I am trying to decide which ones offer better deals without all the price gouging..

Comcast is good, however they are expensive. Between DirectTv and Dish Network, I would choose DirectTv based on my own experience.

Forget cable.
As for satellite:
dish has cheaper programming, more HD & more capablity of channels.
DTV has the NFL SUNDAY TICKET.

You ask about "cable service" and then dish network or direct tv. the later two are not cable service but rather satellite service. I have compared the two satellite services and chose the Direct TV over Dish Network, and have had the service for over five years now. The only complaint, regardless of what others may say, satellite service does in fact go out for extended periods during storms which affect the microwave transmissions from space, as the signal cannot penetrate the storm clouds. Also, if a snow build up on the receiver dish is not cleaned off, signal is again lost. These are conditions that are usually not present with ground cable. The picture quality with the satellite is much clearer and sharper than with cable, and for my part, less problems with maintenance than with ground cable. As far as price, be careful and read the fine print on any contract as they will all get into your pocket if possible. The newest gimmick with Dish Network ( I had just gone through the sales pitch in the last week, trying to get my account away from direct TV) is to offer you a great rate for a short period like 8 months, then a great increase for the next 10 months. A 18 month contract, also, check their program sheet, as when they say 200 channels for a certain price, demand to see and count them, they're actually not there, they add on dozens of no viewing music channels on the list that can be had on radio. Hope this helps, but again, beware and check them carefully.