- Home
- /
- HOME AND GARDEN
- /
- TV
- /
- Best Freesat Box and...
Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder – Review
Are you currently searching for the best Freesat box in the UK? Once you’ve got your Freesat aerial installed there are lots of great options available on the market.
Maybe you’re looking for the best Freesat box to replace Sky, or perhaps the Freeview coverage isn’t great in your area.
With so many products on the market it can be difficult working out which is going to give you the best value for your money and what kind of features you should expect.
Your time is valuable, you don’t want to be spending hours trawling through reviews, comparing prices and debating which is the best Freesat box for you. That’s why we’ve pulled together what we believe are the seven best Freesat boxes on the market right now.
We’ve compiled a review of each of these options which details key features as well as the pros and cons of each product.
Take your pick from our list below so you can enjoy Freesat’s subscription-free service with over 170 channels.
Top Picks: The Best Freesat Boxes!
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Freesat Recordable 4K TV Box 500GB
- Never miss a thing: Record up to four programmes at the same...
- 170+ channels with no monthly fees: Entertainment at your...
- On Demand: Watch content, including 4K where available, from...
- Relive the best moments: Pause and rewind live TV so you can...
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- 500 GB box capable of storing 250 hours of recording
- 4K Picture quality
- Ability to record four channels simultaneously
- Set recording from you phone with Freesat mobile app
- WiFi and Ethernet compatible
As its name suggests this box provides a crisp, clear 4K picture quality, although at this stage 4K content is only available on certain apps, including Netflix and YouTube.
One of the most modern options currently on the market and included on our list, the Freesat 4K recorder allows you to record 4 different channels simultaneously, so you’ll never miss your favourite shows even when they clash on the TV guide, although you will need a wide-band LNB satellite dish in order to utilise this feature.
This box only comes with HDMI connectivity, so be sure to check your TV is compatible wit HDMI before you buy.
Also provides access to a wide variety of apps which gives you access to all of the best streaming services available; perfect for all your binge watching needs.
500GB of storage gives you ability to record up to 250 hours of TV, which contributes towards this boxes place at the higher end of the price spectrum.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- 4K picture quality
- Wide selection of apps available
- Works with most satellite dishes
Cons:
- Higher end of price scale
- 4K only available for YouTube, Prime Video and Netflix
Top-tier in terms of both its features and the price it commands, a slick, modern Freesat box.
2. Freesat 4K TV Box (Non Recordable)
- 170+ channels with no monthly fees: Entertainment at your...
- On Demand: Watch content, including 4K where available, from...
- Plug & Play to your satellite dish: Works with your existing...
- Intuitive interface: With an easy to use menu system, the...
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- Access to a wide-range of apps
- HDMI connectivity
- 4K Picture quality
- WiFi and Ethernet compatible
- No recording
If what you want is the best quality Freesat experience without any recording capabilities this stylish device could be the best Freesat box for you.
This box gives you all the fast and efficient functionality of the Freesat Recordable 4K simply without the ability to record and store content, although with all the apps it makes available catching-up on any TV you’ve missed is still easy.
You’ll also get the same access to Netflix, ITV Hub, Britbox, YouTube, BBC iPlayer and all the 4K content these services offer, along with a modern, user-friendly navigation system.
Even with its lack of recording functionality this could still be the best Freesat box if you’re currently looking to replace Sky, coming in at a lower price than its high memory companions and offering over 170 channels, including over 20 in crystal-clear HD, with no monthly fees.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- 4K picture quality
- Wide selection of apps available
- Works with most satellite dishes
Cons:
- Pricey
- No recording functionality
Another box with some really great features, possibly the best Freesat box for those who don’t intend to record any live TV.
3. Manhattan SX Freesat HD Box, Black
- Enjoy an unrivalled line-up of subscription-free TV from...
- Discover what’s on in the beautiful 8-day TV guide without...
- Set reminders for your favourite shows in one tap and create...
- Connect to HDTVs with the included 1.2m HDMI cable for...
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- Easy to use 8-day EPG
- HD Picutre quality
- SCART and HDMI compatible
- Compact
- Easy to set-up
The Manhattan SX Freesat HD Box comes at a slightly more affordable price when compared to its competitors and has some great features.
Its 8-day TV guide offers a mini-screen so you can continue watching while you browse other channels and makes it easy to keep-track of all the films and TV shows you might be interested in over the coming week.
Access is provided to almost 200 channels which you can filter into categories including Music, News and Entertainment.
