DISH Network is a top satellite television company in the United States providing various packages of channels and niche content. As for the group of people who still stick to satellite TV providers like DISH, what can they expect in the context of contemporary media consumption with such platforms as Netflix or Hulu? Here are some of the key factors to consider when deciding if DISH Network is worth getting:
Programming & Channels
DISH comes with a package of more than 300 channels through services such as America’s Top 120, America’s Top 200, America’s Top 250, and so on; however, the exact number varies with the package in service. DISH currently directly negotiates with many big networks such as ESPN, Disney, Discovery, FOX, etc. The company offers its users popular entertainment programs, sports, news, and kids’ programs. Sling TV, Pac 12 Network, Longhorn Network, and regional sports networks are some of the exclusive channels that are exclusive to DISH Network. DISH is still able to give its subscribers a solid number of channels comparable to what most cable companies offer.
Price & Contracts
DISH subscription begins at $64.99 for the Flex Pack which comes with 50+ channels and up to $149.99 for America’s Everything Pack where the subscriber gets 340+ channels. Asia provides moderate prices for the basic services. While signing up for the DISH services, it is to be noted that the monthly plans are free from any hidden charges such as fees and taxes which are included in the cable services offered by the competitors. However, DISH now has the option of no contract available, which means you do not have to sign up for a long-term contract of multiple years. Just to add, do not worry you can always downgrade or leave at any time.
Technology & Features
DISH Network also provides conveniences such as set-top boxes and technologies, especially the Hopper 3 DVR. The principal Hopper receiver is designed to handle up to 16 televisions in your residential home. For instance, it can record up to 16 shows at once which makes it one of the most efficient devices for recording programs. Smart Voice assist with Google Assistant is supported so you may switch between channels as well as search for content with a simple voice command. This application is known as DISH Anywhere and enables the user to live stream their DISH subscription and view recordings on any smartphone, tablet, or computer. In brief, most of DISH offers new attributes that enable users to decide at what time and place they want to get content.
Exclusive Programming
And while DirecTV has NFL Sunday Ticket exclusive for football lovers, DISH Network has some key exclusive channels that you can’t get on most TV service providers including Sling TV and Pac 12 Network. Anyone who enjoys cooking or watching eating shows will love the extra Cooking Channel and Destination America. Some viewers may watch Longhorn Network or regional sports networks to follow the games. Although it is much fewer compared to the streaming platforms that are currently offering millions of titles, DISH does boast of some exclusive satellite-only programs.
Reliability
It also has the disadvantage that since DISH Network space technology is used, its reliability can be hindered by weather interferences such as heavy rain or wind. This can disrupt your flow and halt your service for a while. The service is found to be constant under appropriate weather regardless of the areas being rural or urban. As with the cable Internet that powers streaming services, some may also go out during major storms as well. But satellite TV, they are more often affected by no signal during storms. Technical difficulties that may occur in the equipment are few but may warrant calls to the technician.
Streaming Capabilities
However, unlike having a standalone streaming service, the set-top boxes sold by DISH do allow for direct access to applications such as Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and Google Play Movies, among others, through the platform. Thus, instead of switching between devices while searching for streaming and live channels, all the necessary options will be in one app. Expect to miss the large streaming libraries and originals that come with buying subscriptions directly from Netflix or Hulu. However, DISH attempts to offset the lack of this advantage by allowing popular streaming apps to be used on their service as subscriptions.
Is It Worth Getting?
The decision to remain with satellite TV boils down to how dependent one is on live programs and channels as opposed to streaming and on-demand services. If you want to get that healthy live channel from the major network in one place at a decent price with some good extra benefits, DISH Network has it. It provides flexibility as well through the no-contract offer now and one can add streaming apps. But if you are perfectly okay with not having things like live 24/7 news streaming or dedicated sporting channels in addition to Netflix and other streaming standalone then, the complete separation from satellite is logical. For dedicated sports enthusiasts failing to watch a game is out of the question, and so DISH satellite remains the only solution to capture every moment. In choosing which one to follow, determine which content is relevant in the process. DISH provides ample programming, features, and liberalization to meet the needs of various homeowners seeking comprehensive pay TV service.
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.
