Find the Best Cable Companies and Satellite TV Providers in Buffalo, NY

Choosing a cable company or satellite TV provider in Buffalo

When making your decision between top TV providers, consider what’s important to you. Some consumers prioritize channel availability and the reliability of the signal, while others are more concerned with pricing, service bundles and contract details.

To find companies that meet your service expectations, look for those that are well-reviewed. If current and former clients consistently note poor reliability or customer service support, you’ll likely encounter the same issues with the business. If your neighbors have cable or satellite TV, ask what service they use and if they’re satisfied with the company’s performance.

Be wary of companies offering free or suspiciously cheap cable TV in Buffalo, as these companies or individuals may be involved in scams or cable theft. The New York State Department of Public Service maintains a listing of cable companies in Buffalo to help verify the legitimacy of a cable or satellite service.

Types of cable and satellite TV

Satellite TV and cable companies offer different levels of service, and it’s essential to consider your viewing habits when comparing options. If you only want to watch local news, you don’t necessarily need to pay for hundreds of channels. If you prefer watching movies, you need a channel lineup that includes an extensive selection of movie channels.

Some of the most popular options available in Buffalo are:

Cable vs. satellite TV

When it comes to the cable vs. satellite TV debate, your choice should be based on where you live and your personal preferences. For example, if your home is surrounded by tall trees or in an area with frequent rain, a satellite dish might experience some service interruptions. If you live in a rural area, however, satellite TV service might be your best option.

Pros and cons of satellite and cable TV

Alternatives to cable and satellite TV

Internet-based television providers are becoming more popular with Buffalo residents. Instead of using a physical cable or wireless signal, these services are transmitted via the internet. Customers access the programs through a compatible smart TV, tablet, smartphone or other devices.

Some internet-based services, such as Sling TV, DIRECTVNOW and YouTube TV, offer live programming and options similar to traditional satellite and cable TV packages. Others, such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, offer an on-demand library of shows and movies at a lower cost — usually between $5 and $15 a month. Many people use on-demand services to complement traditional cable or satellite programming.

How much does cable and satellite TV cost in Buffalo?

On average, subscribers to cable or satellite TV pay $107 each month, but the cost of services depends on the package you choose. Basic cable costs between $20 and $30 a month, while options with hundreds of channels and DVR options often cost more than $100.

The most popular satellite companies in Buffalo are DIRECTV and DISH, both of which offer discounts for two-year contracts. DISH costs $59.99 to $89.99 per month with a price-lock guarantee. DIRECTV provides packages for $35 to $60 a month, but prices increase in the second year of the contract — be sure to ask what the total cost over the life of the contract is.

Companies may charge an installation fee between $50 and $200 at the start of your service, but many providers offer promotions that waive these fees. You may also pay between $5 and $15 a month per device for equipment rental fees.