This post was written in partnership with DISH.
DISH is a satellite cable service that has live channels, DVR service, and an impressive on-demand library. You’ll need to install a satellite dish to use the service, but the good news is you don’t have to climb up onto the roof yourself. DISH plans include a professional satellite dish installation.
If you’re a TV fanatic who wants to maximize your channel list, DISH may be a good fit. Plans have more channels on average than most streaming platforms and can probably match or exceed what your local cable provider offers. Available networks on all plans include CNN, ESPN, AMC, Food Network, and Bravo. You can also get all your favorite local channels, like ABC and NBC.
What packages does DISH offer?
There are four DISH packages available to all customers, ranging in price from $79.99 per month to $109.99 per month. Satellite installation for all packages is free, and they all offer 2,000 of DVR space. Plus, most get a Multi-Sport Pack included with their package that features channels like SEC Network, NBA TV, NFL Network, and MLB Network. The platform also has four Spanish-language packages.
DISH channels, packages, and pricing compared
| Package | Monthly Price | Channels | Ads | Simultaneous Streams |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| America’s Top 120 | $84.99 | 190 | Yes | Up to 5 |
| America’s Top 120 Plus | $99.99 | 190+ | Yes | Up to 5 |
| America’s Top 200 | $104.99 | 240+ | Yes | Up to 5 |
| America’s Top 250 | $114.99 | 290+ | Yes | Up to 5 |
DISH channels: America’s Top 120
This is DISH’s most affordable plan, and you can lock in your price for three years. Channels include Disney Channel, E!, Food Network, and TNT. You’ll also get all your favorite local networks. There are over 28,000 free on-demand movies and series included with this package. Sports offerings include ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNEWS. This is the only package that does not include the Multi-Sports Pack or allows you to purchase it as an extra.
DISH channels: America’s Top 120 Plus
This package includes everything in the America’s Top 120 package plus additional channels and the Multi-Sport Pack. You also lock in your price for three years with this option. Upgrading to America’s Top 120 Plus means access to Big Ten Network, the Pac-12 Network, and the NFL Network. Plus, you get more than 35,000 on-demand titles.
DISH channels: America’s Top 200
This package is good for customers who want a good balance of sports and entertainment. Along with the Multi-Sport Pack and everything that is available with the America’s Top 120 Plus package, this option has NBA TV, MLB Network, NHL Network, and the Golf Channel. You’ll also have additional pop culture and entertainment programming from channels like Bravo and A&E. This package also offers the full 35,000+ on-demand library catalog.
DISH channels: America’s Top 250
The top package offered by DISH, America’s Top 250, has everything in America’s Top 2002 package plus 17 additional movie channels. You can watch STARZ, MoviePlex, The Movie Channel, and more without paying for an add-on. Other channels added at this level include MTV Classic, BeIN Sports, and the Sportsman Channel. This plan features the 35,000+ free on-demand library and Multi-Sports Pack, too.
What channels does DISH offer?
DISH has nearly any popular channel you can think of in at least one package, plus a ton of niche channels. In addition to local channels ABC, NBC, Fox, and CBS, customers can count on entertainment go-tos like AMC and TLC in every package. At the highest package, you’ll get nearly 300 channels to choose from. Other channels you may be interested in are BBC America, MSNBC, Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports 2, FXX, Lifetime, Paramount Network, and Travel Channel.
What add-ons does DISH offer?
You can customize your DISH package with add-ons that bring even more content. All add-ons are sold per month and can be added and removed at your discretion.
- Outdoor Pack: 4 channels for $4 per month
- Racetrack TV: 33 channels for $50 per month
- MAX: 6 channels for $16 per month
- CINEMAX: 3 channels for $10 per month
- MGM+: 4 channels for $7 per month
- STARZ Encore: 9 channels for $6 per month
- Heartland Pack: 14 channels for $6 per month
- Dog TV: 1 channel for $4.00 per month
- Stars & Stripes Pack: 8 channels for $8 per month
- Language Packs: Variety of channels for between $11.49 – $44.99 per month
DISH deals and discounts
DISH has several offers for certain customers. If you qualify, you can score upgraded service at no additional cost and other benefits. Customers aged 55 and older can get one free movie rental a month for their first year and free in-home visits from technicians. Active duty military and veterans can receive the Stars & Stripes channel pack for free and one free movie rental per month; first responders can also qualify for these same perks under their own offer. Healthcare workers can get the Heartland Pack for free, one movie rental per month, and they are upgraded to DISH Anywhere.
Use the Discover DISH Savings calculator on the DISH website homepage to enter your Zip code and current cable bill to see if you can save money by switching to DISH service.
How to watch DISH
You can sign up for DISH on their website or by calling 1-877-638-0118. Your satellite must be professionally installed on an outdoor wall, balcony, or roof facing south. In some cases, a second appointment may be required if the technician needs to install the dish on a pole or bury any wires. Once your equipment is set up, you will use a receiver DVR on every TV in your home where you want to get service. You can install up to five receivers in your home.
With DISH Anywhere, you can also stream on tablets and smartphones while you’re away from home. Users can stream on up to five different devices at once. If you want to add another device, you’ll need to go into your account and remove one of your currently active devices. Like any cable or streaming service, you’ll also need to pair a remote with your receiver to control your DISH screen.
FAQ
Do you buy or rent DISH equipment?
Dish equipment is rented. The Hopper 2 DVR is $10 per month and additional receivers incur additional fees. Additional Hoppers are $15 per month and Joey receivers are $7 per month.
How much does it cost to cancel DISH?
DISH requires a two year commitment. Customers who cancel early are charged $20 per month for every month remaining on the contract.
What is the best DISH TV package?
The most cost effective DISH plan is probably the America’s Top 200 package. It’s just $5 more than the America’s Top 120 Plus package and has more than 240 channels, including many networks not available on the two cheaper packages. Channels include A&E, Bravo, NBA TV, and MLB Network.
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