1. It has never been cheaper to purchase hardware because of rebates being offered by both SIRIUS and XM Satellite Radio. Check out this article for more specifics. There is a significant difference in hardware when it comes to portability. As of this writing, XM's portable hardware can record a limited amount of programming for playback but can go anywhere and receive real-time transmission. SIRIUS' offering for portable receiver can record up to 50 hours of programming but cannot receive a real-time signal outside of the car or home. See more on these units here.
2. Go with the service which programs for your needs. Although both services offer similar music channels differently named, there are differences especially in sports programming. XM offers: NASCAR, Major League Baseball, PAC-10 and Big Ten college sports and more. SIRIUS gives you the NHL, NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, English Soccer, College Sports Radio and more. (XM and Sirius both have the NHL, but in 2007 it will be an XM exclusive.) Both offer similar news sources (CNN, Fox, ABC News & Talk). You should view both channel lineups at their respective websites.
You can see XM's channel lineup here. There is no direct link for SIRIUS. You must access their channel lineup from the front of their website.
3. Stern or Opie & Anthony? A lot has been made about these radio personalities moving to Satellite Radio. If you want Howard Stern, you'll only hear him on SIRIUS. For Opie & Anthony, you'll have to subscribe to XM. I have put together a list of other high-profile personalities who can be heard on XM and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
4. The monthly cost for both services at the time of this writing is the same: $12.95 if you go month-to-month but less for both if you take advantage of longer commitments. If you haven't already seen it, have a look at the Comparison Chart I've put together.
5. Just a few channels justify the cost. If you only listen to two or three channels out of all the programming offered on a Satellite Radio service, it is still worth the $12.95-a-month for your subscription. That’s about 40 cents-a-day. Ask yourself: is the ride to and from work with commercial-free music of your choice or any other programming you enjoy worth that pocket change? If so, then you're ready for Satellite Radio.
More Information/Prices on Hardware
A Tour of XM Satellite Radio Hardware
A Tour of SIRIUS Satellite Radio Hardware
