This post was written in partnership with DISH.
In a market dominated by streaming services, some cable TV companies are still standing strong. DISH Network offers a range of satellite plans and equipment, with hundreds of channels available to subscribers.
DISH offers some of the industry’s top-notch equipment, an app for streaming online, and even the option to go contract-free for your satellite plan. It’s a great option for cable subscribers who want affordable plans with a wide variety of sports, news and entertainment programming. Here’s a closer look at DISH’s plans and pricing to help you decide if it’s right for you.
DISH offers four plans for subscribers, featuring anywhere from 190 to over 290 channels. Prices range from $84.99 a month to $114.99 a month for the service, but you’ll also have to pay for some equipment fees on top of that price. If you choose to opt into a two- or three-year agreement, you’ll get as much as 20% off the advertised prices. Note that none of DISH’s plans include regional sports networks like Bally Sports, so that’s a notable downside of the service.
DISH’s basic plan, America’s Top 120, features 190 channels of live entertainment, news and sports programming and starts at $84.99 a month. Popular networks include A&E, CNN, the Disney Channel, Fox News, National Geographic and TBS, along with your local channels*. Although this isn’t DISH’s most sports-focused plan, it still includes staples like ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, ESPNU and Fox Sports 1 (FS1). This plan is best for viewers who want all the essentials of cable TV.
Viewers who want plenty of live sports action in their satellite plan will want to upgrade to the America’s Top 120 Plus plan or higher. In this package, you’ll get everything in America’s Top 120, plus sports networks like ACCN, Big Ten Network, Fox Sports 2 (FS2), NFL Network, Pac-12 Network and Tennis Channel. The extra $15 monthly cost for this plan will likely be worth it for most serious fans.
DISH touts this plan as its best value. It adds around 50 more channels to the America’s Top 120 Plus plan, including entertainment like BET and Cooking Channel, news networks like BBC America, and even more sports coverage on channels like CBS Sports Network and MLB Network. For only $5 more, this plan might be the best option for families who want a wide range of entertainment.
DISH’s top plan features more than 290 channels. At $114.99 a month, it may be too pricey for most viewers, but it’s ideal for those who want one of the most expansive cable packages available. Extra channels in this package include the beIN Sports networks, Bloomberg Television, FXM, MGM Plus Drive-in, Nicktoons, and the STARZ Encore family of networks.
*Due to a carriage dispute, Hearst-owned local channels, including ABC, NBC, CBS, CW, MNT and IND have been removed from the DISH lineup in 27 markets. See the notice from DISH for more information.
As with any cable or satellite package, the base plan charges aren’t the only fees you’ll have to pay each month. DISH charges various extra fees, depending on your plan and the equipment you select. Receivers (with or without DVR capabilities) cost between $7 and $15 per month, but your first receiver is free. Although installation is also free, you’ll pay $95 for each technician visit thereafter unless you purchase DISH Protect for $8 a month. Be sure to review all potential fees before you sign a contract.
When you purchase a DISH package, you’ll get all the basic equipment you need to enjoy the service. This includes a smart HD DVR receiver and a voice remote with Google Assistant. Installation is free, so you don’t have to worry about setting up the equipment yourself or paying costly installation fees.
All DISH plans also include access to more than 80,000 on-demand shows and movies, and you’ll be able to set up an online account to watch on-demand programming and live TV online on the go via the DISH Anywhere app. DISH guarantees your price for three years and promises a reliable signal — or you can get your money back.
DISH offers more channels than most of its cable and satellite competitors. You’ll find all the standards like Cartoon Network, CNBC, Comedy Central, E!, ESPN, FX and USA here. But DISH offers much more, from beIN Sports and Oxygen to Sundance TV and Boomerang. With more than 290 channels on offer, there’s something for everyone in your household on DISH.
DISH offers a variety of add-on packages to expand your plan with even more entertainment and sports offerings. Subscribers can supplement their basic plan with any of the following:
These are just a few of DISH’s most popular add-ons. The satellite provider offers other packages, such as the Variety Pack, Heartland Pack, and Outdoor Pack, along with a variety of adult channels. Explore all of DISH’s add-ons on its website.
DISH offers various deals and discounts to help customers save on its plans. To start with, signing a two- or three-year contract can save you up to 20% off the advertised price. The company also offers special deals for seniors, teachers, healthcare workers and military service members. Currently, new subscribers can get a $300 prepaid Mastercard for switching to DISH Network.
All DISH equipment is leased, so you’ll need to return it when you terminate your agreement with the company. If you don’t return the equipment, you’ll pay fees ranging from $25 to $350.
DISH’s cheapest plan is called America’s Top 120. It costs $84.99 a month and includes 190 channels.
DISH touts its America’s Top 200 plan as its best value. With more than 240 channels in this package, you get access to tons of live entertainment, sports, news and family programming.