This box comes with an AC power adaptor, a 1.2 meter HDMI cable and SCART cables, with the SCART and HDMI compatibility making it suitable to use with the vast majority of UK TV’s.
Unlike a number of current models on the market, the Manhattan SX Freesat HD Box does not support catch-up apps such as All4 and, as well as being a non-recording box, it doesn’t allow you to pause or rewind live TV.
Pros:
- Good value
- Dolby Digital surround sound
- Full HD picture quality
Cons:
- No recording functionality
- No apps available
A more budget friendly option compared to some of the boxes on a list. The Manhattan SX Freesat HB box caters to basic customer needs and has some exciting extra features.
4. Freesat Recordable 4K TV Box 1TB
- Never miss a thing: Record up to four programmes at the same...
- 170+ channels with no monthly fees: Entertainment at your...
- On Demand: Watch content, including 4K where available, from...
- Relive the best moments: Pause and rewind live TV so you can...
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- 1 TB storage capacity for 500 hours of recording
- 4K Picture quality
- Record four different channels simultaneously
- HDMI connectivity
- WiFi and Ethernet compatible
This 1TB version of the Freesat 4K recorder comes with the same core functionality as its 500GB companion but also gives you the ability to record and store a colossal 500 hours of TV for you to enjoy at your pleasure.
The quick and easy interface makes navigation simple, whilst compatibility with the Freesat mobile app allows you to set recording from you mobile device, so even if you’ve forgotten to hit ‘record’ before you leave home you still won’t miss a minute of TV.
Unsurprisingly this box is the most expensive on our list at present, giving you access to the best streaming apps including BBC iPlayer, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube, all of which provide some 4K content so you can experience exceptional picture quality available.
Like the 500GB version, only comes with HDMI compatibility so be sure to check your TV before you purchase, but this aside the Freesat 4K recorder will give you the all-round Freesat experience.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- 4K picture quality
- Wide selection of apps available
- Works with most satellite dishes
Cons:
- High end in terms of price
- 4K only available for YouTube, Prime Video and Netflix
A slightly pricey yet efficient box, packed with all the latest features for the all-round Freesat experience.
5. Oakcastle SB200 HD Freesat TV Box
- FULL HD VIDEO: Delivering full HD 1080p quality, connect to...
- EASY SETUP: The SB200 Freeview box allows you to watch 150+...
- USB RECORDER FUNCTION: Using the built-in PVR function,...
- MULTI-CONNECTION: Connect an Ethernet cable or attach a WiFi...
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- Pause, rewind and record live TV
- Save recording onto USB storage devices
- SCART and HDMI compatible
The Oakcastle SB200 HD Freesat TV Box is one of the cheaper options currently available for customers searching for the best Freesat recorder but comes with a wide range of functionality.
This includes a simple USB record function, access to over 150 Freesat channels and the ability to pause, rewind and record live TV. The USB record function gives you the ability to record and save your favourite TV directly onto any USB storage device up to 1TB of capacity.
Access to a wide-range of apps like YouTube and ITV Hub is included whilst RSS feed features are also enabled, however this does require a USB WiFi dongle which is sold separately to the box.
As well being compact and easy to set up, the SB200 also comes with both SCART and HDMI compatibility, so there shouldn’t be any issues with connecting to your home TV.
Pros:
- USB recording function
- Wide selection of apps available
- Good price
- Compatible with all types of Freesat aerial
Cons:
- Manual lacking in detailed instructions
- USB WiFi dongle required is sold separately
A more affordable option than some of its competitors, the Oakcastle SB200 looks to be more than adequate solution if you’re looking for the best Freesat box.
6. Free TV (Lite v3) Full HD Free To Air Satellite Receiver
- Allows user to pause & record live TV
- Used to receive UK, Polish, German, Italian, Spanish...
- Pre-Programmed with UK Free to Air Channels
- Resolution: Up to 1080p Supported (Full HD)
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- Save recordings to USB device
- No Apps available
- HDMI and SCART connections
- No 7-day EPG
This Freesat box has all the basics without the additional features many of its competitors boast, but this is certainly one of the more budget friendly boxes on our list.
Whilst there is no built-in hard drive to record onto, the USB recording allows you to record directly onto a separate device.
This box does not provide access to any additional apps, although if you have a Smart TV you should be able to access a wide-range of applications so that might be less of an issue. There is also no internet connection with this box, meaning you are left with the basic Freesat channels, of which there are many.
