An example of a new kind of service that has gained significant popularity over the last several years is streaming services such as Netflix. A huge collection of movies and TV shows, a surprisingly large number of original productions, and a user-friendly interface make Netflix a perfect source of entertainment. This has made many consumers ask a question, namely, is it possible to obtain Netflix for free with your current TV provider? I want to know if Netflix is included for free with a DISH subscription. Let us dig deeper now.
What kind of services or content is offered through a DISH subscription?
First, the following must be ascertained what is in a normal DISH subscription. DISH is a leading satellite TV provider through which people can subscribe to different packages at reasonable prices. It can involve local broadcasting networks, famous cable channels such as ESPN or HGTV, or movie channels like HBO or Cinemax. It is worth mentioning that DISH is mostly positioned in the live TV space.
For instance, the basic DISH Package does not offer users free access to Netflix as provided by other service providers. DISH has not made any special announcements regarding bundling with Netflix which means that the two services are not directly connected. Hence, if you join the DISH satellite service, you will be provided with live TV, not including Netflix. But you can sign up for Netflix itself for the normal price of $9.99-15.99 per month, separately.
DISH and Streaming Services
Netflix is, however, excluded from the free offering, DISH does, however, offer compatibility with other popular streaming apps. For instance, you can view applications such as Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, Pandora, and others on the compatible interface of the DISH Hopper DVR. Yeah, you will still need to acquire the streaming service separately, but it is integrated into the Dish interface for your convenience.
Sling TV, on the other hand, is DISH’s live-streaming package for those who wish to cut the cord. Sling TV presents 30+ live TV channels for $ 35 per month. It does not have Netflix, but it helps streamers get full value for their money as compared to that of the full satellite package. You can also include various Channel Packages or add-ons for other things like sports, comedy, kids’ programs, etc., to Sling.
Another Dish choice is Blockbuster @Home – a subscription service for DVDs by post or for online streaming. This brings on-demand movie and TV titles which are over 100,000 – which is close to Netflix to your Dish package. However, it is an add-on plan that begins at $10 on top of the basic monthly fee.
In summary, here is what's included and not included with the major Dish subscription options:
Satellite TV:
- Over 200 live TV Channels
- Samsung UE46D6900WW: Free Hopper DVR with Netflix app
- The Blockbuster @Home premium subscription service as well as the pay-per-view movies and other services costs a little extra.
- Sling TV:
- The above product comes with more than 30 live TV channels.
- This is an additional channel pack for now, and one may add the extras at a later date if they want.
As was already mentioned, having a satellite TV service or subscribing to Sling TV does not give you free access to Netflix. You still have to pay the base Netflix price if you want to view Netflix's original series or a licensed television show or movie through Dish equipment.
How to obtain free Netflix
Here are a few ways you may be able to score Netflix access at no cost:
1. Free Netflix Trials
Watching Netflix for free can be a little tricky, but the simplest way is to subscribe to Netflix with a one-month free trial for new customers. It means that for instance, you can watch movies and series from Netflix for free before deciding whether to pay for it. However, do make sure that you have canceled it before the month elapses in case you wish not to be charged. However, the free trial is only available for one account in the whole household, which is provided by Netflix.
2. Mobile Phone Plans
In particular, some unlimited data mobile plans come with free basic Netflix subscriptions included, for instance, T-Mobile Magenta. With either of these plans, you might be able to save $9-$15 per month. Just note video usually comes in standard definition while watching a video and you can upgrade to high definition in case you opt for a paid data service provider.
3. Shared Logins
Some people use their passwords and accounts and let their friends and family members use Netflix with them for free. Free access is still a no-no but this does break the Netflix terms of service. More so, Netflix has slowly introduced extra charges for streaming services for accounts shared in different houses. Thus, I would advise readers to use this approach with caution.
4. T-Mobile Tuesday Offers
Here is how it works: It is every Tuesday T-Mobile customers can get special offers including discounts and even free stuff through the T-Mobile Tuesdays app. Other promotional materials provided in the past include a free subscription to Netflix, digital movie rental, and T-Mobile STORE cash for purchasing Netflix items. Netflix Bonus: If you are a T-Mobile wireless customer you should be on the lookout for rewards given by Netflix.
5. Credits from Surveys
Some survey and rewards apps such as Swagbucks will reward you with points and gift cards for completing consumer surveys that companies need you to fill out. If you collect enough credits during the program’s duration, you can exchange them for free Netflix gift cards. The earnings you make from paid surveys are not going to make you a Netflix millionaire but it’s a source of extra income.
The Bottom Line
Although Dish, a satellite provider, does not offer customers free Netflix yet, they do offer the option to connect to an existing Netflix account on Dish equipment. For Netflix users to be able to watch Netflix originals and licensed content without having to pay, they should go for a free trial or subscribe to phone plan bundles, app rewards, and shared login at their discretion. However, they are unlikely to see the Dish satellite service’s price slashed unless Dish offers a new set of bundling options, the price of Netflix is still distinct from your monthly subscription to Netflix.
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.