If you're interested in upgrading to a digital TV deal with HD
channels, it's a good idea to make sure you know what's available
before committing to a specific provider. We're here to help you
understand the different HD packages available, and pick the one
that best suits your needs.
What makes HD better than standard definition?
A HD or high definition telly has many more pixels per inch
(ppi) than a standard definition TV set, which allows you to see
clear and sharp images with vibrant colours in incredible detail.
HD really comes into its own when you're watching a movie,
documentary, or your favourite team play a breathtaking match where
you can see every bead of sweat on their foreheads.
How do I watch HD TV channels, movies or sports at home?
In order to see HD content, you'll need a HD source - like a HD
TV channel, or a Blu Ray disc. Many digital TV providers now offer
the option to bolt-on HD channels to your basic digital TV package,
and some HD channels are included with select packages.
In order to watch HD TV channels, you will need the
following:
- A TV capable of displaying high-definition pictures
- A receiver that can decode the high definition signal, e.g.
Sky+HD or Virgin Media TiVO
- A TV package that includes high definition programmes
Which HD digital TV deals can I get in my area?
HD is widely available all over the UK. But if you are keen on a
particular provider, it's best to double check whether the service
is available in your area. Just pop your postcode into our Postcode
checker below.
See allWho currently offers digital TV
packages with HD channels?
Here is a list of providers who have great digital TV packages
with HD channels. The good news is that lots of options are
available and if you are not sure which service is right for you,
give us a call.
- HD digital TV from Sky
-
Sky is currently the leading HD channel provider in the UK. With
this supplier, you can tune in and watch live broadcasts in HD, and
also connect your set top box to your broadband and access
thousands of hours of HD content via On Demand.
Our recommended Sky+ HD deal: Sky+ Entertainment Extra+
Pack (with 2TB Box) & Broadband Unlimited & Talk
Anytime
- Virgin Media's HD services
-
All of Virgin Media's TV packages come with access to HD
channels - all you need is a HD ready TV. You can also upgrade to
Sky Sports and Movies for under a tenner per month.
Our recommended Virgin Media HD TiVO deal: Virgin Media Premiere
Collection
- HD options from Freeview
-
If you want to watch programmes in amazing HD quality for free,
have a look at what Freeview has to offer. Did you know that
Freeview HD is actually built-in in most of the bigger screen
digital TVs? If your telly doesn't have the HD
functionality from Freeview already built-in, you can simply get a
Freeview + HD decoder and start enjoying HD channels
including BBC One HD, BBC Two HD, ITV HD and Channel 4HD without
spending a penny.
Our recommended Freeview HD TV deal: Freeview HD
- HD channels with Freesat
-
If you want a satellite digital TV service but don't want to pay
a monthly subscription, look no further than Freesat. To watch your
favourite films and programmes in HD via Freesat, you simply need a
set top box and a satellite dish - the good news is that these are
the only costs you have to consider, the rest is free.
Our recommended Freesat TV deal: Freesat HD with
PVR
- HD channels from Youview
-
If you want a whole variety of content in HD, have a look at
what Youview has to offer. The set up box is included for free in
BT and TalkTalk packages or you can get it as a standalone product
from £199. It gives you access to HD channels which you would
normally get via Freesat or Freeview but also gives you the chance
to tune into HD content via rich online video libraries by
connecting your set top box to the broadband connection.
Our recommended TalkTalk Youview deal: TalkTalk
Plus
How can I compare HD TV bundles?
With so many digital TV providers out there, it's easy to get
stuck trying to find the right one. No need to start tearing your
hair out just yet - we can help you compare digital TV deals with
HD channels. Here are some things to consider before signing up for
a bundle:
1
How much are you looking to spend on your digital TV
deal with HD channels?
If you want to enjoy watching HD TV without a monthly
subscription, opt for Freeview or Freesat. This means that you will
just need to pay a one-off fee for the set top box. If you want
richer content, go for subscription-based options such as Virgin
Media or Sky.
What HD content are you looking for?
If you have a sports fan in your household - it's a great idea
to upgrade to Sky Sports HD. Similarly, if you are a movie buff, go
for Sky Movies HD. But not everyone needs premium content, if you
are happy with just having standard HD channels such as BBC HD or 4
HD, you can simply pay a one-off fee for a set top box and enjoy
these channels for free.
Are you looking for broadband and home phone services as
well?
If it's not only digital TV you need, opt for a bundle. Taking
out all three services from a single provider can save you hundreds
of pounds per year.
You can compare digital TV deals with HD channels by going to
our digital TV provider hub
page.
