So what does satellite television offer that cable does not

• First of all, you can basically say goodbye to your cable company.  And since satellite TV is a much more competitive business (with no monopolies), you will get better service as the company will appreciate your business.

• Broader selection of channels.  If you like foreign language channels or even English language channels from foreign countries, you need satellite television.

Are there any disadvantages of having satellite television as advertised by cable companies?

• The picture is not bad and does not disappear during snowstorm or bad weather (unless it is one of those things that your house starts to fall apart as well).  If you correctly set up your antenna using simple tools or hire a professional to do it you might as well forget that you even have an antenna.

• Some satellite television packages do not always include access to local channels but I don't know of many people who watch local channels.  If you are in love with your local channels you can always get the right package.  If not, you can always get local news, weather, and traffic reports from the Internet at no charge and they are more up-to-date than the television.

• You may not be able to get satellite television if you live in an area where you do not have access to open space (sometimes even a balcony of a window is sufficient) that allows you to position the antenna at the correct angle.  In some buildings, you are not allowed to install antennas for aesthetic reasons (though I think it is because some building owners provide cable TV also).

How to pick the right package?

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