Which Sky package is best for your home? Sky has dominated the UK’s premium TV market since 1994, and today offers a range of modern hardware and channel packages to help customers find the perfect plan.
If you’re not familiar with Sky’s offerings, choosing the right plan can be difficult. We’ve broken down Sky’s current hardware and channel options so you can set up a package with everything you want – nothing you don’t.
Sky TV hardware: what are the options?
Sky currently offers two main hardware options to new customers: Sky Stream and Sky Glass. While the older Sky Q service is still active for existing users, Sky no longer sells it to new customers online.
All modern Sky TV packages include a powerful remote with smart voice search and access to the Sky Go app for on-the-go viewing.
Here are the pros and cons of the current options:
1. Sky Stream (The internet-only option)
Sky Stream is the primary service for new customers. This compact internet-only box lets you watch live Sky TV, films, and all your favourite streaming apps without a satellite dish.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Most affordable: Sky Stream has the most affordable options, with packages starting from just £15 a month. | Requires good Wi-Fi: Shows are streamed over your home internet, so slower connections will struggle with HD, UHD, and 4K content. |
| Simple installation: Start watching right away with no engineer installation required. | Limited channels: Stream customers don’t have access to a few satellite-exclusive Sky TV channels. |
| Ultra compact: The box fits easily into even the smallest rooms. |
2. Sky Glass (The smart TV)
Sky Glass is a new smart TV that comes with all your Sky features and channels built in, eliminating the need for a separate box.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Upgrade your setup: Get a top-of-the-line smart TV from just £6 a month. | Requires good Wi-Fi: Like Stream, Glass uses your home network, so a slow connection can cause lag. |
| Premium features: Enjoy a 4K display, Dolby sound, and Sky OS software. | Redundant TV: You may already have a smart TV you’re happy with. |
| Model choice: Choose between 43-inch, 55-inch, and 65-inch models. |
What about Sky Q? (Legacy satellite service)
Sky Q is the classic service, offering live TV via a satellite dish and box. While it offers the most complete channel packages and UHD content regardless of Wi-Fi speed, Sky has phased out its online sales and is focused entirely on Sky Stream for new customers.
The essential extras: Sky Go
Every Sky TV package comes with Sky Go, which allows you to watch live TV, On Demand, and recordings on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
- Watch Anywhere: Stream your content on the go, whether you’re commuting or travelling.
- Seamless Switching: Start watching a show on your TV and pick it up on your tablet later.
- Download & Watch: Download shows and movies to watch offline, perfect for flights or areas with poor signal.
Which Sky channel package is best?
Your hardware is only half the equation; the question of which Sky package is best also means deciding which channel pack you want.
Start by choosing between Sky’s Ultimate TV base package or the more streamlined and affordable Sky Essential TV. Then, decide which additional channel subscriptions you want to bolt on:
- Sky Sports: 9 dedicated sports channels, including the UK’s largest selection of Premier League games.
- Sky Cinema: Watch new release movies and iconic classics, plus enjoy a free subscription to Paramount+ and two free cinema tickets a month.
- TNT Sports: Previously known as BT Sports, add TNT to your Sky package for even more live sporting action.
- Sky Kids: 10 kid-friendly channels, including the ad-free Sky Kids app.
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