TV. DirecTV has also been #1 in customer satisfaction for the past 8 years. Call 1-877-609-6618 for more info on other special rates.

is great for international programming. I don't think any company tops them there. They have also rolled out FREE HD for life where HD programming doesn't cost anything extra per month. For 200 channels an HD/DVR ($6 flat fee per month), you're looking at $43.99 Dish Network's DVR does not give you the ability to watch recorded shows on other TV's, but you can program your DVR from your cell phone!



Bottom Line

If you could go with any provider, I would Order DIRECTV first, after your promotional period, they give you the option of downgrading which many companies won't do. My next choice if you didn't want the satellite dish would be a Verizon Bundles. After that, it's up to personal preference and what's available. Peronsally, I'd try my best to avoid Comcast or Charter due to personal experience and customer reviews. Remember though, every company offers a 15-30 day money back guarantee. If you aren't satisfied with your service you can cancel and get a full refund.

Below are some of the current offers from the top recommendations.