Modern consumers have several options when it comes to home TV. Gone are the days when cable used to be the market leader. Now, other contenders have emerged and they are just as good. I am not just talking about streaming services; I am implying Satellite TV and IPTV (Internet Protocol TV) as well. Had I known these options existed when I was buying Cox cable service, I would have dug deep to find what they are. Whom am I kidding, I would have gone for Cox anyway!
Tag along to read more about these options.
What’s Satellite TV?
Satellite TV is distributed via radio waves with the help of satellites. It’s entirely wireless. Satellite TV had been around for a while in fact from the 1990s. It has gained a lot of recognition in recent decades.
How Does It Work?
TV stations and broadcasters send signals for their networks to a Satellite TV service provider using an uplink station. After that, signals are transmitted through an uplink satellite. From there, broadcast signals are transmitted to the satellite in space and then they are sent back to the earth.
The antenna or satellite at the end user’s home picks the signals sends them to a top box connected to their TV. These signals are first decoded and so, you are able to see the broadcast.
Types of Satellite TV
Satellite TV is available in two types:
DRS: Direct broadcast satellite, which is a new kid on the block. It’s what most people receive when they are buying a new satellite TV. They are advanced and don’t require a satellite dish to step or receive signals.
TRVO: Television receive-only uses large satellites for catching frequency broadcasts. They are a bit slower in broadcasting.
What’s Internet Protocol Television?
IPTV is a new type of TV system. You can quickly replace it with a traditional TV. Its flexibility and features are making more and more people cut cords and go for it instead.
It uses new technology and offers its customers more control over what they can watch. It distributes live TV and stores video content in the same way the internet does.
How Does It Work?
This TV service gets content pretty much the same way cable and satellite TV do but no additional cost is involved. If you have an internet connection, then you are ready to use IPTV and no other infrastructure is required.
However, you will need a device to receive and decode incoming signals. Previously, a top box was required but technology has improved now. Most smart TVs have Wi-Fi- capabilities by default. They can easily receive IPTV signals. Only an application is required to grant you access to certain features. To enjoy this service, you will have to contact an IPTV service provider.
Satellite TV or IPTV – Which One’s Better?
It’s difficult to answer this question especially for people who have never used these services before. To help you make the decision, have a look at the best and worst features of each service:
IPTV
All you need is an IPTV player to be able to watch TV channels on any smart device. To watch content on your regular TV, you are going to need a set-top box though. There is no list of broadcast channels. It’s not linked to any region and there is no operator whom you can communicate with.
HD picture quality will make the experience even more fun. This service is free and you will be able to watch the most popular networks without paying anything. The only drawback of this service is that you will need high-speed internet to watch count since it’s an internet-only service.
Also Read: 7 Best IPTV Players for Windows
Satellite TV
This service isn’t connected to the internet. HD picture quality and multi-channel tone sound quality are available. It’s commercial-free. You can watch TV programs a week in advance. But all the good stuff comes at a catch. The installation charges are high. Plus, bad weather will affect the broadcast quality. In worst weather situations, the service may be unavailable altogether.
Conclusion
Satellite TV and IPTV- both services are great. In areas where cable connection is not available, Satellite TV can prove to be a great purchase. But if you don’t want to spend extra money to watch TV, IPTV might be right for you.
