Guides

Xtream vs M3U vs Stalker: what's the difference?

Xtream Codes, M3U playlist, Stalker portal… these words keep coming up when setting up a player. Here's what each means, simply, and which to pick.

A player like Oryon provides no content: it plays what a source you bring offers. That source usually comes in one of three forms.

Xtream Codes

The most common format. Your service gives you a server URL, a username and a password. Upside: the player automatically pulls categories, live TV, movies, series and often the programme guide (EPG). It's the recommended option when your service offers it.

You need: URL + username + password.
Best for: a full experience (organised Live + Movies + Series).

M3U / M3U8 playlist

An .m3u file is simply a list of links. Your service gives you a single playlist URL. It's more basic: everything depends on how the provider organised the playlist. Many Xtream services also provide an M3U link.

You need: a single playlist URL.
Best for: a lightweight source, or when only an M3U link is provided.

Stalker portal

The Stalker format (also called "portal") uses a portal URL and a MAC address. It's a bit more technical and specific to some services.

You need: portal URL + MAC address.
Best for: services that only work via Stalker.

Which one to choose?

Use the type your provider gave you. If you have a choice, Xtream usually offers the best experience (neatly organised catalogue + EPG). With Oryon you can even add several sources and switch between them.

Oryon is a media player and provides no content. You must have your own legal source (Xtream, M3U or a Stalker portal). Visuals are illustrations.

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