In modern culture, cable television is one of the most common ways people see television shows; satellite television is another popular kind of television that has been around for the last few years. The main difference between Satellite TV and cable TV is that, although you get signals sent across the air and delivered to your house via a dish, satellite TV can provide hundreds of channels including specialty sports, movies, and international channels not provided with basic cable. Still, many people wonder before signing on to such a platform: how much does a satellite TV dish cost? Let us examine the first two closely now.
Upfront Costs
Two main expenses that any person has to incur before gaining access to satellite TV are the cost of the satellite dish and installation charges. The costs could be higher or lower depending on the service provider, the particular plan, as well as other offers and discounts at the time.
Satellite Dish Kit
Depending on the make and model, a standard satellite dish kit that has the dish antenna, the mounting bracket, and all the necessary cables typically costs between $50 and $150. But in most cases, most satellite television companies will either offer the equipment at a considerably lower price or even provide it for free if you sign up for a 1-year or 2-year contract. Therefore, your initial cost for such equipment may be zero, depending on the agreement you are willing to make.
Installation Costs
There are usually local installers who will professionally install a satellite dish for a fee of $100 to $300. The installer will determine your location, set up the dish and its position, put up cables where necessary, and connect receivers. But what most providers fail to reveal is that most of them may either offer a complete exemption or charge relatively low installation fees to get the consumers onboard. For instance, both DIRECTV and DISH providers have promotional offers that include free professional installation on some packages. If you choose to do it yourself, then you have to know that labor cost is eliminated, but installation could be challenging and is done slowly.
Total Upfront Cost
If any current offers are included, you can generally purchase entry-level satellite TV service for $0 – $150, including free equipment and often free or heavily discounted installation fees. Of course, then you will need to choose one of the ongoing monthly programming packages again.
Ongoing Monthly Costs
After completing your satellite service, like a dish for TV, you have to pay a monthly fee just like cable TV services. Satellite service has been found, in most cases, to be offered at highly affordable prices as an alternative to cable services. Here's an overview of what satellite TV typically costs each month:
- Basic Packages: Begin at $55 per month for over 60 stations
- Standard Packages: It is estimated to be around $80 per month, with an option of choosing from 150-250+ channels.
- Premium/Expanded Packages: The cost is between $100 and $150 monthly, with over 250 channels.
Some key things that can affect your monthly costs include:
- Number of Receivers: Every TV set will need a satellite decoder to get the programs, and this typically costs between $5 to $10 on each additional TV.
- Premium Channels: To have additional premium movie channels such as HBO or Starz, expect your bill to rise by $15+ more per month for each of the added-ons.
- DVR Service: If you choose to add a DVR to record shows, this will often require an additional $10+ a month for the DVR fee.
- Bundles: Satellite TV providers offer a discount on their package if they are combined with Internet and/or home phone service, which can be between 10-20% in a month.
Cable Operators and Satellite Broadcasting Companies: Cost Comparison Between Cable and Satellite TV
While signing contracts that range from one to two years, satellite subscribers are often charged relatively the same amount as cable users, whereby the rate is anywhere between $900 to $1500 per year. Satellite programming is generally cheaper than cable with an equal number of channel offerings and features included in the subscription. Thus, when comparing costs, it might not be limited to such aspects but rather continue with aspects such as contracts, equipment, etc., and performance.
Lastly, satellite TV costs significantly less at the onset when compared to cable because satellite companies have ample amounts of free equipment and installation promotions. As for monthly service fees, if you are going to consider your contract period, satellite is roughly on par with other cable providers. Remember all these costs, contracts, fine print, and numerous other factors as you consider which TV service provider is best suited for your home.
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.
