Craving your uber-dose of Netflix, but you want the best way to watch on a bigger screen? Read on for information assembled by a crack team of knowledge mice.
Netflix is one of the world's most popular streaming services, but what if you don't want to watch on a tablet or laptop? Our guide shows you how to stream Netflix on your TV if you're with Sky, or another UK TV provider.
Already have a Netflix account? You should activate your existing account now so that Netflix know to stop billing you. It's really easy and you can keep your existing Netflix account and profiles. Don’t have a Netflix account? You can create a new one when you activate. Already activated your Netflix account but forgotten your login details? Then go to Roaming and delete the Sky and Sky Go folders. Download the Sky Go app from the official Sky website. Then open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app. B) If you’re on Mac. On your desktop, click Go and click Applications. Remove the Sky Go app. Go back to your desktop, then click Go and click.
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Streaming Netflix on Sky
Sky has agreed a deal with Netflix, which will make it much easier for Sky customers to watch content from the popular streaming service on their TV. Netflix will become available as part of a Sky TV entertainment subscription, accessible via the Sky Q box. It also opens up a wealth of new Ultra HD content for Sky customers, as this is compatible with Sky Q.
You can also watch Netflix on Sky without Sky Q or the new Sky/Netflix subscription. Netflix is a straight-up online platform, so it doesn't have a live channel. You interact with a library of content, so you need something which will support that platform but also displays on your TV at the same time.
Watching on a smartphone, tablet or laptop it's easy, because the Netflix app and website are designed for those devices. However, if you don't want to use the integrated system announced in 2018 but you want the service straight to your TV, you can use a number of other methods.
Also, assuming you are already a Sky TV customer, you might be interested in our guide about how to stream Sky Atlantic online, which tells you more about online access to the exclusive content on Sky's popular premium channel.
Netflix app on smart TVs
If you've got a smart TV then you may well be able to get Netflix as an app. Go to the app selection using your remote, and then see if Netflix has come pre-installed. If it hasn't then you'll need to search for it.
If your smart TV is compatible with the Netflix app then you'll just need to download it, and then sign in. After that you should be able to browse films and shows, and choose which one you want to stream to your TV.
An important thing to remember here is that streaming Netflix requires a good, fast broadband connection. If you're going to be relying on something like 2Mbps download speed then it'll be buffer city, and there isn't a lot you can do about it except get a faster a connection, which isn't always possible anyway.
TV streaming boxes & sticks
A TV streaming box is a great solution for Sky TV customers, although it means finding room for another box.
The TV streaming boxes connect to your broadband router and can (depending on the box) provide you with access to subscription-based services like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix.
They won't let you skip the subscription fee unfortunately, but you will be able to watch Netflix's library of shows and films on your TV.
The other option is a streaming stick, and this plugs directly into your TV via an HDMI connector.
Please enjoy our handy table covering popular streaming boxes:
Streaming box | Price | 4K? | Netflix? |
---|---|---|---|
Amazon Fire TV | £79.99 | Yes | Yes |
Nvidia Shield | £167-£189.99 | Yes | Yes |
Apple TV 4th Gen | around £139 | No | Yes |
Sky Q | £20 set-up fee | Yes | No |
NOW TV Smart Box | From £40 | No | Yes |
Popular streaming sticks include:
Streaming stick | Price | 4K? | Netflix? |
---|---|---|---|
Amazon Fire TV Stick | around £39.95 | No | Yes |
Roku Streaming Stick | £39.99 | Yes | Yes |
Google Chromecast | £30 | Yes | Yes |
Connecting your laptop
If you watch on your laptop anyway then there's an easy way to get Netflix on your TV. Buy yourself an HDMI cable, which you can get hold of for well under £10 from various online shops.
You can connect your laptop and HDTV using this cable, and you'll just need to change the source using your remote. You should flip through a couple of options and come to one displaying your chosen HDMI port's feed. It should show exactly what's on your laptop screen, but you may need to go into the laptop display settings if the TV screen looks weird.
With Windows there is an option to turn your laptop screen into a projector or 2nd screen, which is essentially what you are doing. This shouldn't be needed on modern laptops but if there is an issue then display settings would be the place to go.
