Digital TV Guides

Freeview set-top boxes

Updated: Wednesday 4 April, 2012

By Editorial

Looking for a TV service that offers a range of channels without the need for a monthly subscription? Consider getting a Freeview set-top box, the subscription-free alternative for digital TV.

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If you’re after a digital TV service without the added extra costs, read our guide to Freeview set-top boxes to find out whether Freeview is the right option for you.

What is Freeview?

Freeview is the subscription-free digital TV service that will eventually replace the analogue TV service, when the digital switchover is completed in 2012. Freeview offers both standard and HD channels via your existing TV aerial, however in order to receive it you will need a Freeview set-top box or an integrated TV.

Freeview set-top boxes are now available from retailers such as Argos, Currys and Comet, and prices start from around £20. Or, if you’re in the market for a new TV, consider getting one with Freeview built-in. These will be more expensive than a standard Freeview set-top box, and typically cost around £150, though prices vary depending on the manufacturer and the screen size.

Read our set-top box guide below for more information on some recommended Freeview boxes.

Freeview set-top boxes

When it comes to choosing a Freeview set-top box, there is plenty on offer. Here are three Freeview recommends:

Bush Twin SCART Digital Set Top Box

• Brand - Bush
• Model - Twin SCART Digital Set Top Box
• Guide price - £18
• Available from - Argos
• More information - This box from Bush gives you access to the UKs best TV. There is even a 7-day electronic programme guide so you can plan what you want to watch, and it only uses 1 watt on standby.

Metronic Eco Zapbox

• Brand - Metronic
• Model - Eco Zapbox
• Guide price - £30
• Available from - Comet
• More information - If you can’t wait to start watching all of your favourite programmes on Freeview then you’ll like the helpful one button auto set-up on this box from Metronic. It is also low on power consumption, lowering your energy usage bills.

Goodmans Talking Set Top Box

• Brand - Goodmans
• Model - Talking Set Top Box
• Guide price - £99
• Available from - Currys, John Lewis, Dixons
• More information - Innovative text-to-speech technology lets you enjoy your favourite TV programmes through user-friendly speech-enabled feedback, guiding you through menus and the programme guide. The state-of-the-art speech technology will even take your through the set-up of the box and programme synopsis. Accessing audio description and subtitles is also made easier by the large button remote control.

Freeview integrated TVs

If you’re in need of a new TV anyway, getting an integrated Freeview TV means you’ll only need to make one purchase.

Freeview enabled TVs are a bit more expensive than just a standard box, but will save on space and energy usage. Take a look at some of Freeview’s recommend integrated TVs below:

Sony NX and EX

• Brand - Sony
• Model - NX and EX
• Screen size - 32in
• Guide price - £450
• Available from - Tesco, John Lewis, Currys, Comet, Amazon
• More information - EX, the essential range from Sony, is stylishly designed and has excellent picture quality. NX, the network range of TVs from Sony, offers the latest connected technology all packed in to your screen, giving you access to lots more content online - browse LoveFilm and YouTube to find your favourite TV shows and films online.

Sony EX

• Brand - Sony
• Model - EX
• Screen size - 37in
• Guide price - £550
• Available from - Tesco, John Lewis, Currys, Comet, Amazon
• More information - Enjoy a huge range of free digital TV and radio channels, including HD programmes with built-in Freeview. There’s no subscription or contract and no need for a set-top or satellite dish.

Sony NX, LX, HX and EX

• Brand - Sony
• Model - NX, LX, HX and EX
• Screen size - 40in
• Guide price - £650
• Available from - Tesco, John Lewis, Currys, Comet, Amazon
• More information - The 401 features Bravia Sync for controlling your entire Sony home entertainment system from your Bravia TV remote control. Enjoy the benefits of the cinema from the comfort of your home.

More HD TV options

If you’re still not sure which digital TV service to go for, use our online price comparison tool to find out more about the other digital TV providers available in your area. You may find that a package from Sky or Virgin Media suits you more, as subscription TV deals tend to offer a wider selection of channels.

And if you want to find out more about high-definition television, download our Complete Guide to High-definition TV.