Sky Q has long been a popular TV device in the UK, known for its ability to store recordings on its internal hard drive. Despite its enduring popularity, a new competitor has emerged in the form of the Manhattan S4-R Freesat 4K TV Recorder.
The Manhattan S4-R functions similarly to Sky Q, using a satellite dish to deliver content into households and offering internal storage for recordings. One key advantage of the Manhattan device is that it requires no subscription fees, providing access to over 100 free TV and radio channels. While it lacks premium channels like Sky Sports and Sky Cinema, it offers a cost-effective entertainment option.
Equipped with a 500GB hard drive, the Manhattan S4-R can record multiple channels simultaneously, offering a storage capacity of approximately 300 hours of content. Larger 1TB and 2TB versions are also on the horizon for users needing more space. The device boasts features such as live TV controls akin to Sky Q, enabling users to pause and rewind broadcasts.
Manhattan promises a user-friendly interface, search capabilities, and access to a vast library of on-demand content through various apps like BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and My5. Alex Arbab-Zadeh, Manhattan’s COO, highlighted the device’s enhanced recording capabilities, allowing for the simultaneous recording of up to four programs, double the previous limit.
Described as a compelling alternative to subscription TV, the Manhattan S4-R offers flexibility, choice, and a means to avoid high monthly bills. The device is set to launch this month and will be available from retailers including Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Richer Sounds, with pricing starting at £219.99 for the 500GB model and increasing to £249.99 for the 1TB version in May and £279.99 for the 2TB model in June.