Connecting your tablet or smartphone
Connecting your tablet or smartphone can be done via an HDMI cable adapter. Find out which kind of port you have on your device, such as a USB Micro, and then get hold of the relevant adapter. You can easily find these online, and then you can use an HDMI cable for everything.
Connecting iOS devices
There are a number of options when it comes to devices running iOS. Lightning devices can be connected to your TV using an HDMI connection kit. Streamed titles will use AirPlay streaming suite, while downloaded titles will copy your device's display.
You can also connect using a Google Chromecast, allowing for wireless streaming of Netflix and other services.
Netflix with other providers:
Netflix on Virgin Media
Virgin Media customers looking to get Netflix on their TV are in luck, because the TiVo and TiVo-powered V6 boxes are built with compatibility. Much like a smart TV, you get a Netflix app which allows you to log in and watch everything you usually could with the service.
Once you're signed up to Netflix, you can go to channel 204 to access the app.
Netflix is obviously an additional cost to any Virgin Media package, but if you're new to Netflix then you can get a free trial.
Netflix on BT TV
You can get Netflix on BT TV using an app, as with Virgin Media. It is accessed via the YouView/YouView+ box, and, again, you must have a Netflix subscription or free trial.
You can watch in 4K if you have a Premium Netflix subscription and a YouView+ Ultra HD box (as well as a UHD-ready TV). The advanced YouView box comes with BT's Total Entertainment Package.
Netflix on Freeview
If you choose Freeview Play then you'll have the option to add Netflix as an app. Freeview Play is a Freeview product that offers live TV and on demand in a single hub, with an on-screen guide letting you browse everything available.
You'll have content from catch-up platforms like BBC iPlayer, the ITV Hub and All 4, as well as apps for the likes of YouTube and Amazon Instant Video.
You will need a Netflix subscription, and if you're already subscribed then you can simply log in via the app, and watch Netflix on your TV.
Netflix on Freesat
All Humax Freesat boxes now include Netflix as a feature, and you'll be able to watch the range of films and TV series on your TV as long as you have a subscription.
As with Freeview, you can access catch-up platforms from the free-to-air channels, such as BBC iPlayer and the ITV Hub.
NOW TV vs. Netflix
NOW TV offers a huge range of content, including films, TV and sport available on demand. It's essentially a direct rival to Netflix, and much of the content is in line with what's exclusively on Sky, but you don't need to be a Sky subscriber. It's a great way to get temporary access to something you'd like to see on Sky, without committing to a long-term contract.
NOW TV Entertainment lets you access whole series from Sky Box Sets, as well as pay-TV channels not on Freeview, like Sky Atlantic.
NOW TV Sky Cinema Pass lets you choose from over 1000 films on demand, and NOW TV Sky Sports Pass gives you access to the full range of sport across 7 dedicated Sky Sports channels.
There's also NOW TV Kids' Pass, offering loads of kids' entertainment channels.
A benefit of NOW TV is that you can buy a NOW TV box and easily watch on your TV. Alternatively, you can watch online using a laptop, tablet, smartphone or console (as long as your device is compatible, of course). Selected smart TVs will also offer NOW TV via an app.
So with this is mind, accessibility for watching on TV is a little more broad with NOW TV, and the choice of films is massive.
If you are more interested in TV series, then Netflix probably has the edge, but it's a tough choice because they both offer exceptional value for money.
They also offer great flexibility, with no long-term commitment. If being able to watch your on demand platform on TV is key, then you should find that both services offer plenty of ways to enjoy content this way.
Amazon Prime vs. Netflix
Markdown mindmap. As with NOW TV, Amazon Prime is a direct Netflix competitor, and once again there's plenty of great shows and films only available on that platform.
Amazon Prime is actually a wider service that includes benefits for Amazon shoppers, but it also includes Amazon Instant Video. You can actually get Amazon Instant Video as a separate service, with the usual free trial.
In terms of watching Amazon Instant Video on your TV, the service is compatible with a number of HD TVs, Blu-ray players, set-top boxes and consoles. You can also watch it on TV with the Amazon Fire TV stick, which stream content via Wi-Fi.
The library of films and TV series is huge, and includes Amazon Originals, so, like NOW TV, it's hard to call an outright winner between the platform and Netflix. It's easy enough to get them all on your TV, and they all offer monthly subscriptions.
