Find the Best Cable Companies and Satellite TV Providers in Tallahassee, FL

Choosing a cable company or satellite TV provider in Tallahassee

Choosing which cable or satellite TV service to use in Tallahassee starts by evaluating and comparing offerings. Factors to consider include:

• Channel availability: Each satellite or cable TV provider chooses the channels it carries. Be sure to compare channel packages to make sure the company includes the networks you watch the most.
• Contract terms: Some companies offer month-to-month subscriptions, but others may require one- or two-year contracts. Be prepared to make a long-term commitment if you want the lowest monthly rates.
• Current deals: Cable and satellite companies in Tallahassee regularly offer promotions for discounted rates, free installation and similar perks. Ask about any current offers before signing a contract.
• Service bundling: Many cable and satellite TV businesses provide internet and phone service as well. You generally receive a discount when purchasing these services from the same provider.
• Additional features: Satellite and cable TV companies offer additional options, including DVR capability that lets you record your favorite shows to watch later. Some companies offer apps that allow you to watch TV on the go from your smartphone or other compatible devices.

Service reliability for cable and satellite TV companies in Tallahassee is also an important consideration, as the area's tropical storm and hurricane tendencies make outages a real possibility. Satellite dishes use a wireless signal that may be interrupted during severe weather.

Satellite and cable companies may give you a service credit if there's an extended loss of service lasting a few days or more, but make sure the company consistently restores service within a reasonable time frame.

Types of cable and satellite TV

Satellite and cable TV providers in Tallahassee typically offer three types of services:

• Basic cable is the cheapest cable TV package. It comes with local channels, national broadcast networks and a handful of other stations mandated by the Federal Communications Commission.
• Extended basic channel packages include local and national broadcast channels as well as some of the most popular pay network channels, such as ESPN, MTV and Disney.
• Premium cable is what most people think of when they hear about cable TV. These packages include a range of channels such as Syfy, BET and Lifetime plus specialty channels like HISTORY and National Geographic. Premium movie channels like HBO, SHOWTIME and Cinemax may be included or added for a monthly fee.

If you're unhappy with your cable company in Tallahassee and have unresolved issues like customer service problems, poor signal quality or complaints, you can file a complaint with the FCC.

Cable vs. satellite TV

Whether cable or satellite TV is the best television provider for you depends on your entertainment needs and preferences. Here’s what you should know about both:

Pros and cons of cable and satellite TV

Alternatives to cable and satellite TV

Internet-based streaming services are soaring in popularity. Unlike traditional cable and satellite TV companies, these providers transmit over the internet and let you access programming through smart devices. Some services, such as DIRECTVNOW, Sling TV and YouTube TV, offer live programming. Others, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, provide a library of on-demand shows and movies.

Internet-based television providers generally offer month-to-month subscriptions and do not require long-term contracts. These companies do not provide internet access with the service, however, so prepare to spend additional money to guarantee you have the fast, stable internet connection required for HD video.

How much does cable and satellite TV cost in Tallahassee?

The average cost for satellite or cable TV service is between $85 and $100 per month. Basic cable in Tallahassee costs an average of $20 per month, but prices increase to more than $120 for premium services with add-ons.

Satellite TV in Tallahassee starts at an average of $40 and goes up to around $130 for the most expensive packages. Read the fine print before signing a contract — some companies offer two-year contracts with low introductory rates and dramatically increased rates in the second year.

Companies may charge an installation fee of up to $200, though most satellite and cable TV providers in Tallahassee offer promotions that include free installation. Businesses may also charge you an equipment rental fee of $8 to $15 per device a month.