Without a 7-day EPG skimming through a whole week’s worth of TV guides isn’t something you can do with this particular box, but the ‘Now’ and ‘Next’ display does give you the essential information you’ll need when navigating channels.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- USB compatibility
- HD Picture Quality
Cons:
- Outdated interface
- No Apps
- Poor Manual
Nothing flashy or exciting but very much affordable, this is a box which delivers the basics without too much excitement.
7. Full HD COMBO Freeview HD + Satellite/Freesat/Sky HD/Recorder
- ✅ ENJOY 700-800 Freeview HD & Satellite HD TV Channels...
- ✅ Freeview HD, Satellite HD, USB HD Recorder, Multi Media...
- ✅ 2x USB PORT, HDMI out, Satellite Out, Antenna Out,
- ✅ “USB WiFi Port Ready” : Simply Optional Purchase of...
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Key Features:
- SCART and HDMI compatible
- USB connectivity
- No Apps availabe
Another box you might want to consider if your search for the best Freesat box is working to a strict budget. This box will give you access to a whole host of Freesat channels, including Bloomberg TV, CNN, CNBC and 5USA as well as a wide range of radio stations.
This box will also allow to you enjoy the HD channels Freesat offers in brilliant high-definition, whilst compatibility with HDMI and SCART mean there should be no connectivity issues with your home devices.
You won’t have access to any additional applications with this box, so if you’re also keen on using streaming services a Smart TV might be a good idea. The device is WiFi ready; however you will need to purchase a separate WiFi dongle in order to connect. As the box does not feature a built-in hard drive you can only record to a USB device, allowing you to watch your recordings on your computer for example.
Pros:
- 7 day advanced recording
- Good price
- USB Memory stick compatible
Cons:
- Only displays ‘Now’ and ‘Next’ on the TV guide
- Poor user manual
Not particularly showy or packed with additional features, this box offers the basics at a reasonable price.
The Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder - A Buyers Guide
If you’re looking for the best Freesat box and/or recorder you’ll want to make sure you get both value for money and a durable, quality product. Whilst it can be a daunting prospect when faced with so many brands and products there are a number of features you want to make absolutely sure come with any purchase you make.
Need some assistance with what to look out for when searching for the best Freesat box? Then check out our guide of all the important factors to consider below.
What is Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder?
Freesat is a subscription free UK television service which was formed as a joint venture between BBC and ITV in 2008, offering a wide variety of channels and good quality reception via satellite. To be able to access this service customers will need a satellite dish or Freesat aerial as well as Freesat box like those we have reviewed for you above. A lot of Freesat boxes also come as a Freesat recorder, giving customers the ability to record live TV onto their Freesat both or an external device to watch at a later date.
Do I Need the Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder?
Yes, you do. Getting yourself the Best Freesat Box possible is a great way to ensure that your TV viewing experience is easy and of the highest quality. After a long day at work or at school you want to be able to come home and watch your favourite shows or films, or perhaps catch-up on an episode of a series you’ve missed without any hassle.
If you also want the ability to record live TV from the various channels you’ll need a Freesat box which gives you access to the best Freesat recorder.
Make sure your TV experience is as relaxing as possible by getting your hands on the best Freesat Box with the help of our guide.
Key Features of the Best Freesat Box
- TV Connections – Almost all Freesat boxes will come with a HDMI connection, so it’s important to make sure that your TV is compatible with HDMI before you decide which Freesat box is right for you. However, some older TV’s may have SCART rather than HDMI connections. Fortunately, a lot of the best Freesat boxes come with both HDMI and SCART connectivity, so not only can you be certain your new purchase will connect to you TV, if you have multiple devices in your house your Freesat box should be compatible with them.
- Broadband/Internet Connection – If you’re looking for the best Freesat box you’ll probably want to make use of all the best features it offers, such as additional applications like streaming services. In order to use these you’ll need to connect your box to the internet. A lot of boxes will come with a WiFi connection which is fine, but if you want a quicker, more stable connection you might want to use an Ethernet cable, so make sure you check the Freesat Box you’re thinking about ordering has Ethernet connectivity.
- Recording – The best Freesat box for you will depend hugely on if you want to be able to record programmes or films from live to watch at a later date. A lot of Freesat boxes will come with a built-in hard drive which make recording possible, however this can make devices slightly more expensive, so you might want to consider using catch-up apps.
- Additional Applications – Rather than having to record hours of TV why not invest in a Freesat box that comes with the option of numerous additional apps? The best Freesat box will allow access to apps which enable you to catch-up on shows on BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub and All4, as well as giving you the opportunity to use Netflix and Amazon Prime Video on your device.
