TV Packages in Ireland 2026: Virgin Media vs Sky vs eir vs NOW
Updated September 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with any broadcaster
An independent comparison of TV packages in Ireland — contract lengths, how each service is delivered and who each one suits best, plus the free options you should check first.
TV packages in Ireland compared (2026)
| Provider | How it is delivered | Contract | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saorview | UHF aerial (free-to-air) | None | Free Irish channels with no monthly fee |
| NOW | Streaming app over broadband | Monthly (some sports offers have a minimum term) | Sky Cinema, Sky Sports and entertainment without a long contract |
| Virgin Media TV | Cable or broadband, with a set-top box | Usually 12–24 months | Homes in the Virgin Media cable area wanting TV + broadband |
| Sky Ireland | Satellite dish or broadband (Sky Q, Sky Stream, Sky Glass) | Usually 18–24 months | The widest choice of premium sport and movie channels |
| eir TV | Broadband with the eir TV box and app | Usually 12–24 months | Adding TV to an eir broadband bundle |
Virgin Media TV packages Ireland
Virgin Media sells TV mostly as part of a bundle with its broadband. Packages start with a core set of entertainment channels and add sport, movies and kids content as bolt-ons. Its 360 box lets you record, pause live TV and use apps. Check whether your address is in the Virgin Media cable footprint first — availability decides whether it makes sense for you.
Sky TV packages Ireland
Sky offers the largest line-up of premium channels, including Sky Sports and Sky Cinema, delivered by satellite dish or over broadband. Sky Stream and Sky Glass remove the need for a dish, while Sky Q uses satellite. Sky packages are flexible but the monthly cost climbs quickly as you add Sports, Cinema, HD and multiscreen, so price your exact bundle.
eir TV packages
eir TV is usually the cheapest pay-TV add-on if you already have, or plan to get, eir broadband. You get a set-top box plus the eir TV app for phones and tablets, with optional sport and entertainment extras. See our eir TV channels guide for the current line-up.
NOW Ireland: the no-contract alternative
NOW streams Sky content on a monthly basis. Memberships cover entertainment, cinema and sport, and there are day passes for big sporting events. It is ideal if you only want sport during the season or a film pass for a few months. Read our NOW Ireland guide before you sign up.
How to choose the right TV package
1. List what you watch
Write down the channels and sports you actually watch each week. Most people use far fewer channels than their package includes.
2. Check free options
Saorview and free player apps cover RTÉ, TG4 and Virgin Media channels. See the Saorview guide.
3. Compare total cost
Add box fees, installation, HD and multiroom costs, and compare the price after the introductory period.
4. Mind the contract
A monthly service costs a little more per month but can be paused in the off-season, which often saves money over a year.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest TV package in Ireland?
The cheapest option is no package at all: Saorview is free with an aerial, and RTÉ Player, TG4 Player and Virgin Media Play are free to stream. If you want paid channels, a monthly NOW membership or an entry streaming plan usually costs less than a contract TV bundle.
Is Virgin Media, Sky or eir TV better?
Virgin Media is strongest where its cable network reaches, Sky has the widest range of premium sport and film and works over satellite or broadband, and eir TV is usually best value as an add-on to eir broadband. Compare the total monthly cost after any introductory discount ends.
Can I get Sky TV without a contract in Ireland?
Yes. NOW is owned by Sky and gives you Sky Cinema and Sky Sports channels on a monthly basis without a long contract, streamed over your broadband.
Do TV packages include the TV licence?
No. The TV licence (€160 a year in 2026) is separate from any pay-TV subscription and is paid through An Post.
What should I check before signing a TV contract?
Check the contract length, the price after the introductory period, box and installation fees, whether broadband is required, how many rooms or screens are included and the cost of leaving early.