Your best bet is to try out the free trials of Netflix and Amazon Instant Video, but be tactical. If you've heard of a few series you'd like from both, then just get those in during your free trial.
There are also some offers on NOW TV Passes, although these vary, so give each of these platforms a try separately, and see which one offers the best entertainment for you personally.
You can always cancel and switch allegiances, or come back to the service later when your favourite series is back for a new season.
Compare deals online
or call 020 3974 9020
or call 020 3974 9020
As well as broadband deals tailor made for students, there are also a handful of TV deals available that are aimed specifically at those in higher education.
While not as essential a research tool as a reliable broadband connection is, everyone needs to kick back once in awhile and put something on the box. Additionally, if you’re a studying anything to do with the media, the TV industry, product design or PR for any of those fields then it’s essential. Whichever way you cut it, you might as well take advantage of any offers coming your way if you’re going to be spending the next two to three years living in a shared house while you’re at university.
Sky Go Netflix Login
From nine month deals to non-subscription solutions and others there’s a number of ways you can get digital TV that’s friendly to even the most shoestring of student budgets.
Virgin Media Student TV – Nine month contract
As well as pitching broadband deals squarely at students, Virgin Media has a TV deal which sees you able to snap up Virgin Media TV on a shorter term nine-month contract.
This is perfect if you’re only going to be living in one house for less than a year – no sense in paying for TV if you’re not going to be around to watch it.
Sky Netflix Deal
There are three Virgin Media TV packages available which work out as:
Virgin Media Student TV – 83 channels inc. 6 HD channels
- Including Sky 1, Sky 2, Dave, E4, Sky Arts
- V HD box
- Catch-up services including BBC iPlayer, 4oD and Sky Anytime
Total cost: £13/month
Virgin Media Student TV – 123 channels inc. 6 HD channels
- Including Sky 1, Sky 2, Dave, SyFy, Watch, Comedy Central and Sky Anytime
- V HD box
- Catch-up services including BBC iPlayer, 4oD and Sky Anytime
Total cost: £19.50/month
Virgin Media Student TV – 179 channels inc. 24 HD channels
- Including Sky 1, Sky 2, Dave, SyFy, Watch, Comedy Central and Sky Anytime
- V HD box
- Catch-up services including BBC iPlayer, 4oD and Sky Anytime
Total cost: £30.50/month
If you’re keen on getting broadband with your TV you might as well kill two birds with one stone: Virgin Media also bundles 30Mbps and 60Mbps broadband with TV in four bundle deals.
These work out as:
30Mbps broadband + 123 TV channels – £36.50/month
60Mbps broadband + 123 TV channels – £49.50/month
30Mbps broadband + 179 TV channels – £48.50/month
60Mbps broadband + 179 TV channels – £61.50/month
All of the Virgin Media broadband packages come with unlimited downloads as standard and include a free Virgin Super Hub wireless router. Note that the nine month Virgin Media TV don’t include the Virgin Media TiVo box – all packages come with the Virgin Media V HD box.
Once again, as is the case with Virgin Media’s Student Broadband deals, you don’t have to pay line rental, so there’s a potential saving to be had here on broadband, TV or bundled broadband and TV.
Sky Go
If you’re living in a house for less than a year then Sky TV may be off the menu as you’re be required to commit to a 12 month contract.
That doesn’t mean you can’t get some Sky programmes in your home though. Sky Go is available to subscribe to on a monthly basis, starting at £15/month for the basic selection of Sky entertainment channels.
You can access Sky Go through your laptop or PC or through your Xbox 360 (Xbox LIVE Gold account required). iPhones, iPads and selected Android phones and tablets can also access Sky Go through an app.
£32/month gets you Sky Movies bundled with the entertainment channels and £35/month gets you Sky Sports and entertainment, and £40 a month for entertainment, Sky Movies and Sky Sports. How to free up phone memory on android. ESPN costs from £9/month-£12/month extra.
Alternatively, if your parents have Sky back home and they don’t mind you can use their Sky iD to log in on another device.
Remember that you only have two logins with one Sky iD, so be careful where you use it. If you’re living in a very gadget-heavy household you might want to access Sky Go through a device connected to the living room TV so everyone can watch.
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Read our How can I get Sky Go? feature for more help.
