Fiber optic or satellite TV – which to choose?

11.11.2024
Internet

The choice between fiber optic and satellite TV depends on several important things, such as where you live, the quality of the connection in your area, what services are available and what you prefer.

Both options have their pros and cons, so consider which will be more practical for you. Fiber optic TV provides better quality and stability, but may not be available everywhere. Satellite TV, on the other hand, works almost everywhere, but is prone to interference, such as during bad weather. It’s best to look at what better meets your needs.

Fiber optic television – the future of broadcasting?

Fiber-optic television, as the name suggests, uses a fiber-optic infrastructure that transmits data at the speed of light. This makes it possible to transmit video in very high quality (even 4K) without delay or interference. Fiber optic not only offers a stable connection, but also a number of additional features, such as program recording, pausing live broadcasts and access to VOD services. This solution is ideal for those who want to enjoy reliable TV, especially in areas where Internet access is stable and fast.

One of the biggest advantages of fiber optic TV is that it does not depend on the weather. Unlike satellite TV, whose signal can be disrupted by storms, strong winds or snowfall, fiber optics works reliably regardless of weather conditions. For example, during an intense thunderstorm, when the satellite signal may be interrupted and the picture disappears, fiber-optic TV still works without problems. This means that even in difficult weather conditions, you can watch your favorite programs or movies without interference.

However, the main limitation of fiber-optic TV is its availability, which depends on the extensive cable infrastructure. In Poland, fiber optic coverage is steadily expanding – according to the latest data, in 2023, fiber optics will reach more than 5.5 million address points.

In cities and larger metropolitan areas, fiber-optic television is becoming more common, but in rural and less populated areas its availability is still limited. ITH Company However, it is expanding its services throughout Poland, offering network access both in large cities and in harder-to-reach locations. ITH Net ‘s offer is aimed mainly at demanding business customers. It provides symmetrical lines with guaranteed parameters that meet the highest quality standards. Services include: asymmetric and symmetric Internet, data transmission, WiFi as a Service, integration with global clouds, TV solutions, and the ITH Ready service, which enables quick and easy network configuration. With its own fiber-optic infrastructure and protection options, ITH Net provides reliable internet even in the event of a main line outage, increasing service availability and reliability.

Satellite television – a proven classic

Satellite television is available virtually everywhere, which is its greatest advantage over fiber optics. The signal is sent via satellite directly to a roof-mounted antenna, so even in places far from cable infrastructure you can enjoy a wide selection of TV programs. This is an ideal solution for those living in rural areas or on the outskirts of cities where fiber optics has not yet reached.

Satellite TV also offers high-definition programs, including 4K, which allows you to enjoy great picture quality. However, the drawback of this technology is its susceptibility to atmospheric interference. Satellite signals can be disrupted by bad weather, such as during storms or heavy rainfall. For many people, this is a big disadvantage, especially if they want to make sure that the TV won’t let them down at key moments, such as watching live important events like sports matches or movie premieres.

Link stability – which is more reliable?

In terms of stability, fiber-optic television has a clear advantage over satellite. Since the signal is transmitted directly over fiber optics, it is not susceptible to interference from weather conditions. Satellite TV, although it can operate virtually anywhere, often faces problems during storms or heavy snowfall. In the case of fiber-optic TV, the stability of the connection ensures smooth viewing of programs, without the risk of interruptions.

Image and sound quality

Both technologies offer the ability to watch programs in 4K quality, but fiber optics has the advantage here due to its lack of lag and buffering. Fiber optic signals are uninterrupted, which means viewers can enjoy crystal clear picture and sound. As for satellite TV, atmospheric interference can sometimes reduce the quality of reception, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Cost and availability

From a pricing perspective, fiber optic TV often proves more attractive, especially as part of packages that offer internet, TV and phone in one. While prices can vary from provider to provider, the monthly cost of fiber optic TV can sometimes be more competitive. Satellite TV, on the other hand, can be more expensive, especially if you add in the cost of antenna installation and maintenance.

What to choose?

In summary, the choice between fiber optic and satellite TV depends on your location and needs. If you live in a city or have access to a fiber-optic infrastructure, then fiber-optic TV will be the best choice because of its stability, quality and additional features. On the other hand, if you live in the countryside or in remote areas where access to fiber is limited, satellite TV may be your only option, providing access to a wide range of channels. ITH addresses these challenges by offering its services nationwide, including in hard-to-reach locations, using its own fiber-optic infrastructure, which increases the availability and reliability of their services. With ITH Net, you will always be online! Symmetrical links guarantee the stability and speed of the connection, allowing you to efficiently conduct all your activities, including professional ones. The company offers a wide range of services, such as Internet, data transmission, WiFi, cloud solutions, TV for hotels and business, and much more.