What is IPTV?
IPTV, or Internet Protocol Television, means that your television programming is being communicated using the internet protocol. IPTV sends shows and movies through your standard internet connection instead of transmitting content via light pulses in fiber-optic cable or radio waves from a satellite. With cable or satellite TV, you can only watch what’s being broadcasted by the broadcasters unless you have a recording device that will allow you to record and watch the program later.
The majority of IPTV uses VOD, Video on Demand, or time-shifted media. So, you can simply watch whatever you want whenever you want instead of watching only what’s being broadcasted at that moment. However, many TVs aren’t equipped for IPTV so you’ll need a set-top box. Your computer, on the other hand, can stream without any specific setup. So, if you can connect your TV to your computer, you won’t be needing the set-top box to watch IPTV.
How to choose the IPTV provider
The popularity of IPTV has been on the rise for a while now which led to the creation of many new service providers. Now, that there are so many providers to choose from, it can be hard finding out which ones are the best. You can read more about some of the features the providers offer.
There are several aspects to consider when choosing the provider and those are:
- Location
- Device compatibility
- UX
- Channels
The location is the most important thing to consider when looking for an IPTV provider. You should also take into account any chance of you moving from your current location. Certain services are available only in particular regions and so you should see whether the specific service is available in your region. You’ll want to look for providers that cover a larger geographical area as, in case you do move in the future, you’ll have better chances of remaining with the current provider. Keep in mind that the distance between you and the place the provider is streaming from will also affect the quality of the stream, meaning you want to go with the provider that is near you.
The second thing you should consider is device compatibility. The majority of providers use apps to stream their content. While some may offer to stream on multiple different devices, many are limited to a smaller number of them. If you know what your main device on which you’ll be watching your shows is, then you can narrow down your choices of providers. Of course, if you can, choose the provider that offers to stream on multiple types of devices.
User experience, or UX, is very important and it will ultimately decide whether you stick with the same provider or you choose to switch to a new one. You want them to offer good customer support and a good watching experience. Whenever you run into a problem, you should be able to get their help as soon as possible.
You also want a good choice of channels. Before making your choice, go through the provider’s channel list and see which ones have the richest choice.
