If the picture quality does diminish while using an emulator, what is a good IPTV box to get?
If the picture quality does diminish while using an emulator, what is a good IPTV box to get?
The short answer is "Yes".
Stoked gave you an excellent long answer. To add to it, if you plan to use an android box there are many services that cater to that setup, but the way to go really isn't an emulator. There are some providers that offer great kodi support as well as dedicated android apps that work very well with an android device.
If the service you want use is a traditional stalker based service, like IPGuys or Express, then you should really consider getting a dedicated IPTV box like a MAG or a Dreamlink. However, an emulator can be a good way for you to try those services to ensure that really is the way you want to go.
So many of the newer providers are offering such great experiences with both HD quality content and android based builds that an IPTV box isn't as necessary as it once was.
If you have an android box already, maybe look at trials with services like Epicstreams, FabIPTV and Vaderstreams. All 3 offer great kodi/android app support.
I haven't tried it myself, but I doubt it.
When I complained about buffering and shit quality on IPGuys, I was told by some to get a real box.
That was bullshit because since I switched to express, the quality is much better and buffers way less. I do buffer on some channels, but nowhere near as much.
I couldn't justify spending the extra money on a "real" IPTV box without knowing the difference.
I'm Happy with my $35 box.
This is the ultimate question, and I don't think there is a right or wrong answer. There are MANY factors that can play a role.
The only way to know is to try both. Generally speaking, people that own a dedicated iptv set top box stick with it, and have no interest in using emulators.
There are some android devices that do not pay well with the emulators. Additionally, when dealing with various brands you sometimes could come into issues such as buttons on remotes being labelled incorrectly or not doing what you'd expect the to do. This can usually be remedied by purchasing a universal remote like a logitech one, but the price of a dedicated box would probably cost less.
Another thing to consider is support from providers or resellers. While most resellers will sell you the service, in many instances they will not offer technical support on that type of setup.
If you're a tech guy that doesn't mind tinkering with stuff, an emulator is a cheap alternative that may work well for you, assuming you already have a device laying around to use.
If you haven't decided on a box at all yet, and you know the primary purpose will be iptv, I'd seriously consider checking out the video reviews in the sticky over at /r/iptvgta to see the type of experience you can get with a proper box.
Additionally, some of the newer boxes on the market support PVR functionality, something you won't be able to get on a emulator.
So in short, if you have boxes already, try the emulator. But if you haven't got one yet, I'd do some more research before jumping the gun and picking up a generic box that may send you back to the drawing board a month later.