Best Satellite Dishes in 2022

Last update: December 28, 2022

Can I connect satellite dish directly to TV?

A satellite dish can be connected directly to a TV if the TV has a built-in satellite tuner or if a separate satellite tuner is used. If the TV does not have a built-in satellite tuner, a digital converter box that has a satellite input will be needed.

Can satellite dishes be used for anything?

Yes, satellite dishes can be used for other purposes than just television. They can be used to communicate with people in different parts of the world, or to get information from satellites.

Do old satellite dishes have value?

Old satellite dishes can be recycled and used as planters or bird baths. They can also be sold as scrap metal.

Do people still use satellite dish?

Satellite dishes are still used by many people, especially in rural areas where cable and fiber optic service is not available. Satellite dishes require a clear view of the sky, so they are often installed on roofs or high locations.


DISH Network 2G Remote Antenna for the Hopper and 922 Review:


Did you know that the Dish Hopper allows you to divide the antenna signal using a coax splitter and connect additional antennae, like this one, across the home using extension cables? Perfectly combines with additional remotes, HDMI splitters, and cords to allow you to use one receiver to run TV throughout the entire house. Even though it is 80 feet away, I have a television in my garage. The product is an identical replica of the receiver's original antenna.



HDTV Antenna Amplified Digital Outdoor TV Antenna 150 Miles Range with Mounting Pole-4K 1080p High Reception for All TVs-32ft RG6 Coaxial Cable,360° Rotation Wireless Remote(Support 2 TVs) Review:


It was quite frustrating to me to have no TV in the bedrooms after disconnecting cable in my two bedrooms due to cost-saving. I had purchased an indoor antenna from a nearby retailer, but the connection I had made didn't function. My apartment is located in the middle of a U-shaped building, and I reside on a lower floor. It might not work, the sales representative said. It didn't indicate that it wouldn't have worked, just that I wasn't doing it right, so I sent it back and continued my search for a functional antenna. When Hurricane Sandy arrived, I studied reviews of the brand of antenna since some people said they had connected it and were able to watch TV after the cable had gone out. So I concluded that I could use this. I placed my order on Amazon, and it arrived so quickly that you would have thought I had paid for next-day air. I then tried to connect it, but it didn't work since I was clumsy and didn't know what I was doing, as is usually the case. I didn't quit trying. I was confident that it would work, so I patiently waited for my cousin to arrive. He connected it, and when the TV switched on, I sobbed. I genuinely did. What can I say? It's considerably clearer now than it was when I had cable. I receive channels 2, 4,5, 7, and 9 where I reside, but not 11 or 13. I'm fine with 11, but not with 13. However, I did receive 11 where the antenna was initially located, but 7 wasn't clear, and I cannot live without my Eye Witness News. I am very delighted with it, so I decided to leave it in that position. I'll obtain another antenna after I buy a flat-screen TV for the second room. It is excellent. I'll give it another shot, perhaps somewhere else, and see what happens. You must rescan it after every move, but I'm really happy.



DIRECTV Swim Mobile RV Portable Satellite Dish Tripod Kit SWM SL3S Review:


I used a Winegard Carryout automatic antenna. Up until DirecTV started employing SWMs, everything was perfect. When utilizing my old standard definition receiver (the only one required for DirecTV Carryout since the antenna doesn't support DirecTV HD) (Dish has much better service for campers). My receiver had to be replaced, and the new one was incompatible with the Carryout. I ultimately had to purchase a SWM kit (as expensive as this entire setup). The SWM kit was functional for about three days until it stopped. Since the SWM Kit was still failing to provide me with HD reception, I decided to purchase the portable dish rather than replace the SWM (which had already angered me by failing so soon).Aiming is the main issue with this kit. Many times, I installed DirecTV antennas by myself. Finding the best signal has never been easy. more so given that DireTV currently makes use of many satellites.This process is now considerably simpler thanks to DirecTV. To obtain the tilt and elevation angle you require directly off the receiver, all you need to know is your coordinates or zip code. You also receive the necessary guidance for aiming it. The tilt and elevation increments are marked off on the mounting stand and bracket, making the direction the most difficult to fine-tune.Simply take the receiver's data and use them to position the antenna. To establish a close bearing, use a compass, then loosely tighten the mounting bolts. If someone is present, ask them to keep an eye on the signal meter as you slowly spin the dish in a precise arc. Tighten the nuts on the mounting bolts once the signal meter is at its maximum setting.If no one is present, turn up the sound on the receiver-connected TV and pay attention to the tone. The sound increases in pitch as you move the dish through the directed arc because you are receiving a better signal. Whenever the pitch is the highest, tighten the nuts onto the mounting bolts.I unpack, set up, and aim the dish in about 15 minutes. I'd argue that paying for HD programming is worthwhile.