- Dish – In order to receive Freesat transmission you’ll need to make sure that you have a dish installed. If what you’re looking for is the best Freesat box to replace Sky and therefore already have a Sky dish installed you might be able to use it even if you’re no longer a Sky customer. Either way, make sure your dish and desired Freesat box are compatible before purchase.
Different Types of the Best Freesat Box
- Storage Size – if you’re looking for the best Freesat recorder as well as the best Freesat box you’ll want to consider the storage capacity of your box. If you’re a big fan of TV series and want to record various different shows a 500GB model might be too small for you, whereas if you don’t intend to fully utilise a box with 2TB of storage you’ll be better of saving your money.
- Price – Whatever item you’re thinking about buying price is always the most important thing to consider and that is no different in your search for the best Freesat box. If money isn’t a huge concern and you’ve got a large budget you’ll be happy to pay the top prices for the best models available. If you are looking to make a purchase at a more reasonable price however, it’s best to focus on the features most important to you and make your decision accordingly.
- Picture Quality – in your search for the best Freesat box you also might want to consider picture quality and compatibility with your current TV. If you have a 4K TV, you may want to invest a little more in a Freesat box compatible with 4K to allow you to benefit from the best image quality available.
- Good/bad user-manual – The user-manual might not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering the features of the best Freesat box, however it is something you might want to take into consideration. If, for whatever reason, you’re having some issues with your box you want to be confident that the manual that comes with it provides you with good, clear advice.
- EPG – When deciding which is the best Freesat box for you is it’s definitely worth looking at the EPG (Electronic Program Guide) that it offers. However much you decide to spend on your Freesat box ideally you want a clear, informative display which is easy to navigate. Some Freesat boxes also support Freesat’s “Freetime” service, allowing you to catch-up on programmes on which have aired over the past 7 days on some specific channels Freesat offers.
- Durability – The best Freesat boxes should be durable – you don’t want to overspend on a box which doesn’t last very long. That’s why it’s worth putting in some time doing some research into the different boxes currently available, as there may be some which generally last longer than others.
- Amount/Quality of Apps – The additional applications that come with Freesat boxes also vary on different models. If you want to use services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, NowTV and BBC iPlayer, it’s probably worth making sure you look at boxes which support these types of apps. That being said, as Smart TV’s now will often also support these applications you might also be able to just use them from your TV, leaving you to search for best Freesat box which doesn’t support apps but come at a slightly better price.
- What’s in the box? – It’s worth checking what comes with your purchase when looking for the best Freesat box. Just to connect your box to your TV you’ll need either an HDMI or SCART cable, so ideally you will want one of these to come with the box so you can start watching instantly. Some of the boxes on our list also require separate WiFi dongles which don’t come as part of the package when you buy the box, so always make sure you know exactly what you’re getting and what else you might need to access the full features of your new Freesat box.
How Much Should You Pay for the Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder?
You should be looking to pay anywhere between £20 and £230 for the Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder. Prices will depend largely on how many additional features you personally feel you need from the Best Freesat box, whether that’s the recording ability, additional apps or picture quality. Price isn’t also a measure of quality however, and you might be able to get hold of the best Freesat box for you at a very reasonable price.
Top Tips when Buying the Best Freesat Box and Best Freesat Recorder
Hopefully our guide has given you a good sense of the features which are available when you come to choose the best Freesat box for you. There are still some features that you’ll want to look out for when making your purchase to ensure that you get the very best value for your money.
1.Recording vs not recording? – If your search for the best Freesat box includes looking for the best Freesat recorder you’ll want to make sure that whatever box you decide to go for has full recording functionality. Some boxes will be able to record but only onto an external device such as a USB, so if you want to record hours of TV straight to your best Freesat box make sure it comes with a built-in hard drive to avoid disappointment.
2. Storage Capacity – If you are going to use the best Freesat recorder to record hours and hours of your favourite TV you’ll definitely want to make sure you get the best Freesat box to meet your needs. The storage capacity offered varies in different boxes, if recording and storing a vast amount of TV is your intention you may want to spend a little extra on a box with at least 1TB of storage.
3. Apps – If you already have a Smart TV which allows you to access loads of apps, including streaming services, you can probably save yourself money on the best Freesat box by going for a model which doesn’t feature any additional applications. If you do want apps on your Freesat box, make sure you check and see which specific ones are available, as there may be some apps which aren’t available on certain boxes.
4. Picture Quality – As we’ve demonstrated in our reviews, many Freesat boxes now come with 4K picture quality. If your current TV is 4K compatible, or you simply aren’t interested in 4K content, you can save yourself money when buying the best Freesat box by focusing on products which don’t offer this advanced picture quality.
