How to choose an IPTV subscription before you pay

Most disappointments in this field come from paying before asking. Four questions before you pay prevent most problems, and the answers should be clear and direct.

Ask these before you pay

• Does it work on my device specifically? Send the model, its year and its system — a general answer is not an answer
• Which player is used, and does it charge a fee separate from the subscription?
• How many devices are allowed, and how many can run at the same time?
• What happens if it does not work? Read the refund policy before paying, not after

Clear answers to those four mean you are dealing with someone who knows what they are selling.

Signs to be careful of

• Absolute promises such as "never buffers" or a 100% figure — nobody can guarantee that, because your connection is part of the equation
• Refusing to answer about your device or about the player
• A price far below the market with no explanation
• No written refund policy you can read before paying

Start with a short plan

A monthly plan is the cheapest way to test the service on your device, your network and at your own peak hours.

Test at the time you normally watch — the evening, say — because networks behave differently through the day.

If it feels right, move to a longer plan. Longer plans usually cost less per month, but not before you are sure.

Compare value, not only price

Work out the cost per month for each plan instead of looking at the total, which makes the comparison fair.

Add any separate player fee, because it is part of the real cost.

And in the end, support that answers and fixes your problem matters more than a dollar or two in price.

Frequently asked questions