New users who wish to upgrade to Sky Q from Sky+ or users who have already subscribed to Sky Q have one common question, can I use my old Sky box with sky Q?
It’s not possible to use an old Sky box for the new connection due to account subscription and device non-compatibility issues. All you can do is watch free channels, sell, or recycle the box.
Now, let’s clearly outline the reasons for the same and alternate ways to use your old boxes in detail.
Can I Use My Old Sky Box with Sky Q?
Most of the Sky Plus subscribers would love to go for an upgrade with better technology. However, most would like to take the chance with no extra cost in purchasing new set-top-boxes.
Also, they need not keep the old box bundled inside a cabinet once the new setup arrives.
So, if you are thinking, ‘will my old Sky box work with Sky Q’, you may feel disappointed.
They will not work, and you have to get the new box from the wholesome package provided by Sky Networks.
The Main Reason Why You Cannot Use Old Sky Box with Sky Q
The major reason is the technology used in the Sky Q concept. It no longer supports the older versions of Sky boxes and has to run independently.
The Sky Plus boxes were versatile. You could easily go for an upgrade from normal Sky to Sky Plus with the same box. The ease of use also got a thumbs-up from many consumers.
Sky Q is far superior in technology and streaming experience when compared to Sky Plus or Sky. The introduction of Sky Q was in order to transition all their existing customers here gradually.
While it is an appreciable move, the problem of older set-top-boxes still bugs many.
We have discussed more reasons why you cannot use the old Sky Box with Sky Q below.
Why Can You Not Use Old Sky Box with Sky Q?
Many users still thought they could experiment with their older boxes with the new Sky Q subscription before choosing the new box. It was in order to answer the question – Can old sky box still work with Sky Q?
Nevertheless, it was of no use. They were left with account suspension or non-compatibility issues.
Let’s see a detailed description of why the old Sky boxes are no longer useful in many households after subscribing to Sky Q.
Reason #1: Account Subscription Issues
The main reason why an old Sky box will not work any longer with Sky Q is the account subscription change problem.
Once you have upgraded to Sky Q, your account type also changes. Moreover, your old Sky Plus subscription will immediately cease to exist.
Hence, if you try to connect your old box with the new account, you will be facing error messages regarding the subscription package.
Reason #2: No Two Connections Allowed Simultaneously
Also, one other point to note is that once you are a Sky Q customer, you cannot think of having another connection with Sky Plus at home.
Sky Network does not allow this customer subscription package. The whole idea of bringing Sky Q to the market is to make all the customers choose Sky Q over Sky Plus.
Additionally, the migration is happening slowly with many choosing Sky Q for the superior quality and many HD channels available.
Hence, the answer for using an old Sky box with sky Q is pretty clear for this reason.
Reason #3: Device Non-Compatibility
The inability of the user to use the old box to the new Sky Q connection relies on yet another cause.
Sky Q was brought to the market to create a revolution in the field of TV channel streaming. Hence, your old boxes cannot fulfil the technology needs of Sky Q.
Sky Q needs a better working methodology, and Sky Plus works by the regular streaming technology rules.
The tech upgrade is to make sure the users get a better experience than Sky plus boxes. Most of them find this upgrade on par with the tech needs in the current era.
What Exactly to Do with An Old Sky Box?
Seeing your old box sitting in a corner can be disheartening after all these years of usage and money spent.
While you like to upgrade to new technology easily, older ones still have a special place in your hearts.
You are always on the quest to see options of alternate usage without wasting the money given.
Now that you know that you cannot connect your old box to Sky Q, let’s see the alternative options to prevent your old boxes from going to waste.
Solution #1: View Free Channels
Your old Sky + box is still useful for viewing Free to Air channels. You can utilize it as an extra set-up in another room. However, you have to connect to a satellite to successfully watch those channels.
Moreover, the setup is not that easy. The procedure involves many steps and needs time.
However, once done, your set-top box is in use with the free channels. Also, if possible, you can connect the free channels along with a few Irish channels.
One point to note is that after connection, you can only purely watch the channels and not use other options like the record, pause, play, etc. It is a perfect idea to use as a secondary option in the house.
Solution #2: Sell it Online
If you still find it not useful in your household, consider selling it online on sites like eBay.
Do not forget to mention the year of purchase and the features capable with the box while selling.
Try storing it away for a few days before giving it away to friends or colleagues. Either way, you are not wasting the Sky Plus box and putting some use into it.
Still Don’t Know What to Do with An Old Sky Box?
You are left with only a few options when it comes to using old Sky boxes. If you do not like either of them, you are still left with the question of what to do with the old boxes.
Consider Recycling or Returning the Box
If you want to contribute to the world, you could consider recycling the box. You can choose to give it to companies that recycle plastic items.
Else, Sky Network also accepts returns of old and unused items.
Contact the Sky Network helpline and ask about the return procedure. An agent might pick it up, or you might find locations where you can give back the set-top box in person.
Choose either of the ways given above to return and recycle the product.
Store Instead of Throwing the Box Away
Moreover, consider storing it away instead of throwing it away in bins. They are harmful and cause more damage to nature.
The simple answer to Can I use my old Sky box with Sky Q is “No”. The Sky Q is built to suit higher tech needs and the older box is not compatible with the tech upgrade.
Read Next: How to Get Freesat on Sky Box For Free?
Conclusion
Owing to the quality and real-life experience in channels, many opt for Sky Q usage. But, sadly, even if you don’t want to upgrade, it’s not possible to use an old Sky Box with Sky Q.
Hence, if you find an old Sky Box lying in your house unused, consider the above guide to make use of them. Else, you could always return it to the Sky Network directly for recycling.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.