5. Compact – The best Freesat box for you will come as if specifically designed for you home and slot into your TV set-up easily. Be sure to check the measurements and design of the best Freesat box so you know it’s guaranteed to seamlessly become a part of your entertainment unit.
Which is the best Freesat box to replace Sky?
If what you’re looking for is the best Freesat box to replace Sky you have a wide variety of options available to you. The best Freesat box for you will depends on a variety of factors, such as whether you want the best Freesat recorder, access to multiple apps, 4K picture quality or just want a Freesat box at the best price.
Is Freesat being discontinued?
No, at this time there is no indication the Freesat is to be discontinued.
In February 2021 it was announced that Digital UK Ltd would combine the operations of Freeview with those of Freesat CEO Jonathan Thompson said that “we believe that building on the best that […] Freesat […] has to offer will ensure that free to air continues to be an exciting and vibrant proposition for UK consumers.”
Is Freesat better than Freeview?
Freesat and Freeview offer pretty similar services but there are some key differences which arguably make Freesat the more appealing option.
Freesat will set you back a little bit more in price as on top of getting the best Freesat box you’ll need to make sure you have a satellite dish installed which will cost around £80.
One of the most common comparisons made between the two is the number of the channels they offer; with Freesat coming out on top as it gives you access 180+. The reason it has more than Freeview however is largely down to News and Radio channels, with Freesat providing access to channels like Bloomberg and CNN as well as Radio stations including Virgin Atlantic and Absolute 80’s Radio which aren’t available with Freeview.
Probably the most significant difference between Freesat and Freeview which possibly gives Freesat the edge is the reception. With Freesat you’ll need to have a Freesat aerial or dish installed but this provides better coverage then Freeview generally speaking, which doesn’t provide the best signal across the entire UK.
Can I get Freesat without a dish?
In order to receive Freesat at your home you will need to have a dish fitted as, unlike Freeview, Freesat functions via satellite. There are no monthly subscriptions; you just need a Freesat aerial and the best Freesat box for TV.
What dish do I need for Freesat?
4K Freesat TV boxes will work with the majority of UK satellite dishes, so if you’re switching over from another provider like Sky you should be able to switch over and use your existing dish.
How do I get Freesat on my TV?
In order to access Freesat on your telly you’ll need the best Freesat box as well as a satellite dish installed. Once your Freesat box is connected to the TV by either HDMI or SCART you should be good to go!
Do I need WiFi for Freesat?
Customers will need a satellite dish in order to access Freesat channels. A lot of Freesat boxes come equipped with apps like Amazon Prime Video, NowTV and Netflix and in order to access these you will need an internet connection, either through WiF or an Ethernet cable.
Best Freesat Box Brands
Freesat
Freesat’s boxes offer a whole range of features, including 4K picture quality and high storage capacity.
With the help of Freesat’s 4K recordable boxes you can record the TV that’s important to you, access over 170
channels as well as pause and rewind live TV.
Manhattan
Based in London, England, Manhattanaims to provide the best products to allow customers to discover and watch the
very best of British TV with its line of Freeview and Freesat boxes.
They offer a range of boxes, whether you’re looking for sharp HD picture quality or the easiest way to record and store live TV.
Oakcastle
Oakcastle specialises in top of the range electronics including DVD and Portable CD Player’s, as well as both Freeview and Freesat boxes.
Each of their items is designed in Cambridge England with care and dedication to ensure quality results.
So...Which Freesat Box Should I Buy?
Getting the best Freesat box will allow you access to a whole range of channels with excellent reception, the ability to pause and rewind live TV and access to a host of apps.
Our favourite pick from this list is the Freesat 4K TV Box (Non Recordable), which gives you access to all the best features of Freesat’s other 4K boxes at a more reasonable price. Not the ideal box if you’re looking for the best Freesat recorder but with the amount of apps this offers, as well as those you can access via Smart TV, catching up on your favourite telly shouldn’t be a huge problem.
If you want the ultimate Freesat experience without having to pay the absolute top prices, this is the best Freesat box in our opinion.
Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re looking for others ways to improve your viewing pleasure and TV signal quality, then check out our articles on the best indoor aerials, the best outdoor aerials and our guide on how to improve your poor TV signal.
Ned
Ned is a Literature graduate from the University of Essex looking to begin a career in content and copywriting. As well as freelancing he reviews Film at TV for his blog.
affiliate disclosure
This page contains affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, but this is at no additional cost to you
Recent Posts
Page content
© 2020, Ultimatebuyersguide.co.uk. All rights reserved.