Switch to Comparing Digital TV Providers Before the Switchover

The rural areas of Britain are privileged with being the testing ground of many new and wonderful technologies like nuclear power stations, trident missile sites and landfill dumps.  Oh, and digital TV.  The region that I live in was one of the first to switch off its antique analogue signal and enjoy the benefits of digital TV.  Unlike some of the other technologies we get to test out digital TV has huge benefits and doesn’t threaten to blow up.  Since the switch over I’ve worked my way through a number of the alternative TV companies with varying results.  So, for those still languishing in the dark ages, here’s a few thoughts on how to choose when it comes to the last of the great switchovers.

Free TV services

When comparing the TV options available there are two basic ways to receive your new TV services.  A one-off payment option is offered by “Freeview”, “Freesat” or “Freesat” from Sky.  Other providers offer subscription services and prices vary depending on the package and company you choose to supply you.

What to consider when comparing

When it comes to comparing the deals available on digital TV it pays to consider your TV viewing habits.  The most basic package on offer is “Freeview”; this involves purchasing a digital TV box which you can acquire from £20 upwards or a “Freeview” digital TV.  These cost around £150, although prices are likely to drop in the future.  “Freeview” is the self-install version of the digital TV choices, so the purchase of the equipment is a one off cost and there are no hidden charges.  For those who are light TV viewers this is probably the best option.  Channels on “Freeview” are limited to around forty which if you compare Sky Digital’s channel selection of several hundred is fairly limited.

In addition to TV usage you’ll also find that some TV companies may have more access to channels that may suit your own family.  A number of foreign language channels will be available through many of the providers – so if English is not your households first language it will pay to compare Sky digital and some of the other subscription services before making your final choice.  Sky offers channels broadcasting in languages from Arabic to Urdu with plenty of choice in between.

Types of subscription providers

There are two main types of provider when it comes to the subscription services offered.  Subscription TV will either be delivered via a satellite dish or phone line.  Sky is a satellite broadcaster and you’ll need to have a dish fitted on your home to receive the signal.  Normally you shouldn’t need permission to do this but double check – especially if you live in a conservation area.  Subscription services provided over the phone line will not, obviously, need a dish fitted outside, but they may offer fewer channels.  A phone line or broadband connection will normally be required and pricing structures don’t always make this clear.  Compare Sky digital costs against some of the other providers and consider the number of channels and any ‘hidden’ costs to come up with an accurate cost comparison.

So, the verdict?  Generally, for households who watch the TV regularly and want access to a broad range of channels Sky offers some excellent packages that can compete well with other subscription providers.  For those who are infrequent viewers compare Sky digital costs against “Freeview” or “Freesat” to decide which will be the best package for you.

Compare Sky Digital with other subscription and free TV services before the switchover in your area.  Packages and hidden costs for some services should be checked carefully and consider how much you and your family view TV.

Read more at Technology Blog by Ash Chuan