Internet TV

Previously people who wanted a better choice of channels on their television would look into purchasing a contract from a digital service provider. However, in recent years internet television has emerged as an attractive and cheaper alternative for those who want to get more out of their television.

Using your internet connection, internet TV services allow you to stream shows and films whenever you want and in the comfort of your own home. In general internet television can be broken down into two categories: on demand services and digital media players, each of which have their respective pros and cons.

On Demand TV

Using your broadband, On Demand TV allows you to stream shows and films to your television or even your smart device. In the UK there are a number of providers that allow you to do this legally for free, such as BBC’s iPlayer, however, in order to get a superior range of viewing options many people choose to take out a subscription to an on demand service such as Netflix or Blinkbox. In general these subscriptions are significantly cheaper than purchasing a digital TV service, making On Demand an attractive option for those who are on a budget.

Digital Media Players

While On Demand TV is a less tangible service, digital media players are physical objects that users plug into their television in order to stream variety of online content, such as videos from YouTube, free internet television providers and paid On Demand services. In most case these products can be acquired for a one off fee or some digital TV providers such as BT and Virgin Media provide them for free as part of their digital TV service.

Google Chromecast • Compact design • Can control TV via smart devices • Suitable for HD	Roku Mediastreamer • Several models available • More than 500 channels • Can control TV via smart devices	Apple TV • Minimalist design • 1080 HD • Can control TV via AirPlay
Panasonic Mediaplayer • Elegant design • 3D support • Can access social media	Now TV • Simple set up • Download apps • 6 month Sky pass	WD TV • Two models • HD 1080p resolution • Built in Wi-Fi
Slingbox • Control TV using smart devices • HD 1080p resolution • Built in IR blaster	Boxeebox • Easy to set up • Quirky design • Use smart device as remote	TiVo • Exclusive to Virgin Media • Slim design • HD