Sky and NOW are run by the same company. Sky is the full TV package with a box (the dish-free Sky Stream or a Sky Glass TV; Sky Q is no longer sold to new customers) and usually a contract. NOW is the contract-free streaming version: you pay month to month for “memberships” like Entertainment, Cinema, Sports and Sports Extra, and watch in an app.
Not sure which suits you? Start with Sky Stream vs NOW. For current NOW membership prices, see the streaming prices tracker. HBO Max comes with some Sky and NOW packages: see HBO Max in Ireland.
All our NOW and Sky guides
Sky Sports vs Premier Sports: Which Do You Need?
A clear comparison of Sky Sports and Premier Sports coverage to help Irish fans pick the right subscription for their favourite competitions.
Setting Up Sky Stream on a New Smart TV
A step-by-step guide to connecting and setting up Sky Stream on a new smart TV in Ireland, from cabling to app configuration.
NOW Ireland Raises Prices for 2026
NOW Ireland is raising prices across several memberships for 2026. What current customers need to know before their next bill.
Sky Ireland Unveils New Streaming Price Plan for 2026
Sky Ireland has announced changes to its streaming pricing structure for 2026, and here’s what current and new customers need to know.
Why Does NOW Keep Buffering on Smart TVs?
A practical guide to fixing constant buffering on the NOW app when watching on smart TVs, covering broadband, Wi-Fi, app and device fixes.
NOW Streaming Stick Review: Is It Better Than Using a Smart TV App?
We put the dedicated NOW streaming stick head-to-head with a smart TV’s built-in NOW app to see which delivers a smoother experience for Irish viewers.
How to Set Up NOW on a Samsung or LG Smart TV
A step-by-step guide to downloading, installing, and signing into the NOW app on Samsung and LG smart TVs, plus tips for a smoother streaming setup.
How to Fix Common Sky Stream Remote and Pairing Issues
A practical troubleshooting guide for Irish Sky Stream users experiencing remote pairing, connectivity, or interference problems.
Sky Sports+ Explained: More Live Streams at No Extra Cost
Sky Sports+ gives Irish Sky Sports customers extra live streams at no extra cost. How to find it on Sky Q, Sky Glass and Sky Stream.
Sky Stream vs NOW in Ireland: Which Is Better Value?
Sky Stream or NOW? Contracts, what each includes, the box and the apps, and NOW Entertainment from €8.99 a month with no contract. Which suits your home.