Cost

• Because satellite providers pay lower taxes and require a less costly infrastructure, they are often cheaper than cable providers. As of 2009, satellite providers are offering 120 channels with 55 HD channels for around $25 a month, while a similar price from a cable provider gets you only 80 channels and none in HD.
  
  

Content

• While the two services offer many of the same major channels, satellite providers typically offer a greater number of channels and more high-definition channels.
  
  

Equipment

• To receive cable service you need only a line to your house and a set-top box, and if you have a TV with a QAM tuner you may not even need a box. Satellite service requires placement of the satellite dish on your roof, with an unobstructed view of the sky to receive signals, as well as a set-top box attached to each of your televisions.
  
  

Reliability

• Satellite outages typically result from bad weather and may require you to periodically remove snow, dirt or debris from the dish. Cable outages typically result from line problems and can take a few hours for the cable company to fix.
  
  

Availability

• Cable service is only available where the cable provider has built an infrastructure. Consequently, satellite service may be more readily available in rural areas.