Used to be that satellite TV service charged more than cable TV. These days, though, the prices are leveling off, with satellite TV monthly charges becoming much more affordable, there's little wonder why more and more people are opting for this technology. In fact, the number of subscribers that cable TV loses each year is the same number of subscribers that switches to satellite TV. So are prices of satellite TV service still a major deciding factor? Maybe not, if trends are to be believed.

What you can expect to get

The price you'll have to pay for satellite TV services these days will vary, depending on the type of packages you prefer. With DirecTV, for example, the Family Entertainment Package (45 + channels) costs $29.99 while the Choice Xtra package (200+ channels) costs $34.99. They also offer their Choice package (150+ channels) at just $29.99 for the first 12 months, after which the fees will revert to the original $52.99. Their Premier package (265+ digital channels) is the most expensive at $81.99.

DirecTV's major competitor, DISHNetwork, offers their Family package (40+ channels) at just $19.99; their Top 100 (100+ channels) at $32.99 and their Top 100Plus (100+ channels plus sports) at $42.99. Their most expensive package costs $94.98.

As you can see, prices depend on the type and number of programming included in a package. Before you choose, make sure you check which channels are included to make sure that you get your money's worth.

Installation fees

Most of the major service providers offering satellite TV do not charge for installation fees – but only up to a point. You could, for example, have satellite TV in up to 4 rooms in your home at no additional cost. Should you wish to go beyond that, you will have to pay for additional installation charges.

Internet and phone services

Satellite TV service companies frequently offer bundled packages – that is, they combine satellite TV, phone and Internet access for their consumers. Prices for these types of satellite TV services are very competitive, so you'll probably have good options when it's time to choose the best deals.

However, know that the price on a bundled satellite TV service includes only the basic or minimum speed. If you prefer faster surfing speeds for more efficient downloading and uploading, you will have to pay an additional fee monthly. Check for other services such as amount of storage space and e-mail addresses.

Equipment

Most satellite TV service providers bundle the basic equipment with the monthly subscription. However, check if there are free offers in case you want to upgrade. Digital video recorders, for example, are usually thrown in if you want a more expensive package – something that is nice to have if there are shows or programs that are your particular favorites.

However, there are service providers such as DirecTV, for example, who will charge their subscribers for the use of DVR receivers and HDTV receivers. A DVR receiver costs about $50 while the HDTV receiver costs around $300.

When dealing with satellite TV equipment, make sure to check for lifetime guarantee as well. This should be included in the monthly subscription and should not be charged separately.

Discounts

The price you pay for satellite TV service is not exactly fixed. Many companies will give you a rebate or a discount for early or advance payment. These discounts are 'upfront' – meaning, you get a few dollars slashed off the original fee should you choose a pre-paying package.

You could, for example, save a few dollars opting for a quarterly payment, something you won't have if you paid monthly. Bigger discounts are also often offered for advance payments made semi-annually or annually. These are excellent options if you wish to save on the price of your satellite TV service. Also a good choice if you want to pay off several months' or a year's worth of subscription so you have nothing to worry about for that time period.