For me, it was about less frequent channel disputes (like a possible dispute with Disney at the time, though it never happened), and at the time they had 3D channels and I planned on a 3DTV soon (and got one) and mostly just wanted to try something new. I had Dish Network prior, and I think they are both equally good services. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Heck even cable has its pluses. Anyways, that's my two cents.