If you’re an avid tailgater, camper, or just someone who loves to take their TV experience outdoors, you’ve probably come across Dish’s two portable satellite antennas: the Dish Tailgater and the Tailgater Pro.
As two of the most popular options in the market, they’re often compared head-to-head. So, let’s dive deep into the world of Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro to find out which one is the best choice for you.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Dish Tailgater | Tailgater Pro |
| Antenna Size | Compact | Larger |
| Weight | 8 lbs | 10 lbs |
| Signal Strength | Good | Stronger |
| Receiver Inputs | 1 | 2 |
| Compatible Receiver | Dish Wally | Dish Wally |
| Automatic Satellite | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-TV Support | No (Single Receiver) | Yes (Dual Receivers) |
| Portability | High | Moderate |
The Basics: Dish Tailgater And Tailgater Pro
The Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro are both portable satellite antennas designed to provide high-quality satellite TV services for those on the go.
They’re compatible with Dish’s Wally receiver, as well as the company’s mobile app.
Both antennas are fully automatic, meaning they’ll search for and lock onto the satellite signal with minimal input from you.
However, there are some key differences between the two models that you should know about before making your decision.
Dish Tailgater: The Portable Satellite Antenna for Simplicity Lovers
The Dish Tailgater is a compact, lightweight satellite antenna perfect for those who prioritize portability and ease of use.
Weighing in at just 8 pounds, it’s easy to carry and set up at your tailgate, campsite, or anywhere you want to enjoy your favorite TV shows. The Tailgater has a single input for one receiver, making it ideal for solo adventurers or small groups.
Tailgater Pro: The Portable Satellite Antenna for Power Users
The Tailgater Pro is the more advanced model, offering a larger and more powerful antenna. It weighs slightly more than the Tailgater, coming in at 10 pounds, but provides a stronger and more reliable signal.
The Tailgater Pro has two inputs, allowing you to connect up to two receivers for simultaneous viewing on different TVs. This makes it a great choice for larger groups or those who want to have multiple viewing options.
- Performance: How Do They Stack Up?
When it comes to performance, the Tailgater Pro edges out the Tailgater due to its larger antenna and increased signal strength.
This means you’ll be less likely to experience dropped signals or interference, even in more remote areas.
In addition, the Tailgater Pro’s dual inputs allow for more flexibility when it comes to setting up your viewing experience.
If you’re traveling with a group or just want to have multiple TVs going at once, the Tailgater Pro is your best bet.
- Price: Is the Tailgater Pro Worth the Extra Investment?
The Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro are both competitively priced, but the Pro model does come at a higher cost. Depending on your needs, it may be worth the extra investment.
If you’re someone who values a stronger signal and the ability to connect multiple receivers, the Tailgater Pro is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re mainly concerned with portability and ease of use, the Dish Tailgater may be the better choice for you.
The Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro both have their merits, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use option, the Dish Tailgater may be the better choice.
However, if you need a more powerful antenna with the ability to connect multiple receivers, the Tailgater Pro is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The main differences between the Tailgater and Tailgater Pro are the size of the antenna, signal strength, and the number of receiver inputs. The Tailgater Pro has a larger antenna and provides a stronger signal, while also allowing you to connect up to two receivers for simultaneous viewing on different TVs. The Tailgater, on the other hand, is lighter, more compact, and supports only one receiver.
The Dish Tailgater Pro works by automatically locating and locking onto satellite signals to provide you with high-quality TV service. Once connected to a compatible receiver (like the Dish Wally), the antenna searches for the necessary satellites and locks onto the signal. After establishing a connection, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite TV channels, just like you would at home.
The standard Dish Tailgater model only supports one receiver, while the Tailgater Pro can accommodate two receivers. This means that with the Tailgater Pro, you can connect two different TVs and watch separate channels simultaneously.
Yes, like most satellite antennas, the Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro should be pointed south to achieve optimal signal strength. Since Dish Network’s satellites are located in the southern sky, aligning your antenna in this direction will ensure a strong connection. However, both models are designed to automatically locate and lock onto the satellite signal, so you don’t need to worry too much about perfect alignment.
Both the Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro are compatible with Dish’s Wally receiver, which is specifically designed for use with mobile antennas. The Wally is a compact, HD receiver that can be easily connected to your Tailgater or Tailgater Pro for a seamless TV viewing experience. Note that you will need a separate Wally receiver for each connected TV, so if you’re using a Tailgater Pro with two TVs, you’ll need two Wally receivers.
Conclusion
In the battle of Dish Tailgater and Tailgater Pro, there’s no clear winner that suits everyone’s needs. It all comes down to your specific requirements and preferences. If portability and simplicity are your top priorities, the Dish Tailgater is a great choice.
However, if you need more signal strength and the ability to connect multiple receivers, the Tailgater Pro is the way to go. Either way, both options provide a fantastic outdoor TV experience for tailgating, camping, and other adventures.
