In the good old days, you had AM radio in your car.  Then came along FM radio.  And for about 45 years, that’s all you needed.

Today you now have AM, FM and HD radio stations as well as satellite stations such as Sirius XM Radio.

If you’re buying a new car or looking to upgrade the stereo receiver in your old car, you may be wondering: What’s the difference between HD and satellite radio?

To help you understand the difference, we’ve created a handy radio tip sheet.

Satellite Radio

How It Works: Satellite radio is sent to your radio via satellite, hence its name.  Think of satellite radio like cable television.  You pay a monthly subscription and you get lots of commercial free stations.

Here’s what you need to know about set up:

• Receiver Cost: Satellite Radio Receiver: $30-$150
• Subscription Cost: $12.95 to $16.95
• Stations: 120-180 stations, depending on subscription
• Commercials: None
• New Cars: Satellite radio receivers come as a premium option in most new cars.
• More Information: http://www.siriusxm.com/

HD Radio

How It Works: HD radio allows AM and FM stations to broadcast digitally.  This means you’ll get clearer sounding radio.  You’ll also get a few more stations.

Here is what you need to know about set up:

• Receiver Cost: $40-$200
• Subscription Cost: None
• Stations: Depends on market.  For example, Phoenix has 37.  To find how many HD stations are in your market click here.
• Commercials: Yes, similar to standard radio.
• New Cars: HD radio receivers come as a premium option in most new cars.
• More Information: http://www.hdradio.com/

HD or Satellite?

So you may be wondering: HD or Satellite?

If you already like the radio stations you get, but want clearer sound with a few more stations, you should go with HD radio.

If you’re tired of commercials and want a lot of satiations, your best bet is satellite radio.

Be sure to shop around and ask family and friends that they think of HD and satellite radio.  You also can ask a technician during your next El Paso auto air conditioning repair or Las Cruces brake repair This will help make the decision making process easier.