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(GLOUCESTERCITYNEWS.NET)(July 23, 2020)--IPTV is the new buzz word. It’s a new type of TV service that may replace conventional TVs. When compared with cable, it’s more versatile. However, it comes with some restrictions. But there’s cable in every other household and there are juicy bundles out there such as Spectrum packages. So can IPTV really gain the cable kind of dominance? 

This is a question that deserves IPTV vs. cable debate and this blog addresses that exactly. Let’s dive into the comparison, shall we!

What is IPTV?

IPTV refers to the delivery of TV over IP networks. It lets you stream the source media without any interruption. Cable TV broadcaster normally sends out the signals and the reviews receive them. In other words, the viewers are only able to watch whatever is being broadcasted. They never get to dictate what is on and when. The viewer can only watch what’s available.

Things are different with IPTV. It sends TV shows or movies through the standard internet connection. This technology uses video-on-demand features to let you view a range of shows. There is a whole complex network architecture behind how it works so let’s not get into that. 

What’s important is you don’t watch the content being broadcasted. You tell the provider what you want to watch and they send it to you right away. Cool, right?

What is Cable TV?

Cable TV uses traditional coaxial cable to deliver RF signals for broadcasting shows. Now that technology has advanced, fiber optic cables are used for transmitting light pulses to display content.

IPTV and Cable TV Service Compared 

Let’s compare both services to figure out which one’s better and likely to stay;

Setting It Up

It’s plain to see that IPTV is much simpler to set up. All you have to do is download software and use the Internet to watch the content. No need to wait for a technician to come and visit your place, and install the connection. No extra equipment for setup is needed either. 

Cable TV, on the other hand, requires the help of a technician for setup and installation. A cable box is required as well, which your cable provider will send at your place along with a technician. 

Ease of Use

IPTV and modern cable TV setup has a very limited operational difference. The interface and features are very much the same. With traditional cable, you have a remote that lets you perform functions like switching the channels, muting, unmuting. Now that modern cable providers also support DVR recording, every user knows how to get started.

The functionality of modern IPTV boxes is easy as well. If you already know how to operate a modern TV, you will have no problem adjusting to IPTV. to overcome the issue of adjustability, you can buy IPTV at your nearest convenience. For instance, if you're in Canada, you should buy IPTV in Canada.

If you already know how to operate a modern TV, you will have no problem adjusting to IPTV.

Picture Quality

IPTV service providers display content in the MPEG-4 standard. It’s similar to streaming so you will be pleased with the quality. High definition videos are compressed and you should be able to view crystal clear content. It looks just as great as TV. In fact, IPTV can distribute content to all connected devices better than traditional TV. 

Channel Accessibility 

If you want more channel lineup, IPTV will be your best entertainment fix. Cable service providers have started bringing a huge channel lineup as well. The problem is these channels also include networks you rarely watch. 

IPTV lets you choose the channels you want to see and that also includes global networks. Even if an IPTV service provider offers fewer channels but they are offering the channels you love, it’s a fair deal. In the end, satisfying experience is all that matters.

Price

IPTV is much affordable as compared to cable TV. Even if you add extras to your service, it’s still cheaper than cable. You have more room for customizing your packages as well. Plus, you are paying for the channels you would like to watch, nothing more and nothing less.

Features and Control

IPTV comes with features like pause, video recording, media players, weather information, music on demand, and even start-over TV. As the technology progresses, more features will appear for sure. Cable TV has advanced too but it doesn’t support features such as video recording or starting over. So, if you would like to have more control and enjoy advanced features, IPTV is what you need. 

So Who Wins?

From the comparison, it’s obvious IPTV service is taking the lead. However, much of the cable TV audience comprises of baby boomers who would like to hold on to traditional TV experience. Plus, TV has a huge role to play in bringing families together.

IPTV is the future, but it’s not going to replace the traditional cable. Networks have started to support this service too. That’s why cable TV providers are also offering IPTV services by allowing their subscribers to watch TV on their mobile devices.

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