Winegard SK-1000 TRAV'LER RV Satellite TV Antenna for DISH and Bell HD RV Satellite System for the RV, Motorhome, Camper Review:


The fact that this machine feels "exactly like home" and can be used when traveling is its best feature. Additionally, it is quite convenient, making it simple to pop up the dish and watch TV when paused for lunch or dinner.I'm amazed at how effectively this works and how rarely trees have blocked my path. (I'm attempting to submit a photo where I am NOT blocked by a tree, as I had assumed I would be!) In reality, practically every campground I've visited has had full reception, even in spots where it might appear like a tree or two might be squarely in the way. Trees were the major concern I had when considering purchasing one of these units, but happily, this has not been a problem for me at all (and I camp for a few months each year in a National Forest!). In fact, I'm at a loss for words when it comes to how this device operates when it is unable to latch onto one or more satellites. Although it hasn't been necessary to take this approach, I had planned to add a Tailgater-style unit that could be positioned out clear of trees in case my system was obstructed.So don't worry too much if you're concerned that this unit will run into tree obstructions. There are a few causes for this.For starters, unlike what you may assume from the way it appears, the dish is actually pointed far higher in the sky. Remember that the signal enters the dish from the top, bounces off the centre or center, and then travels downward to the LNB receivers. Although it is simple to assume that the dish is pointing in the direction of the arm, this is untrue. Much further up, it is now "pointing."The TRAV'LER can also suck in a considerably weaker signal because it has a MUCH larger dish than the portable Tailgater type equipment. It can tolerate partial obstructions and perhaps some vegetation in the way much better. To further improve your signal, the Trav'ler will roam around as if you were hauling a Dish installer with you to every campsite. This "peaking" of the signal is what the control box's display refers to.Finally, because this device receives signals from three satellites, in the event that one is blocked, you should still be able to access programs on the majority of your channels from an additional satellite. Typically, DISH places HD channels on one satellite and SD channels on a different one. Your receiver will automatically tune to the alternative version if you can't get the first. Unfortunately, things doesn't always go perfectly well, and in those situations, my Hopper does become a little cranky. This is comparable to what you could encounter when your signal is interfered with by rain or other weather. The Trav'ler unit is not to fault as much for the clumsiness as the Hopper/Dish.



Ice Zapper 2 Satellite Dish Heater Kit w/ Manual Control for 46cm to 1.2 Meter Dish Antennas Review:


Installing the Ice Zapper 2 was incredibly simple. A little snow recently caused signal loss, but as soon as it was turned on, signal returned! We'll have a greater test this weekend when it starts to snow heavily and there's a chance of freezing rain, but we anticipate that everything will work just fine. A little bit easier than needing to go outside and plug it in is the fact that my installation is switched. My dish used to be at a location where I could sweep it off, but since moving to HD they had to move it since there are so many trees there now that I can't clean it off. Wish I had one of these earlier; it would have spared me from having to sweep outside in the weather. There was an ice storm this past weekend. I received signal when I switched on the TV, but it was just in standard definition. When I first started on the Ice Zapper 2, I experienced digital scrambling, but after about a minute or two, I had HD signal and no further issues.



Winegard White Company PL-7000 Dish Playmaker Portable Antenna Review:


