I'm looking to learn all I can and this is step one as I start reading.
Before I got out and drop $160 on a preloaded box, is that the right path or amount? Which program or software is proper?
I also see that there is a monthly payment. Is $15 about average for US and CAN stations in HD?
In total I think I'll spend $160 on the TV box all loaded up, and $15/month on the subscription service.
HELP!!! lol
i just got a firestick for 40. installed kodi and added the iptv addon. works great.
You can get an android box or a firestick for less than $50 and just install STB Emu Pro or Perfect player as your IPTV medium.
If you decide to go with a dedicated box, MAG 254 and Dreamlink T1 are your choices, it offers cable like experience. They can be had for less than $95 USD, I got mine on ebay.
you could also hookup with /u/stokedcrf . He's based in Canada and already helped a lot of people there.
Don't pay for a loaded box! Resellers use this as a method to scam people! They load up cheap 50 dollar boxes and sell them.
Check out the sticky with video reviews over at /r/iptvgta to see what suits your style and preference.
If it's iptv you want, stay away from all the firesticks and generic Android boxes. Consider getting a mag 254 for Linux reliability. If you want extra apps, look at dreamlink or avov.
The dreamlink shouldnt cost you more than 125cad max.
If you don't need wireless, you can get the mag 254 without it for about 85 cad
Id say the best thing to do is get a MAG STB(set top box) here
And check r/iptvreviews the 10$ thread. You can find all the different iptv services and what they offer.
Really /u/SpideysHero, what it comes down to for you is just how technical you are and what you want your box to do. If you are someone who likes to play around with technology and would get full use of an android box setup, you can start there with an android box you can probably buy on eBay for about $60. It will require some work to get it to work properly with IPTV but there are some providers that work well with Kodi.
If you are looking for a more plug and play option, the MAG254 is the consensus easiest and best. The Dreamlink T1 is a bit more money but also has android capability.
EVERYONE, THANK YOU SO MUCH!
I have so much information now. Very much appreciated.
Top 3 tips to make sure you don't get completely ripped off:
Don't buy anything pre-loaded
With the potential exception of IPGuys (which is known for it's established reliability, but makes the overall picture quality sacrifice), don't buy anything that doesn't let you try it out first. Free being optional of course, but even if you have to cough up the $1-3 to do it.
When you do decide to buy something, only buy one month to start. If a service is trying to use a 6 month or 1 year and heavily discounted rate to woo you in, that should also be viewed as a potential red flag right off the bat. 9/10 times they are usually doing that (where others are not) for a reason...and it isn't to help your bottom line.