In 2010, Tata Sky offered fewer than 10 different packages. Tata Sky offers 63 channels in the Super Hit Package and as many as 178 in the Annual Mega Package. A la carte channels and mini add-on packages are also available. DishTV also has a la carte channel offerings that you can get along with one of 14 different packages. They are divided into two categories--programming that is available in South India and programming available for the rest of the country.
Tata Sky offers a group of "Active" channels that help you learn, shop and even cook. They have programs such as Active English for learning English conversational skills, as well as Active Games in which the whole family can participate. DishTV also offers interactive channels for gaming, planning a trip or even searching for a job.
With Tata Sky, you can watch from several TVs in your home. With the DigiLink service, you have two televisions hooked up to the same box and can watch the same programming in both places. With multi-room service, you get separate digital boxes for each TV where you want service. This allows you to watch different programming on each set.
DishTV is not only available for the televisions in your home but also for those in your car. With a special antenna that works with a digital box in your automobile, you can watch satellite TV while you are traveling. DishTV also offers a digital box that hooks up to your computer so that you can watch TV through your monitor.
In 2010, the annual cost for Tata Sky service starts at about $35 (or Rs 1,600) for the basic package. The most expensive plan costs about $7,120 (or Rs 5,500).
DishTV offers both yearly or monthly service rates. Packages start at about $33 (Rs 1,500) and can go up to approximately $78 (Rs 3,590) a year. Both charge a fee for the hardware you will need to set up in your home, and both usually waive the set-up fee if you buy a particular channel package.
Tata Sky offers the Tata Sky+ service. With this service, you can receive a DVR digital box that allows you to record television, pause live events and record one show while watching another one.
DishTV offers a large variety of bill paying options. Not only can you pay via credit card or check, but you can also pay with a money order, a prepaid card or even using an online payment system.