Saorsat: Free Satellite TV in Ireland Explained (2026)

Updated September 2026 by the StreamerATV team. Independent guide — not affiliated with any broadcaster or TV provider.

Quick answer: Saorsat is the free satellite version of Saorview. It launched in 2012 for the roughly 1–2% of Irish homes that cannot get a good Saorview signal from an aerial, usually because of hills and valleys. It needs a solid satellite dish, a special Ka-band LNB and a Saorsat-approved receiver — there is no monthly fee.

Saorview vs Saorsat

What you need

• Satellite dish — solid, not mesh. An 80 cm dish works in many areas; about 1 metre may be needed in the north-west and south-west.
• Ka-band LNB — a special LNB for Saorsat frequencies. A normal Sky/Freesat LNB will not receive Saorsat.
• Saorsat-approved receiver — independently tested set-top box.
• Installation — professional installation is recommended because Ka-band alignment is precise.

Costs

2RN has published typical costs: dish and Ka-band LNB each from around €35, with professional installation for an average home around €200. A service call to add a Ka-band LNB to an existing dish is typically cheaper. Prices vary by installer.

Should you try Saorview first?

Yes. Check Saorview coverage and try an aerial first — see the aerial guide and Saorview troubleshooting. Saorsat is best when an aerial cannot give reliable reception.

FAQ

Is Saorsat free?

Yes. There is no subscription. You pay only for equipment and installation.

Can I use my Sky dish for Saorsat?

Often the dish can be reused, but you need to add a Ka-band LNB and a Saorsat receiver, and the dish must be re-aligned.

Does Saorsat have the same channels as Saorview?

Saorsat carries the main Irish public service TV and radio channels. Check 2RN for the current line-up.