Tuner vs. IPTVX: IPTV players for Apple devices compared
Both apps are players without content and play M3U and Xtream sources with a programme guide, catch-up and iCloud sync. IPTVX also offers Plex and SMB sources. Tuner also runs on the Mac and adds recordings with timeshift, Sport mode, profiles with PIN and a lifetime option; there is no account and no tracking.
| Feature | Tuner | IPTVX |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone and iPad | yes | yes |
| Mac | yes | not mentioned |
| M3U/M3U8 and Xtream Codes | yes | yes |
| Plex and SMB sources | no | yes |
| Programme guide (EPG), custom XMLTV URL | yes | yes |
| Catch-up / “From the start” | yes | yes |
| iCloud sync, resume | yes | yes |
| Multiview | up to 9 channels | yes |
| Recordings | yes | not mentioned |
| Timeshift (pause live TV) | yes | not mentioned |
| Sport mode | yes | not mentioned |
| Detects off-air and frozen channels | yes | not mentioned |
| Profiles with PIN, kids profile | yes | parental control |
| Offline downloads | yes | yes |
| Family Sharing | yes | yes |
| No account, no tracking | yes | not mentioned |
| Price | free · Plus from €4.99/month or €99.99 once | in-app purchases |
As of: November 8, 2026. IPTVX details as stated in its App Store description. “Not mentioned” means not listed in the description, not necessarily unavailable. Source: App Store: IPTVX (Bending X - FZE), Version 25.0.9
Strengths at a glance
Tuner
- Mac app, also as a recorder
- Recordings and timeshift
- Sport mode with countdown and match minute
- Best source and Stream Shield
- Lifetime purchase, no account
IPTVX
- Plex and SMB sources
- On the App Store since 2019, many ratings
- Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG explicitly listed
Why Tuner
Native on every Apple device
One SwiftUI app for iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and Mac – with Picture in Picture, AirPlay, widgets and focus navigation on Apple TV.
Stream Shield and Best source
A buffer with automatic reconnect absorbs short drop-outs. With Tuner Plus, duplicate channels (FHD, 4K, backup) become one row and Tuner recommends the most reliable one.
Sport mode
Matches recognised in your guide and bundled, with countdown and estimated match minute – for football, NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, Formula 1, tennis and golf.
Live stills and From the start
Current pictures from the live programme if you want them; restart running shows when your provider offers catch-up.
No account, no tracking
No Tuner account, no analytics, no ads. Credentials stay in the Keychain, sync runs through your iCloud.
Pay once if you like
Tuner is free; Tuner Plus comes monthly, yearly or as a lifetime purchase – with Family Sharing.
FAQ
Can I switch from IPTVX to Tuner?
Yes. You only need your playlist link or Xtream login. Favourites and progress are not transferred.
Does Tuner support Plex or SMB?
Not at the moment. Tuner plays M3U, M3U8 and Xtream sources with XMLTV guide data.