Side by side
| Smart TV apps (Samsung, LG) | Streaming stick (Fire TV, Google TV) | |
|---|---|---|
| Player choice | A handful per platform, varying by model year | Wide on Fire OS and Google TV |
| Adding your login | Often uploaded on the developer’s website with the TV’s MAC address | Usually typed into the player, or via a phone keyboard |
| Large playlists | Limited app memory; very big lists can fail | More memory; still keep lists lean |
| Updates | From the TV maker, sometimes ending after a few years | From Amazon or Google, plus app updates |
| Ethernet | Usually built in | Usually via an adapter |
| Extra cost | None | The stick |
The limits of TV apps
- Model support. Smart IPTV’s current version supports Samsung Tizen 6.5 and later (2022 models onwards), according to its website, so older sets need a different player. See best IPTV apps for Samsung TVs and IPTV on LG TVs.
- Memory. Smart IPTV’s FAQ suggests reducing the playlist size, or saving it online, when a list fails because of low memory. See IPTV not working on a Samsung TV.
- Activation per TV. Many TV players charge a one-off activation for each TV, such as Smart IPTV and IBO Player. See Smart IPTV and IBO Player.
- Some TVs take no IPTV apps at all. Sky Glass, for example, can’t install third-party IPTV apps, so a device in its HDMI port is the only route. See IPTV on Sky Glass.
What a stick adds
- More players, including TiviMate on Fire OS and Google TV. See best IPTV apps for Firestick.
- A newer system on an older TV, and faster menus than many ageing sets.
- One player across TVs if you add sticks to several rooms.
Before you buy a stick
Check whether it runs Fire OS or Vega OS: the Fire TV Stick 4K Select and the 2026 Fire TV Stick HD can only install Appstore apps. See Vega OS explained and Firestick vs Android TV box.