Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteConnect a Freely streaming device to your TV’s HDMI input, power it as its manual directs, then follow the on-screen setup to join your home Wi-Fi. Freely recommends broadband of at least 10 Mbps. You do not need an aerial for internet-delivered Freely; an aerial can add channels only on supported TVs.
Before you start: check your TV and connection
A separate Freely box is needed only if your television does not already have Freely built in. A Freely streaming device can add the service to an existing television with an HDMI input. Freely’s device guidance explains the HDMI connection; follow the instructions supplied with your particular device for its power connection and any included cables.
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- Check that the TV has an available HDMI input.
- Have your home Wi-Fi name and password ready.
- If you plan to use Ethernet, check first that both the device and router have Ethernet ports and that you can run a cable between them. Not every device is guaranteed to have an Ethernet port.
- Freely recommends an internet connection of at least 10 Mbps. This is its recommendation, not a guarantee of performance in every home.
Freely recommends a wired Ethernet connection where available. Wi-Fi is also an option if the device supports it and the signal is adequate where the TV is located. See Freely’s internet connection guidance.
How to set up a Freely box
- Connect it to the TV. Plug the Freely streaming device into an HDMI input, directly or using the supplied cable or adapter as the manufacturer instructs.
- Connect power. Use the power connection and adapter specified in the device’s guide. If using Ethernet, connect the cable from the device to the router before switching the device on.
- Select the right TV input. Turn on the TV and device. If the setup screen does not appear, use the TV remote’s input/source control to select the HDMI input used by the device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Depending on the model, setup may ask you to choose a language, enter a location or postcode, select an internet connection, or scan for channels. The exact sequence and menu labels vary; use the device’s manual for model-specific steps. Freely’s setup instructions describe the general flow.
- Connect to the internet. For Wi-Fi, select your home network and enter its password. With Ethernet, a supported device should connect automatically once the cable is connected.
- Complete setup. Continue through the prompts until the Freely home screen or channel interface appears. If prompted to scan channels, follow the on-screen instructions for your setup.
Do you need an aerial?
No aerial or satellite dish is required for Freely’s internet-delivered service. Wi-Fi-only reception provides over 24 channels, including live BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and 5 streams, as well as on-demand content, according to Freely’s channel guidance accessed on 7 October 2026. The available channel line-up can change, so check Freely’s current channel listing.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K Ultra HD Resolution: Enjoy your TV in stunning resolution Ultra HD ers four times the resolution of Full HD for greater clarity and detail
- Android TV: With the Android TV operating system you will have access to the best content, download the infinity of applications available through the Google Play Store!
- Voice remote control: Just press the Google Assistant button and ask it to find, play and control content
- Chromecast Built-in: Easily cast movies, shows, and photos from your Android or iOS device to your Android TV
- Easy Setup: Access your Google account and configure the device, language and Wi-Fi network
An aerial is optional. On a Freely television that supports aerial channels, connecting an aerial can provide a wider selection alongside internet-delivered channels; what is available depends on your location and transmitter. Connect the aerial lead to the TV’s aerial input before setup or channel scanning. The socket may be labelled RF in, Antenna, Aerial or Ant in. The general instructions do not establish an aerial connection method for every streaming box, so do not connect an aerial to a box unless that model’s manual specifically supports it.
Wi-Fi or Ethernet: which should you use?
| Connection | What you need | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | A supported device, home network name and password, and adequate signal near the TV. | Select the network during setup and enter its password. |
| Ethernet | Ethernet ports on both the device and router, plus a practical cable route. | Freely recommends a wired connection where available. Connect the cable before powering on; a supported device should connect automatically. |
Use Wi-Fi if it gives a reliable connection in the room. Consider Ethernet if the device and router support it and a cable run is practical. Do not assume that every Freely box has an Ethernet port; check its model guide and physical ports first.
Rank #2
- 4K Ultra HD with Cinematic Visuals & Sound: Supports 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) at 60FPS, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+ for enhanced contrast, brightness, and color accuracy. Delivers immersive audio via Dolby Audio and DTS:X surround sound
- High-Performance Hardware: Equipped with a Quad-Core CPU (up to 2.5GHz) and ARM G310 V2 GPU for seamless navigation and multitasking. Includes 2GB RAM and 32GB internal storage (ROM) for ample app and content space
- Google TV Smart Platform: Runs the latest Google TV OS, offering personalized content recommendations, access to thousands of streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.), and voice control via Google Assistant
- Advanced Connectivity & Decoding: Features dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI 2.1, and USB 2.0 ports. Supports decoding of 4K 60FPS video formats and Google Cast for screen mirroring
- Complete Setup Included: Comes with Xiaomi TV Box S (3rd Gen), voice remote control, power adapter, HDMI cable, and user manual. Compact design (95.25 x 95.25 x 16.7 mm) for discreet placement
If your Freely device will not connect
- Check the network and password. Confirm the router is working, select the correct Wi-Fi network and re-enter its password carefully.
- Check signal and broadband. A weak signal at the TV or a slow connection can interfere with streaming. Freely recommends at least 10 Mbps.
- Find out whether the issue affects other devices. Check whether other apps on the TV work and whether phones or computers in the home can access the internet. If several devices are offline, restart the router or contact your broadband provider. If only Freely is affected, inspect the device’s connection settings.
- Change networks after setup. On models with these labels, open Settings > Connection and choose the new network. Menu names can differ between devices.
For further checks, use Freely’s connection troubleshooting guidance.
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Aerial channels or picture problems
Check that the aerial lead is securely connected and undamaged. Reception depends on local conditions and the transmitter serving your area. If work on a roof or at height is needed, Freely advises using a qualified aerial installer.
Rank #3
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
On-demand playback problems
Check for available software updates and restart the device. A factory reset should be a later step: it deletes saved data, logins and settings, and you will need to set up the device again. Follow the model’s instructions and Freely’s on-demand help before resetting.
Quick Recap
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