"Sky Glass Air review: an unexpectedly great budget-friendly smart TV"

Sky’s latest television offering provides a solid, all-in-one budget-friendly choice for home entertainment, delivering on its promises and standing out in a market of average competitors.

The Glass Air is a more affordable, lighter, and slimmer version of the Glass Gen 2. Available in three sizes, pricing starts at £309, or £6 per month with a 48-month interest-free payment plan and a small upfront cost.

Like its higher-priced counterparts, the Glass Air requires a Sky subscription for full functionality, with the most basic package starting at £15 monthly. It still operates as a standard smart TV, supporting streaming apps, an aerial input, and HDMI connections—though most buyers will likely pair it with Sky’s broadband-based TV service.

The Glass Air is essentially a scaled-down Glass Gen 2, retaining the same operating system and smart features while omitting the built-in soundbar, aluminum frame, and using a different display panel. These changes make it significantly lighter and thinner.

Only a power cable and an internet connection—Wi-Fi or wired—are necessary, eliminating the need for additional cables. A single remote controls the TV, apps, and services, and the built-in microphone allows voice commands by saying "Hello Sky" before controls like power, search, or volume adjustments. Alternatively, users can press the mic button on the remote to speak directly.

The 4K LCD screen supports HDR and delivers a bright, sharp image, though it lacks advanced dimming technology found in more expensive models. As a result, contrast isn’t as dynamic, with bright scenes sometimes appearing washed out.

Still, the TV performs well for everyday viewing, handling TV shows, animations, and films competently. The 15W stereo speakers are impressive for a thin TV without a soundbar, delivering clear audio at high volumes—a rarity in budget televisions. Bass and surround effects are limited, but they suit casual viewing. For better sound, users can connect a soundbar via HDMI, though screen visibility may be slightly obstructed unless the TV is raised.

### Sky OS

A key advantage over similarly priced TVs is the refined Sky OS, which has significantly improved in recent years. It integrates live broadcasts, streaming services, and apps smoothly.