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Looking for a new television service provider can be a daunting task. Many companies have similar offers, but which one is right for you? The following is an overview of two of the largest television providers in the United States today, DIRECTV and Xfinity from Comcast. We will examine the features both providers offer and the downsides of each service, so you can decide if one of these television service providers is right for you.
Call DIRECTV at (855) 652-1629
Call Xfinity at (855) 649-5089
DIRECTV is currently available in 50 states and has expanded its customer base by being purchased by AT&T. As of July 2016, DIRECTV had 20,454 million customers in the United States. DIRECTV offers satellite television service with the option to add telephone and internet service.
Xfinity from Comcast is currently the largest cable television service provider in the United States with just over 22 million customers. Xfinity is available in 41 states across the U.S.
To determine if DIRECTV or Xfinity from Comcast is available in your viewing area, simply enter your ZIP code into Wirefly's comparison tool.
Related: DIRECTV Review
DIRECTV offers their exclusive Genie DVR that allows customers to record and watch shows in every room in the house without requiring a separate DVR in each room. With Genie, up to 5 shows can be recorded at one time. This DVR can store up to 200 hours of video, so customers do not have to worry about deleting their shows to make room for new recordings.
Xfinity from Comcast's DVR allows customers to record up to 4 shows at one time. Customers can watch live or playback video in every room in the house, as well. This service provider's DVR stores significantly less than DIRECTV's Genie, at 60 hours vs. 200. Access apps pop up on the television screen in every room for easy access.
DIRECTV has a variety of satellite television packages for its customers. Currently, the packages offered include:
Also offered are additional channels such as Cinemax, Showtime and HBO for an additional monthly fee.
Xfinity from Comcast also offers several different television package options for its customers such as:
DIRECTV offers internet and telephone bundle options with since they are owned by AT&T. Prices and availability vary from state-to-state. Enter your ZIP code in the Wirefly comparison tool to see plans in your area.
Xfinity from Comcast offers two different internet and telephone packages for its customers. Internet Plus and Internet Plus with Blast.
DIRECTV is ranked first in overall customer satisfaction, with 3 out of 5 customers being happy with their service. Customers who need help can access their account online, chat with an agent or contact an agent by telephone. There are troubleshooting tips on the website that may help customers deal with minor problems on their own, erasing the need for tech support or agent contact. The website also allows customers to check their balance online, make payment arrangements and pay their bill.
Xfinity from Comcast is not well-know for their customer service, but the company has worked to improve this image with growth. There is an online tutorial available to help customers learn about their new service. Troubleshooting tips are also available on the website to help customers recover passwords and solve other technical problems. In addition, this service provider has an online chat system to help customers. Options are also available on the website that allows customers to view their bill, make payment arrangements or pay their bill.
The advantages associated with DIRECTV include:
Xfinity from Comcast has advantages as well:
The primary disadvantages associated with DIRECTV include:
The disadvantages of choosing Xfinity are:
DIRECTV is a great choice for people who want a lot of channel options or specialty sports packages. NFL Sunday Ticket is a very popular service among this service providers customers. In addition, the Genie DVR makes recording, storing and viewing shows easier than ever before. DIRECTV has an excellent reputation in regards to customer satisfaction and offers free professional installation. Paying the bill is also a breeze on the DIRECTV website.
Xfinity is the best option for customers who do not want to sign a 2 year service contract. This service provider also offers bundle packages including television, internet and phone that are very affordable for most families. Xfinity is also available in most areas and has few service outages. This service does not require a satellite setup, which is preferable for those living in congested spaces such as apartment buildings and condominiums.
