If you’re considering TV options other than traditional cable, DISH TV is a popular choice worth considering.
As a satellite TV provider, DISH delivers hundreds of channels including local networks, national programming, sports and on-demand content directly to your home without relying on cable.
But how does it work? And is it right for your home? In this guide, USA TODAY breaks down what DISH TV is, how its satellite technology brings entertainment to your screen, and what you can expect in terms of channels, features, and cost.
What is DISH TV? How does it work?
DISH (Digital Sky Highway) is a satellite television provider that provides local, national, sports, and on-demand content to American households. Packages include over 100 channels, with higher tiers offering nearly 300 TV channels. Watch all your favorite shows with one subscription.
Unlike cable TV, which has a wired connection, DISH relies on satellite TV coverage. DISH bypasses physical cables and sends a signal from Earth to a space satellite, which sends the signal back to your home satellite. The receiver in the box of the DISH system converts the signal into the TV programs you are familiar with. This gives DISH widespread access nationwide and makes it more convenient for rural homeowners.
Advantages and disadvantages of DISH
Strong Points
Cons
- More expensive than some competitors
- HOA may decide where the satellite goes
- You must own your home and have a credit score of 550 or higher
Is DISH right for your home?
DISH isn’t the cheapest entertainment option and requires a contract that some homeowners can refuse. But if any of these apply to you, DISH may be right for you.
- You are a sports fan. Watching sports is expensive. CBS, FOX, NBC, and ABC also only broadcast local games. If you don’t get a separate subscription (often $30 to $70 per month for a single sport), you’ll miss out on important games. Get all your favorite teams in one all-inclusive price with a DISH subscription.
- You need a reliable TV. DISH works in bad weather, so you can watch your shows uninterrupted no matter what the outdoor conditions are.
- Eligible for incentives. Teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, veterans and seniors receive additional incentives and increased value for their package costs when they become a DISH customer.
- I need a TV for my family. DISH gives you access to all the best kids channels, including Disney Channel and Nickelodeon.
- I plan to stay in my home for at least two years. DISH requires a two-year contract, and if you cancel mid-term, you will be charged a mid-term cancellation fee.
- you live in the countryside. DISH satellite is not limited to suburban areas like cable. DISH is available for streaming to anyone. As long as the satellite has a clear view of the sky, you can get DISH.
DISH packages and prices
Even the most entry-level DISH package comes with over 190 channels, including popular channels like ESPN, Disney Channel, HGTV, Newsmax, and more. Packages start at $89.99 per month and require a two-year commitment when you sign up.
Every DISH package comes with Hopper 3, a smart DVR that can record up to 16 shows at once and store 2,000 hours of video, and includes built-in access to streaming services Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and Pandora.
| DISH package | Number of channels | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| american top 120 | Over 190 channels. ESPN, Newsmax, CMT, Disney Channel, E!, Nick, HGTV, Food Network | $89.99/month (1 TV) |
| America’s Top 120 Plus | Over 190 channels. Top 120 including Big 10 Network and NFL Network | $99.99/month (2 TVs) |
| America’s Top 200 | Over 240 channels. Includes Top 120 Plus content, but adds NBA TV, NHL Network, Sundance, A&E, and Golf Channel | $109.99/month (3 TVs) |
| America’s Top 250 | Over 290 channels. All Top 200 now have 17 additional movie channels, including Turner Classic Movies, STARZ Encore Channel, and The Movie Channel. | $119.99/month (4 TVs) |
| dish latino | Over 190 channels in Spanish and English. | $69.99/month |
Add-on packages start at $2 per month and include:
- sports addon
- Premium channels (STARZ, HBO MAX, Showtime, etc.)
- Lifestyle Channel (including Hallmark, Sportsman Channel, and Game Show Network)
- On-demand subscriptions (Netflix, Docurama, Hallmark+, etc.)
