... Read moreAs a fellow UK resident who loves a good reality TV binge but isn't exactly a tech wizard, I totally get the struggle of choosing between watching on your phone or the big screen. It’s all about finding what feels effortless and approachable, without needing to fiddle with too many settings. So, let’s dive into some of my top entertainment providers for reality TV and discuss whether your trusty phone or the living room TV is truly best!
When it comes to streaming services in the UK, especially for reality TV, there are a few standouts I’ve found to be incredibly user-friendly:
Netflix: My go-to for a quick fix. It’s super straightforward to navigate, whether on my iPhone or smart TV. They have a decent selection of reality series, both international and some UK gems. The interface is clean, and I love that I can download episodes to my phone for offline viewing, which is perfect for commutes. However, sometimes their reality TV library isn't the most current, so if you're looking for shows that are airing right now, it might not be your first stop.
NOW TV (Sky Entertainment Pass): If you're keen on catching up with current UK reality shows that air on Sky channels, NOW TV is a fantastic option. I appreciate that you don't need a long contract, and the app is fairly easy to use. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but for access to shows like those on Sky Witness or Sky Max, it’s worth it. I usually watch this on my TV for the full experience, but it works well on my phone too.
ITVX (formerly ITV Hub): This one is brilliant because it's free! For UK-centric reality shows like Love Island or I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!, ITVX has got you covered. The app is generally easy to use, and while there are adverts, it’s a small price to pay for free content. I mostly use this on my phone when I'm just looking for a quick catch-up.
All 4 (Channel 4): Another fantastic free option for unique and often quirky reality TV. Think Gogglebox or Celebs Go Dating. The interface is clean, and I’ve found it reliably streams well on both my TV and phone. Like ITVX, it’s ad-supported, but it’s a small interruption for such great free content.
Discovery+: If you're a serious reality TV fan, especially for things like true crime reality, home renovation, or survival shows, Discovery+ is a dedicated platform. It does require a subscription, but it has an enormous library. The app is pretty intuitive, and I find it works seamlessly on all my devices.
Now, let's talk about the age-old debate: phone vs. TV. For me, the choice often comes down to convenience and how immersive I want the experience to be.
Watching on your phone (like my iPhone 13 Pro Max): The biggest pro here is portability. I can watch anywhere – in bed, while cooking, or even on a bus. It’s incredibly personal. A sturdy phone case, maybe even something stylish like that 'TERRAZZO BEAD CASE' I saw advertised, can make holding my phone for longer viewing sessions much more comfortable. However, the screen is smaller, which can sometimes make me miss details, and I always have to keep an eye on the battery life, especially during a long movie or multiple episodes.
Watching on your TV: This is where I go for that full, immersive experience. The bigger screen, better sound (especially with a soundbar), and the ability to share the viewing experience with others make it ideal for movie nights or family reality binges. There’s no worry about battery life, and it just feels more like an 'event.' The main downside is that it’s not portable; I’m tied to the living room or bedroom. For us non-tech-savvy folk, setting up a smart TV or streaming stick might seem daunting initially, but once it’s done, it’s usually smooth sailing.
For those of us who prefer things effortless, I’d generally recommend starting with the free streaming apps like ITVX and All 4 on whichever device you find most comfortable. If you’re willing to pay, Netflix is a safe bet for its user-friendliness, and NOW TV for current Sky shows. Ultimately, the 'best' way to watch is the one that brings you the most enjoyment with the least amount of fuss!
I use both just depends if im in my living room or bed room. The TV is obviously better but if I want to lay down in bed I will watch a show on my phone.
I use both just depends if im in my living room or bed room. The TV is obviously better but if I want to lay down in bed I will watch a show on my phone.