Games Consoles – Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3
If someone owns an Xbox 360 then this gives you access to Sky Go as well as other stuff like 4oD, LoveFim and BBC iPlayer (pictured). Whoever brings an Xbox 360 to university will be undoubtedly popular – it’s up to you whether or not you want to sacrifice your games console for the greater good – your flatmates might want to watch something on Sky Go while you’d rather play Skyrim.
PlayStation 3 owners can also access catch-up services like BBC iPlayer, ITV Player and 4oD on their console as well as Netflix and Lovefilm.
While Sky Go isn’t yet available on PS3, Sky and Sony have struck a deal which lets PS3 owners download shows from the Playstation Store Video Store these including Dollhouse, 24, Breaking Bad, Arrested Development and South Park.
Shows from here are available on a pay-as-you-go/on-demand basis, with prices starting at £1.49 per episode.
Netflix, Lovefilm Instant, Now TV and Curzon on Demand
If you don’t want a subscription TV channel but you still want access to more movies that are available on Freeview and Freesat then there’s a large number of streaming services to suit your needs.
We’ve covered Netflix, Lovefilm Instant and Now TV extensively and have compared them against all of the leading and up and coming streaming packages going.
The best thing about these three is that when you sign up you get one month free. So if you’re feeling really thrifty, you can always sign up for the first month and then cancel before the trial period expires…
More seriously, everyone in a shared house clubbing together for any of these services is a good idea. Netflix costs £5.99/month which works out at less than £2 per person in a shared house of four.
LoveFilm Instant costs £5.99/month which works out at even less.
Newcomer Now TV costs a relatively hefty £15/month but is worth checking out if you want the latest movies in your home. Between four people, this breaks down to a more manageable £3.75/month.
Eventually, the Sky-owned Now TV will also give you access to premium Sky content like Sky Sports and Sky Atlantic content like Mad Men, Game of Thrones and Boardwalk Empire. So if you want your fix of footy or fantasy, Now TV is a more flexible student-friendly way of getting Sky TV without committing to a 12 month contract.
Students of film or fans of independent cinema might also find a subscription to Curzon on Demand useful if you don’t live anywhere near a Curzon cinema or your library doesn’t have a rare film available.
Freeview
Perhaps the perfect student TV solutions are the non-subscription ones. Freeview boxes come in so many shapes and sizes these days that you’re guaranteed to find one to suit your budget.
If you’re not fussed about watching TV In HD and just want something on the cheap, then you can pick up Freeview Plus boxes capable of recording live TV for as little at £70 on Amazon. More expensive HD models start at £180 from retailers like Comet.
If your parents have an old Freeview set top box or TV then you could convince them to upgrade and let you have their old Freeview unit as a going away present.
Don’t forget to check on sites like Gumtree and Freecycle for people either selling second hand Freeview gear on the cheap or (better yet) giving them away.
Freesat
Everything we’ve said about Freeview applies here; if you’re moving into a house with a satellite dish already attached and a Sky subscription is out of the question (whether due to time or money) then Freesat is one option available to you.
High quality broadcasts, HD channels an no monthly fees make a Freesat set-top box or TV an attractive offer for students looking to save money. Freesat boxes can be picked up fiarly cheaply these days, with current online prices ranging between £20 for a refurbished model to £100 for newer, more advanced models.
Unless your favourite TV channel of all time happens to be Dave Freesat is an excellent choice for students moving into a home with a satellite dish already in place.
What about a TV Licence? Do I need one if I’m a student?
Yes. Being a student won’t change the fact that you’ll still need a licence.
In halls of residence, your rent will normally include TV Licence cover for any communal lounge or kitchen area with a TV, but you’ll need a separate licence if you have a TV in your room.
Sky Go Netflix Inklusive
In a shared house, you’ll only need one licence for the entire premises, unless you live in multistorey/split-level accommodation in which case you’d need a licence for your individual room or floor.
Aside from your TV licence and subscription to whatever you want to watch, you’ll only have to worry about rent, your student fees, money for food. Thanks again Nick Clegg.
As well as working out what TV or streaming services you want in your home make sure that if you’re going to pay for something it’s something that everyone’s happy with. Money will invariably become an issue at some point in the year so make sure you’re not stuck with paying for a service you don’t necessarily want or need just because one or two of your housemates want it.
Main image credit: Flcikr user imrambi