Dish vs. DirecTV vs. Cox – Which is the most reliable internet service provider?

While I do prefer internet service without having to get into a binding agreement, there is more I look out for before I settle on a company. Dish, DirecTV and Cox all have their perks as you are about to see.

Stable and great quality internet has slowly become a necessity in this modern world. From surfing the internet to online working, no one wants to get tied down to unbearably slow internet. This is where Dish, DirecTV and Cox have stood out. With these companies, you get to enjoy reliable internet connection throughout. To add, they have come up with bundles such that you can pay for your internet, TV and phone services all at once. Sounds good, right?

When to use Dish

This company should definitely be your go-to provider if you are looking for stable internet connectivity as well as a whole bunch of channels to choose from. With it, you also get 4 different packages to choose from on an introductory rate for up to 2 years. Sounds like a good deal right?

When to use DirecTV

With up to 7 packages to choose from and fully dedicated HD channels, DirecTV is the one for you if you are looking for an all-round experience with your provider. Also, if you are a sports fan DirecTV is definitely best. It wins hands down in sports providing from the NFL to regional matches.

When to use Cox

Features	Dish (Winner)	DirecTV	Cox
Number of data plan packages	4	7	7
Price range	$59.99–$89.99	$49.99-$124.99	$29.99-$99.99
Download speeds	Up to 25Mbps	Up to 100Mbps	Up to 1000Mbps
Contract	Yes	No	No
Connection type	Satellite	Fiber/Cable/DSL	Fiber/Cable

How we evaluate Dish, DirecTV and Cox

To help you understand how we review formidable companies like these, we have come up with standards to test them against. We know that it can become quite the chore trying to tell Dish, DirecTV and Cox apart because they all have their glowing features. So, here is how to know which one to opt for:

• Download speeds- whether you are a gamer or you are not fussy about your internet, you should always check on how fast data can be transmitted through channels
• Data plans- this shows how flexible a company will be to suit your needs
• Data caps- do you mind a 1TB cap or you want unlimited data at all costs?
• Cost- we always look at what is the best value for your money without ripping you off
• Customer service- it is always important to be assured of helpful customer support in case of anything
• Connection type- depending on your needs you can choose from fiber, cable, DSL or fixed wireless

Dish vs. DirecTV vs. Cox – A comparison overview

Dish review

Without a doubt, Dish is one of the best internet service providers in the country for a number of reasons. First is its wide availability. All you need is a clear view of the sky and a place to mount the dish and you are good to go.

With Dish you also get access to more than 200 channels all in HD. You can also get 4K viewing for selected programs that are in this good quality. To add, Dish has developed a free mobile app that allows you to watch or stream your favorite shows on your phone.

Data plan	Internet download speeds	Channels	Price	Connection Type	Details
America’s Top 120	25Mbps	190	$55.99	Satellite	View plan
America’s Top 120 Plus	25Mbps	190+	$69.99	Satellite	View plan
America’s Top 200	25Mbps	240+	$84.99	Satellite	View plan
America’s Top 250	25Mbps	290+	$94.99	Satellite	View plan

Dish also goes ahead of the pack with its My Tech app that makes the installation process hassle-free. You can easily monitor when a professional will come by to do the installation. Its only downside is that you get tied down to a 2-year contract once you choose Dish.

Pros

• Easily available across the country
• Affordable price tags
• Loads of channels to choose from

Cons

• You need to pay a monthly fee for DVR
• Binds you to a 2-year contract

DirecTV review

As its name suggests, you do get TV services on top of your internet and phone with DirecTV. It particularly shines out with its 200+ channels that are all in HD. Nothing beats watching sports in HD and DirecTV has got you on that. Do keep in mind though that you have to pay an extra $10 monthly fee to get HD. If you do not mind the charge, you should go for it because DirecTV also has 4K channels on its lineup. You also get access to the DirecTV app that allows you to easily stream your shows on your phone.

Plan	Internet download speeds	Channels	Price	Connection Type	Data cap	Details
Select	50Mbps	155+	$49.99	Satellite	Unlimited	View plan
Entertainment	50Mbps	160+	$54.99	Satellite	Unlimited	View plan
Choice	100Mbps	185+	$59.99	Satellite	Unlimited	View plan
XTRA	100Mbps	235+	$69.99	Satellite	Unlimited	View plan
Ultimate	100Mbps	250+	$74.99	Satellite	Unlimited	View plan
Premier	100Mbps	330+	$124.99	Satellite	Unlimited	View plan

These data plans are flexible enough for all kinds of people. Subject to weather interruptions, you can depend on these fast speeds at all times. Also, as it works through satellite its other winning feature is that it is easily accessible no matter where you are in the country.

Pros

• Wide coverage
• Stellar sports programming

Cons

• Can be interrupted because of bad weather

Cox review

Are you looking fast internet connections? Do you want to enjoy phone and TV services as well without being bound to a contract? If these are the things you are looking for then Cox is the one for you without a doubt.

Data plan	Internet download speeds	Price	Connection Type	Data cap	Details
Cox Internet Starter	10Mbps	$29.99	Fiber/Cable	1TB	View plan
Cox Internet Essential	30Mbps	$39.99	Fiber/Cable	1TB	View plan
Cox Internet Preferred	150Mbps	$59.99	Fiber/Cable	1TB	View plan
Cox Internet Ultimate	300Mbps	$99.99	Fiber/Cable	1TB	View plan
Cox Internet Giga Blast	1000Mbps	$99.99	Fiber	1TB	View plan

Aside from these packages, Cox has taken flexibility to another level with the build-your-own-package option. You no longer have to get stuck with a package that does not serve you entirely. So it is basically like a buffet and you can pick whatever you want. Sounds perfect, right?Its only downer is that you get charged for both professional and self-installation.

Pros

• No fixed contracts
• Really flexible packages
• Helpful customer support

Cons

• Pricey installation costs

How do Dish, DirecTV and Cox compare?

Data plans

Cox offers more variety that you can even create your own package as you want. Dish and DirecTV come with flexible data plans but Cox takes it.

Cost

While Cox and DirecTV have affordable packages, Dish is the better value for your money. Coupled with the loads of channels you get with Dish, it is better because you are fixed on the introductory rate for up to two years which is a good bargain.

Customer service

Most internet service providers are infamous for lousy customer service but Cox is a tad better. It ranks higher on customer support ratings with 3.9/5 which is pretty impressive.

Connection type

Dish wins out here because it works via satellite. This means it is easily available across the country and it still delivers on fast speeds which is all you need.

Conclusion

These three are giants in the industry. However, Dish takes it because it offers the best deals to fit a wide range of people. You also get locked into the introductory rate for up to 2 years which is definitely a good bargain. If you do not mind signing a contract, Dish is the best option.

FAQ’s

How do I know if these services are available in my region?

To get a full overview of what is available with these three in your location all you need to do is enter your zip code on their website. Once done, you will see all your options.

What is the installation process?

With Cox you can install it yourself but you do have to pay for it. Dish and DirecTV both have professional installation deals.