DISH is one of the most popular satellite television service providers in the United States with the availability of different packages for the customer. If you are looking into DISH service, you may be asking yourself several questions – one of which is: how many free channels can you get? Here's a breakdown of what to expect:
DISH America
DISH America is DISH’s free service/package that the company extends to its new customers. It covers approximately 50 channels which are comprised of broadcast networks, popular cable networks, and educational programs. Specific channels include:
- Local Broadcast Networks: ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS
- News: cable television networks such as CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, CSPAN, and HLN.
- Lifestyle: HGTV, food network, TLC, discovery, travel
- Educational: Discovery Family Channel, NASAE TV, CreateTV
- Entertainment: AMC, Hallmark Channel, BYUtv, Jewelry Television
- Sports: ESPN, FS 1, NBCSN, Outdoor Channel
- Kids: Disney Channel, Nickelodeon and cartoon network, baby TV
With the DISH America plan, you’ll be able to enjoy approximately 50 different channels which are broadcasting news, entertainment, lifestyle, movies, sports, and children’s programs. This lineup includes many cable channels that are popular nowadays and that offer content for every taste.
While 50+ channels can be considered a good beginning, it is not equipped with regional sports, many entertainment channels such as Bravo or FX, and premium channels such as HBO MAX and Showtime, etc. However, do not confuse this with the base package which is free and fifty channels is a good bang for your buck.
Promotional Offers
Besides the DISH America package, DISH has always been known to give free packages with channel offers at discounted prices for new subscribers. Some promotions include added services for a significantly lower fee for the initial year or two.
For instance, DISH America with 50+ channels, with the addition of the Regional Sports package which offers 5-10 more channels, and the Kids Extra Channel package which adds other 10 channels that are most beneficial for children. This could mean free of charge 75+ channels in the first year.
That specific promotion differs, however, with DISH America plus one or two additional packages, new consumers are generally able to receive between 75 to 100 channels free. These promotions allow you to check out DISH’s much larger channel offering before committing to the premium price.
What About Local Channels?
However, the channel counts provided above do not count the major network affiliates available in your area such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox. As a DISH subscriber, you will also get those channels based on your zip code in addition to the ones mentioned above.
And the actual channel lineup is even broader if take into consideration a dozen or more basic local broadcast stations. If you wish to have the complete DISH package with the options of having a DVR, High-definition capability, and OnDemand databases, then additional charges for dish installation and equipment will be required. But programming itself could be costless with the right new customer promotion in a business.
Long-Term Costs
However, DISH can be taken for free in the first year depending on any promo offers available, but the normal rates kick in after 12 months. At that stage, you will be charged $60-$70+ per month, although the rates may be changed if you contact the company to discuss renewal of the contract. The amount of money paid per month depends on the channel package selected – the packages featuring more channels will have larger regular rates.
However, should you wish to have a list of programs without the fuss of cable subscriptions, then the free year offering 50+ channels with DISH America and much more at the new customer promotions are excellent options. This makes it convenient for those who are thinking about ‘canceling cable’ to try out DISH‘s services for free.
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.
