Digital TV Guides

HD TV checklist

Updated: Thursday 24 May, 2012

By Anthony Hill

Setting up HD TV at home can be tricky, with so many packages and options to choose from. Here we look at the basics of getting high-definition TV in your living room...

High-definition or "HD" television is still a fairly recent development, so you may still be wondering what it's all about and how you can get it.

The main benefit of having HD TV is the improved picture quality. Images are brighter and clearer, with up to five times more detail than ordinary standard-definition TV. Sound quality is also better on programmes and films in HD.

Once you've decided you want HD TV, there are four things you need to do:

1. Choose an HD TV Package

It may seem obvious, but before you can watch HD TV you will need a digital TV package with high-definition channels.

Satellite broadcaster Sky (www.Sky.com) currently has the widest selection of HD content, but you can also get some as part of a Virgin Media (www.VirginMedia.com) subscription if you live in a cable area. Use our free postcode checker to see what HD TV options are available in your region.

Alternatively, you can buy a set-top box and watch subscription-free TV, with services like Freeview or Freesat. But remember, in order to receive HD channels you will need Freesat HD or Freeview HD equipment.

You will also need an HD-ready television before you can watch anything in high-definition.

2. Buy an HD-ready TV

These days the majority of new TVs will carry the "HD-ready" logo, meaning they are suitable for watching programmes and films in high-definition. Prices vary enormously, depending on the size of screen you're looking at and what other features it has.

If you're thinking about getting Freeview HD, instead of subscribing to Sky or Virgin Media, you might want to choose an HD-ready TV with a built-in Freeview receiver. Then you wouldn't even need a set-top box.

But in most cases, you will also need an HD receiver of some kind.

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3. Get an HD receiver

Another essential piece of kit for watching high-definition TV is an HD receiver or set-top box.

Digital TV providers such as Sky and Virgin Media will give you all the equipment you need, as part of your paid monthly subscription plan.

If you're looking to save money, there are a handful of HD channels available on the subscription-free services Freeview and Freesat. But you will need to make sure you have Freeview HD or Freesat HD equipment in order to watch in high-definition.

There are some TVs with a built-in Freeview receiver, so you may not need a set-top box at all. However, you would still need a Freeview+ box to pause, rewind and record.

If you want to learn more, read our expert's guide to Freeview and Freesat.

4. Connect your HDMI cable

Last but not least, you will also need a HDMI cable to connect your set-top box and TV. HDMI cables cost as little as £10 from most retailers. There may even be one included with your TV or digital equipment. If you're watching built-in Freeview, you won't need an HDMI cable.