I was happy with my purchase after setting up and testing the system numerous times in my driveway. The satellite performed admirably during the first camping trip for two days. It would completely stop working on the third day... The message "cant locate signal, check all connections and call Dish" continued appearing on the screen. After numerous phone calls to Dish, verifying all connections, and repeated reboots, I gave up and decided to wait till I got home. When I eventually reached Winegard after numerous attempts, the tech advised me to check the voltage at both the receiver and dish ends of the connection. About half the time, the system would operate within the range of 13 to 19 volts that I was displaying. I'm convinced that the receiver is flawed. The Winegard technician indicated that although the problem was intermittent, I was still covered by the two-year warranty. However, if I returned the machine to the manufacturer, they might or might not be able to fix it, depending on whether they could reproduce my particular problem at home. When I test the system after switching my new coax cable for another new one, I instantly receive the "cannot locate signal" message, the dish working OK after that, then flashing back to the "cannot locate" message and then returning to programming. Quite frankly, I would not advise purchasing this item with the Wally receiver after spending $300 on a system that only occasionally functions and cannot get decent customer care from either Dish or Winegard. If you decide to purchase, ensure sure everything is functional PRIOR to Amazon's 30-day return window expiring.REVISED 6/10/2018Three stars have been added because my issues seem to have been solved. I finally spoke with a very capable young man after calling Dish Customer Service for two and a half hours, during which time he checked what seemed to be practically all of the tests in the book. The "Upgrade my Software" button doesn't work and merely informs you that whatever version you have is already current and up to date, which is a severe flaw in the software. Wrong!! The most recent software version as of 6-9-2018 is U438. Three methods exist for updating: 1.) If you already have Dish service, bring the receiver inside and connect it to the satellite wiring in your house. Around one in the morning, the receiver will automatically update. 2. Reboot the receiver by unplugging it, cutting the cable to the dish, and then plugging it back in to clear the memory. Since the connection is unplugged, the dish will obviously not discover anything, but the memory will be erased. Reboot after reconnecting the coax to the dish. Assuming you are receiving something after the reboot, use the remote to switch off the receiver's power, putting it in sleep mode so you can observe the dancing "tips" square. The receiver will start downloading and installing software after a short while. 3.) If you do not have home Dish service, follow step #1 and keep the system plugged in over night so that it can update and download automatically. Push the Home button on the remote three times, then look for the software version in the middle of the page to see what version of the software you currently have and make that nothing has changed. You will be up to date if you have U438 (which, as of July 8, 2019, is now U802).I strongly advise you to call Dish technical support and have them walk you through everything because I am in no way an expert on any of this. Save your time and avoid Winegard. Although I am willing to give Dish technical support 5 stars, I am not completely certain that the software is fault-free and there may still be troubles in the future. Therefore, I have upgraded to 3 stars. Overall, this procedure ought to be automatic, but at least I now know there are solutions to our Wally difficulties. My self-assurance has returned.ADVANCED 9-4-2018My system is gradually getting better. Although there have been some software updates, the U438 classification is still used. The reboot now takes around ten minutes or less, but occasionally I have to restart because the instructions doesn't always download. The "Upgrade my Software" button in the diagnostics section now functions as intended, causing the system to reboot automatically and search for any updated software. The total loss of signal screen, programming that flashes back and forth like a neon sign for one second, followed by the signal loss screen, are all still giving me trouble. I've discovered that if I fast press the channel up button to switch channels, the receiver will do so when the program appears briefly on the screen. Then, when I press the channel down button, everything appears to function normally. As stated on Dish's website, if the Wally receiver is not used for around two weeks, it enters sleep mode and you are unable to receive programs until the receiver is reauthorized. Downloading the MY DISH app to your phone is a nice upgrade because it allows you to "wake up" the receiver without making a call or visiting a website. The reauthorization button may be found on the Dish Outdoors menu by scrolling to the bottom of the app. It works like magic!ASSISTANCE 10-20-2018After three additional trips of a week each, the system is now stable. Utilizing my generator or solar-powered inverter and on-board batteries, it functions nicely. The flashing "no signal" message is still followed by a program that works, but if I simply press the channel up button to change channels and then return to my regular channel, everything continues to function as it should. It takes around 8 minutes to start up. The receiver should have a memory, in my opinion, so that if the power is cut off, the dish and receiver will remember their previous settings if nothing has changed since then. A beneficial alternative would be to solely sell this system in 12 volts, eliminating the need for the inverter.RELEASED ON JULY 8, 2019I reactivated my Wally receiver on the Dish website and turned on the system after it had been in storage for six months. The first thing I did when the boot was complete was enter the diagnostic/tools section and select the "Upgrade my Software" button. It immediately informed me that my version of U448 from December of last year was up to date and that it would not reboot and search for anything newer. I then unplugged the receiver, detached the cable, and replugged the receiver to clear the memory. As anticipated, the process stopped after telling me to "verify all connections." I then used the remote to switch off the Wally receiver, re-connect the cable to the dish, and watch the "dancing tips" square while I waited. The receiver began a new download after around five minutes because the memory had been cleared. It all took between 20 and 30 minutes, and everything was upgraded. While upgrading, don't unplug or turn off the electricity. I turned the system back on and checked the software version number when the screen went back to the dancing "tips" square, which is now at U802.9/14/2019 Re-performed the above-described steps exactly; the software version is currently U806. The dish is flawless.



DirecTV SWM SL3S Portable Satellite RV Dish Kit Camping Tailgating with Tripod SWiM and level Review:


This bundle was a terrific investment that I made to set up a football tailgate TV! I will note that, though, if you want to use this to set up a portable TV, you should think about buying the components individually as it is probably a little less expensive. The dish would be necessary, as would the LNB, the pole, the coax wires, and the power supply (shown in picture). I would omit the base and install the pole into an orange Quikrete bucket from Home Depot (cement). This will make the base much heavier, however I found the tripod legs to be incredibly fragile and difficult to adjust. Just be sure to check your receiver type to make sure it is compatible with this specific satellite because I use this setup with an H25 receiver and it works wonderfully. The dish, the LNB, the power supply, the pole, the coax wires, and something to ensure that the dish is level (otherwise you'll never find a satellite) are all you need to purchase to get started. The other items in this package, in my opinion, are cumbersome and unneeded.



