The Best IPTV Boxes of 2024: Enhance Your TV Viewing
In the realm of entertainment, IPTV has revolutionized how we access and enjoy TV channels and on-demand content. With a multitude of best IPTV boxes available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we provide a concise evaluation of various IPTV boxes, highlighting their features and performance.
Below is a list of various IPTV set-top boxes, including budget-friendly and high-end devices.
When searching for the IPTV set-top box that suits you best, there are several factors to consider.
Some of the most important factors to consider include price point, internal storage, IPTV integration, and overall device performance.
Price can be considered the most crucial factor when selecting an IPTV set-top box.
If you only intend to use streaming applications for movies and TV shows, you may not need an expensive option.
However, if you plan on recording, installing multiple applications, and prefer uninterrupted streaming, you may need to consider a more advanced device.
Below, you will find a list of the best IPTV set-top boxes currently available in the market. But first, let’s define what an IPTV box is and provide some background information on IPTV.
What is an IPTV Box?
An IPTV box, also known as an IPTV set-top box or IPTV receiver, is a device that allows users to access and stream Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) content on their television. It is a hardware device that connects to a TV and enables users to watch live TV channels, on-demand videos, and other multimedia content via an internet connection.
IPTV boxes typically come preloaded with IPTV applications or software that provide access to IPTV services. These services deliver television content over an IP network, allowing users to stream channels, movies, TV shows, and other media directly to their TV screens. IPTV boxes may also offer additional features such as DVR functionality, electronic program guide (EPG), and support for various streaming protocols.
By connecting an IPTV box to a TV, users can enjoy a wide range of entertainment options, including live sports events, movies, TV series, documentaries, and more, all delivered through the internet.
Are IPTV Boxes Legal?
The purchase and use of IPTV set-top boxes themselves are not illegal. However, there have been cases in the past where people were selling “preloaded” boxes, which is usually illegal.
IPTVFav never recommends buying “preloaded” or “jailbroken” boxes.
When purchasing an IPTV set-top box, you should always buy new devices from reputable vendors such as Amazon, NVIDIA, MECOOL, Google, and other vendors mentioned in this guide.
Why do you need an IPTV box?
With a regular IPTV set-top box, you can watch programs without having to subscribe. You can access free streaming video through applications like Bee TV and Moviebox. You also have the freedom to choose from other services that offer hundreds or even thousands of live TV channels.
The most popular type of universal IPTV box is called an Android TV box. It supports the installation of any video streaming application.
Best IPTV Boxes
I have reviewed several IPTV set-top boxes, and now I have conveniently compiled the best of the best below. This list aims to be the ultimate summary of my most highly recommended IPTV set-top boxes, with links to full reviews. If you’re looking to purchase the best IPTV set-top box for streaming from IPTV service providers, make sure to ultimately choose one of the following options.
Formuler Z11 Pro Max
Formuler is one of the most renowned IPTV set-top box manufacturers in the world, and the Formuler Z11 Pro Max is the top-of-the-line IPTV set-top box available today. This Android TV box boasts powerful features and functionality, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a robust IPTV set-top box capable of streaming content in Ultra HD and 4K resolution.
The setup and navigation speed are lightning-fast, making accessing and using IPTV services a breeze.
Most importantly, the Formuler Z11 comes with a built-in IPTV application that allows you to integrate your favorite services.
The provided remote control can also be used with IPTV services through the MYTVOnline3 application, including features like favorites button, TV guide, and more.
Unlike other Android devices that use Stock Android, this device is equipped with the Android 11 operating system.
With 32GB of internal storage, users can record content and install all the best applications and APKs without worrying about running out of space.
One thing to note is that the Formuler Z11 does not support HD Netflix, so users of that service may want to explore alternative options.
