It's no secret that cable companies and satellite providers are fighting for our entertainment dollars. While cable is still quite popular, research shows that one in four U.S. households now receives television programming via satellite.

So which is better? The short answer is: it depends. Some viewers want the best bargain, others want the best service. Some lucky customers may get both. When choosing between cable and satellite, it is important to consider the availability and price of different options as well as the programming each system offers; obviously, there are pros and cons of each type of service.

Availability and Pricing
Any large metropolitan area will have a major cable company and two or more satellite providers. Out in the suburbs, satellite service may be limited by the nearby landscape -- just like a cell phone signal, trees and mountains can interrupt the broadcast. On the other hand, newly developed regions may not have cable service immediately available, so satellite may be the only option.

Satellite TV requires installing a small dish in an outdoor location. Many landlords allow the dish to be installed in specified locations, but some will not. Depending on the direction your unit faces and what floor you are on, the signal may or may not reach the dish. Check with your landlord before calling the satellite company, and be sure the reception is good before you sign the contract.

Satellite TV generally requires at least a year contract, while the only commitment with most cable companies is waiting around for the technician to install it. As for pricing, basic cable service will be slightly cheaper than the basic satellite package. For a serious viewer, the basic service just won't do, so it becomes a question of programming.

Cable vs. Satellite Programming
Satellite TV offers more channels, including programming from around the world. Cable TV features fewer channels with more locally-based broadcasts, but allows the user to build custom packages by adding options according to their own tastes while only paying for what they want.

Satellite TV has long been a favorite with sports fans. Local broadcast blackouts don't apply to satellite providers, and access to nationwide and even world sports channels increases the variety of sports to be seen. Regular local network programming may not be available, or may require additional subscription fees, but stations usually referred to as "basic cable channels" are included. Some satellite companies have also teamed up with local phone service and internet providers to offer package deals similar to cable company promotions.

Cable TV features local networks as well as community-based channels. While the basic cable service offers far fewer channels than most satellite packages, subscribers can choose from specific add-ons from a list of sports and movie channels, only paying for services they expect to use. Cable service can often be bundled with internet or phone service for a discounted price.

Satellite pros:

. High quality signal
. More programming options
. Best per channel value

Satellite Cons:

. Lengthy contract
. Weather susceptibility
. Expensive equipment

Cable Pros:

. Local network and community channels
. No annual contract
. No equipment to buy

Cable Cons

. Lower quality signal
. Fewer programming options
. Area-dependent availability

Both cable and satellite offer HD service at a substantial additional charge, and both offer on-demand movie rental. DVR service is available for both, but satellite DVR may cost more. Both services also offer a variety of free music channels, and neither service will be affected by the discontinuation of analog broadcast in early 2009.

The key factor in making the final decision is education. Find out who the local providers are, compare the options and prices, and watch for special promotions for new subscribers. Carefully review the list of channels to make sure there aren't too many "filler" channels you never plan on watching. Read the fine print before signing any contract. And of course, be sure to buy plenty of microwaveable popcorn for all the TV you'll be watching!