Sky Q vs Sky Glass: Which is The Best Option [2023]
Sky Glass vs Sky Q — this isn’t just about picking a TV service. There’s a lot of differences between these two services. Let’s unpack all the main ones and see who comes out on top…
Navigating the labyrinth of modern TV options is no small feat. You’ve got Sky Glass and Sky Q, two of Sky’s heavy-hitters, vying for your attention. And, of course, Sky Stream.
Today we’re going to laser-focus in on the two most popular options: Sky Q and Sky Glass
But here’s the kicker: choosing the right one isn’t as simple as flipping a coin.
Sky Glass vs Sky Q — this isn’t just about picking a TV service; it’s about aligning your entertainment needs with the right features, limitations, and pricing models.
Think of it as the second stage of your TV-buying journey. You’ve done your initial research, maybe even shortlisted a few options, but what’s next?
Don’t just settle for the buzzwords and flashy ads. It’s time to dissect these services, feature by feature, to find out which one truly deserves the prime spot in your living room.
Today, we’re diving deep to give you a data-driven breakdown of Sky Glass and Sky Q.
We’ll look at everything from picture quality and user interface to hidden costs and gaming capabilities.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which service is your perfect match. So, let’s cut through the noise and get straight to the facts.
Sky Q vs Sky Glass
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Description: Sky Q offers the most features, the best recording abilities, and the best overall Sky experience right now. It supports 4K, comes with myriad packages, and is simple to use and setup. |
Description: Sky Glass is a novel concept with plenty of merit for certain types of users. It's an all-in-one solution that doesn't require a dish. But there's no proper recording capabilities and the TVs themselves are pretty basic with respect to features which isn't ideal. |
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Pros:
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Pros:
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Sky Q offers the most features, the best recording abilities, and the best overall Sky experience right now. It supports 4K, comes with myriad packages, and is simple to use and setup.
- Amazing Multi-Screen Experience
- Supports Native Streaming Apps
- Supports Proper Recording
- Loads of 4K content
- Relatively Affordable
Sky Glass is a novel concept with plenty of merit for certain types of users. It's an all-in-one solution that doesn't require a dish. But there's no proper recording capabilities and the TVs themselves are pretty basic with respect to features which isn't ideal.
- No Satilite Dish Required
- Updated, Modern Operating System
- Same Packages As Sky Q
- Lacks Proper Recording Capabilities
- Different TV Sizes Available
Sky Q: The Veteran Contender
While it does require a satellite dish for operation, the minor inconvenience is quickly overshadowed by its top-tier offerings.
Sky Q is a powerhouse when it comes to quality, boasting HD, 4K, and HDR visuals, coupled with the immersive experience of Dolby Atmos sound. It’s like having a mini-cinema right in your living room.
But the perks don’t stop there. If you’re the type who likes to drift from room to room without missing a beat of your favorite show, Sky Q has you covered with its multi-room viewing feature.
Although you’ll need a separate box for each room, the seamless experience makes it worth the extra setup.
And let’s talk content—Sky Q is a treasure trove, renowned for its expansive library that ensures you’re not just watching TV; you’re enjoying a high-quality visual and auditory feast.
However, all these premium features come at a cost.
Sky Q is on the pricier side of the spectrum, and the necessity of a satellite dish might be a sticking point for some.
But for those willing to invest in a top-notch viewing experience, Sky Q stands as an unparalleled choice.
Features and Limitations:
- Age and Setup: Sky Q has been a trusted companion for TV enthusiasts for over seven years. However, it requires a satellite dish for operation.
- Quality: It boasts HD, 4K, HDR quality, and the immersive Dolby Atmos sound.
- `Multi-room Viewing: Want to watch in multiple rooms? It’s possible with Sky Q, but you’ll need a separate box for each room.
- Content: Renowned for its vast content library, Sky Q ensures you get impressive picture and sound quality.
- Proper Recording Abilities: With Sky Q, you can record as many shows as you like and save them to Sky Q’s built-in hard drive.
- Drawbacks: The major drawbacks include its relatively higher price and the need for a satellite dish.
Sky Glass: The Modern Marvel
Sky Glass is the new kid on the block, making waves by eliminating the need for a satellite dish. It offers a hassle-free setup that’s perfect for those who want to jump straight into their favorite shows without the fuss of additional hardware.
When it comes to quality, Sky Glass doesn’t skimp; it matches Sky Q stride for stride with HD, 4K, HDR visuals, and Dolby Atmos sound, and all without the cumbersome dish on your roof.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Sky Glass comes with its own set of limitations.
