With us being at the peak of technology across the world nowadays, content can be viewed through many different platforms and devices.
From the old traditional way of broadcasting your shows through public service, the viewing habits of this generation have now almost completely shifted to internet-based content.
Public service broadcasting is typically more money to sustain for the majority of people compared to other options (live or on-demand).
The cost of living through most internet-based streaming services is generally much lower prices, yet they provide you with the same (or more) content to view. Yet, what devices can you use to view your favourite entertainment? Keep reading to learn more!
What is a Set-Top Box?
The first device that is becoming sought-after in the streaming community is a set-top box. However, what does it do for your watching experience and how does it differ from traditional methods of viewing?
First of all, set-top boxes are devices that take content from a device that you’re currently using and convert it into either analogue or digital TV signals.
Nonetheless, yours may differ if you have a slightly opposing model. For example, a satellite TV set-top box will essentially take the over-the-air digital broadcast signals and transform them into analogue.
After connecting your set-top box to your chosen function, no matter what TV you have, any TV will pick up your digital TV service. Whether that is Freeview or Freesat, you’ll be able to watch IPTV or regular TV whenever you desire with a stable internet connection.
Although, unfortunately, you can only either rewind or pause your entertainment if you purchase a variant of a set-top box.
Depending on your personal preferences, if you decide to invest in a reliable IPTV provider/ service, whilst having a set-top box – you will be able to access thousands of Freeview channels, movies, series, etc daily.
With built-in recording features, you can watch your favoured programmes on-demand at any time of day.
Being aware of the market and doing your research before investing in a set-top box is crucial, as some can be more expensive – whilst only providing minimal features and content access via streaming platforms.
Without connecting to the internet, there are extremely limited streaming options – especially when you’re trying to find your desired content without going with regular providers.
This is what a tried and tested set-top box can bring to your daily watching experience – meanwhile, it doesn’t take up as much space as it used to.
Benefits of a Set-Top Box
As the reception of streaming is growing every year in each home, there are more and more features that can be added to set-top boxes. More recently, a feature that can be used with a set-top box is IPTV.
IPTV, already having benefits such as its cheap price, offering channels outside of your country, video on demand, etc – combines exceedingly well with set-top box capabilities.
Having IPTV and a set-top box at your disposal will not only be cheaper than your normal provider – but it will offer ludicrously more content for your viewing.
If the content that you’re desiring is overseas or a recent film that has just been released, there is more chance that you’ll be able to view it through IPTV and your set-top box – rather than traditional television.
Not only will you be able to access more content for a broader range of media – but, each programme, movie, channel, etc will be supported in high definition. Having HD channels ensures that you’re watching video content as close to reality television as possible.
Rather than slow-operating streaming services – budget IPTV Freeview set-top TV boxes will run smoothly, enhancing a cleaner and faster experience.
This set-top box will give you every chance to immerse yourself in a great streaming experience, whilst not worrying about the ads that are typically spammed all over streaming websites and apps.
A quicker electronic TV guide gives you the opportunity to roam through your available TV channels without any buffering issues.
As long as you have a stable and working Wi-Fi connection – scrolling through your channel options should be as rapid as any other channel provider such as Sky, BT and many more.
As most people are extremely busy, you may not catch the programme live. However, your Freeview IPTV play recorder (set-top box) allows you to record or rewind it. Therefore, you can have peace of mind when completing other everyday tasks!
Is Freeview Classed as a Set-Top Box?
To provide you all with the simplest answer, yes, Freeview is classed as a set-top box – along with Freesat (as the other alternative). When purchasing a Freeview set-top box, Freeview play opens up the chance to view around 70 opposing standard definition channels.
Radio channels are typically prominent on your chosen budget internet Freeview box. Nevertheless, in certain locations, these will not be available to retrieve.
With Freeview Boxes being generally unknown among the public, in contrast to an aerial – you will have a much cheaper deal on your hands.
As Freeview play boxes are cheaper, you may believe that these devices take a significant amount of time from your day to set up. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth as it is relatively simple to set up and install onto your chosen device.
A downfall you may find is that there are many updated versions with greater technology. For example, an Android box, Firestick or Apple TV will have extended and smart TV features compared to a classic Freeview box. Despite these factors, it is still a great option for those looking to get into internet-based streaming services.
Also, many Freeview boxes may vary in the different components you can access. Therefore, it can be confusing at times. In some cases, you will find that you can access TV services, movies and apps.
Whereas, some will only permit you to obtain TV services. Nevertheless, if proper research is done – you’ll be able to find a Freeview HD box with all the features and needs you want in a streaming service anyway.
