Xtream Codes vs. M3U Playlist: Which Login Method Should You Use?

Introduction

When setting up Smarters Player for the first time, you'll be asked to choose between Xtream Codes and M3U Playlist. Many users are confused about which one to pick. Don't worry—this guide will explain both methods clearly.

The good news? Smarters Player supports both methods, so you can use whichever your IPTV provider gives you.

What is Xtream Codes?

Xtream Codes (often written as "Xtream Codes API") is a login-based system that uses three pieces of information:

Server URL: Usually looks like http://provider.com:8080

Username: Your account username

Password: Your account password

Example Xtream Codes Login:

Server: http://mytv-provider.com:8080
Username: john_smith
Password: mySecure123

Where to Find Your Xtream Codes:

Your IPTV provider will typically send these via:

• Welcome email when you subscribe
• Customer portal/dashboard
• Support ticket response

What is M3U?

M3U (or M3U8) is a playlist format. Instead of a username and password, you get a single long URL that contains all your channels.

Example M3U URL:

http://provider.com/get.php?username=john&password=secret&type=m3u_plus&output=ts

Note: Even though the M3U URL often contains username and password, you paste the entire URL as one long link—you don't enter them separately.

Key Differences

Feature	Xtream Codes	M3U Playlist

Login Type	Username/Password	Single URL
EPG Loading	Automatic	Manual setup
Channel Categories	Organized automatically	Depends on provider
VOD & Series	Full support	Often limited
Catch-up TV	Supported	Rarely works
Account Info	View expiry date	Not available
Setup Difficulty	Very Easy	Easy

Which Should You Use?

Use Xtream Codes When:

✅ Your provider supports it (most do) ✅ You want automatic EPG without adding separate URLs ✅ You need VOD movies and TV series ✅ You want to see your subscription expiry date ✅ You want organized channel categories

Xtream Codes is generally the recommended method because it provides the best experience with full features.

Use M3U When:

✅ Your provider only gives you an M3U link ✅ You want to use the same playlist across multiple apps ✅ You need to customize or edit your channel list ✅ Xtream Codes isn't working for some reason

How to Add in Smarters Player

Adding Xtream Codes:

Open Smarters Player

Tap "+" to add a playlist

Select "Xtream Codes API"

Enter:

- Server URL (include http:// and port number) - Username - Password

Give your playlist a name

Tap Add

Adding M3U Playlist:

Open Smarters Player

Tap "+" to add a playlist

Select "M3U URL"

Paste your full M3U link

(Optional) Add an EPG URL for the program guide

Tap Add

Why EPG is Better with Xtream Codes

The Electronic Program Guide (EPG) shows you what's currently playing and upcoming programs. With Xtream Codes:

• EPG loads automatically with your playlist
• No need to find and add a separate EPG URL
• Program info is always up-to-date

With M3U, you'll often need to:

• Ask your provider for an EPG URL
• Add it manually in the app settings
• Sometimes troubleshoot mismatched channel IDs

Common Questions

Can I switch between methods?

Yes! If one isn't working, try the other. Smarters Player supports both.

My provider gave me both—which should I use?

Use Xtream Codes for the best experience and automatic EPG.

Why isn't my EPG working with M3U?

You may need to add the EPG URL manually, or the channel IDs might not match. Ask your provider for help.

Conclusion

For most users, Xtream Codes is the better choice because it provides automatic EPG, organized categories, and full access to VOD content. However, Smarters Player fully supports both methods, so use whichever your provider gives you.

Ready to get started? Download Smarters Player and set up your playlist in minutes!