Sky Q has been a popular TV device in the UK for over a decade, known for its ability to store content on its built-in hard drive. However, it now faces competition from Manhattan’s latest offering, the S4-R Freesat 4K TV Recorder. Similar to Sky Q, this new device uses a dish to deliver shows and movies and comes with internal storage for recordings, an interactive TV guide, and the ability to pause live TV.
One standout feature of the Manhattan S4-R is that it does not require any subscription fees once purchased, offering over 100 free TV and radio channels. While it may lack access to premium content like Sky Sports or Sky Cinema, it provides a solid entertainment option without additional expenses.
The S4-R, like Sky Q, can record multiple channels simultaneously and comes with a 500GB hard drive, expandable to larger capacities of 1TB and 2TB. It also offers live TV controls similar to Sky Q, allowing users to pause and rewind broadcasts.
Manhattan promises a user-friendly interface for the S4-R, along with search functionality and access to over 60,000 hours of on-demand content through various apps including BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Channel 4, and My5. According to Alex Arbab-Zadeh, Manhattan’s COO, the S4-R enhances recording capabilities by allowing up to four programs to be recorded at once, doubling the previous limit.
Described as a compelling alternative to subscription TV, the Manhattan S4-R will be available this month from retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Richer Sounds. Pricing starts at £219.99 for the 500GB model, with the 1TB version launching in May at £249.99, and the 2TB model arriving in June priced at £279.99.