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Review on Sling Media AirTV: Stream Local Channels to TVs πŸ“Ί and Mobile Devices with Built-in DVR Capability, Perfect for Sling TV by Sean Bond

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Over 30 OTA channels are built into the Sling TV app.

I installed an omnidirectional antenna in the attic and checked the signal on the TV before connecting the AirTV. The signal was good. Connecting the AirTV to my wireless network was hassle-free. Connecting to the Sling app on both of my TVs was more problematic as the Sling TV apps on my TVs couldn't be used to connect. Instead, I had to use the Sling app on my Android phone to find and install channels. Then the Sling apps on my two TVs connected to AirTV. However, I had to restart my FireTV and Roku TV stick to complete the connection. Initially, Sling apps didn't allow selecting OTA TV channels as "My Favorites". This has now been fixed in updates. I also had issues with the AirTV oscillating, skipping, and signal loss. The antenna in the attic gives a pretty good signal on most stations, but I suspect the weather can get in the way. Actually, I have three TVs, but AirTV only has two tuners, and therefore you are limited on how many TVs can access OTA channels at the same time. I don't know if two AirTVs can work on the same wireless network and increase the number of hits to four. For those who don't subscribe to Sling, AirTV offers a separate app. Sling works with Fire TV and Roku but not my 3 year old Samsung. Before purchasing a Sling or AirTV, you should check app availability and compatibility. Initially I would have given AirTV three stars, but lately the Sling apps seem to have been updated and AirTV is more stable, Sling has much better integration. So I'm increasing my rating to 4. Now I can watch over 30 (free) OTA TV channels integrated with cable channels provided by Sling. Many stations are not even available through the local cable company. There were actually over 50 channels available through AirTV, but I didn't select all of them to include. After that I didn't have to worry about running and hiding the coax cable to my wall mounted TVs. I am very happy with Sling and AirTV. If they keep improving their software (the firestick version sometimes crashes and takes me back to the home screen) then I think they'll end up getting five stars.

Pros
  • Cool
Cons
  • There are other interesting options.