Winegard PL-7000R DISH Playmaker White Portable Antenna with Wally HD Satellite Receiver Bundle Review:


I was happy with my purchase after setting up and testing the system numerous times in my driveway. The satellite performed admirably during the first camping trip for two days. It would completely stop working on the third day... After making numerous calls to Dish, checking all connections, and rebooting numerous times, I eventually gave up and waited till I got home. I kept getting the message "cant locate signal, check all connections, and call Dish." When I eventually reached Winegard after numerous attempts, the tech advised me to check the voltage at both the receiver and dish ends of the connection. About half the time, the system would operate within the range of 13 to 19 volts that I was displaying. I'm convinced that the receiver is flawed. The Winegard technician indicated that although the problem was intermittent, I was still covered by the two-year warranty. However, if I returned the machine to the manufacturer, they might or might not be able to fix it, depending on whether they could reproduce my particular problem at home. When I test the system after switching my new coax cable for another new one, I instantly receive the "cannot locate signal" message, the dish working OK after that, then flashing back to the "cannot locate" message and then returning to programming. Quite frankly, I would not advise purchasing this item with the Wally receiver after spending $300 on a system that only occasionally functions and cannot get decent customer care from either Dish or Winegard. If you decide to purchase, ensure sure everything is functional PRIOR to Amazon's 30-day return window expiring.REVISED 6/10/2018Three stars have been added because my issues seem to have been solved. I finally spoke with a very capable young man after calling Dish Customer Service for two and a half hours, during which time he checked what seemed to be practically all of the tests in the book. The "Upgrade my Software" button doesn't work and merely informs you that whatever version you have is already current and up to date, which is a severe flaw in the software. Wrong!! The most recent software version as of 6-9-2018 is U438. There are three ways to update: 1.) if you already have Dish service, bring the receiver inside and connect it to your satellite cabling. Around one in the morning, the receiver will automatically update. 2. Reboot the receiver by unplugging it, cutting the cable to the dish, and then plugging it back in to clear the memory. Since the connection is unplugged, the dish will obviously not discover anything, but the memory will be erased. Reboot after reconnecting the coax to the dish. Assuming you are receiving something after the reboot, use the remote to switch off the receiver's power, putting it in sleep mode so you can observe the dancing "tips" square. The receiver will start downloading and installing software after a short while. 3.) If you do not have home Dish service, follow step #1 and keep the system plugged in over night so that it can update and download automatically. Push the Home button on the remote three times, then look for the software version in the middle of the page to see what version of the software you currently have and make that nothing has changed. You will be up to date if you have U438 (which, as of July 8, 2019, is now U802).I strongly advise you to call Dish technical support and have them walk you through everything because I am in no way an expert on any of this. Save your time and avoid Winegard. Although I am willing to give Dish technical support 5 stars, I am not completely certain that the software is fault-free and there may still be troubles in the future. Therefore, I have upgraded to 3 stars. Overall, this procedure ought to be automatic, but at least I now know there are solutions to our Wally difficulties. My self-assurance has returned.ADVANCED 9-4-2018My system is gradually getting better. Although there have been some software updates, the U438 classification is still used. The reboot now takes around ten minutes or less, but occasionally I have to restart because the instructions doesn't always download. The "Upgrade my Software" button in the diagnostics section now functions as intended, causing the system to reboot automatically and search for any updated software. The total loss of signal screen, programming that flashes back and forth like a neon sign for one second, followed by the signal loss screen, are all still giving me trouble. I've discovered that if I fast press the channel up button to switch channels, the receiver will do so when the program appears briefly on the screen. Then, when I press the channel down button, everything appears to function normally. As stated on Dish's website, if the Wally receiver is not used for around two weeks, it enters sleep mode and you are unable to receive programs until the receiver is reauthorized. Downloading the MY DISH app to your phone is a nice upgrade because it allows you to "wake up" the receiver without making a call or visiting a website. Scroll to the bottom of the program to find the Dish Outdoors option, then locate and select the reauthorize button there. functions like magic!ASSISTANCE 10-20-2018After three additional trips of a week each, the system is now stable. Utilizing my generator or solar-powered inverter and on-board batteries, it functions nicely. The flashing "no signal" message is still followed by a program that works, but if I simply press the channel up button to change channels and then return to my regular channel, everything continues to function as it should. It takes around 8 minutes to start up. The receiver should have a memory, in my opinion, so that if the power is cut off, the dish and receiver will remember their previous settings if nothing has changed since then. A beneficial alternative would be to solely sell this system in 12 volts, eliminating the need for the inverter.RELEASED ON JULY 8, 2019I reactivated my Wally receiver on the Dish website and turned on the system after it had been in storage for six months. The first thing I did when the boot was complete was enter the diagnostic/tools section and select the "Upgrade my Software" button. It immediately informed me that my version of U448 from December of last year was up to date and that it would not reboot and search for anything newer. I then unplugged the receiver, detached the cable, and replugged the receiver to clear the memory. As anticipated, the process stopped after telling me to "verify all connections." I then used the remote to switch off the Wally receiver, re-connect the cable to the dish, and watch the "dancing tips" square while I waited. The receiver began a new download after around five minutes because the memory had been cleared. It all took between 20 and 30 minutes, and everything was upgraded. While upgrading, don't unplug or turn off the electricity. I turned the system back on and checked the software version number when the screen went back to the dancing "tips" area, which is now at U802.9/14/2019I followed the steps given above exactly a second time, and the current software version is U806. The dish is flawless.