- international channels around the world
- latin channel
- pay per view
- adult entertainment
Some costs, such as taxes, surcharges, and transaction fees, are not included in the Price Guarantee and may add to your total costs.
special offers and discounts
DISH offers incentives to certain groups, so if you belong to one of the following groups, you can receive additional benefits and discounts.
- 55+ Offer ($400 value): Includes one on-demand movie rental per month, 6 months of DISH Protection Plan Plus with ID Recovery, priority call routing, real-time technical support, free in-home service visits, and free equipment replacement.
- military offers (worth $400): Includes one on-demand movie rental per month and the Star-Spangled Banner pack, which includes the American Heroes channel (an add-on with eight additional channels, including the Smithsonian Channel and STARZ Encore Western).
- first responder offer (worth $400): Includes one on-demand movie rental per month and the Stars and Stripes pack, which includes the American Heroes channel.
- Medical worker offers (worth $300): Heartland Pack, an add-on that includes one on-demand movie rental per month and 13 family-friendly channels, including Hallmark Channel and BabyTV.
- teacher discount (worth $300): One on-demand movie rental and Heartland pack per month.
To get these offers, you must prove you belong to one of these groups and sign up for a two-year contract.
DISH installation for homeowners
Sign up for DISH and get free professional installation ($199 value). Installation includes:
- Research to determine the optimal location for satellite installation
- Assembling and installing the dish
- Installation of receivers on all TVs included in the service
- Remote setup of TV and DISH receivers
- Download and update all DISH receiver software
DISH aims to make installation as easy as possible, so on the day of installation you can expect:
- Step 1: Booking details will be sent to your email.
- Step 2: DISH will contact you the day before your reservation to confirm the date and time.
- Step 3: You will be given a grace period of 75 minutes on the day of your reservation.
- Step 4: Track until DISH technician arrives.
- Step 5: A technician will install the satellite dish and whole-house DVR system.
This visit was about more than just the satellite TV installation. If you’ve recently moved into your home, DISH technicians can also mount your television, set up wireless internet, install your home theater system, and more.
How to prepare for DISH installation day
Before installing DISH, you must make the following preparations:
- If you live in an apartment or rental, get property management approval.
- Check your homeowners association’s requirements for where to place the dishes.
- Select the room where you want to install the DISH receiver.
- Make sure someone is home during the installation period
- protect all pets
- Allow technician access to roof or patio prior to arrival
HOA rules and satellite antenna regulations
According to federal law, you have the right to install a satellite dish or television dish on your property. HOAs cannot ban tableware, but they can have rules about where they can be placed. In most cases, you cannot install a satellite dish in a common area (a shared roof or wall) or in line-of-sight (that is, it must be installed in a backyard where it cannot be seen from the street). Nevertheless, you can object to these rules if they result in a disruption of service.
To avoid any surprises on the day of installation or afterwards, you should:
- Check your HOA rules to understand your preferred installation zone.
- Get written approval from your HOA (there may be a specific form).
- If you believe the rule violates federal guidelines, please appeal the denial.
FAQ
Will DISH work in bad weather?
DISH is useful even when the weather is bad. Heavy rain, snowstorms, or thick clouds may cause service interruptions, but they do not occur frequently. DISH has safeguards in place to protect its services: Signal Protector. In the event of a service outage due to weather, the DISH channel will automatically switch to Wi-Fi.
Do I need a contract with DISH?
Yes, a 2 year contract is required. If you cancel before 24 months, you will be required to pay an early termination fee of $20 for each remaining month of your agreement.
Can I install a satellite dish anywhere on my property?
You have the right to install a satellite dish on your property in accordance with the FCC Radio Receiving Devices (OTARD) Regulations. However, you may need to follow the HOA rules (if applicable). This means you may need to locate your HOA in a secluded location, away from common areas.
Is DISH cheaper than cable?
Cable starts at $30-$50 per month, so it’s probably cheaper. However, cable is often bundled with other services like internet, phone, and streaming services, and the price usually increases after 12 months. DISH has a low cost per channel and a two-year price guarantee.