For starters, it lacks true recording capabilities, which could be a deal-breaker for those who like to save shows for later.
There have been reports of weak motion-handling and washed-out bright images—factors that could affect your viewing experience, especially during fast-paced sports events or brightly lit scenes.
And then there’s the cost.
Sky Glass has a pricing structure that can quickly become a labyrinth of choices.
The cost varies depending on the TV size, contract length, and any additional services you might want.
This complexity means that while Sky Glass offers a sleek, all-in-one solution, it may not be the most budget-friendly option for everyone.
Features and Limitations
- Setup: Say goodbye to satellite dishes! Sky Glass offers a hassle-free experience without one.
- Quality: Just like Sky Q, Sky Glass offers HD, 4K, HDR quality, and Dolby Atmos sound.
- Limitations: While it’s a modern solution, it lacks true recording capabilities. Users have also reported weak motion-handling and washed-out bright images.
- Cost Implications: The pricing structure of Sky Glass can be a bit tricky. With varying costs based on size, contract length, and additional services, it might not be the most budget-friendly option for everyone.
If the thought of installing a satellite dish on your property has been a deal-breaker, Sky Glass eliminates that hurdle entirely.
It’s a plug-and-play solution that lets you dive right into your favorite shows, sports, and movies without the fuss of additional hardware.
It’s as simple as unboxing your new TV, connecting it to your Wi-Fi, and voila—you’re ready to go.
In terms of quality, Sky Glass is no slouch. It offers the same high-definition experience as Sky Q, complete with HD, 4K, and HDR capabilities.
And let’s not forget the Dolby Atmos sound, which turns your living room into a mini-theater.
Whether you’re watching the latest blockbuster or streaming a live concert, the audio-visual quality is top-notch.
However, no product is without its limitations, and Sky Glass is no exception. While it offers a modern, streamlined experience, it lacks some key features that could be deal-breakers for certain users.
For instance, it doesn’t offer true recording capabilities because it lacks a physical hard drive; instead, you bookmark stuff and it is logged inside a playlist.
If you’re someone who likes to record shows to watch later, this could be a significant drawback.
Users have also reported issues with weak motion-handling and washed-out bright images. Imagine watching a high-speed car chase in an action movie, only to be distracted by motion blur—that’s the kind of experience you might encounter.
Pricing Showdown
- Sky Glass: Its pricing model is intricate, influenced by TV size, contract duration, and add-on services.
- Sky Q: If you’re someone who already owns a TV, Sky Q’s pricing is more straightforward and generally lighter on the pocket.
When it comes to pricing, Sky Glass and Sky Q offer two very different models, each with its own set of considerations.
Sky Glass has an intricate pricing structure that can feel like navigating a maze. The cost isn’t just about the service; it’s also influenced by the size of the TV you choose.
Opt for a larger screen, and you’ll see the price tag rise accordingly. But that’s not all. The length of your contract also plays a role.
Shorter contracts often mean higher monthly payments, making it crucial to consider how long you’re willing to commit.
And let’s not forget the add-on services like Sky Sports or Sky Cinema, which can further inflate the monthly cost.
For example, if you go for a 65-inch Sky Glass TV with a 12-month contract and add the Sky Sports package, you could be looking at a significantly higher monthly payment compared to opting for a smaller screen size, a longer contract, and fewer add-ons.
It’s a multi-variable equation that requires careful thought, especially if you’re budget-conscious.
On the flip side, Sky Q offers a more straightforward pricing model, particularly if you already own a TV.
The costs are primarily tied to the service itself and any additional packages you might want. There’s no need to factor in screen size or contract length to the same extent as with Sky Glass.
This makes Sky Q generally lighter on the pocket for those who are happy with their current TV setup and are simply looking to enhance their viewing experience with better service and more content options.
In summary, if you’re someone who values a straightforward, no-frills pricing model and already has a TV, Sky Q is likely the more budget-friendly option.
But if you’re in the market for an all-in-one solution and are willing to navigate a more complex pricing structure, Sky Glass could be the right fit—just be prepared for the cost to vary based on several factors.
Hardware Insights
- Sky Q: It sticks to the traditional set-top box setup. You have multiple storage options and can get additional mini boxes for other rooms.
- Sky Glass: Merging the service with the TV itself, Sky Glass offers a sleek design. However, it might not be as feature-rich as its counterpart.