DIRECTV AU9-SL3-SWM Three LNB Ka/Ku Slim Line Dish Antenna SL-3 LNB Combo Review:


This kit was excellent for my RV, in contrast to some of the other reviews. Everything was brand new and in excellent condition; there had been no transportation damage. To set things up, I had to go through a learning curve. I had to invest some time learning about Directv online. But now I can finish it in a reasonable amount of time. However, the first few times require some patience. Dishpointer Pro, which is really cool at showing you where the satellites are and giving you the coordinates regardless of where you are, and smart Compass, which, when you hold it vertically shows the exact magnetic heading for the direction the phone is pointing, are two apps I installed on my smartphone that really help. The first time took me a few hours of tinkering, but now that I know how, it's quite simple to repeat the procedure. However, you will probably be better off with a $1700 version that sets itself up if the process irritates you. But I enjoy making small financial cuts.



Ready to Install Package : Directv HD Satellite Dish w/ SWM3 LNB + RG6 COAXIAL Cables Included Ka/ku Slim Line Dish Antenna SL3 Single Output W/ 4 Port Splitter Review:


For my tri-pod setup in my RV, the system works flawlessly. Because it was mounted on a tri-pod and frequently blown over, my prior dish had been dented or broken. The dish's form was reportedly altered by the dents to the point that the signal couldn't be focused on the reception element. That problem was resolved by the new dish, and the blow-over issue was resolved by strengthening the travel tri-pod.


Does a satellite dish need electricity?

A satellite dish needs a power source to work. This can come from a plug in the wall, a generator, or batteries. The satellite dish must be able to receive a signal from the satellite, which is why it needs a power source.

Does the size of a satellite dish matter?

Satellite dishes come in all shapes and sizes, but does the size really matter? The larger the dish, the more powerful the signal and the better the quality. But is it worth the extra money to get a bigger dish? For most people, the answer is no. The average satellite dish is about 18 inches in diameter and provides excellent quality. If you live in an area with a lot of trees or other obstacles, you may need a bigger dish to get a clear signal. But for most people, the average size will do just fine.

How can I boost my satellite signal?

There are a few ways you can try to boost your satellite signal. One is to check all of your connections and make sure they are secure. Another is to check for any obstructions that might be blocking the signal, such as trees or buildings. You can also try moving your satellite dish to a different location. If you still can't get a strong signal, you may need to upgrade your equipment.

How do satellites dishes work?

Satellite dishes are parabolic in shape and work by reflecting incoming signals off the concave surface of the dish and into the feedhorn. The feedhorn is a small cone-shaped device that is attached to the center of the dish and is connected to the receiver. The receiver contains a low noise block converter which amplifies the weak signals that are collected by the dish.

How long does a satellite dish last?

A satellite dish can last for many years if it is properly maintained. However, the lifespan of a satellite dish can be shortened if it is not regularly cleaned or if it is exposed to severe weather conditions.

How many types of satellite dishes are there?

There are three types of satellite dishes: elliptical, round, and flat. Elliptical satellite dishes are the most common type of dish and are the type most people think of when they think of a satellite dish. Round satellite dishes are less common, but they are gaining in popularity because they are more compact and easier to install. Flat satellite dishes are the least common type of dish, but they are the easiest to install and are the best choice for people who live in areas with a lot of trees or other obstacles that could block the signal.