Sky Offers Affordable TV Bundles, Earning Praise from Experts

Sky has launched a new range of affordable TV and broadband packages that have garnered positive reviews from technology experts. These offerings coincide with Sky’s conclusion of its January sale, featuring significant discounts on various packages, including popular streaming services like Netflix.

The centerpiece of this promotion is the Sky Stream, a compact streaming device that connects directly to televisions, allowing users to eliminate traditional satellite dishes and Sky boxes. Customers can access hundreds of TV channels and streaming applications starting from just £15 per month. The most basic option, called the Essential TV bundle, provides approximately 100 channels, including Sky Atlantic, the home of acclaimed series like The White Lotus and The Last of Us, along with complimentary subscriptions to Netflix and discovery+.

For those seeking more content, the Ultimate TV bundle is available for £22 per month and includes an additional 35 channels. As part of the January sale, customers can combine their Essential TV package with Full Fibre 500 broadband for £35, a drop from the usual price of £40, marking a significant saving of £120. Similarly, the Ultimate TV and broadband bundle is priced at £39, down from £44.

These promotional prices are set to expire at 23:59 on February 3, 2024.

Expert Reviews Highlight Value

The Best Broadband Deals team recently evaluated the Sky Stream service, awarding it a five-star rating and describing it as “excellent” for its affordability and range of features. They noted that “Sky continues to lead the pack when it comes to digital TV,” highlighting the Ultimate TV package’s inclusion of Netflix, Sky Box Sets, Sky Sports+, as well as a 30-day catch-up service.

While the basic package offers impressive value, experts caution consumers about potential costs associated with adding premium channels. They noted, “Just be aware that the price can quickly add up when you start adding premium channels, ad-free viewing, 4K, or multiroom.”

To further incentivize new customers, Sky is offering up to £300 to cover early exit fees for those switching from other providers.

Comparative Options in the Market

In the competitive landscape of television services, Virgin Media is also promoting its offerings. Their Entertainment bundle, priced at £34.99, includes over 200 channels, Netflix, and fibre broadband at 362 Mbps. However, customers should be aware that Virgin has announced a price increase of £4 per month starting in April 2024, which would raise the cost of this plan to £38.99 by April 2026 and £42.99 by April 2027.

In contrast, Sky has historically implemented percentage-based increases in prices. Last year, the average increase for Sky’s TV and broadband customers was 6.2%, significantly lower than Virgin Media’s forecasted hikes.

Additionally, Sky is offering a 25% discount on its Sky Glass range, which now begins at £4.25 per month. The Sky Glass Air model, a more affordable variant, provides a vibrant 4K picture along with voice control features. For those seeking a more advanced option, the Sky Glass Gen 2 boasts a 4K Quantum Dot display and Dolby Atmos sound, complete with a built-in soundbar.

To access these lower prices, customers must pair the device with a Sky subscription starting at £15 per month. Both Sky Glass models are available through a 48-month interest-free loan, requiring an upfront payment of £20.

With these competitive offerings and substantial discounts, Sky aims to attract a wider audience while maintaining its status as a leading player in the digital television market. Customers have until February 11, 2024, to take advantage of these promotional deals before they expire.