When it comes to hardware, Sky Q and Sky Glass offer distinct approaches that cater to different user preferences and needs.
Sky Q adheres to the traditional set-top box setup, a tried-and-true model that many are familiar with. And you also need a dish to access Sky Q’s services.
One of its standout features is the variety of storage options it offers. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a binge-watcher who likes to record entire seasons for later, Sky Q has a storage solution to meet your needs.
But the flexibility doesn’t end there.
Sky Q also offers the option of additional mini boxes for other rooms in your home. Imagine being able to start a movie in the living room and finish it in the bedroom without missing a beat.
Or perhaps you have a household with diverse viewing tastes—someone can watch a sports game in one room while another person enjoys a cooking show in another.
The multi-room capabilities of Sky Q make this a reality, providing a cohesive entertainment experience throughout your home.
Sky Glass takes a more integrated approach by merging the service with the TV itself. The result is a sleek, modern design that eliminates the need for a separate set-top box.
It’s an all-in-one solution that appeals to those who prefer a minimalist setup or are short on space. The absence of additional hardware means fewer cables and less clutter, creating a cleaner, more streamlined look.
However, this integrated design comes with a trade-off.
While Sky Glass offers a visually appealing and simplified setup, it may not be as feature-rich as Sky Q.
For instance, the lack of a separate set-top box means you’re limited to the built-in storage of the TV, which might not be sufficient for heavy-duty recording.
Additionally, the absence of mini boxes for multi-room setup could be a limitation for larger households that require more flexible viewing options.
In summary, Sky Q offers a more traditional but highly flexible setup with multiple storage options and the ability to expand to other rooms.
Sky Glass, while sleek and modern, offers an integrated solution that may be easier to set up but could lack some of the advanced features found in its counterpart.
Interface and Usability
Sky Glass takes user experience to the next level with its ‘Entertainment OS,’ a fresh and sleek interface that’s designed to make navigation a breeze.
Think of it as the iPhone’s iOS but for your TV—intuitive, visually appealing, and modern.
The icons are crisp, the menus are streamlined, and the overall aesthetic is one that screams 21st-century tech.
For example, the ‘Entertainment OS’ features a simplified main menu that allows you to access your favorite shows, streaming services, and settings all from one place, reducing the number of clicks needed to get where you want to go.
But let’s get down to brass tacks. How does it compare to Sky Q’s OS in terms of functionality?
Surprisingly, they’re more similar than you might think. Both operating systems allow for easy access to a wide range of content, from live TV and on-demand shows to additional packages like Sky Sports and Sky Cinema.
Both also offer voice search capabilities, making it easier to find what you’re looking for without having to type it out manually.
In a real-world scenario, let’s say you’re a fan of “Stranger Things” and you want to catch up on the latest season.
On both Sky Glass and Sky Q, you could simply press the voice search button and say, “Stranger Things latest season,” and you’d be directed to the show’s page, where you can select the episode you want to watch.
The experience is nearly identical, making the transition from one platform to the other relatively seamless for existing Sky users.
So, while Sky Glass’s ‘Entertainment OS’ may win points for its modern design and user-friendly layout, when it comes to the nuts and bolts of what you can actually do with it, it’s on par with what Sky Q’s OS offers.
The choice then boils down to your preference for aesthetics and setup, rather than a significant difference in functionality.
Gaming and Extra Features
- Sky Glass: If you’re a gaming enthusiast, Sky Glass might disappoint. It lacks high-end gaming features like VRR, ALLM, and HGiG. Moreover, there’s no dedicated game mode.
- Sky Q: While it’s more traditional in its approach, Sky Q offers multi-room viewing, more connection options, and even Bluetooth connectivity.
If you’re a gamer, the choice between Sky Glass and Sky Q could be a pivotal one. Let’s start with Sky Glass.
While it excels in offering a streamlined, all-in-one TV experience, it falls short in the gaming department.
Specifically, it lacks high-end gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and HDR Gaming Interest Group (HGiG) support.
These features are crucial for a smooth, lag-free, and visually stunning gaming experience.
- For instance, VRR is a game-changer when it comes to reducing screen tearing, a common issue that can ruin fast-paced games like “Call of Duty” or “Fortnite.”
- ALLM, on the other hand, automatically adjusts your TV’s settings for optimal performance the moment you start a game, eliminating the need to manually fiddle with settings.
- And HGiG ensures that HDR content is displayed correctly, making games like “Red Dead Redemption 2” look even more lifelike.
