Subscription TV packages
If you are thinking of widening your current TV viewing options and going for a TV subscription service, then you can use our comparison table above to see what is on offer. You can order the list according to your priorities, such as by monthly price, contract length or number of channels. If you click on the ‘Get Deal’ button to the right of any deal in the results, it will bring up all the information you need to decide whether it’s the one for you.
Availability
Before you decide on a package, make sure that the service is on offer where you live. The easiest way to do this is to type your postcode into the availability checker at the top of the page. This will then bring up a list of all the packages available for you to choose from.
Check the detail
When you consider that most TV packages tie you into a contract for at least 12-18 months, you should be sure that you are completely happy before you commit. Once you have chosen a deal, read through the terms and conditions to make sure there are no hidden nasties, such as extra charges or limitations in the service.
Why choose subscription TV?
A greater selection of channels than standard digital TV
If you are fed up with the standard offerings on digital TV, then the greater array of choice provided by a TV subscription service could be the answer. Whether you want to watch the latest films, or have access to a wider selection, watch your favourite teams play live, or you want more entertainment for the kids, subscription TV will tick all the boxes.
Different ways to enjoy all the content on offer
With a subscription service, you are not restricted to watching TV on your TV. If you also have a broadband service, you can watch it on your computer, or, thanks to Sky Go and Virgin TV Go apps, even on your tablet or smartphone when you are out and about.
The option to bundle with broadband and phone
Most TV subscription services benefit from being combined with a broadband and phone package, as it means you can also enjoy the various TV on demand and catch-up services on offer. So if you want to binge on box-sets, or enjoy a film you recently missed at the cinema, you can.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Potential to receive more channels
- Various ways to watch your content
- Option to bundle phone and broadband
Cons
- Not all services are available everywhere
- Services offer varying range of channel choice
- Can be more expensive than standard digital TV
Which package is right for me?
There are several providers offering subscription TV packages, but what’s on offer in terms of content varies greatly between them. With all TV packages, a broadband connection is essential if you want to watch catch-up services or TV on demand.
Sky TV
Still the market leader when it comes to subscription TV, Sky offers a range of options. Starting with the Ultimate TV pack, you can then bolt on extra channel packs like Sky Sports or Sky Cinema. It’s also worth bearing in mind that if you are after Sky Atlantic, Sky still holds the exclusive rights to this channel – you can’t watch it with any other provider.
Virgin Media
As Sky’s closest competitor, Virgin Media also offers a vast range of content, again with the option to add in additional channels, such as movies and sport. However, due to the fact that it runs on its own fibre optic cable network, the service is not yet available everywhere, so check whether Virgin’s cables are in your area before you set your heart on a package.
BT
BT TV is only offered as part of a bundle with BT broadband and phone services. There are five packages to choose from (Entertainment + Fibre 2, Big Entertainment + Fibre 2, Sport + Fibre 2, Big Sport + Fibre 2 and VIP + Fibre 2) and the channel selection is fairly limited compared to that of Sky and Virgin, although you can add extras and box sets to bulk up your package. BT Sport holds exclusive live UK and Republic of Ireland TV rights to 52 Premier League matches per season, the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UFC, and lots of other sports content.
TalkTalk
Like BT, you have to take a bundle from TalkTalk, meaning you have to have a broadband package to also receive TalkTalk TV. All packages come with fibre optic broadband as standard (subject to area), and their TV offering includes access to streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime (separate subscription fees apply) and all the Freeview TV channels, with the capability to record, pause and rewind for up to 30 minutes of content. TalkTalk TV broadband packages come with different broadband speeds depending on your needs, and the option to add TV Boosts, such as different NOW memberships for an extra monthly cost.
What will I need?
The requirements for your TV subscription service will vary depending on which provider you go with.
Sky
If you decide to opt for Sky, you will need to have a satellite dish and receiver installed by a Sky engineer. Sky’s packages have different set-up costs, and cover costs like router delivery and a connection fee. If you want Sky broadband so you can watch TV on demand and use catch-up services, you will also need a router, which will be included in your bundle for free. However, it is possible to take Sky TV as a standalone product without broadband.
Virgin Media
If you choose a Virgin package, you will need to have a Virgin fibre connection installed. It is no longer possible to take Virgin Media TV as a standalone service, but with Virgin’s broadband connection you will be able to enjoy the various on-demand and catch-up services available at high speeds. You will be supplied with a V6 TV box with your bundle.
TalkTalk
You will need to have a TalkTalk broadband connection installed if you choose TalkTalk TV, as it is not available as a standalone product. You will be supplied with a YouView box and a router as part of your package, currently with a small one-off charge. There is often a router delivery charge as well, but TalkTalk will usually combine the p&p charge for a router and box so you only pay it once. You can choose to add on unlimited UK calls or an international calls package for an extra monthly fee.
BT
BT TV also comes as part of a broadband bundle with or without a landline, so you will need a BT broadband connection. BT offers fibre services starting with an average of up to 67Mbps, with faster options for a higher monthly fee. BT’s bundles include fibre broadband, a NOW Membership (bringing you the Sky channels), BT Sport, AMC and more. BT’s TV packages are flexible, allowing you to add and remove your channels packs from month to month, so you only pay for what you want to watch. You will receive a BT Smart hub router and a 4K TV recorder as part of your package.
How do I switch?
Decide on the right package
One you have established what is available where you are, and how much you can afford, you should be able to choose a TV package that’s right for you. Before you commit to a start date, check the state of any current contracts you have, and make sure you are free to switch. If you are still in a minimum contract period and you cancel early you will be subject to termination fees.
Click on the deal
Finally, you can click on the ‘Get Deal’ button that will take you to the provider’s site where you can complete your purchase. Your new provider will arrange cancellation of your existing service. If you are moving to or from Virgin Media, you will need to contact both providers yourself.
Cable.co.uk recommends
If you are looking for an extensive selection of TV, with the option of catch-up and TV on demand services, then a Sky or Virgin bundle is your best bet. If you are just looking for a bit more than your basic Freeview channels and are on a limited budget, then BT or TalkTalk will give you the option of greater channel choice without a huge bill, but bear in mind you have to take broadband too.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest TV subscription?
There are several ways to watch over-the-air channels online via the internet, with the Freeview service, the YouView service, or the Freesat service, all of which are free in the UK. To find the cheapest paid TV subscriptions in your area, use the postcode checker on this page to see what’s available.
Do I need broadband for a TV subscription?Most broadband providers require you to have broadband to get their TV services, but only Sky lets you get their TV as a standalone product if you choose to sign up for broadband with another provider. Bundling your TV and broadband with one provider might save you some money, so best to check what bundles are available if you’re not particular about your broadband service.
Do you need a satellite dish for digital TV?You’ll need a satellite dish to watch TV if you sign up for TV with Sky Digital. Most other UK providers do not require satellite dish installation as they do not use satellite services to provide their TV channels.
Who has the best deal on TV channels?
The best deal on TV channels will depend on what’s available where you live. To find the best TV deals in your area, use the postcode checker on this page to see what’s on offer.