Features of Formuler Z11 Pro Max:
- Internal Storage: 32GB
- DDR4 Memory: 4GB
- WiFi: 6th Generation AX 2×2 Wireless
- Gigabit LAN
- Android 11
- USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports
- Micro SD card slot
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Graphics: Mali G57
- Best-in-class decoding technology
- MYTVOnline3 IPTV application
- Clean and customizable home screen with no ads
- Intuitive remote control
- Recording options with remote storage
- Supports 4K resolution and Ultra HD content
Cost
Currently, the Formuler Z11 Pro Max is priced at $199.99.
NVIDIA Shield TV: The Best TV Streaming Money Can Buy
NVIDIA SHIELD comes right after as the best IPTV set-top box contender. NVIDIA has replaced the old Shield TV (which was considered the king of IPTV set-top boxes) with two new models: the gaming-focused Shield TV Pro and the more affordable stick-style device. Both run the same software and feature the powerful Tegra X1+ processor, but for the purpose of TV watching, we recommend purchasing the cheaper model.
Features of NVIDIA SHIELD:
- 8GB/16GB Storage
- 2GB/3GB RAM
- Tegra X1+ processor
- 802.11ac 2×2 MIMO 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi
- Android 11.0 powered by Android TV
- Google Voice Control
Cost
Currently, the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Stick is priced at $149.99, and the NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro is priced at $199.99.
Fire TV Stick 4K Max: The Popular Streaming Device by Amazon
The most popular streaming device in the cord-cutting and streaming realm is the Amazon Firestick. It has entered millions of households worldwide due to its affordability, sideloading capabilities, and portability.
The device offers straightforward navigation, VPN compatibility, and is highly suitable for IPTV providers.
Its popularity is primarily due to its sideloading feature, which allows users to install third-party applications outside the Amazon Appstore. This is often referred to as a “jailbroken” device for free movies, TV shows, live TV, games, etc.
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is the most popular Firestick model, but there are other budget-friendly versions available, such as the Fire TV Stick Lite or Fire TV Stick.
All Firestick devices are great for streaming IPTV, but we recommend purchasing the Firestick 4K Max.
Features of Fire TV Stick 4K Max:
- 4K streaming capabilities
- Dolby Vision and surround sound
- Amazon Alexa Voice Remote
- 8GB storage capacity
- Quad-core CPU 1.8GHz, GPU 750MHz
Cost
Currently, the Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max is priced at $83.09.
Google TV with Chromecast – The Best Device for Android TV
The new Chromecast with Google TV was released in the fall of 2020 and quickly became a top choice for streaming devices.
Buying an Android TV device can be a minefield, with many cheap boxes running odd “TV-optimized” versions of Android that aren’t quite right. That changed with the introduction of the Chromecast with Google TV in the fall of 2020. It’s essentially a Chromecast with a remote and Google’s new Google TV interface, which means access to the Google Play Store, nearly all major UK TV apps, and a smoother, more reliable experience than most other Android-based devices.
The box supports 4K resolution, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos, so the audio and visual quality is on par with the best 4K devices from Roku, Amazon, and Apple.
With its updated interface and reasonable price tag, many people choose the new Chromecast with Google TV as their streaming device of choice.
Features of Chromecast:
- 1080p HDR/4K HDR
- Max video resolution: 4K/60 fps
- Perfectly paired with Google Assistant and Google Home products
Cost
Currently, the Chromecast with Google TV 4K version is priced at $49.99, and the Chromecast with Google TV HD version is priced at $29.99.
BuzzTV X5
BuzzTV is known for its Android TV boxes that cater to our needs as IPTV service users. These devices come with dedicated IPTV applications and a remote designed specifically for that application. These streaming devices can also be used with sideloaded apps like Kodi and Syncler. Plenty of practical quality-of-life rewards.
The BuzzTV X5 comes in three versions, all with aluminum casing.
The 64AI includes 64GB eMMC internal storage, and the 128AI includes 128GB or eMMC storage.
I’m pleased to report that BuzzTV runs on Android TV 11, not stock Android. Android TV offers a user-friendly remote control experience and access to TV-optimized apps through the Google Play Store.