The absence of these features means that Sky Glass may not be the best choice for gamers who want the most out of their next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X.
Moreover, Sky Glass doesn’t offer a dedicated game mode, a feature commonly found in gaming-friendly TVs that minimizes input lag and optimizes picture settings for gaming.
Now, let’s talk about Sky Q. While it may not be as sleek or modern as Sky Glass, it packs a punch in terms of functionality. But you will, of course, need to already have or buy a new 4K TV to use it.
One of its standout features is multi-room viewing, allowing you to game in the living room while someone else watches a movie in the bedroom, all without any hiccups.
Sky Q also offers a wider array of connection options, including HDMI ports that support higher frame rates and even Bluetooth connectivity.
Imagine you’re deep into a late-night gaming session and don’t want to disturb others in the house. With Sky Q’s Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily pair your wireless gaming headset for an immersive audio experience without waking up the entire household.
In summary, if gaming is a big part of your entertainment lineup, Sky Q offers a more robust set of features to enhance your gaming experience, from multi-room capabilities to versatile connection options.
Sky Glass, while sleek and modern, may leave gaming enthusiasts wanting more.
Content and Other Services
When it comes to content, both Sky Glass and Sky Q are heavy hitters, offering a plethora of additional packages to cater to a wide range of interests.
Whether you’re a sports fanatic, a movie buff, or have kids who love animated shows, there’s something for everyone.
Both platforms offer add-on packages like Sky Sports for your Premier League fix, Sky Cinema for those Oscar-winning films, and Sky Kids to keep the little ones entertained.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Netflix, the streaming giant with a library that spans genres and continents, comes bundled with both Sky Glass and Sky Q.
That means you can binge-watch shows like “The Crown” or “Stranger Things” without needing a separate Netflix subscription. It’s a value-added feature that makes both platforms even more appealing for content-hungry viewers.
However, it’s not all-inclusive. If you’re a fan of “The Mandalorian” on Disney+ or want to catch the latest releases on Prime Video, you’ll have to shell out extra cash.
These popular streaming services are not included in the standard packages for either Sky Glass or Sky Q and come with additional monthly costs.
For example, a Disney+ subscription could set you back around £7.99 per month, and Amazon Prime Video costs about £5.99 per month. These costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re already paying for the additional Sky packages.
So, while both Sky Glass and Sky Q offer a robust content library with the added bonus of a Netflix subscription, they do leave you reaching for your wallet if you’re looking to expand your streaming options with services like Disney+ and Prime Video.
It’s an important consideration to keep in mind as you weigh the overall value each platform brings to your entertainment setup.
The Verdict
We’ve covered a lot of ground in this comparison of Sky Q and Sky Glass, so rather than hash things out even more let’s do a quick recap of all the PROS and CONS for each service in an easy to read bulleted list…
- Hardware: Traditional vs. Integrated – Sky Q sticks to the classic set-top box setup, offering more storage options and the flexibility of additional mini boxes for multi-room viewing. Sky Glass, on the other hand, integrates the service into the TV, offering a sleek but less feature-rich alternative.
- Interface: Aesthetic vs. Functionality – Sky Glass introduces the ‘Entertainment OS,’ a sleek and modern interface. However, in terms of functionality, it’s quite similar to Sky Q’s OS. Both offer easy navigation and voice search capabilities.
- Gaming and Extra Features: Sky Q Takes the Lead – For gamers, Sky Q offers more. It supports high-end gaming features like VRR, ALLM, and even Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headsets. Sky Glass lacks these features and doesn’t have a dedicated game mode.
- Content: A Feast for Viewers, With a Catch – Both platforms offer a robust content library and even bundle Netflix in their packages. However, other popular streaming services like Disney+ and Prime Video come at an extra cost.
- Pricing: Simple vs. Complex – Sky Q offers a more straightforward pricing model, especially if you already own a TV. Sky Glass has a more intricate pricing structure that varies based on several factors, making it potentially more expensive.
Which Is Best?
If you’re content with your current TV setup and are looking for a service that offers more features, Sky Q is your best bet. If you’re in the market for an all-in-one solution, albeit one with quite a few caveats, and are willing to navigate a complex pricing model, Sky Glass could be for you.
Sky Q offers the most features, the best recording abilities, and the best overall Sky experience right now. It supports 4K, comes with myriad packages, and is simple to use and setup.
- Amazing Multi-Screen Experience
- Native Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ & Apple TV+
- Beautiful Phone & Tablet Integration
- Loads of 4K content
- Relatively Affordable
