We switched to Dish Network almost a year ago. I'll give you a run down in the fastest way I know how:
The Good of Dish v. Cable
DVR is one of the best things ever invented - you can kiss the VCR goodbye!
Better picture - I kid you not!
Cheaper (I pay $50 a month for 180 channels w/ local tv; cable was around 55)
More variety (180 channels to 60 Cable - which includes 5 channels of an old women sitting in her rocker reading the bible - so really 55 cable)
You can see what is going to be one weeks in advance - w/ cable you need to buy a TV Guide
Recording something has never been so easy (Did I mention the DVR?)
The Bad of Dish v. Cable
It can go out in a storm (I should note, it has only gone out about a minute before we lose electricity, I would honeslty consider this arguement as void, but thought I should mention it does happen, even if it rare.)
There is an 18month contract to start the Dish
The Good of Dish Network v. Direct TV
Cheaper!
I like the menu set up better
You can get all the NBA games(I've never tried it - and it does cost more)
You can get all the NHL games (I've never tried it - and it does cost more)
You can get some college football package (I've never tried it - and it does cost more.)
The Bad of Dish to Direct TV
No Sunday Ticket (I think this is what makes Dish cheaper) The wife and I have marked Dish Network as the best decision we made this year. It has saved us $ and time (we watch TV faster; we record most of our shows and watch them that way). Truth be told, I would do it 10 times over.
BTW, if you decide on Dish, find a friend who has it and you can get a discount for 10 months - and get a free install and equipment.