One of my favorite new features of the BuzzTV X5 is the ability to rewind live TV. Many times, while watching IPTV streams, I’ve wanted to rewind and watch certain content again. Now we can do that with BuzzTV 5!
Features of BuzzTV X5:
- Operating System: Android 11
- CPU: Amlogic S905Y4 Quad-core Cortex A55
- GPU: ARM Mali-G31 MP2
- RAM: 4GB
- Internal Storage: 64GB eMMC or 128GB eMMC
- LAN/Ethernet: 100/1000 Mbps
- WiFi: 2T/2R Dual-band
- USB: 1 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB 3.0
- Card Reader: 1 x TF microSD
- HDMI Output: 4Kp75 10-bit: H.265/VP9 P-2/AVS2, 4Kp120 10-bit: AV1 HDR10/10+
- Enhanced Audio Output: 1 x Optical Digital Audio
- Remote: BT-400 Smart Remote
- Power: Standard Canada/US or Universal Power Kit (EU/UK/AU/ZA)
- BuzzTV App: BuzzTV5
Cost
- BUZZTV X5 AX SPECIAL EDITION 128GB – $199.99
- BUZZTV X5 128GB – $179.99
- BUZZTV X5 64GB – $159.99
MECOOL KM2
MECOOL is a well-known manufacturer of Android TV boxes, and the MECOOL KM2 is a new Android TV box that features the Android TV 10 media player and comes with a new Google reference design remote. In addition to the old features of MECOOL Android TV boxes, including the official Android TV 10 operating system, built-in Chromecast, support for Google Assistant, 4K HDR, Prime Video, YouTube 4K, etc., the MECOOL KM2 set-top box comes with the Netflix TV version with Android operating system. It supports 4K streaming on Netflix!
It’s important to note that it runs Android TV, not the stock Android found on phones, tablets, and generic Android boxes.
Android TV is optimized for the TV experience and remote control.
Its performance is on par with Google Chromecast but with more ports and expandability.
Features of MECOOL KM2:
- Operating System: Android 10
- CPU: Amlogic S905X2-B Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53
- GPU: ARM G31 MP2
- RAM: 2GB DDR4
- ROM: 8GB eMMC
- Bluetooth: V4.2
- LAN Ethernet: 10/100M
- WiFi: Dual Band 2.4GHz/5GHz
- Certified: Google Certified
- DRM: Support Microsoft PlayReady, Google Widevine L1
- HDCP: Support HDCP2.3
Cost
Currently, the MECOOL KM2 Box is priced at $79.99.
FAQ
Is IPTV box illegal?
IPTV boxes themselves are not illegal. They are simply video devices, similar to DVD players. However, you must be cautious about the applications installed on IPTV boxes.
Some applications may transmit content without authorization from the copyright holders.
Using such illegal applications on IPTV boxes would be considered illegal.
What is the best Android TV box for IPTV?
Some of the best Android TV boxes available for IPTV include Formuler Z11 Pro Max, Fire TV Stick 4K Max, NVIDIA SHIELD, and more.
Do I need an IPTV Box if I have a Smart TV?
While some smart TVs have apps for various content, the performance of smart TVs is limited. An IPTV box will provide you with thousands of apps and tools for a more comprehensive and enhanced streaming experience.
Where do I purchase an IPTV Box?
To access a variety of IPTV box options and get the best prices, you may need to purchase them online.
Amazon is a reliable place to buy high-quality IPTV boxes at attractive prices.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, this Reviews list of IPTV boxes offers valuable insights into the top choices available. Whether you’re looking for high-end performance with the Formuler Z11 Pro Max, budget-friendly streaming with the Fire TV Stick 4K Max, versatile gaming capabilities with the NVIDIA SHIELD, user-friendly interface with Chromecast, or dedicated IPTV features with BuzzTV X5 and MECOOL KM2, there’s an IPTV box to suit your needs.
