TV is changing – and so is the way we watch it. Forget that dusty aerial or unsightly satellite dish, you can now stream mainstream channels such as the BBC, ITV and others via Freely, alongside premium services such as Sky Atlantic, over wifi – and it doesn’t need to cost the earth.
Freely comes from the creators of Freeview and Freesat. It’s backed by the UK’s main public service broadcasters and is supported by a growing list of TV providers. Scroll the Freely programme guide, and you’ll find familiar channels such as Dave, Yesterday and W. To watch them, you just need a wireless TV box and wifi.
Similarly, pay-TV provider Sky is now also available via its plug-and-play streaming box, the Sky Stream. Like Freely, it’s easy to set up – just pick your package, be that general entertainment, sports or movies, and you’re good to go.
Moving to wireless TV doesn’t just expand your viewing options; it means you can watch your favourite shows from anywhere in your home.
We put five of the latest cutting-edge wireless TV boxes through their paces, so you can discover the best TV streamer for you.
At a glance
Why you should trust me
I’ve been reviewing home entertainment technology for decades, testing everything from Blu-ray players and big-screen TVs to hi-fi and home cinema systems. I created and edited the UK’s longest-running home cinema magazine, Home Cinema Choice, and now review living room gadgets for a range of review publications.
How I tested
All five wireless streamers here were tested straight out of the box, with installation, ease of use and features duly documented. I then sat back and watched TV – lots of it: HD Freely streams, 4K UHD,…