There's a war going on between the two major satellite TV providers - DISH Network and DIRECTV. They're offering hundreds of dollars worth of free satellite TV equipment, cheap programming, and even free gifts to get you to subscribe to their services.

Here's what they're giving away, and here's where to get the best deals on what they're not giving away ...

Both DISH Network and DIRECTV will give you all the equipment you need for satellite TV viewing - a satellite dish and up to four receivers - absolutely free.

They'll also give you a free DVR (digital video recorder) so you can record your favorite programs, or a free HD (high definition) receiver so you can watch your shows in high def format.

Installation of the entire system in up to four rooms of your home is also free, and your installer will even show you how to operate your system.

So what's the catch? In order to get a free satellite TV system from DISH Network or DIRECTV you have to subscribe to their programming service.

DISH Network

DISH Network programming starts at $19.99 per month for their 40-channel DishFamily Pak, and goes up to $74.99 for their ?Everything? Pak which has 350 channels.

DISH Network has the biggest variety of movies, music, international programs, HD programming, and pay-per-view movies and events of the two satellite TV providers.

DIRECTV

DIRECTV programming starts at $41.99 for their 155 channel Total Choice package, and goes up to $96.99 for their Total Choice Premier package which has 250 program channels.

DIRECTV offers the most sports programming of the two providers.

DISH Network

DISH Network is currently offering three free months of their Starz Movie Pak, which includes seven movie channels, when you sign up for any of their program packages. In addition, one DISH Network retailer is offering a free DVD Home Theater System, a free MP3 Player, or a free DVD Player if you subscribe through them (click on the DISH Network link below for more information).

DIRECTV

DIRECTV is currently offering four free months of their Total Choice Premier Package when you purchase a subscription to their NFL Sunday Ticket package (click on the DIRECTV link below for more information).