Discover the key difference between OTT and SVOD services in this expert guide. Learn about how each model works and which is best for you!
When it comes to streaming your favorite video content, you have to choose between OTT and SVOD models.
Both OTT (Over the Top) and SVOD (Subscription video on demand) models influences the quality of the content you stream.
Also, if you’re wondering why content streamed on Netflix is different from those on YouTube, you’re in the right place.
In this post, I’ll break down the key differences between OTT and SVOD. This enables you determine which is best for your entertainment preference or business.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- OTT apps and platforms are highly compatible with differs devices. This includes computers, tablets, smartphones, and even smart TVs.
- Videos streams via SVOD platforms are without ad display, ensuring uninterrupted viewing experience.
- Adilo in a robust Subscription on Demand (SVOD) provider with advanced video streaming features.
- Both OTT and SVOD model deliver content over the internet without needing cable or paid satellite plan.
- the key difference between OTT and SVOD is that SVOD (Subscription video on demand) is a sub category of OTT ( Over-the-Top) model.
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What is a OTT?
OTT or Over-the-Top model refers to content streamed over the internet without needing to subscribe to a cable box or satellite dish.
Content streamed on OTT includes movies, TV shows, live sports, music and podcast. Popular OTT platforms are Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Spotify and Disney+.
Furthermore, OTT platforms can be categorized based on how they’re monetized:
- SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) like Netflix
- AVOD (Ad-supported Video on Demands) like YouTube
- TVOD (Transactional Video on Demand) like iTunes
How Does OTT Works?
OTT content are delivered via internet connections accessed through apps or websites.
Content ranging from movies, to music are uploaded, streamed and distributed on OTT platforms for users. Users interested in any of the content then has to download the app or connect via the website to download the content.
After an account is created by the users, content can be streamed for free with ads, or through paid subscriptions. Also, content on OTT can be saved on a user dashboard and can be accessed anytime. Viewers can as well start watching a video before the entire content gets downloaded.
Pros
- Easy navigation: It easy to create an account on OTT platforms. Likewise, streaming your favorite content at anytime and any location.
- Device compatibility: OTT apps and platforms are highly compatible with differs devices. This includes computers, tablets, smartphones, and even smart TVs.
- Cost effective: You can follow up on your favorite entertainment video via OTT platform at low or zero cost. This is because some content are free and others comes with flexible pricing.
- Content Variety: OTT platform offers users a vast options of content to stream. This includes movies, Tv shows, documentaries, podcast and more. Hence, there is certainly a content for every users preference.
Cons
- Internet dependent: User needs a stable internet connection to experience a smooth viewing without buffering or low content.
- Content restriction: Often, not all content are available for free. Hence, you have to pay to access those premium content.
- Data hitches: streaming content directly over OTT platform are data consuming which incur extra cost for users with a tight budget.
What is SVOD?
SVOD services
SVOD or Subscription Video on demand, is a streaming model that allows users to subscribe at a fee to access premium content. This payment is mostly recurring as users have to renew their subscription to access content continuously.
SVOD content are ads free, so viewers can stream video without interruption. But, SVOD comes with differentiate subscription plans such as monthly, quarterly, or annually. Examples of SVOD platforms includes Disney+, Hulu, Netflix,and HBO Max.
Hence, a key difference between OTT and SVOD is that the latter is solely ad free.
How Does SVOD Works?
SVOD platforms works on subscription plans to access exclusive content.
To begin, a viewers have to sign up or download a SVOD apps, create an account and choose a suitable subscription plans. Once subscribed, viewers can browse the video content library for interested content.
Likewise, viewers can stream video in real time over SVOD platforms. Also, users have access to watching video offline by using the download option.
SVOD platform are updated with fresh content. Hence, subscribers have new and updated library of content to select from.
Pros
- On-demand streaming: Viewers can access content via SVOD platform at anytime, and anywhere even when real time streaming has ended.
- Content Variety: SVOD platforms aim to generate revenue and retain viewers. To achieve this, new content are regularly uploaded to keep users coming back and renewing their subscription plans.
- Ad-free experience: Videos streams via SVOD platforms are without ad display, ensuring uninterrupted viewing experience.
Cons
- Subscription cost: SVOD can incur cumulative cost when viewers maintains a consistent subscription plan. However, SVOD are still cost effective compared to traditional cables.
- Internet Dependence: SVOD content requires a stable internet connection for quality streaming.
- Data consumption: Streaming videos on SVOD platform are data consuming and aren’t suitable for viewers with limited data plans.
SVOD Service Platform Provider
Are you considering starting a SVOD service? If yes, below are top SVOD service platform provider:
Adilo
Adilo in a robust Subscription on Demand (SVOD) provider with advanced video streaming features. It combines security, monetization, analytics and more features in delivering quality streaming to meet demands of businesses, online creators and marketers.
Here are key features why Adilo is the best SVOD service provider in the market:
- Unlimited hosting service
- Ad-Free streaming
- Video split testing
- DRM and security
- Video CMS
- Video Playback
- Screen and camera recorder
- Customization
- Monetization
- Analytics
Wistia
Wistia is a video subscription platform provider that enables you to host, manage and optimize your videos effortlessly. You can leverage Wistia’s Content Management System (CMS) including folders tags and secured sharing options. Additional tools includes analytics tools, monetization options, SEO tools.
