Before long, consumers may have the option of seeing their favorite TV shows and movies beamed directly into their brains by a personalized entertainment system. Until then, choosing between cable and satellite television services can be difficult.

Since both providers claim to offer superior options at competitive prices, customers must conduct their own comparisons to decide which one is best for their own homes. Programming options, equipment rental, and overall cost are all factors to consider.

Programming
Satellite TV often takes the lead in sheer variety of channels. Packages may include numerous premium channels, and many international broadcasts are available. Sports fans will find an almost infinite variety of games, including many that would otherwise be blacked out in their area.

The only choice occasionally lacking from the satellite menu is local channels - local network affiliates may not be available, though major providers have made arrangements to broadcast major network programming. If money is no object, satellite usually offers the greatest choice of viewing material.

Digital cable also offers a vast selection of options, but the cost of cable goes up as the customer adds those options. International channels may not be available, and sports broadcasts will require purchase of an additional premium package.

For the best combination of selection and value, cable is still king. Many cable companies offer free online movie libraries, with some basic cable programming available on demand as well. Local channels are consistently available and viewers can add or remove options depending on their tastes.

Equipment
Satellite service typically requires a small satellite dish installed outside the home and a receiver box for each TV inside. Providers offer a variety of specials for dish installation and additional receivers. It is important to understand the exact terms of the contract since some items may be sold directly to the customer, while others may involve a recurring rental charge. "Free" receivers may only be free for six months, after which the customer is agreeing to pay monthly rent for up to two years.

One limitation of satellite TV equipment is dish reception. Reception can be disrupted by nearby trees or other landscape obstructions, so it is important to make sure everything is working consistently before signing off on the installation.

Cable companies also require a receiver box for each TV. These boxes are rented, not sold, so it is important to understand the fees that will be charged and the limitations of any promotional offers. Both satellite and cable companies usually offer Digital Video Recorders (DVR) in their receivers, and many of these are capable of recording in HD. Once again, monthly charges may be involved for DVR service, and "free DVR" promotions may only last for the first 3-6 months.

Cost
Satellite service is often more expensive than cable to start with, but generally offers more for the money. One good bargaining strategy for homeowners involves signing a longer contract in exchange for a discounted rate. Many satellite providers have teamed with local internet and phone companies to offer discounts on combined service packages, so satellite fans should look for potential savings in these areas as well.

Cable costs range from very cheap, basic service, to super expensive premium service with more channels than the average viewer will watch in a lifetime. Cable bills involve numerous taxes and fees, so it is worth considering the total monthly bill rather than just the cost of each service component.

Since cable companies also offer cable internet, bundled services are usually a source of savings. Again, it is important to understand the fine points of the contract before signing, since numerous small charges can add up quickly to an oversized monthly bill.

In the end, both cable and satellite TV services offer an amazing array of viewing options. To decide which is "better," it is important to consider family viewing habits, entertainment budget, and whether or not anyone in the household plans on finding time to actually read a book any time in the near future.