Paramount Plus is not available as a Dish add-on channel, but you can watch it on Dish equipment through other methods
Dish does not offer Paramount Plus as a direct subscription through its satellite service. However, you can still watch Paramount Plus content on your Dish receiver or TV in two main ways: by using the Paramount Plus app on compatible Dish equipment, or by subscribing to Paramount Plus separately and streaming it on a different device connected to the same TV.
The method that works best depends on your Dish hardware, your internet speed, and whether you want to manage multiple subscriptions. Neither option requires you to change your Dish service itself.
Key Takeaways
- Dish receivers do not have a built-in Paramount Plus app, so you cannot access it directly through your Dish menu.
- You can subscribe to Paramount Plus separately and stream it on a smart TV, streaming device, or phone connected to your home internet.
- Some newer Dish Hopper receivers support third-party apps through the Dish Marketplace, though Paramount Plus availability varies by model.
- A separate Paramount Plus subscription costs between $5.99 and $11.99 per month depending on whether you choose the ad-supported or ad-free plan.
- You will need a broadband internet connection with at least 5 Mbps read speed to stream Paramount Plus reliably.
Streaming Paramount Plus on a separate device while keeping Dish
The most straightforward approach is to keep your Dish subscription and add a Paramount Plus subscription on a separate device. You can watch Paramount Plus on a smart TV, a streaming stick (like Roku or Amazon Fire Stick), a gaming console, a tablet, or a smartphone. All of these devices can connect to your home internet and run the Paramount Plus app independently of your Dish receiver.
This method gives you full access to Paramount Plus without any hardware changes to your Dish setup. You straightforward read the Paramount Plus app, sign in with your subscription credentials, and start watching. Your Dish service continues to work exactly as it always has, and you can switch between Dish and Paramount Plus by changing the TV input or using your remote.
The downside is that you are paying for two separate services and managing two different apps and logins. If you already have a smart TV or streaming device, this adds only the cost of the Paramount Plus subscription itself.
Checking if your Dish Hopper supports third-party apps
Some Dish Hopper receivers (the larger DVR boxes) can run third-party apps through the Dish Marketplace. If your receiver supports this feature, you may be able to read the Paramount Plus app directly onto your Dish equipment. However, Paramount Plus availability through the Dish Marketplace is not may provide and varies by Hopper model and region.
To check whether your Dish receiver supports apps, look at your remote or receiver model number. Hopper 3 and Hopper X receivers are more likely to have app support than older models. You can also call Dish customer service at 1-888-825-3474 and ask whether the Paramount Plus app is available for your specific equipment.
Even if your Hopper supports apps, you will still need a separate Paramount Plus subscription. The Dish Marketplace does not bundle Paramount Plus into your Dish bill; it straightforward provides a way to access an app you already own.
Internet speed and connection requirements
Paramount Plus requires a broadband connection with at least 5 Mbps read speed for standard definition streaming and 25 Mbps for 4K content. If you are streaming on a device other than your Dish receiver, make sure your home Wi-Fi is strong enough to handle both your Dish equipment and your streaming device at the same time.
If your internet connection is slow or unstable, you may experience buffering or picture quality drops. You can test your connection speed using a free tool like Speedtest.net. If your speed is below 5 Mbps, contact your internet provider about upgrading your plan before subscribing to Paramount Plus.
Paramount Plus subscription costs and plan options
Paramount Plus offers two subscription tiers. The ad-supported plan costs $5.99 per month and includes ads during shows and movies. The ad-free plan costs $11.99 per month and removes most ads (some live events may still include ads). Both plans give you access to the same content library.
Paramount Plus does not offer a bundle discount through Dish, so you will pay the full subscription price on top of your Dish bill. Some people find the ad-supported plan acceptable if they want to keep costs down, while others prefer the ad-free experience. There is no free trial period currently available.
Alternative ways to watch Paramount content on Dish
If you do not want to add a Paramount Plus subscription, you can still watch some Paramount content through other channels. CBS, which is owned by Paramount, is available on Dish as a standard broadcast channel. CBS broadcasts some of the same shows that appear on Paramount Plus, though usually on a delayed schedule and with fewer episodes available.
You can also rent or purchase individual movies and TV shows through Dish's on-demand service, though this is more expensive than a subscription if you plan to watch regularly. Check your Dish menu under Movies or TV Shows to see what is available for purchase in your area.
Comparing Dish bundles with streaming services
Some Dish packages bundle other streaming services like HBO Max or Showtime, but Paramount Plus is not currently included in any standard Dish bundle. If you are considering switching services, compare the total cost of Dish plus Paramount Plus against other options like streaming-only services or cable providers that may bundle Paramount Plus differently.
Keep in mind that Paramount Plus content changes regularly, so the shows and movies available today may not be available in three months. Check the Paramount Plus app or website to see whether the specific shows you want to watch are currently available before you subscribe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add Paramount Plus directly to my Dish bill?
No. Dish does not offer Paramount Plus as an add-on channel or bundle option. You must subscribe to Paramount Plus separately through the app or website and pay a separate monthly charge.
Will I lose my Dish service if I add Paramount Plus?
No. Paramount Plus is a separate service that does not affect your Dish subscription. You can have both at the same time without any changes to your Dish account or equipment.
What devices can I use to watch Paramount Plus if I have Dish?
You can watch on smart TVs, streaming devices (Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV), gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox), tablets, and smartphones. You do not need to use your Dish receiver. Check the Paramount Plus website to confirm your specific device model is supported.
Is there a way to get Paramount Plus for free with Dish?
Paramount Plus is not included free with any Dish package. However, some internet providers or credit card companies offer Paramount Plus discounts or free trials. Check with your internet provider to see whether they have a promotion available.
Can I watch Paramount Plus on my Dish remote?
Not directly through your Dish remote on most receivers. If you have a newer Hopper model with app support, you may be able to access Paramount Plus through the Dish Marketplace, but this is not available on all equipment. For most Dish customers, streaming Paramount Plus on a separate device is the easiest option.