Vidyard
Vidyard is an advanced video platform that offers tools like AI-powered script generation, video hosting and automated processes. This helps optimized your SVOD service with its robust analytics. Also, its customized video messaging, monetization options, and customization option guarantee quality video production.
Difference Between OTT and SVOD
Here are key differences between OTT and SVOD:
| Features | OTT | SVOD |
| Business Model | OTT comes with different monetization options like ad-supported (AVOD), subscription (SVOD) or Transactional (TVOD) | SVOD is solely a subscription based model. With monthly, quarterly or annual plans. |
| Content Access | Offers variety of content from free, live stream to traditional content. | Offers access to on-demand video content, often with exclusive original. |
| User Experience | User experience is disrupted with Ads display on (AVOD). | No ad display to interrupt user experience. |
| Content Variety | Includes differs video types such as videos, podcast, live broadcast and more. | Solely video content including movies, TV shows, and documentaries. |
| Security | Security feature varies with some content not properly secured. | Uses advanced security features including DRM (Digital Rights Management) and secure payment methods. |
| Playback | Allows playback on some platform. | Allows video playback with pause, rewind and resume feature. |
| Streaming Options | Offers both live streaming and on-demand content. | Primarily offers on-demand streaming. |
| Examples | YouTube (AVOD), iTune (TVOD) | Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime |
Similarities Between OTT and SVOD
OTT and SVOD services
While there are differences between OTT and SVOD, there are also some similarities:
- Internet Dependent: Both OTT and SVOD model deliver content over the internet without needing cable or paid satellite plan.
- On-demand Access: both models allows viewers to subscribe to on-demand access. This allows viewers to decide when and where to watch any content of their interest.
- Subscription based: OTT comprises of different streaming models that delivery content based on subscription similar to SVOD.
- Variety of Content: Both OTT and SVOD keeps their content updated to attract more viewers and retain them.
- Flexibility of Subscription: Both OTT and SVOD subscribers can cancel subscription at any time, likewise, renew their plans.
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FAQs
What is the main difference between OTT and SVOD?
OTT (Over-the-Top) refers to video content delivered over the internet, bypassing traditional cable providers while SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) is a type of OTT model where users subscribe to access on-demand content.
Also, OTT includes both free and paid model while SVOD requires a paid subscription.
How is SVOD different from AVOD?
SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) is based solely on subscription fees where users pay to access ad-free content at their own convenience. While AVOD (Advertising-Based Video on Demand) is a free streaming platform for users, but generate revenue through ads display when video is been streamed.
Are OTT services Free?
Not all OTT services are free. OTT has different models including free, ad-supported (AVOD), subscription-based (SVOD) and transactional (TVOD) which involves pay per view.
OTT Vs SVOD; Which is Best for Consumers?
It depends on a customers preference. Viewers who wants uninterrupted viewing and exclusive content can opt for SVOD services, while consumers who want free access and don’t mind ads can opt for OTT with AVOD option.
OTT Vs SVOD; Which is Best for Businesses?
If your business is revenue and customer retention focused, SVOD is recommended as it is more profitable. But if you want to drive traffic and brand awareness AVOD models are highly recommended.
Final Thoughts on the Difference Between OTT and SVOD
Depending on your entertainment preference, OTT and SVOD have their own advantages and downsides.
However, the key difference between OTT and SVOD is that SVOD (Subscription video on demand) is a sub category of OTT ( Over-the-Top) model.
Also, SVOD is specifically a subscription based streaming platform, where viewers pay to access premium content. Whereas, OTT platform with AVOD (Ad-supported Video on Demands) model offer free streaming access but with ads display.
Additionally, if considering starting a profitable SVOD service, I recommended you choose Adilo as your reliable SVOD service provider platform.
Experience: Happiness Hassan is an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.
Expertise: Whether it's keyword research, crafting content, or fine-tuning on-page and off-page strategies, I’ve got you covered. My goal is beyond driving traffic but making your users experience a win-win for everyone!
On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers. I help them navigate the SEO path, standing out in even the toughest niches and cashing in on their skills.
When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential.
Education: Complementing my BSc. Geography and Environmental Management from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, I have honed my skills as an SEO content writer and strategist through comprehensive training at Northpad, where I gained expertise in crafting optimized content to boost search engine visibility. As a certified student of Jobberman Soft Skills Training, I developed strong communication and problem-solving skills, which complement my SEO proficiency.
My dedication to continuous personal learning and online training keeps me updated with the latest industry trends, enabling me to create content that aligns with the ever-evolving demands of search engines and user experiences. I stay connected with top experts to ensure my strategies remain current and effective.
Felix is the Senior Content Editor and Strategist at Adilo, where he harnesses his expertise in social video marketing, online video platforms, video editing, e-commerce, e-learning, and marketing to to help businesses drive results. With a keen eye for storytelling and a pulse on industry trends, Felix crafts actionable content that empowers brands to elevate their video marketing strategies and thrive in the digital landscape.
