Which Smart TV is Best for IPTV? The Truth About Smart TVs

When looking for the best Smart TV for IPTV, most people assume that any television labeled as “smart” will do the job. However, this is a misleading marketing term. Many TVs are called Smart TVs simply because they come with Netflix or YouTube pre-installed, but that does not mean they support IPTV properly.

If you are serious about IPTV, you must choose the right TV with the correct operating system. In this article, we will explore what makes a TV suitable for IPTV, the best options available, and which TVs to avoid completely.

The History of Smart TVs – How Did We Get Here?

The concept of Smart TVs dates back to the early 2000s when TV manufacturers started integrating internet connectivity and limited software capabilities into their devices. However, these early attempts were clunky and slow.

Early Smart TVs (2007–2012)

• Manufacturers like Samsung, LG, and Sony experimented with internet-connected TVs.
• These TVs came with pre-installed apps like YouTube, but lacked app stores.
• The interfaces were often slow, and software updates were rare.

The Rise of App Stores (2013–2018)

• Companies introduced their own app stores, allowing users to install more apps.
• Samsung’s Tizen OS and LG’s WebOS improved the user experience but still had limitations.
• Streaming services like Netflix and Hulu became the main selling points of Smart TVs.

The Android TV Revolution (2018–Present)

• Google introduced Android TV, giving users access to the Google Play Store.
• This allowed users to install third-party apps, including IPTV apps.
• Google TV (a refined version of Android TV) became the standard for high-quality Smart TVs.

Today, only Google-powered TVs (Android TV & Google TV) truly support IPTV. Other Smart TV brands still struggle with restrictions, limited app compatibility, and lack of APK support.

What Makes a TV Good for IPTV?

Not all Smart TVs are created equal. To run IPTV applications like TiviMate, IPTV Smarters, XCIPTV, or Perfect Player, your TV must have a compatible operating system. Here’s what you need:

• Support for Android-based IPTV apps: Most IPTV services require an Android-based app to function correctly.
• Ability to install third-party apps: Many IPTV apps are not available in official TV app stores, so you must be able to install APK files manually.
• Good processor and RAM: IPTV streaming requires decent hardware to handle high-quality video streaming.

The best Smart TVs for IPTV are those running Google TV or Android TV. These TVs provide full support for IPTV apps, giving you the best experience without restrictions.

Best Smart TVs for IPTV in 2025

These are the top choices for IPTV streaming:

1. Sony Bravia XR (Google TV)

• Runs on Google TV, providing full support for IPTV apps.
• Supports installing APKs directly.
• Excellent picture quality and fast processor.
• View on Amazon UK

2. TCL Q-Series (Google TV)

• Uses Google TV, allowing full APK sideloading.
• More affordable than Sony but still high quality.
• View on Amazon UK

3. Hisense U8K (Google TV)

• Supports full IPTV functionality.
• Affordable yet powerful for streaming IPTV channels.
• View on Amazon UK

4. Nvidia Shield (Android TV – Not a TV, but a great IPTV box!)

• Powerful device running Android TV.
• Connects to any TV and turns it into the best IPTV machine.
• View on Amazon UK

🚨 WARNING: AVOID ROKU TVs AT ALL COSTS! 🚨

If you are serious about IPTV, do not buy a Roku TV! Roku does NOT support proper IPTV apps. Here’s why:

• No APK sideloading: Roku does not allow users to install APKs manually.
• Limited app store: Roku’s store does not have popular IPTV apps like TiviMate, IPTV Smarters, or XCIPTV.
• Locked ecosystem: You are stuck with what Roku allows – no customization, no third-party app support.

If you buy a Roku TV, you will be unable to use IPTV services properly. Instead, choose a Google TV or Android TV-powered device.

Final Thoughts – Choose Wisely

When looking for the best IPTV experience, avoid falling for the “Smart TV” label. Many so-called Smart TVs are nothing more than basic streaming devices with no real support for IPTV apps.

For the best experience, choose a Google TV or Android TV-powered device like the Sony Bravia XR, TCL Q-Series, or Hisense U8K. If you want ultimate flexibility, consider the Nvidia Shield, which turns any TV into the best IPTV hub.

And remember – DO NOT BUY A ROKU TV if you want IPTV!

For more IPTV tips, check out Husham.com and join the discussion in the Husham Forum.