Here is what to expect from the channels with IPTV in Canada, and how to check yours. IPTV ads love big numbers: “30,000 channels”, “every channel in the world”. It is natural to assume that means you get everything you had on cable and more. The honest answer is more nuanced. A good IPTV service covers the channels most Canadians watch, but no service carries literally every channel, and lineups change over time. This guide explains what to expect and how to check before you pay. For more background, see Internet Protocol television on Wikipedia.
What a typical IPTV lineup includes
- Canadian national channels: major English networks and news channels.
- Local and regional channels from different Canadian cities.
- Quebec and French-language channels: news, entertainment, sports and kids channels in French.
- Sports: Canadian and American sports networks, league channels and pay-per-view events. See IPTV for live sports.
- US channels: major networks, news, entertainment and specialty channels.
- International channels: groups from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America and more, useful for newcomers and multilingual homes.
- Movies and series on demand, organized by category.
See our lineup: IPTV channel list for Canada.
Why “30,000 channels” does not mean “every channel”
Big channel counts usually include:
- The same channel in several qualities (SD, HD, FHD, 4K) and backups, each counted separately.
- Regional versions of the same network from many cities.
- Hundreds of international channels most viewers never open.
- Event channels that only show content during specific games.
So what matters is not the total, but whether your channels are there, in good quality.
What might be missing or change
- Small specialty or niche channels may not be included.
- Channels can move, change names or be replaced over time, as with any TV provider.
- Some channels do not have catch-up or a full TV guide.
- Local blackouts or event changes can affect specific sports broadcasts.
Why lineups change is explained in how IPTV gets its content.
How to check before you pay
- Write down your must-have channels: the 10 to 15 you watch every week.
- Check the channel list on the provider’s website.
- Ask the provider about any channel not listed. A good provider gives a straight answer.
- Test with a free trial: open each must-have channel, in the evening, and check the guide and quality. Start ours here.
Finding channels in your app
- Use the search function in the Live TV section.
- Browse by category: Canada, Quebec, Sports, News, Kids, and so on.
- Use the TV guide to see what each channel is showing.
- Add your channels to Favourites so you never have to search again. See managing favourites.
Channel names can differ
The same channel can appear under slightly different names, with a region or quality tag, for example “CA | Channel Name HD” or “Channel Name East”. If you cannot find a channel, search for part of its name, or ask us.
For a channel-by-channel view of what you gain or lose when you switch, see IPTV vs cable in Canada.
Channels With IPTV: frequently asked questions
Are Quebec channels included?
Yes, our service includes Quebec and French-language channels. Check the channel list for details.
Are pay-per-view events included?
Our plans include PPV and sports events. Availability of a specific event is confirmed closer to the date.
Do all plans have the same channels?
Yes. All our plan lengths include the same lineup. See plans.
What if a channel stops working?
Try its other versions, then tell us which one. We check it and let you know. See is IPTV down today.
Check your channels
Have a channel you cannot live without? Ask us before subscribing, or start a free trial and check it yourself.